If you had to choose the most stressful of life’s transitions, what would you pick? Moving? Having a baby? What about moving with a newborn baby? While it might seem near impossible, even the most sleep-deprived parents can survive this extra-stressful transition with a little guidance. Here are some tips for a more relaxing move with your brand-new baby.
Use a Moving Calendar
It’s hard enough to stay organized while caring for a newborn, but adding a move into the mix takes the struggle to a new level. Fortunately, a moving calendar that schedules out your moving to-do list on a timeline can help you maintain focus throughout the relocation process.
Hire Professionals
If there was ever a time to hire a professional moving company, relocating with a newborn is it. Not only do moving companies help with packing, loading, and disassembling furniture, they provide much-needed supplies like moving boxes, furniture slides, hand trucks, security straps, and moving pads.
If you prefer to rent your own moving truck, then you may want to try a “you pack, we drive” option. For safety reasons, car seats are not permitted in rental trucks, so this option allows you to fly with your newborn or drive your car to your new home while the pros handle all of your belongings.
On moving day, Autumn Mahar at UPack.com recommends relying on childcare professionals or family members to watch your baby for the day. With all of the noise and commotion that comes with loading up the truck, it makes sense to have your tiny bundle of joy safely out of the house. Make sure to load baby things last so they are the first things unloaded when you arrive at your new home.
De-Stress a Long-Distance Drive
Before any long-distance car travel with baby, make sure to schedule a checkup with your pediatrician before you leave, and take any health records along in the car. Map out your driving route carefully, and plan on making plenty of stops for feeding, diaper changes, and fresh air. Make sure your infant car seat is safety-approved, and don’t forget soothing music to keep baby comfortable and relaxed along the way.
Don’t Forget Road Trip Essentials
A few hours or a few days — nothing makes a road trip with children feel longer than setting out on the journey unprepared. If you’re wondering how to pack for a baby when hitting the road, a few essentials help you deal with any situation that may arise.
- A fold-up stroller
- A portable crib
- A diaper bag stuffed with disposable diapers, baby wipes, prepared baby bottles, and formula or a battery-operated breast pump
- A week’s worth of baby clothing
- Baby powder, lotion, cotton balls, Q-tips, and sunscreen for warm weather
- A baby thermometer, infant pain reliever, and a small hot water bottle
- Plenty of pacifiers
- A few blankets and towels
- Plastic bags for trash
- Bottled water
- Snacks for mom and dad
Make Setup for Baby a Priority
After you’ve arrived at your new home, it is a good idea to set up your nursery first. This allows baby a peaceful place to rest while you finish unloading and unpacking. When re-assembling furniture, double check for sturdiness, and anchor any furniture that might tip, like changing tables or dressers.
To make sure your newborn has a good sleeping environment from day one in your new home, Jamie from the customer care team at Happiest Baby.com recommends dimming the lights and playing white noise to help baby sleep.
The folks at UPack.com suggest baby proofing your new home quickly after moving in. Get guidelines from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission about various safety devices, from baby gates and outlet covers to corner and edge bumpers.
Get the Lay of the Land
When you’re moving long distance with baby, there’s so much to learn about your new city. On top of your priority list should be the location of the local hospital and the nearest superstore for everything from groceries to diapers. Make an appointment with a new pediatrician, and find a reliable babysitter in your area with handy apps like UrbanSitter and Sittercity.
Moving with a baby can be stressful, especially a newborn. Fortunately, being prepared can keep your anxiety in check. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle or expense of moving large pieces of furniture, then check out CORT Furniture Rental for stylish beds, sofas, tables, chairs, and more — all conveniently delivered.
