If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and just had your first baby, chances are you’re going to go through a lot more firsts to get back into the outdoors with your little one. Getting outside is such a healthy activity, especially for new moms who spend a lot of time indoors. The exercise, the vitamin D, and the fresh air can all be much needed when you’ve only been looking at dirty diapers.
Start Small
If you’ve never done an outdoor trip of any type with your baby, it might help to start out with a smaller trip. Try a day hike with your family to see how everyone manages the outdoors. How are you changing diapers? What is the baby wearing to keep the sun out? What are you feeding the baby? Once you’ve got these basics figured out, you’ll be a lot more prepared to spend the night in the outdoors.
Bring The Right Equipment
The right equipment can make or break your experience. Getting a big tent can give you plenty of room for everyone to sleep and for you to change dirty diapers when the inevitable time comes. A portable crib can also make a huge difference in how much sleep everyone gets. Bring insect repellent, but make sure there is no DEET in it if your baby is less than 6 months old.
Think About The Food
Depending on where you’re camping, one of the important factors you should think about when it comes to food is how to sterilize everything. If your baby breastfeeds, then things are much more simple. However, if you’re feeding them food, you’ll have to figure out how to heat it up and keep things clean. Being in a tent is very different than being in a cabin with electricity in terms of planning.
Plan Around The Weather
It’s difficult for babies to regulate their internal temperature, so knowing what weather you’re going into is crucial. Bring plenty of layers in case of temperature changes, and try to keep as little of your baby’s skin exposed as possible if they’re six months or younger. This is because it’s not generally recommended for babies of that age to use sunscreen.
Just Do It
At the end of the day, taking your baby with you on a camping trip is much like doing anything else with your baby. When you first think about it, it can be so daunting. However, with time, you’ll be more comfortable with this new environment you’re taking your baby into.