Don’t worry. You can achieve a safe and easy move even with your small child in tow. From advanced planning to packing and basic moving tips, the following guide covers everything you need to complete your move with a happy, healthy, and cared-for baby.
Before the Move
Advanced planning is an absolute must when you have an infant. In addition to your regular moving to-dos, add these items to your list:
- Create a Meal Plan
Packing boxes and organizing transportation is no easy feat. You might struggle to find time to feed your baby, let alone time to feed yourself. So before your move, take the time to plan a few simple meals to keep up your energy levels. Stick with simple foods you can take on the go, like sandwiches and trail mix.
- Book a Babysitter
You and your significant other can take turns packing and watching the baby, but you’ll 
definitely need help on moving day. You don’t want to worry about your child crawling under foot or crying unnoticed in the corner as you load boxes into the truck.
So hire a professional service, or ask a friend or family member help. Make sure your sitter knows the right date and time, and give plenty of advanced notice. If you worry your go-to sitter might not be available, ask a back-up babysitter to help, just in case.
- Find a Pediatrician
Your baby could get sick before, en route, or once you’ve arrived at your new place. To avoid a stressful situation, find a good pediatrician before your move. Ask around, read reviews, and visit your child’s new doctor.
Also, keep copies of your child’s medical records on hand, or mail them in advance to the pediatrician. This way you can keep your child up-to-date on his or her immunizations despite the move.
During the Move
Now that you’ve planned your entire move, it’s time to prepare you and your baby for the official moving day.
- Put Together a
Travel Case of Baby Essentials
Think everything you use to care for your baby day and a night. Since moving services may deliver your items before or after you arrive, you’ll want to keep certain essentials with you. This could include:
- Diapers and wipes
- Diaper rash ointment
- Changing pad
- Changes of clothes
- Toys and snacks
- Plenty of baby food
- First-aid kit
- Plastic bags for trash
- Stroller
- Portable crib
- One or two blankets
- Sunscreen
Although packing these items can sometimes seem look more hassle than its worth, you’ll be happy you have them during an emergency.
- Take Extra Time En Route
If you are traveling to your new home via road trip or plane, realize that it will take extra time when you have an infant. Plan for frequent stops along the way for feeding, bathroom, or just to take a break.
Bring a noisemaker or recorded sounds that soothe your baby during the trip.
After the Move
Congratulations! You made it through the journey to your new ho
me. But you’re not finished yet.
- Enjoy Your First Meal in Your New Home
Upon arrival, plan for an easy takeout meal on the kitchen floor. You can turn this into a fun picnic by spreading a blanket out and taking your meal together with some paper napkins.
- Catch Up on Your Sleep
After you’ve eaten and fed your infant, take a few minutes to unpack your basic essentials. This could include a few blankets to sleep on, or finding your toothbrush in your toiletries bag. From there, do what’s necessary to settle in and enjoy your first night in your new home.
If you can, try to remain consistent with your infant’s sleep schedule. Soon you and your family will adjust to your new home and new routine.
