Best practices for trip with a newborn

[Verstehen]

Hi everyone. My husband and I are expecting our first child within the next two weeks, and she will be about seven weeks old at her first Disney trip at the end of February/beginning of March. We had this trip planned before I got pregnant and decided to keep it for a few reasons. I know that every infant is different and we can’t prepare for everything but I would love to know tips from people who have traveled with a newborn. A few points to note to give you context specific to our trip and family:

• I am an Orlando local, but this trip will be with my father and sister who are traveling from New York. So they will definitely stay on property and I would like to as well to avoid driving every day, unless there arises a reason not to such as if she is sick.
• We’ll be staying at the Polynesian Village in a studio villa. Our reservation is for six nights.
• My husband isn’t into Disney and doesn’t plan to come except for maybe a day or two. This is mostly a trip for my family plus baby lol
• I plan to babywear as much as possible but we will have a stroller as well
• We have a 4Moms BreezeGo Pack n Play at home but I’m unsure if it’s better than the Pack n Play provided in the room.
• My sister utilizes DAS so we’ll have access to that in addition to Fastpass and baby swap
• I plan to breastfeed and am aware of the baby care centers.
  

Thanks for any advice you can provide! Very excited to take my little one.

 

[mjkacmom]

I’ve had 5 babies, and only 1 of them came close to sleeping through the night at that age. I was pretty much still a hot miserable mess from sleep deprivation and childbirth. Is your husband at least staying overnight with you? Honestly I’d be excited to have my family take the baby and to sleep all day in the room.

 

[Jhondy]

My babies first week and a half of life was in a hotel room followed by a 15 hour road trip home split into two days. Honestly, I found hotel life so much easier than home life. I didn’t have to worry about cleaning or cooking and I just spent time with my new child. At 7 weeks my daughter was sleeping pretty well at night. Some evenings were difficult but we would generally put her to bed around 10:30 and I’d wake up around 2:30am and feed her and then wake up at 6:30 or 7am for the start of the day. I think the biggest thing is manage your expectations that disney might be too much for your baby and that you may only be able to do a little bit of park time at a time. Also, my baby hated being worn so try wearing your baby a head of time to make sure she is comfortable with it. My baby also hated the stroller so taking her to disney would have been hard because of that. Hopefully, your daughter will like being worn. Even if you are going to baby wear, if still bring a stroller o give you a break from wearing but also to put all the baby stuff. Babies require a lot of stuff.

as to bringing your own pack n play, I would if that is where your child will have been sleeping prior to the trip. It will be something she is already comfortable in. And I’m paranoid so I’d want my own just cause then I know it is safe and clean. Oh and don’t forget the white noise machine for the room to help baby sleep. They have some that can clip on stroller and that may be helpful for naps in the stroller.

good luck with your trip and congrats on your soon to be new baby!

 

[Verstehen]

I’ve had 5 babies, and only 1 of them came close to sleeping through the night at that age. I was pretty much still a hot miserable mess from sleep deprivation and childbirth. Is your husband at least staying overnight with you? Honestly I’d be excited to have my family take the baby and to sleep all day in the room.

no we have a dog so we would have to arrange care for her. But my family knows we’ll be playing this by ear. Hopefully by then we’ll have a good idea of her routine and habits. I apparently was a great sleeper but I know that doesn’t tell us anything. And I’m sure my dad and sister would love to spend some time with her to let me sleep lol

 

[Dreams&wishes]

Around 6/7 weeks babies go through a growth spurt meaning that a baby, who was already eating every 2 hours or so, will start eating even more often. It will seem to you that sitting and breastfeeding is all you do in life, together with changing nappies of course! At 7 weeks you will still be trying to establish breastfeeding especially with the growth spurt going on.... But probably the biggest issue that I would have with bringing a 7 weeks old in the parks in February is the Flu. February is the peak of flu season and flu on a new born can certainly be deadly. It would also only have just done his/hers vaccinations which will take at least 3 weeks to make some sort of effect on his immune system, but even then 1 dose wouldn't be enough to cover the baby from whopping cough for example.
I would save my money and post pone it.

 

[Verstehen]

Around 6/7 weeks babies go through a growth spurt meaning that a baby, who was already eating every 2 hours or so, will start eating even more often. It will seem to you that sitting and breastfeeding is all you do in life, together with changing nappies of course! At 7 weeks you will still be trying to establish breastfeeding especially with the growth spurt going on.... But probably the biggest issue that I would have with bringing a 7 weeks old in the parks in February is the Flu. February is the peak of flu season and flu on a new born can certainly be deadly. It would also only have just done his/hers vaccinations which will take at least 3 weeks to make some sort of effect on his immune system, but even then 1 dose wouldn't be enough to cover the baby from whopping cough for example.
I would save my money and post pone it.

I appreciate your advice. This trip is at the end of February and I will be keeping her close. If I have to skip it I will but for now what I’m looking for is thoughts on what to prepare for under the assumption that I will take her.

