Babyproof your hotel room as you would your home.
Traveling with an infant or a toddler can be stressful, no matter how prepared you are. But getting to your destination, whether it’s Grandma’s house, or an all inclusive resort, is only just the beginning. Just as you would babyproof your home, you have to babyproof your destination.
Before you pack any babyproofing items, touch base with your hotel (or Grandma) to find out if babyproofing aides are already there. Ask for specifics, such as outlet covers, cabinet locks, baby gates, etc. Once you know what’s already there, you can begin packing the other items you’ll need. Below are a few items you’ll need to consider:
- A babygate
- Outlet covers (masking tape can double as an outlet cover, in a bind)
- Cabinet locks
- A toilet lid latch
- A portable playpen
- Masking tape to wrap up electrical cords, or other strangulation dangers
Once you’re at your destination, it’s time to do a little research. Get down on the ground and look around (from your child’s eye level) to see what you’ll need to address. If your baby is just beginning to walk, you need to remove furniture that could pose a tripping hazard. If your child is known to reach up and pull items down from table tops, you may need to clear off tables and nightstands. If your destination has a balcony, take great care evaluating the railing, and the furniture. Can your child crawl on the balcony furniture and fall over?
Also consider whether tile floors, or hardwood floors are slippery enough to trip your child, or if rugs pose a stumbling danger.
If you take the time at the beginning of your trip to make your destination safe for your baby, you’ll be more likely to enjoy your visit. And so will your child.
