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The Essential UK Baby Holiday Checklist
Going on a baby friendly holiday is an opportunity to enjoy a change of scene and create family memories that will last for a lifetime. However, the packing process can be stressful, particularly when you are trying to make sure you’ve got everything you need to keep your baby healthy, happy and occupied.
Babies generally need considerably more equipment than even the most demanding of adults, and forgetting one small but important item can lead to a couple of unexpected and expensive shopping trips. That’s why having a baby holiday checklist to work through before leaving home can make preparing for your trip so much easier.
From feeding and sleeping equipment to clothing, entertainment and everything you might need for a day at the beach, a little preparation can make your UK baby friendly holiday go much more smoothly. So, if you are heading to North Wales for a baby friendly holiday at a Pario Holiday Park, please feel free to use this free UK baby holiday checklist to make sure you are fully prepared prior to setting off.
Baby Holiday Checklist
The first part of your baby holiday checklist should cover all the everyday essentials your baby will need while you are away. Start with the items you will need during the journey itself, including a suitable car seat if you are travelling by car. Your pram is another obvious essential, particularly if you are planning days out exploring the local area.
Think carefully about the weather forecast before packing your baby’s clothing. For summer holidays, lightweight outfits, sun hats and breathable layers are useful, while colder weather calls for warm clothes, coats, hats and additional layers. Whatever the season, pack plenty of spare clothing because babies have an uncanny ability to go through more outfit changes than Elton John.
Any medication your baby regularly needs should also be packed before you leave, along with essentials such as Calpol. It is also sensible to take a small first aid kit containing items such as plasters, bandages, nappy rash cream, talcum powder and teething gel.
If your baby uses a dummy, pack several rather than relying on just one. Babies aren’t fussy about chucking the odd dummy away when you least expect it. The same applies to their favourite comfort items that could easily be misplaced during a busy day out.
A changing bag is one of the most important things to have within easy reach. Make sure it contains enough nappies and wipes for the journey and your planned activities, together with a changing mat. You may also want to include nappy bags, spare clothes and any creams you use as part of your normal changing routine.
A baby carrier can be particularly useful when visiting places where a pram isn’t practical, while a travel potty may be worthwhile if your little one is at the all important potty-training stage.
Don’t forget your baby’s personal care essentials either, including their toothbrush and toothpaste, as well as a hairbrush, hair bobbles and hair clips if needed. Blankets can be useful for warmth, shade or simply providing something familiar when you are away from home.
Finally, pack some of their favourite toys and plenty of entertainment for the journey. Colouring books, toys, a tablet or iPad, downloaded programmes, DVDs and other fun toys and games can all help keep little ones occupied during longer journeys. Having a few different options available means you can swap activities if they start to lose interest.
One strategy to cope with the journey down to a Pario holiday park could be to spring surprise toys their way after specific intervals. Having a new item to play with at different times of the journey can help to keep them entertained and less focused on the journey ahead.
If your family is planning to make use of the heated indoor swimming pools available at two of our North Wales holiday parks, don’t forget to bring swimming equipment. Baby swimwear is essential, while rubber rings, armbands and other age-appropriate swimming aids can help your little one enjoy some time in the water.
Baby Feeding Checklist
Feeding routines don’t stop just because you are on holiday, so your baby holiday checklist should also include everything your little one needs for mealtimes.
If your baby is bottle-fed, remember to pack enough bottles for the journey and your time away, alongside formula and everything required for preparing feeds. Sterilising essentials are also important, so consider how you will keep bottles, teats and other equipment clean while you are away.
For babies who are eating solid foods, pack familiar plastic bowls, child-friendly cutlery and a non-spill cup. Providing them with equipment they are familiar with can make mealtimes easier, particularly when your baby is eating somewhere different. Bibs are another simple essential that is easy to forget. Take several so that you always have a clean one available after meals and snacks.
When it comes to food, think about your baby’s normal routine and take any meals they will particularly enjoy, especially if you are unsure whether your preferred destination will stock suitable alternatives. Snacks can also be invaluable when travelling or spending the day away from your accommodation.
Depending on your child’s age and dietary needs, you may also wish to pack a few sweets or treats for the journey. If you are breastfeeding, a breast pump should also be included if you normally use one.
The golden rule is to pack more feeding supplies than you think you will actually need, particularly for travel days when delays or unexpected changes to your plans can happen.
UK Beach Holiday Essentials
North Wales is home to some beautiful beaches, and three Pario Holiday Parks provide a fantastic base for a seaside family holiday. If you are planning plenty of time beside the sea, there are a few additional items that deserve a place on your baby holiday checklist.
Sun cream is essential during sunny weather, with a product suitable for your baby’s age and skin. You should also pack after sun in case it is needed following a day outdoors. Sun hats and sunglasses can provide additional protection, while UVA-protecting swimsuits are another useful option for babies who are going to be spending time in and around the water.
A parasol for the pram can provide welcome shade when you are walking along the promenade or spending time outside. Remember that babies should be kept out of direct sunlight as much as possible, particularly when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Insect repellent can also be useful during warmer weather.
Finally, take a change of clothes. Beach days can involve sand, splashes, ice cream and plenty of other opportunities for your baby’s outfit to become messy, so having a clean replacement close at hand can be a lifesaver. With our accommodation at Gimblet Rock Holiday Park being located right next to Pwllheli beach, you won’t even necessarily have to take the outfit out with you because your belongings will only ever be just a short jaunt away.
Sleeping Essentials
Getting your baby settled somewhere new can sometimes be a challenge, so bringing familiar sleeping equipment can help make their bedtime feel more in keeping with their normal routine.
Make sure that you pack a travel cot along with suitable bedding and cot bedding. Your baby’s usual nightwear and blankets can provide familiarity, while a night light may help them settle if they normally sleep with one at home.
Packing a baby monitor can also provide peace of mind, particularly if you are staying in accommodation where the sleeping area isn’t immediately next to the living space. Don’t forget spare dummies if your baby uses them at bedtime, together with familiar comforts such as a favourite blanket or cuddly toy. A few favourite books can also form part of your normal bedtime routine, helping your baby wind down after an exciting day enjoying the very best of North Wales.
Book a Baby Friendly Holiday with Pario
Once your baby holiday checklist is complete, all that remains is to look forward to your next family holiday. North Wales offers a wonderful setting for a first holiday with your baby, with beautiful beaches, family friendly attractions, beautiful countryside and plenty of opportunities to enjoy quality time together.
Pario Holiday Parks provide baby friendly holiday accommodation and facilities designed to help make your stay enjoyable, whether you are looking for a coastal escape, a fun-filled family resort or somewhere to simply relax together.
Choose your preferred Pario Holiday Park, pack your bags using our baby holiday checklist and start planning your next baby friendly holiday in North Wales.