How-to
By Kim Barnard
After you’ve brought your little one home and settled into your new life together, you may be tempted to take a family holiday - a chance to get away, relax and start making memories that will last a lifetime.
This might sound daunting, but a successful holiday with a baby can be done! With a little planning and some insider info, you’ll be on your way.
Here’s all you need to know to plan your first holiday with a baby in Queensland.
Choosing a location for your baby’s first holiday may seem like the decision that will make or break your trip. But as long as you choose a spot that has all your essentials covered, the sky is really the limit. Whether you’d like to step into island time or get a taste of country living, these hot spots won’t disappoint.
Noosa, Caloundra and Hervey Bay are stunning coastal locations with calm beaches, short walks and baby-friendly cafes. For more deserted beach escapes, try the Gold Coast’s Currumbin, Tallebudgera or Coolangatta or the Sunshine Coast’s Cotton Tree or Coolum.
Head to our tropical north if easy access to waterfalls, rainforests and reefs is up your alley. Port Douglas is the perfect destination with its friendly village vibe, beach resorts and award-winning dining precincts.
If you want to feel a million miles from the city, stay in Toowoomba and check out the street art and markets on your morning pram walk, or bunk with the cows and ducks on a farm stay.
Hamilton Island, in the Whitsundays, is the epitome of island living. With glistening blue water, white sand and palm trees around every corner, you’ll be in optimum relaxation mode. Plus, it’s very well catered to babies. There’s car seats in the golf buggies (the main mode of transport on the island), change tables in every restaurant, and babysitting options if you want to go out for a parent-only dinner.
Check out this Hamilton Island family holiday guide to spark your holiday planning.
The number of nights you spend away is very dependent on you and your baby, but we suggest committing to at least three or four nights to really make the most out of your travel.
A one-night stay will leave you exhausted after packing, unpacking and travelling two days in a row. Several days, on the other hand, allows you to preserve your energy for the ever-important exploring and memory making. If time isn’t an issue, stay longer and enjoy soaking up all the special firsts that come with your first holiday with baby in tow.
Photo by @our_lap
Whether you’re driving your own car or a hired vehicle, here are some tips for travelling with a baby passenger:
First sight of the Great Barrier Reef from the air | Photo by @kels
If your dream destination is a flight away, then you want to prepare for air travel with your baby. Here are some tips that will help you navigate airports and aeroplanes with your bub.
Arrive earlier than you would on your own, as everything takes a bit longer with a little person in tow and babies need lots of stuff.
Upon arrival at the airport, head straight to check in and make it clear that you’re travelling with an infant. Check in whatever you can, so you have less to carry, but don’t forget the essentials like, nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, some books and toys and, of course, snacks!
Most airlines welcome families with small children on board first, so be ready to go when you’re called so you can get on early without being rushed. If you have a baby carrier, now’s the time to use it! You’ll need your hands free for your bags and tickets.
Selecting seats with easy access to the exit row is a wise move for longer-haul flights, so you can make the most of the onboard bassinets. If you’ve missed out on this option, don’t worry; book a window seat instead. You’ll have a bit more privacy and the view will provide a welcome distraction for you both when needed.
To avoid settling into your seats and realising you’re missing things that would make the flight more pleasant, make sure you have easy access to:
When going on a holiday with a baby, it’s important to pick a destination that’s decked out with everything you need. Whether you venture to the beach or the bush, here’s some things to look out for when researching accommodation options:
Photo by @natural.mummy
Don’t feel obliged to have a long list of things to see and do on your holiday with a baby - take the pressure off and do only the things that suit you and your family.
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some things to do while you’re on holiday with a baby:
In the few days leading up to the trip, write a list of all the essentials you’ll need. Unless you’re holidaying somewhere remote, most things can be bought at the local supermarket or chemist so don’t worry if you forget a couple of items.
Note: If you’re flying, the restriction on liquids doesn’t usually apply to your baby’s food and drink. Check with your airline beforehand for all the details.