I flew to Europe with a baby and here is what I've learnt.
We had always planned a trip to Europe for when Baby Max was around 8 months old. My parents live in Portugal and it was important for me to go and see them while Max is still so little! Honestly the 30+ hour journey from Sydney to Rome (that we had feared!) feels like a distant memory now and although it was tough it was not that bad at all. Anyone considering travel with their bub before you have to pay for their own seat - I say do it! People will tell you that you need so many things to get through it but honestly all I recommend is: plenty of wipes and nappies, a couple of favourite toys, a sleep suit, snacks (for you and them) and the carrier.
Anyone who has met Baby Max would know he's a chiller. He sleeps so well! Often described as a dream baby. I feel super lucky that this is mostly true. He adjusted to the time difference and his new environment so quickly.
I should have known it couldn't last forever!
He has been drooling for months, everyone convinced a tooth was about to pop through at any moment but of course it didn't happen until we came to Europe! How grateful I am for the extra hands (Jerome (dad), Grandma and Grandpa) because I've been up MANY times EVERY night since we arrived settling a screaming baby who does not want milk or cuddles, to be held or put down!
On top of the teething, we've all, one by one, gone down with some sort of cough/flu situation. We have actually not been able to do very much at all! So, my number one tip for a big trip with a baby to a place far away from home, is to stay in a place that feels like home. We had 5 days in Italy (2 in a hotel and then 3 in an airbnb) but neither were really meeting our needs. We then arrived in Portugal and have been staying in the most beautiful apartment with all the home comforts as well as the holiday vibes. A fully equipped kitchen so we can prep food for ourselves and baby Max (because eating out is just not as fun as it used to be!) A cot, high chair and baby bath provided. Extra towels for shower and pool. Filtered water (yay!) Lots of space for Max to be on the floor. Located in the middle of town close to all the things.
If you are ever coming to Portugal I can't recommend Casa Margo enough! If you are travelling elsewhere, be sure to check your destination can cater to all your (and baby's) needs, that you will be comfortable and able to relax - especially if teething or sickness hits, so that it doesn't completely ruin your vacay!
Elle and I are going to delve into the trip in more detail in the first episode of our podcast dropping in the next couple of weeks! Tune in to hear what we have learnt, what I wish I had packed, what we didn't need to bring, how I would do it differently next time.
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