Traveling with a baby is an adventure of its own. While it’s rewarding to explore new places with your little one, feeding them on the go can be a daunting task. Your baby’s feeding schedule doesn’t stop just because you’re away from home. The goal of this blog post is to provide you with some helpful tips and tricks from a children’s dietitian to make feeding your baby while traveling as stress-free as possible. Helping you enjoy the weaning journey with your baby is one of my passions so why not see visiting a new country as a new experience for your baby to try foods they might not get to eat at home!
I’m committed to empowering parents with the knowledge and resources they need to wean their little ones well. Your little one’s weaning journey does not have to be stressful. Learn how to embrace the mess, and create an enjoyable experience for both of you with my Weaning Masterclass.
Preparing for the Trip
Researching Destination and Food Availability
Before setting off, it’s crucial to know what food options are available at your destination. Research local supermarkets, baby food brands, and even nearby restaurants. Knowing this information can help you pack accordingly and avoid any last-minute scrambles. Lots of mummies share their experiences on instagram!
Packing Essentials for Baby’s Meals
Packing for a trip with a baby involves more than just clothes and diapers. You’ll need to bring along:
- Baby food jars or pouches: Choose varieties your baby is familiar with, these are a great back up and allows you some flexibility if you are out and about!
- Formula and/or breastfeeding supplies: Don’t forget a manual breast pump if you’re breastfeeding.
- Snacks: Think rice cakes, baby crackers, or fruit.
- Feeding utensils: Spoons, bibs, and wipes.
Creating a Feeding Schedule
A consistent feeding schedule can help maintain some normalcy for your baby. Consider their regular meal times and try to stick to them. This will not only keep your baby happy but also help you plan your day better.
On-the-Go Meal Ideas
Easy-to-Pack Snacks
Snacks are lifesavers when you’re on the move. Here are some easy options:
- Rice cakes or Bread sticks: Easy to hold and chew.
- Fruit slices: Apples, peaches, pears, melons, watermelon (remove seeds) or bananas.
- Baby puffs or crackers: Convenient and mess-free.
Nutrient-Rich Finger Foods
Finger foods are perfect for travel since they are easy to handle and don’t require utensils:
- Cheese cubes: Full of protein and easy to eat.
- Vegetables: Boiled Parsnip or carrot sticks or cauliflower or broccoli florets. Cucumber and tomatoes work too!
- Mini sandwiches: Small bites filled with healthy spreads like cream cheese or nut butters.
Pre-made Purees and Jars
Store-bought purees and jars are convenient if you don’t have access to a kitchen or aren’t planning on cooking much. They come in various flavors to keep your baby interested. If you want to make some purees you can buy local fruit and vegetables using a hand blender and molds to freeze them in or greek yoghurt which is great for teething and helping cool your baby down!
Hydration Tips for Babies
Keeping your baby hydrated is vital, especially during travel. Offer small sips of water regularly and ensure they get enough liquids. If you’re breastfeeding, ensure frequent feeds. You may find their usual milk intake may change and they take smaller amounts more often.
Feeding Tools and Gadgets
Portable High Chairs
Portable high chairs or booster seats can make feeding easier wherever you are. Look for ones that are lightweight and easy to set up. A lot of places may have these so don’t be afraid to ask in advance!
Travel-Friendly Bottles and Sippy Cups
Invest in bottles and sippy cups that are leak-proof and easy to clean. Aim for free flowing cups and avoid ones with valves. These will be invaluable during your travels.
Compact Food Storage Solutions
Stackable containers and resealable bags are perfect for storing snacks and meals. They keep food fresh and are easy to pack.
Disposable Feeding Accessories
Disposable bibs, spoons, and placemats can be very useful. They reduce the need for washing and make cleanup a breeze. A lot of bibs also allow you to pack them up too!
Safe Feeding Practices
Maintaining Hygiene While Traveling
Hygiene is critical when feeding your baby on the go. Always wash your hands and clean feeding utensils properly. Use sanitizing wipes if soap and water are not available.
Storing Baby Food Safely
Ensure that baby food is stored at the right temperature. Use insulated bags or coolers for perishable items.
Food Allergens
Be mindful of food allergens, especially in new environments. Introduce new foods slowly and watch for any reactions. If you are starting the weaning journey and are away for a few weeks you may want to hold off and wait to introduce food allergens when you are back home.
Dealing with Food Refusal
Babies can be picky eaters, especially in unfamiliar settings. Stay patient and offer small portions. Sometimes, a bit of distraction can help during meal times.
Adapting to Local Cuisine
Introducing Babies to New Flavors
Traveling is a great opportunity to introduce your baby to new flavors. Start with small tastes of local fruits and vegetables. This can help expand their palate and make mealtimes more interesting. They will also be watching what the rest of the family is eating and want to join in as well!
Finding Baby-Friendly Restaurants
Not all restaurants cater to babies, but many do. Look for places that offer high chairs, baby-friendly menus, or are generally welcoming to families. Online reviews and local parent groups can be great resources.
Modifying Local Dishes for Babies
Local dishes can often be modified to suit your baby’s needs. For example, order steamed vegetables without seasoning or ask for plain rice. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate such requests.
Managing Food Allergies
If your baby has food allergies such as a milk or nut allergy, communicate this clearly when ordering food. Learn key phrases in the local language to explain these needs. Carry a small card with these details if language barriers are a concern.
Coping with Unexpected Situations
Handling Food Spills and Messes
Expect spills and messes—it’s all part of the adventure. Pack extra wipes, a change of clothes, and disposable placemats to minimise the chaos.
Addressing Baby’s Food-Related Discomfort
Travel can sometimes upset a baby’s stomach. Keep a small first aid kit with baby-safe medications for common issues like gas or constipation. Have a chat with your local health care professional such as a pharmacist, health visitor or GP for advice on medication.
Navigating Food Scarcity
Sometimes, finding baby-friendly food can be challenging. Pack extra snacks and meals as a backup. Knowing a few simple recipes can also help you prepare quick meals wherever you are.
Keeping Baby Calm and Happy During Meals
A calm baby is more likely to eat well. Bring along favourite toys or books to keep them entertained. Singing or talking softly can also create a soothing environment during meal times. Try to only place them in the high chair when the food is coming and ready to be eaten.
FAQs
What are the best travel snacks for babies?
- Rice cakes
- Fruit slices like apples and bananas
- Baby puffs or crackers
How do I ensure my baby stays hydrated while traveling?
Offer small sips of water regularly, ensure frequent breastfeeding or formula feeds, and keep an eye on their overall liquid intake.
What should I do if my baby refuses to eat new foods?
Stay patient, offer small portions, and try to distract them with toys or songs. Sometimes, persistence is key.
How can I maintain hygiene while feeding my baby on the go?
Always wash your hands, clean feeding utensils properly, and use sanitizing wipes if soap and water are unavailable.
What are some baby-friendly restaurants to look for while traveling?
Look for restaurants with high chairs, baby-friendly menus, and positive reviews from other parents. Local parent groups can also provide recommendations.
Traveling with a baby doesn’t have to be stressful, especially when it comes to feeding. With a bit of preparation and the right tools, you can ensure your little one eats well and stays happy on the go. Embrace the journey, and remember that every meal is an opportunity for new experiences.
Ready to dive deeper into the weaning adventure?
Starting the solids journey should be fun and allow your baby to love food and become a happy and healthy eater for life. Our weaning masterclass aims to equip you with the skills and confidence to guide your baby through the weaning journey from the very first tastes to help them accept a wide range of foods and form a healthy and happy relationship with food.
Written by Kirsty Porter Children’s Dietitian