Between birth and two years old, your baby will develop at an extraordinary rate, and each milestone will be a new source of wonder for you. Discover with us the major stages of their development and how to communicate with them to help stimulate their learning.
When the holidays approach, packing can quickly turn into a real move with a little one! Discover our tips for packing the essentials without unnecessarily overloading yourself.
Clothing
It's all about balance: you certainly don't want to spend all your time doing laundry (especially if your holiday accommodation doesn't have a washing machine), but you also don't want to overpack! You can plan on a maximum of one outfit per day and pajamas for every two days, plus one or two warmer outfits to prepare for unpredictable weather. Opt for soft cotton clothing that doesn't require ironing.
Sleep
It's hard to do without a bassinet or travel cot… If you're travelling by car, it probably won't be a problem, but if you've chosen the train or plane, things get more complicated! In that case, plan ahead to rent one or borrow one at your destination: most hotels offer them, and there are many baby equipment rental services available.
Other essentials for good nights: a sleeping bag, more or less light depending on your destination, a cuddly toy if your baby has one, and a few pacifiers if he/she uses them.
Food
If your baby is exclusively breastfed, the question is settled: you don't need to bring anything! During your vacation, you can do without a nursing pillow and make do with a pillow or bolster that you can find there.
However, if your baby is bottle-fed, remember to pack two or three bottles, a bottle brush for cleaning them, and the formula they are used to. Also, pack a few plastic bibs (easily washable) or cloth diapers, which are very handy for wiping up little spills.
Finally, if your child is eating solid foods, it's best to plan on buying fruit purees and baby food jars there. If you prefer to make your own purees, simply bring the small food processor that cooks and blends that you probably already have at home.
Toiletry bag
To avoid overloading your toiletry bag, opt for compact products or those that combine several functions: body and hair gel for washing your baby, Wipes for diaper changes or washing , single-dose saline solution, diaper cream that prevents and treats redness, samples of face and body moisturizer… Also very practical are the Mustela essential kits in mini sizes, with the My little travel kit.
There's no need to pack diapers for the entire trip: bring a few for the journey and then buy a pack when you arrive at your holiday destination. Also, pack a small first-aid kit with your child's usual medications if needed, as well as single-dose vials of saline solution, paracetamol syrup, bandages, antiseptic, and mosquito repellent suitable for young children.
Finally, summer holidays mean sun… and it's essential to protect your baby's sensitive skin, which is particularly vulnerable! Must-haves include: maximum SPF 50+ sunscreen specifically designed for babies, as well as sunglasses and one or two hats or bucket hats.
And as for outings
A stroller is especially useful on vacation: it will, of course, be perfect for taking your baby for walks, and you can also use it as a substitute for a baby lounger during certain awake periods and for mealtimes if your baby is eating solids. But it is undeniably bulky… If you want to do without one, there's the option of a baby carrier or sling, which are much smaller and lighter. Meals can then simply be eaten on your lap.
Are the bags packed? Then everyone in the car and have a great holiday!
