Getting away and out of the house sounds amazing when you have a baby. There are times when many parents feel like they are stuck in the house, catering to every need your little one may need. Taking a vacation with a baby can also sound stressful and intimidating. And some may ask, why leave when you have everything you need at home?

Well, there are many reasons why traveling with a baby is beneficial for both parents and baby; such as making core memories and the fact that it’s so much easier to travel with a baby vs. a toddler. Don’t forget that flying with a baby is usually free!

Finding the perfect place to stay when away from home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. When it comes to choosing baby-friendly accommodations, there are several factors to consider. Here are some tips and recommendations to help parents make the best choice:

1. Location:

• Proximity to Amenities: Choose accommodations that are close to essential amenities like grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical facilities. This makes it convenient to stock up on supplies and seek help if needed.
• Transportation: The type of transportation you will have can also influence the accommodation that work best for you. Many rental car companies have the option to add a carseat. Some hotels provide shuttle services. If you decide not to bring a carseat, a ride share service, like Uber may not be possible. Having a travel advisor can help you make sure your transportation has what you need and can arrange it for you.

2. Accommodation Type:

• Vacation Rentals or Apartments: These can be a great option for families with babies. They often offer more space, a kitchen for preparing baby food, and a homey atmosphere. Many even provide cribs or pack-and-plays to use.
• Family-Friendly Hotels: Look for hotels that explicitly market themselves as family-friendly. They may offer amenities like cribs, high chairs, and even baby-proofed rooms. Keep in mind that some hotels do not allow children and are strictly adults only.

3. Safety Considerations:

• Baby-Proofing: Inquire if the accommodation offers baby-proofing measures such as outlet covers, cabinet locks, and corner protectors.
• Balcony Safety: If the accommodation has a balcony, ensure there are safety measures in place to prevent accidents.
• Pool or Hot Tub Considerations: If the accommodation has a pool or hot tub, ask what safety precautions they have in place.

4. Sleeping Arrangements:

• Crib Availability: Check if the accommodation provides cribs or playards. If not, consider bringing a portable crib or co-sleeping option.
• Room Layout: Opt for accommodations with separate sleeping areas or a quiet corner where your baby can nap undisturbed. When the baby goes to sleep at night, you and your travel companions can relax and chat without waking them. If your destination is in a warmer climate, even a hotel balcony will do! We have even put the baby’s crib in a large bathroom in a hotel which allowed us to watch a quiet movie in the hotel room.

5. Kitchen Facilities:

• Kitchenette or Full Kitchen: Having access to a kitchen can be a game-changer for preparing baby food, warming bottles, and storing perishables. A mini fridge can be a huge help when it comes to bringing or storing milk and other snacks.

6. Amenities:

• On-Site Laundry: This can be a lifesaver for families with babies. It ensures you have a steady supply of clean clothes, blankets, and baby essentials. This may only be necessary for longer stays.
• Bathtub: Check to see if there will be a bath tub available. There was one resort we stayed in that only had showers…no bath tub. It advertised itself as a family resort so we thought this was odd. However, we brought this inflatable bathtub that worked great!

7. Noise Level and Privacy:

• Quiet Environment: Choose accommodations in a quiet area to ensure your baby gets the rest they need. Check the location and reviews for things like nearby construction, large events or nightlife venues nearby. Also think about proximity to large highways and train tracks that could wake a sleeping baby or make it more difficult to get them asleep.
• Separate Living Areas: As mentioned above, opt for accommodations with separate living spaces so you can have some privacy when your baby is asleep when possible.

8. Child-Friendly Amenities:

• High Chairs and Booster Seats: Some accommodations offer these items, which can save you from having to bring your own.
• Stroller Accessibility: Check if the accommodation has stroller-friendly access, especially if you rely on one for transportation.

9. Childcare Services:

• Babysitting or Childcare Services: Some accommodations offer these services, which can be a great option for parents who want some alone time. Many all-inclusive resorts offer kids clubs, but check the age and potty training requirements as it will vary.

10. Reviews and Recommendations:

• Read Reviews: Look for reviews from other families who have stayed at the accommodation. They can provide valuable insights into how baby-friendly it truly is.

Bonus tip!: Communication with Your Travel Agent:

• Communicate Your Needs: Let your travel agent know the things that would make your trip complete. They have insight and feedback from other clients that may help you pick the best accommodations.
• Contact in Advance: Your travel agent will reach out to the accommodation in advance to discuss your specific needs. This can help ensure they are prepared to accommodate your family.

Roam & Relax Travel is here to offer assistance in booking family travel. Whether you’re planning a getaway with family or friends, I’d be happy to help with finding the best options for your destination, travel dates, budget, and any specific preferences you have in mind. Just let me know your requirements, and I’ll do my best to make the process as smooth as possible!