 

[LSUmiss]

Around 6/7 weeks babies go through a growth spurt meaning that a baby, who was already eating every 2 hours or so, will start eating even more often. It will seem to you that sitting and breastfeeding is all you do in life, together with changing nappies of course! At 7 weeks you will still be trying to establish breastfeeding especially with the growth spurt going on.... But probably the biggest issue that I would have with bringing a 7 weeks old in the parks in February is the Flu. February is the peak of flu season and flu on a new born can certainly be deadly. It would also only have just done his/hers vaccinations which will take at least 3 weeks to make some sort of effect on his immune system, but even then 1 dose wouldn't be enough to cover the baby from whopping cough for example.
I would save my money and post pone it.

Yikes! That was my first thought. That was the age that I was still making ppl wash their hands to even touch DS & he was 7 weeks old when it was no longer flu season.

 

[TinkLoverSam]

I flew to Orlando for my sister’s wedding when DS was 7 weeks 1 day old. He was honestly an easy baby so he did great in the stroller, loved being held and hated being worn. He nursed a ton so I had a good cover and got comfortable nursing wherever I was. He nursed through rides and shows (Country Bear, Carousel of Progress) and I nursed on benches and in lines. As long as baby is born healthy I would be comfortable taking my next one at the same age if I had a trip planned (sadly I don’t have a trip planned for April)

 

[LadyNia]

My baby is now 3 months old and I can't imagine having taken a trip to Disney World at 7 weeks. I was so sleep deprived! I'm hoping that for your sake your dad and sister are willing to help out. Make sure you bring lots of clothing changes and burp cloths because you'll find that spit up ends up everywhere. Make sure you have an extra shirt for yourself at the parks as well. At that age my son liked to be worn but would cry the whole time if we went for a stroller ride. For the room make sure to bring a white noise machine. I think because you are local to Orlando you'll be able to bring most of what will make baby comfortable with you to the resort. Good Luck!

 

[Rory607]

1. Bring lots of extra clothes, for baby and yourself.
2. I would prefer my own pack and play at that age.
3. Lightweight receiving blankets are great and I always traveled with several when my kids were little. You can cover the baby in the stroller without overheating them, swaddling of course, burp cloth if necessary, etc. Aden and Anais brand were my favorite.
4. Diaper rash cream, extra pacis if you use them, more wipes than you think you’ll need.
5. Definitely wear her as much as possible. Try the carrier at home beforehand and make sure it’s comfortable for you and the baby. You might want to get more than one kind to try.

 

[maxiesmom]

I appreciate your advice. This trip is at the end of February and I will be keeping her close. If I have to skip it I will but for now what I’m looking for is thoughts on what to prepare for under the assumption that I will take her.

My sister took her youngest at that age. It was an extended family trip so 5 adult and 3 kids from ages 2 months to 8 years. The baby was the easiest of the 3 kids. At that age they pretty much eat, poop, and sleep. We found dark rides for sis to breast feed in, such as the Hall of Presidents. Diaper changes were done in the restroom, or in her stroller (she brought a nice one from home) in out of the way spots.

Pack along extra clothes for you and for the baby, just in case of an accident. Lots of wipes and more diapers than you think you will need.

 

[Betty Rohrer]

Hi everyone. My husband and I are expecting our first child within the next two weeks, and she will be about seven weeks old at her first Disney trip at the end of February/beginning of March. We had this trip planned before I got pregnant and decided to keep it for a few reasons. I know that every infant is different and we can’t prepare for everything but I would love to know tips from people who have traveled with a newborn. A few points to note to give you context specific to our trip and family:

• I am an Orlando local, but this trip will be with my father and sister who are traveling from New York. So they will definitely stay on property and I would like to as well to avoid driving every day, unless there arises a reason not to such as if she is sick.
• We’ll be staying at the Polynesian Village in a studio villa. Our reservation is for six nights.
• My husband isn’t into Disney and doesn’t plan to come except for maybe a day or two. This is mostly a trip for my family plus baby lol
• I plan to babywear as much as possible but we will have a stroller as well
• We have a 4Moms BreezeGo Pack n Play at home but I’m unsure if it’s better than the Pack n Play provided in the room.
• My sister utilizes DAS so we’ll have access to that in addition to Fastpass and baby swap
• I plan to breastfeed and am aware of the baby care centers.

