Before my partner and I welcomed our little one, we were seasoned travelers, spending a year and a half exploring the world with nothing but our backpacks and a pickup truck. From hiking through Caribbean islands to camping under the stars, we thought we had it all figured out. But after our first weeklong trip with our eighteen-month-old daughter to the Florida Panhandle, we quickly realized that vacationing with a baby is a whole different ball game. Here are five things I wish I had known before embarking on this journey.
1. Sleep? What’s That?
If you’re on vacation long enough, you might catch some Z’s, but don’t count on it during the first few days. Our daughter typically sleeps like a champ, but the unfamiliar environment threw her off completely. We ended up co-sleeping after a few sleepless nights, and honestly, it was a beautiful experience. I wish we had given in sooner, as it led to more rest for all of us.
2. Reading Material is a No-Go
Packing books for downtime? A rookie mistake. I brought a couple of novels and magazines, but the closest I got to reading was scrolling through my phone while my partner held our daughter. Her naps were only happening during car rides, so next time, I’ll just pack one book (if I even bother) to save space.
3. Forget About Sunbathing
I imagined peaceful moments lounging on the beach while my baby napped in the shade. Instead, I spent most of the time chasing her as she ran toward the waves, threw sand everywhere, and explored every inch of the shore. I ended up getting a tan, but it was from running around, not relaxing. It turns out that keeping up with a toddler is an adventure in itself!
4. Take It Slow, Really Slow
If you think you can stick to your usual fast-paced vacation style, think again. Our days of hiking and nightlife were replaced with a more leisurely approach. We learned to enjoy the small moments, like collecting seashells or watching seagulls. It was a shift, but it allowed us to appreciate our family time in a new light.
5. It’s Not a Vacation, Just a Change of Scenery
No matter where you go, you’re still parenting. This realization was bittersweet. While I did have moments of frustration, watching my daughter discover new things made it all worthwhile. The joy in her eyes when she saw the ocean for the first time was priceless, and those memories will stay with me forever. It’s a different kind of holiday, one filled with magic and wonder, especially when you see the world through your child’s eyes.
Traveling with your baby is a transformative experience. It’s not about checking off a to-do list but rather soaking in the little moments. The world becomes a playground for both you and your little one, and that’s where the real joy lies.
What was your first trip like with your baby? Share your stories in the comments!
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Summary: Traveling with a baby is a unique experience that requires a shift in expectations. From sleep deprivation to a slower pace, parents learn to embrace the little moments that make family vacations special.