Travelling somewhere warm this winter? And does the thought of what food to bring along for your baby or toddler have you completely overwhelmed? Well fret no more. Lianne Phillipson-Webb has tips for what you can do - whether you’re heading off for an all-inclusive holiday or on a road trip.
Make and Take
Firstly, take food your child is used to. But that doesn’t mean that the entire kitchen comes with you!
Instead, make a few batches of favourites, freeze them in cubes or containers, and carry them, frozen, in a cooler bag tucked away in your checked luggage (not your carry on).
Take enough food for at least three days. That’ll give you enough time to figure out the lay of the land once you get to your destination. Then be sure to check out what kid-friendly foods local supermarkets or all-inclusive buffets have to offer.
And if you’re thinking of filling your suitcase with jars, be careful, says Phillipson-Webb. If your baby is partial to homemade cuisine, don’t expect them to fall in love with jarred food once you’re away.
Make Feeding Easier
Any soft food you’d like to give your baby or tot can be mashed on the go with portable baby food makers. These easy-to-use, simple-to-clean gadgets can puree soft noodles, cooked sweet potato, ripe banana, pear, avocado, blueberry and much more. And if you’re eating out, most restaurants will gladly provide parents with steamed, unseasoned veggies to mash.
While out and about on your trip, try to take enough food with you for most of the day. Carry a cooler bag with a cold pack or hot pack, depending on your needs. And some companies make diaper bags with cooler sections at the bottom, which should make your life even easier.
Avoiding the Upset Tummy
Depending on where you go, you and your child may come across a host of “unfriendly” bacteria like E. coli, Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Clostridium, says Phillipson-Webb. Avoiding uncooked meat, eggs, unpasteurized dairy and untreated drinking water should keep you both safe for the most part. But if your child starts exhibiting symptoms of food poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, see a doctor.
And no matter where you traveling, Phillipson-Webb recommends taking probiotics before your trip to strengthen your immune system.
Adapted with permission from “The Family Vacation – Traveling with Wee Ones” by Lianne Phillipson-Webb
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