This is a sponsored guest post.
If you love traveling, then you probably have a trip to India slotted in your bucket list. India is a beautiful country where you can experience a mix of luxury and adventure. However, it’s not all smooth sailing, and for this reason, some may opt not to visit India if they have a young baby.
On the contrary, traveling to India with a baby is not just possible, but can be the welcome break you’ve been waiting for. You just need to plan your travel itinerary ahead of time.
India has a vast varied culture and with a booming hotel and accommodation industry. You can also easily access good quality childcare in many locations.
While you might consider visiting India with a toddler as more challenging than in some other countries, we have put together 10 incredible tips to help you plan for that long-awaited trip to India.
- Traveling precautions
When you’re looking for an airline to travel with, always enquire with the company on the conditions of travel with the baby. Most airlines offer a baby diaper changing table, baby’s food, some diapers and even a diaper rash cream for the baby during the flight.
When traveling to India with a baby under six months, you are offered privilege of a bassinet, which is a great help. Most airlines do not offer bassinets for babies above six months and it tends to be hectic holding the baby on your arms throughout the traveling time.
Also, flight taking off and landing may be a little unsettling for baby, and ear ache might occasionally affect their sleep in other parts of the journey. Have a bottle of milk or sugary chewers ready during take-off and landing, as saliva helps reduce the intensity of ache.
Additionally, parents traveling with infants are advised to carry formula for the baby, diapers, and breast milk preserved. All these are inspected during departure, and are allowed (after checking) well over the regular liquids limit.
- Expect these Inconveniences
There are quite a few hurdles you might face if it’s your first time to a tropical country like India. Make sure you do your due diligence and research before traveling.
Some of the most common setbacks that travellers to India face are:
- Mosquitos
- Fever
- Water
- Diaper rash
- Diarrhoea
Mosquitos are a common pest in many parts of India. Use a mosquito net or trap to keep baby safe when asleep. Electronic repellents are effective as well in reducing mosquito bites.
If you travel to India with a baby and the baby exhibits signs and symptoms of fever, cough or cold, it is not uncommon. However, if temperatures do not subside even after an infant paracetamol, then it is always advisable to consult a physician.
In India, water in most parts may be contaminated and not safe to drink as is for adults or baby. Buy bottled mineral water where possible or purchase a water kettle and boil the water before use.
Infants are very sensitive to environment change and this may cause diarrhoea in some. In addition to choosing the best diapers in India, make sure you take the necessary precautions like carrying a hand sanitizer, washing hands frequently, sanitizing toys and drinking boiled or bottled water only.
Food change and some other natural factors may press the immune system of the baby to an extent of developing diarrhoea. Consult a doctor or physician if symptoms persist.
- Online Shopping
The good news is that Amazon offers its services to India too! So whatever you need, you can deliver it to your hotel room. One of the main things you might want to know is what are the best diapers in India for your baby. Additionally, people rarely use changing tables in India, so keep in mind that they could be challenging to find. However, you these days can find them in large malls and play areas.
- Transportation
Many people don’t use car seats in India. It may be a very good idea to bring your own car seats and other baby gear. If you don’t want the hassle of carrying it, you can always order more lightweight ones online. The best way to enjoy the local transportation system is to hire a car and a driver to chauffeur you around the city.
You can also use Uber and Ola taxi apps in India. Another option is to use the local auto rickshaws occasionally. While your child will love the wind in their face, you need to haggle if you don’t want a fair price.
- Baby Food and Snacks
Indians embrace food and finding baby food shouldn’t be much of a problem. You can choose to buy baby food in stores or even order food online. When you are in restaurants, you can always request the kitchen staff to make something suitable for your baby.
have a specific liking for some snacks because that is what they know and love. Carry your own and this will save you a lot of hassle. However, there are also many local options you can take advantage of and chances are your baby will love them too.
Some of the best local toddler snack options include Indian ‘Kishmish’ raisins, Happy Tummy’s Snack bars, and raw banana chips among others.
- Breastfeeding
In most parts of India, breastfeeding is widely accepted but not as much publicly. In India, a lot of women prefer to nurse their babies in private. The country has some progressive leave laws concerning breastfeeding, but you’d be well advised to breast feed in a separate room or only around other women.
- Vaccines
Many websites and travel blogs have various opinions on the vaccines required when traveling to India. I would advise against following such opinions and look for official advice from government bodies on vaccines you need before travelling to India and definitely seek advice from your doctor.
- Best Time to Travel
Your trip to India can be a huge success or a great failure depending on the weather during the trip. Avoid peak summer and monsoons to escape extreme heat, rain and pollution. The best time to visit most of India is from August to October and February to April. So plan your trip around these months for the best vacation experience.
- Historical Sites
When visiting historical sites with baby, safety is your key concern. Many of these sites have no railings because most of them are preserved heritage sites. Keep your baby close and safe as this is paramount.
10. Hotels & Childcare
The hospitality sector in India is a class apart. Staff always go above and beyond to make sure that you are happy with your stay there.
Housekeeping is almost always available to keep your room clean and tidy. You can even schedule housekeeping times yourself.
Additionally, childcare in these parts of the world is very affordable. Many hotels in India offer childcare services like babysitting on-site. Do your due diligence, but in most cases, the services offered are amazing, and give you that much needed break or evening out.
Conclusion
These are just a few travel tips to make your trip to India a memorable one. Planning and being prepared are key. While this list is not exhaustive, it will go a long way to make your trip with baby less tedious and a lot more fun!
Author Bio:
Shobita Ravichandran
Editor in Chief
Shobita is a mum of two beautiful girls. Initially when her first little bundle of joy arrived, she was far from prepared. She didn’t know the first thing about caring for a newborn.
Over time, and with the help of a massive support system of family and friends (and the occasional unsolicited advice), she learnt lessons on what to do, what to avoid, and what she would do differently the next time.
As a young mum living in a big city, she has been extensively researching the best baby products for her children. Now, she would like to share this knowledge and wisdom with you, to take at least a little bit of parenting stress away.
