Essential items for travelling with a baby

[paul]

I was torn as to whether to post this in the Family Travel Forum or the Travel Equipment Forum, but have plumped for the former. My question... what are the must-haves for travelling with a young baby or small child?

As someone due to be a Dad for the first time in a little over 2 months, we probably won't travel much in the first 6 months (perhaps a trip to Scotland or similar) but at the same time don't wish to feel we mustn't or can't go places, particularly once the baby is a little older.

So, from those that know from experience, what are your trips? Any handy gizzmos for carrying a baby whilst on your travels, things to keep them entertained (or asleep!) on long journeys, essentials items that are a real god-send when you're away, things you might not be able to get away from home... any tips are welcome!

Paul
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[Red Tape]

When flying, don't forget a pacifier or bottle to help the little one deal with the effects of pressurization on the ears. The sucking will help acclimate the baby, otherwise, he or she won't know to swallow or yawn to make the adjustment. Your fellow passengers will appreciate it.

As your child gets older, make sure they learn proper behaviour on a airplane does not include screeching whilst jumping up and down on the seats. (I sat behind a couple on a Qantas long haul flight who felt it was ok for their daughter to do that). There is "cute" and then there is "brat".

Travel early with your child. A good friend of mine took her 6 week old on a transatlantic flight (the baby slept almost the whole flight), and my friend told me that it was harder to control her kids on airplanes when they were 2-4 than before or after that milestone.

Good Luck and congratulations on your new addition!

(and there's no need to point out the irony of a childlessman dispensing child rearing advice...its been done before, and will be done in the future. )

[paul]

Thanks, Red... some great tips.