Guest Post By Kimberly Travaglino
A trip to Babies-r-Us will have you convinced that babies need LOTS OF STUFF!!! This is absolutely false and babies can travel much lighter than their older siblings.
Love, patience and plenty of cuddling are the most important things your newborn needs, but some baby gear will also go a long way.
Infant Car Seat / Carrier – so your precious bundle can be safe on your travels.
A sling – I recommend “hug a monkey” www.hugamonkey.com as they are lightweight, fits in a diaper bag and very easy to use. No buckles, no straps, no criss crossing – just a sturdy fabric loop that can carry newborns to toddlers.
A stroller – If you only have one strolling child, I strongly recommend a Snap and Go. I have a three year old that still likes to sit in the stroller – so I went with the Combi Twin Ex Sport. If fits the carrier, is very lightweight and folds up small so it fits our lifestyle well. www.combiusa.com
A bed – I have slept with all my children as infants, however, I am not comfortable doing so in the small queen bed in our camper. I searched for a Moses basket as my first choice, but I didn’t find one. What I did find, I feel is even better – The Summer Infant Rest Assured Sleeper is a co-sleeper but it does not fit in the bed with my husband and I. But its great anyway! It fits everywhere else and it comes with a light/sound/vibration module that can come off and go on anything. www.summerinfant.com
Playpen–If you have the room, a pack and play also makes the perfect camping baby bed, and you can even set it up outside so baby can take an outdoor siesta.
Diapers and wipes and organizer – I have been using my Prince Lionheart Diaper Depot Organizer for many years. Keeps everything neatly organized and where you need it – Simple and useful! www.walmart.com
A diaper bag – When my 2nd child was born, I was fortunate enough to have found the Skip-Hop bag. I am on my 5th one. Keep in mind, none of them have worn out after years of use and many washes – some I sold on eBay and some I have passed on to other moms. This great bag holds EVERYTHING you could need for multiple kids – and clips right on to your stroller. Sturdy and attractive – the Duo is by far the BEST diaper bag available! www.skiphop.com
Comfy Clothes–My camping baby lives in onesies and one piece pajamas. Comfort goes much further than style when baby is enjoying the great outdoors.
Be sure to pack a few baby blankets and pacifiers.
Keep in mind, it did take me four kids to finally draw these conclusions and I’m sure a mom of more would come up with an even smaller list of “essentials” but the bottom line for babies is – less is definitely more!
About the Author: Kimberly Travaglino is the editor of Fulltime Families Magazine, the official monthly publication of Fulltime Families Camping Company–A company that supports families fulltime RV adventures or aspirations.