Thanks for any advice you can provide! Very excited to take my little one.

my main advice as others have said plenty of extra clothes for baby and you in the parks not just at resort. you will need them in the parks. also have a second carrier in the room in case of blowout. yes been there and done that

 

[Specter]

I can't speak to taking a baby to Disney at that age but something DW and I did discover earlier this year when we had our first was that if you have a c-section, as we ended up needing(not planned but also thankfully non-emergency), it can take 6-8 weeks for the doctor to release you to lift anything heavier than the baby, or drive. Now, not everyone follows those guidelines but we decided that the doctor recommended it for a reason and we are glad that we did follow the instructions because DWs recovery went fairly quickly and with no complications. So, depending on what happens/how long your doctor recommends taking things easy, you might find that you can't pack around the baby and everything that you'll want/need in the parks after such a short time, or your family will need to help with everything that is needed. You'll also have to consider what you can even ride if you are still recovering from a c-section. And, because she had been on light activity for that time span, plus the lack of sleep from constantly being up nursing DD, DW found that she got tired a lot faster than normal even doing more routine things.

While I wouldn't want to try and manage a trip with a baby that age I will echo a previous sentiment and say temper your expectations for what you'll get to do on the trip.

Whatever happens with the trip, good luck with the baby and congrats.

 

[tinkerjo]

My best advise is to take it slow. You will still be pretty worn out. Childbirth and nursing a baby is hard work and the baby most likely will not be sleeping through the night yet (I had 1 out of 4 that was) it sounds like this is family time which is great, just don’t be too focused on rides. Keep the baby covered well (sunburn and germs) practice wearing your baby throughout the house and take walks in the stroller from early on. The baby will be very used to it by Disney. Although you will be nursing, don’t be afraid to take some formula for “emergencies” pack binkies, extra clothing for you both, diapers and wipes. Make sure to stay hydrated and pack healthy snacks for yourself. as a nursing mom you need plenty of extra fluids and calories. Take it SLOW and enjoy this time with family and congratulations

 

[PollyannaMom]

I haven't gone with a baby that young (mine was one on his first trip) but I definitely second extra clothes - for you too, as getting spit up on is pretty normal!

My DS did the baby-wearing thing extremely well. - We took his stroller, but frequently parked it and used the carrier. The advice above to practice before hand is a great idea!

I expect at your baby's age, a stroller will be nice for changing in out-of-the-way places, too - less germy than the changing tables. (I don't mean to panic you about the germ thing, though, when you've already decided to go. - I would actually think that at that age, the baby will still have at least some passive immunity, especially with breastfeeding, and will certainly not be touching every surface on her own like a toddler would.)

Wash your own hands frequently, and have your traveling companions do the same. You are pretty much the baby's "gateways" if she's in a carrier or stroller.

Make sure to stay hydrated and pack healthy snacks for yourself. as a nursing mom you need plenty of extra fluids and calories.

That's a good point as well! As is to get enough rest - don't get caught up in a long "must-do" list, and take life at baby's pace.

Managing your expectations is key, but it sounds like you already have the realistic attitude that everything is tentative at that age.


PS - My other favorite tip for anyone who plans to be a frequent visitor (since you live close, I'm guessing you'll be back) is to pick your own special picture spot, and take her picture there on every trip. It makes for an adorable scrapbook page or photo frame later!

 

[LadyntheTramp]

I didn't read all the comments...but we traveled with a 8 wk old (my first) across the country in December during to flu season. I will say that I was a give my baby to anyone to hold type of person and never made people wash their hands, so the timing wouldn't bother me. I agree with taking your time and just trying to relax. Maybe you could hang our on the peoplemover while your family is on Space Mountain. I would def. plan to come back to the hotel for a break during the day. I agree with the extra cloths and def a hat, since babies that young can't have sunscreen. Also, I would consider trying to breastfeed in the carrier..if possible. I could never figure it out but I know people that do.

Edited to add: Also try to prepare for the unexpected..you and your family. My second came early at 35 wks so instead of going outside and enjoying the summer we were stuck inside due to her underdeveloped immune system, per the doctors orders. (Obviously..I hope you have a full term happy and healthy baby...but man can those kiddos have a mind of there own even at 7 wks old.)

 

[Shellyred8]

Bring some gallon ziploc bags with, in case of bad blow-outs or spit ups. It's nice to have something to contain that mess in.

If you are getting up a lot during the night, you might want to bring some ear plugs for the people that are staying in the room with you. I find the Stanley brand ones (pink and yellow) are pretty comfortable.

Have a great trip!!!

 

[sponica]

I think if you have a natural delivery you should be fine-ish...but I'm not sure how much energy you'll actually have.

I had a C section, so I could never tell what was new mom drained versus recovering from having a human removed surgically drained. I think by 7 weeks I could only handle walking the half mile around my block once a day.

 

[lilmc]

Moby wrap is wonderful for baby wearing and nursing in the go! The question is can your back handle that all day? Plan for shows and the Peoplemover to give your back a break

 

[martikus]

Babies at that age are so easy. So as long as you have extra clothes in case of spit ups and don’t mind sitting a bench while your family does rides, you can enjoy time with them while with baby.

that said I would strongly recommend sleeping at home. Babies cry a lot and get up a couple times a night. It’s one thing for you to put up with that. It’s another to make family do it since you’d all be in same room. If you do stay over bring your own pnp. If for no other reason it’s cleaner.