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Cruise holidays are big in the US, and the pandemic hiccup hardly affected the industry. In fact, it was one of the fastest to recover after the crisis was over. The volume of cruise passengers in the country picked up sharply in 2023 over 2022. After a decline to less than 2.2 million in 2022, the number of cruise guests peaked at 16.9 million in 2023.
The growing popularity of these trips makes them a favorite among families. Even new parents find the idea alluring, despite the potential challenges of having a baby on board. However, a little planning and preparation can make the journey exciting and relaxing, even when you have a baby to look after.
In this article, we will share a few tips for new parents to navigate this experience effectively.
Consult Your Pediatrician
As new parents, you may feel excited about a luxury cruise with your bundle of joy. But it can easily transform into a nightmare if your baby faces a health issue. According to the Raising Children Network, motion sickness is common in kids, with 1 in 2 getting it at some stage. Luckily, children under 12 months are less likely to get it. However, you should not take infant health for granted.
Before embarking on your cruise, consult your pediatrician about your travel plans. Communicate your concerns about cruising with an infant, including vaccinations and medications that may be required during your trip. Your pediatrician can also give tailored advice based on your baby’s health history and the destinations.
What should I do if my baby gets seasick?
While babies are less prone to seasickness than older children and adults, it’s still possible. Keep an eye on signs such as discomfort, excessive fussiness, lethargy, and drooling. Consult with your pediatrician before traveling to seek possible remedies or preventive strategies.
Choose the Right Cruise Line
USA Today notes that Americans are spoiled for choice when it comes to cruise lines. You can even find some that are perfect for family travel. But more options mean it can get harder to pick the best one. Experts say that not all providers are the same, and some are better with services for families with infants.
Research your options and look for lines with family-friendly dining options and nursery care. With these facilities available, you can enjoy your time with your partner without worrying about your little one. Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are acclaimed for their top-notch facilities.
Remember to check the age policies as some lines have age restrictions for childcare services. Ensure that your chosen line accommodates your baby’s age group. Many of them require babies to be at least 6 months old.
Pack the Essentials
According to What to Expect, packing the essentials is one of the key aspects of traveling with a baby. The best thing to do is to have a packing checklist so that you don’t forget anything. It includes diapers, diaper creams, baby blankets, several pacifiers, bottles, and medications. Food and clothing are the basics.
If your baby is too young, you may consider breastfeeding during the trip. This may, however, not be practical for all parents. Carry plenty of formula as you may not find it on the cruise ship. For a first-time formula user, it is important to understand the risk of cow-milk-based formula. Newborns, particularly, premature ones may develop necrotizing enterocolitis with this product, states TorHoerman Law.
NEC is a life-threatening condition with serious complications. Many parents have filed NEC baby formula lawsuit claims to seek justice and compensation for the damage caused by these products. These lawsuits have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation, showing the seriousness of the situation.
How to choose a safe formula for your baby?
Not all formula brands may suit your baby, so you must choose one with care. Check your baby’s age, weight, and health status while picking the best option. You can seek guidance from your pediatrician as well. Also, research the quality of ingredients and reputation of the formula brand.
Ensure Comfort
A cruise experience should be relaxing and enjoyable for new parents, and this depends on the comfort of the baby. Besides the essentials, pack things to keep the little one comfortable. When carrying clothes, include layers for varying temperatures on board and during excursions. Also, pack your baby’s favorite toy or blanket to help them feel secure in a new environment.
You should also ensure your comfort. For example, if you breastfeed your baby, carry a pillow for good support. You may find something on the ship, but having the one you use in your routine makes a difference. Have a playlist of your baby’s favorite music on your phone to pacify them during cranky moments.
Is cruising with a baby safe?
The idea of cruising with a baby may sound daunting at first. The truth is that it is safe, provided you opt for the right cruise line with appropriate facilities and services. Ensure that the ship has medical staff on board to deal with emergencies. You must also follow safety guidelines regarding baby care.
Traveling with a baby requires flexibility and patience, even more so when you are on a cruise in the middle of the ocean. Understand that not everything will go as planned, so you must have realistic expectations. Follow these tips and be adaptable to enhance your experience and have a memorable holiday.
