Surviving Spring Break with a Newborn

Surviving Spring Break with a Newborn

Spring Break—a time synonymous with fun, relaxation, and travel for many—is often viewed differently by parents with newborns. While it can still be an enjoyable time, it comes with its own set of challenges. Navigating crowded spaces, disrupting routines, finding suitable accommodations, and ensuring safety concerns escalate during Spring Break. Today, we will go over some common challenges, tips, and tricks to ensure that you are not only surviving Spring Break with a newborn but loving it.

Challenges Unique to Spring Break with a Newborn

When it comes to crowded spaces, popular Spring Break destinations can become overwhelming for newborns sensitive to noise and commotion. The sheer volume of people and activities can overstimulate infants. With all the hustle and bustle, carefully established routines of newborns can be disrupted. Sleep disturbances and crankiness can make it challenging for parents to ensure the comfort and well-being of their newborn.


Finding suitable accommodations poses another challenge for parents with newborns during Spring Break. Many popular tourist areas may not have family-friendly options catering to infants’ specific needs. Access to amenities geared towards young children can make finding a comfortable place to stay challenging. Check in with your friends or parent groups online for recommendations of places their families loved.

Tips for Managing Travel with a Newborn

Given the challenges of Spring Break with a newborn, a little bit of planning and preparation make for a smooth travel experience. Here are some tips and tricks to make your Spring Break fun and enjoyable.

  1. Plan Ahead: Research family-friendly accommodations and activities well in advance. Look for options that prioritize safety and comfort for newborns. Hotels with cribs available upon request or vacation rentals with baby-proofing amenities are great things to look for.
  2. Pack Wisely: When packing for your trip, include all the essentials for your newborn, such as a favorite toy or pacifier. Include diapers, wipes, formula (if needed), baby clothes, blankets, and any special items your baby may need for comfort. Don’t forget to pack a portable crib or bassinet to ensure your baby has a familiar sleep environment wherever you go.
  3. Schedule Smart: Plan your travel itinerary around your baby’s sleep and feeding schedule as much as possible. Try to schedule flights or long drives during times when your baby is likely to nap. Plan for breaks to feed and change your baby as needed.
  4. Stay Flexible: While it’s important to have a rough itinerary for your trip, be prepared to adjust your plans as needed. Remember that traveling with a newborn can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be flexible and go with the flow.

Ensuring Safety and Comfort

Ensuring the safety and comfort of your newborn is paramount during Spring Break. Here are some strategies to help you navigate the challenges and keep your baby safe and happy:

  1. Create Safe Spaces: Designate quiet areas where your baby can rest away from the hustle and bustle of crowded Spring Break destinations. Your hotel room, a cozy corner of a restaurant, or a shaded spot on the beach – all fantastic. Having a designated safe space for your baby to relax and unwind can make all the difference.
  2. Protect from the Elements: Be mindful of the weather conditions at your destination and take steps to protect your baby from the elements. Traveling to a sunny destination? Be sure to pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and lightweight clothing to protect your baby from the sun’s harmful rays. Traveling to a colder climate? Bundle your baby up in layers and be sure to cover their hands, feet, and head to keep them warm and cozy.
  3. Practice Safe Sleeping: Follow safe sleep guidelines to ensure your baby has a safe and comfortable sleep environment wherever you go. Be sure to put your baby to sleep on their back in a crib or bassinet that meets safety standards. Avoid using soft bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals that could pose a suffocation risk.
  4. Monitor Hydration and Feeding: Keep a close eye on your baby’s hydration and feeding needs, especially if you’re traveling to a warmer climate. Offer your baby plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Sticking to your regular feeding schedule as much as possible to is sure to keep your baby happy and satisfied.

Don’t Put Yourself Last

Amidst the chaos of Spring Break with a newborn, parents need to prioritize self-care to ensure they have the energy and stamina to care for their baby. Here are some suggestions for parental self-care during Spring Break:

  1. Take Breaks: Parenthood can be exhausting, especially when you’re traveling with a newborn. Be sure to take breaks whenever you can to rest and recharge. Whether it’s taking turns with your partner to care for the baby or enlisting the help of a trusted family member or friend, don’t be afraid to ask for support when you need it.
  2. Prioritize Rest: It’s no secret that sleep deprivation can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. Make it a priority to get plenty of rest during your trip. Take advantage of naptime opportunities and going to bed early whenever possible. Remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your baby.
  3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: It can be easy to forget to take care of your own needs when you’re busy caring for a newborn, but staying hydrated and nourished is essential for your overall health and well-being. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and eat regular, nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up and your body functioning at its best.
  4. Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to reach out for support if you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Whether it’s talking to your partner, a friend, or a professional, sharing your feelings and seeking help when you need it can make all the difference in how you feel.

While Spring Break with a newborn presents challenges, it is well worth the effort. Spring Break can be enjoyable and rewarding for the entire family with a bit of planning, flexibility, and self-care. Remember to stay flexible and take care of yourself.

Thank you for reading this week’s post, ”Surviving Spring Break with a Newborn.” For more tips and tricks on all things pregnancy postpartum, and parenthood visit our weekly blog.