by Priscilla Benfield

Created on: June 10, 2009   Last Updated: June 21, 2009

Traveling to visit a friend when you are bringing along your baby is all about being prepared. You can have an enjoyable time as long as you keep yourself organized. Even if you are going to see someone that you have visited before and are familiar with their home, you need to have everything your baby needs to be comfortable. Relying on a friend to have certain items, especially if they don't have an infant in their home, is just poor planning.

First thing is to always bring along extra diapers. You never know with a baby, and it is always better to have too many than not enough. Put the regular amount you would normally need for your baby for the amount of time that you plan to be out, and then in a separate bag, bring extra. You can leave the extra bag in your car. It will keep you from having to end your visit too soon, or run out to a convenience store and spend more money than you usually do on diapers.

In addition to packing extra clothing, bring items such as a sweater or jacket. You know the temperature that you keep your home, but you don't know what your friend's home will be like. An extra blanket is always a good idea. These items can be kept with the extra diapers.

Don't forget about meals. Friends who do not have babies, or even those who do, may not have the same food or drinks that your baby uses. Bring extra so your baby will not be fussy.

Have a plan for where your baby will sleep if you will be there at nap time. If your baby is the type who will sleep in their portable car seat, then that will be easy. If you need a portable crib, pack it in your car if your friend doesn't have one. Remember, do not assume that they do have these items. Call ahead and check. Being prepared is important.

When taking your baby for a visit, know what to expect. If the home you are going to has pets or if there will be a lot of people there, know about it up front so that you can plan accordingly. Some people don't want to bring their baby around a lot of strangers.

If possible, try to plan your visit taking into account your baby's eating and sleeping schedule. Factor in travel time and what your plans and expectations are for the visit. If you are going to show off your baby, try to make it for a time that your baby will be neither sleepy or hungry. Babies are unpredictable, and some do not adapt well to being in a strange environment. Except the unexpected.

Try to relax and have a good time on your visit. Being prepared for anything will help reduce any stress that traveling with a baby can make. Remember to be flexible with your expectations, and enjoy the time you are spending out of your home.

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