Traveling with a medically complex infant, particularly an infant that has high health needs or a rare disease such as hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) can be daunting. However, it’s perfectly normal to be mobile with your baby in the first year of life, despite any health complications. By planning ahead and anticipating the potential challenges that could occur, you can make your journey easier for the whole family.
Regardless of the exact health challenges, preparing for traveling with a baby or child requires a detailed and structured approach. The first step is informing your healthcare team of your plans and asking for advice.
When planning for a trip with a baby who requires extra care, you must consider their medical needs but also their comfort and well-being. A baby who has high health needs or a rare disease may be more fragile and require additional comforting when traveling in unfamiliar environments.
Learn more about HDFN symptoms and risks
Factors to consider when planning your trip
Key considerations for a trip with a medically-complex child include:
Destination and itinerary: Choose a destination that can effectively manage medical emergencies if required. Don’t overschedule your trip. Traveling can be tiring and an infant that has medical needs will tire quickly.
Mode of travel: Traveling by car is preferable, as you can be more flexible. Plane travel can be stressful for babies, with the changes in air pressure causing discomfort and breathing difficulties.
Packing: Take familiar bedding, clothes or soft toys as well as spare changes of clothes and plenty of diapers, creams, wipes and other accessories.
Medical needs: Carry a copy of the medical history of your child, your healthcare provider’s contact details and any medication. Follow your doctor’s advice for ongoing care of conditions such as jaundice or anemia.
Feeding schedule: Whether you are breastfeeding or formula feeding, try to stick to the schedule as much as you can.
Daily routine: Maintain your usual daily routine as much as possible. Try to travel during naptime, if you can. As little change as possible to the feeding and sleep routine will be reassuring to your baby, particularly if you are in unfamiliar surroundings.
Comfort: Plan layered clothing that is breathable and easy to change on the go. Don’t let your baby overheat or dehydrate when you’re on the move. Take regular breaks to check your baby’s temperature, level of fatigue and general mood.
Safety: Research the closest hospitals or clinics in case your baby needs urgent care.
Being flexible is an essential ingredient to any successful trip. Alleviate your stress and anxiety by factoring in moments outside the itinerary to spend time with your baby. Allow for time buffers too, in case of unexpected delays.
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