Taking a road trip with an infant seems really challenging, even for experienced travelers. Sleeping schedules, infant formula or breastfeeding, crying, changing pampers, and other factors cause anxiety when thinking about doing that on the way. Take some preparation, learn new hacks to make the trip as stress-free as possible, and things will go smoothly. This article contains the do’s, don’ts’ and advice, including cars for rent and the list of necessary items for a road trip to the Gold Coast at the end.
Don’t bring your road vehicle
A car for vacation must fit the needs and have more space, legroom, higher safety features, and special functions such as cup holders to provide comfort. Besides, Australian transportation rules require approval and paying tax. It is much easier to rent a car; companies provide this service 24/7. Gold Coast Airport car hire from 14CARS.com offers many options, from cheap economy autos to luxurious models. You can get upgrades such as GPS, baby car seats, or other equipment that meet national standards. Information about car classes and their prices are posted on one page with available locations on a map. Website search and compare rates from various vendors, so deciding the best option will be quick. Book immediately in a few clicks, and take discounts and bonuses before getting the final cost.
Practice a lot before the long ride
Being in the car for hours is stressful even for adults, then what to say about little ones? Even though it seems simple, many parents find it challenging to ride in a vehicle with a child of any age. The infant should get used to spending time in the car seat. Otherwise, hysterics and crying can not be avoided. Start getting out for short distances:
- in the journey to pick up the groceries;
- plan a day trip to a destination that is one or two hours away;
- go to the park.
Increase the time on the road gradually, and as a result, the baby will realize that being in a car seat is not such a bad thing.
Be flexible
Remember that now you are not in charge anymore because the baby can’t live on the one schedule with parents. The main task is to take care of it; thus, the itinerary is supposed to be reasonable – keep your child’s needs a priority.
Don’t try to drive more than six hours a day or night. There’s no matter to hurry. Be ready so that the usual short five-minute stop will erupt into a half-hour break because the child might get hungry or there will be a moment to change the diaper. Moreover, sleepless nights don’t disappear. You and your partner must rest at least a little. Check out the car rental opportunities to create the coziest environment with maximum facilities for the family trip.
Have one adult in the back seat
It would be good to be in control of the situation to not leave the baby alone with possible troubles. Lost toys often become a reason to cry. Note that infants obviously will get wet or spit out. If the partner or older kid, ideally a teenager, watches it, you won’t stop the car anytime to check what’s wrong. When someone is always near, the issue is resolved more quickly.
There’s also advice for single parents or solo travelers on looking after a baby behind the wheel. Special monitoring devices, rear-facing car mirrors, or car cameras help to see any motion or sight every single second. Consider buying one.
Stock up on gadgets
First of all, pay attention to Australian child safety laws to ensure that individual staff, like car seats, for example, correspond to the norms and you are able to use them. Count on additional bags right now because necessities won’t fit carry-on luggage this time. Save that top list to keep handy later:
- Packing cubes. Let’s agree that storing baby clothes in separate suitcases makes it easier to get them out when needed. Eagle Creek produces quality bags in various colors, one of the best in the market.
- Travel Stroller. A lightweight alternative to the traditional variant that folds quickly and fits even to the smallest car trunk.
- Changing pad. The useful thing can replace the changing tables outdoors or cover their cold surface.
- Products for sleep – bassinet and stroller cover. The blanket over the stroller violates comfort because it will be boiling. Don’t neglect the recommendation and see the review to understand why it is important to have such products.
Conclusion
Hope now you’re inspired enough to conquer the city with a baby and full of pure energy to start planning. Gold Coast enchants everyone with stunning beaches, landscapes, theme parks, playing whales in sea waves, majestic rainforests, and fantastic views everywhere. Wish you an unforgettable getaway and new impressions!
