Feed Your New Baby on the Go

You probably have the at-home feeding routine down to an art. You know exactly how long to heat the bottle, have your baby food jars nicely organized, and have a high chair on hand to help feedings go smoothly. But traveling with your baby can turn any baby meal into a messy, tricky task. Here are five ways to make it less of a hassle.

Practice serving at room temperature.
Chances are you won’t always have access to a microwave when you and your baby travel. If your little one is used to eating warm baby food, start incorporating room-temperature meals into her routine before your trip. That way, she won’t reject the unexpectedly cool food on travel day.

Know the security rules.
If you plan right, getting through the airport security line with your baby food doesn’t have to take forever. That’s because baby food and formula, breast milk, and juice are exempt from the Travel Security Association’s rule stating that liquids and gels carried onboard must be less than 3.4 ounces. You aren’t required to pack your baby food in a clear, zip-top bag, either. But it’s a good idea to pack your carry-on baby food in one easy-to-reach place, since officers may still ask to inspect it.

Skip the glass.
Homemade baby food can make travel with your little one easier, since you don’t have to worry about glass jars adding extra weight -- or worse, breaking! -- in your bag. Freeze homemade baby food purees in ice-cube trays, then pop a few frozen cubes in a sturdy plastic container. A few hours later, voila! The baby food will be thawed and ready to eat.

Or go minimalist.
If the thought of trying to keep track of (and later, clean!) a bunch of plastic containers makes you cringe, go for portable baby food that comes packaged naturally, like avocado and pre-baked sweet potato. Both are nourishing baby food choices, and you can mash and serve them right from their skins. Just pack a spoon (or grab a plastic one from a gas station or at the airport).  

Prepare for messiness.
Bumpy roads, unexpected starts and stops, or airplane turbulence can make for unexpected baby food spills. Your stay-clean action plan: Pack along plenty of extra bibs, kitchen towels, and wet wipes.   

It’s often hard to stick to schedules when traveling with your baby, but aim to feed her at the same times you would at home. A well-fed baby equals a happy baby, and the less crying and fewer breakdowns while traveling, the better for everyone!