Because RVing strengthens family bonds and creates incredible memories, many parents choose to introduce their young children to the activity. Keep in mind that anything involving babies requires plenty of preparedness and patience – especially if you’re taking an infant along on your RV road trip!
If you’re looking for advice on how to travel in an RV with a baby, look no further! We’ve got all the information you need to make your trip a success. Traveling with a baby can be daunting, but it’s definitely doable if you plan ahead.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything from packing essentials to finding campsites that are suitable for families. We’ll also offer some tips on keeping your little one safe and comfortable while on the road. So read on and get ready to hit the open road with your little one!
What You Need to Know About RVing With Babies on Board
Pros of RVing With Babies
- You can take your home with you- complete with all of the baby’s gear, crib, toys, and clothes;
- It’s a great way to bond as a family and create lasting memories;
- You have the freedom to go where you want and when you want – no need to worry about finding a babysitter or packing up the car every time you want to go somewhere;
Cons of RVing With Babies
- It can be challenging to find places to stay that are baby-friendly (i.e., quiet, safe, and clean);
- You may have to forego some of the more “fun” activities that you would normally do while RVing, such as hiking or biking, in order to accommodate your little one;
- It can be difficult to get a good night’s sleep when you’re sharing a small space with a baby who is awake at all hours of the night;
Babyproofing an RV
It can be a difficult and time-consuming task, but it is definitely worth it in the end. By taking the time to babyproof your RV, you can ensure that your little one will be safe and sound while traveling. While standalone RVs with no onboard nursery are small enough to travel alone, you’ll need to select a secure place where your baby may sleep and explore when traveling with you on your RV excursions. Parents frequently provide much more area than needed for tiny children, so most RV cabins will be huge enough to house an infant or toddler. You’ll need to pick out a crib that’s appropriate for your RV’s space, which is good news because portable cribs are designed for families on the move. Check the size and dimensions of your crib area in an RV to see whether it will fit. When your kid begins crawling and walking, consider adding softer carpeting to your RV. Create barriers between yourself and areas you don’t want your baby to access, such as the rear compartment of a toy hauler Many RVs are already equipped with safety features that make them ideal for road trips with young children. Since RVs need to be secure while on the road, they often come with security latches, soft sides, and other features that echo babyproofing methods. Do a lap around the RV’s cabin to find any dangerous areas, especially if your child is mobile and curious. Use traditional babyproofing strategies to fill in any gaps where necessary.
Choose Infant And Toddler-Friendly RVs
Space
It is important when you have kids. You want an RV that is comfortable for everyone and has enough room for all of your things. Look for RVs with separate bedrooms, plenty of storage space, and a kitchen that is big enough to cook in. Some RVs even have play areas or special features for kids. If you can find one that has these features, it will make traveling with your little ones much easier. A few RV manufacturers specialize in making kid-friendly RVs. Do some research to find the perfect one for your family before you hit the road.
Functionality
An RV is really just a glorified van and it needs to function like one. You need to be able to cook, sleep, and live comfortably in your space. This means that you need to have a plan for where everything goes. You also need to be aware of the fact that you’ll be spending a lot of time in close quarters with your little one, so you’ll want to make sure that everything is as comfortable and safe as possible. Functionality is key when it comes to traveling in an RV with a baby. You need to have a plan for where everything goes and make sure that your space is comfortable and safe.
Storage
It is another important consideration when traveling with a baby in an RV. You will need somewhere to store all of the baby’s gear, as well as your own belongings. Many RVs have storage areas underneath the seats or in the back of the vehicle. If your RV doesn’t have a lot of storage, you may want to consider bringing along a trailer or storage container. When it comes to sleeping arrangements, you have a few options. You can either sleep in the same bed as your baby, or you can get a crib or bassinet for them to sleep in. If you’re worried about them rolling out of bed, you can put up a barrier around the edge of the bed using pillows or blankets. Alternatively, you can also sleep in separate beds.
Safety
It is another big concern when traveling with a baby in an RV. A few things you can do to help keep your little one safe while on the road:
- Make sure to secure all loose items in the RV so they can’t become projectiles if you hit a bump;
- Also, be aware of potential hazards like chemicals and open flames. Keep them out of reach or locked up to avoid accidents;
- And finally, don’t forget about car safety seats! They’re just as important in an RV as they are in a car (maybe even more so since there are more opportunities for bumps and jostling);
Essential RV Gear For Infants
Car Seat
The first thing you need to do when traveling in an RV with a baby is to make sure you have a car seat. You will want to bring your own car seat from home so that your baby is comfortable and safe while riding in the RV. Make sure to bring along the manual for the car seat so that you can properly install it in the RV.
Crib or Pack ‘n Play
A pack ‘n play or travel crib is an essential piece of gear for any RVing family with an infant. It provides a safe, comfortable place for your baby to sleep and play while on the road.
Baby monitor
A baby monitor is a great way to keep an eye on your little one while they are sleeping or playing in another room. This can be especially helpful if you need to take a shower or step outside for some fresh air.
Changing Bag
A changing bag is essential for any parent, whether you are traveling in an RV or not. It’s a great way to keep all of your baby’s changing supplies organized and within reach.
Toys and Books
Babies need stimulation, so be sure to pack a few favorite toys and books. A toy box or small bookcase can be a great way to keep everything tidy and within reach.
First-Aid Kit
A first-aid kit is always a good idea, but it’s especially important when you’re traveling. Be sure to include any medications your baby takes, as well as supplies for minor scrapes and bruises.
Baby Carriers
RV travel with a baby can be made much easier with the use of a baby carrier. Baby carriers allow you to have your hands free while still keeping your baby close to you. There are many different types of baby carriers available on the market, so it is important to choose one that will work well for both you and your baby. Some things to consider when choosing a baby carrier for RV travel include:
- The type of carrier (e.g. wrap, sling, structured backpack);
- The weight and size limits of the carrier;
- How comfortable the carrier is for both you and your baby;
- How easy the carrier is to use;
Once you have chosen a suitable carrier, it is important to make sure that you use it correctly. Incorrect use of a baby carrier can result in serious injury to both you and your baby. If you are unsure about how to use your carrier, please consult the instructions that came with it or seek professional advice.
Bathtub
If you’re traveling with a baby, you’ll definitely want to have a plan for how you’re going to bathe them. Bath time is already stressful enough without having to worry about where you’re going to do it! Our advice is to either find an RV park that has showers with changing tables or to bring along a portable bathtub. If you go the portable bathtub route, we recommend getting one that’s inflatable. That way, you can easily store it away when you’re not using it. And, if you have a larger RV, you might even be able to fit a regular-size tub in there! Just make sure you have a plan for how you’re going to drain it afterward.
High Chair
A portable high chair is another must-have for families traveling in an RV with an infant. It allows your little one to sit safely at the table during meal times.
Tips for RVing with a Baby
Before You Hit the Road
Find An RV That Can Secure A Car Seat
The last thing you want is an RV that doesn’t have a place to secure a car seat. Make sure that the model you choose has a seating area that can accommodate a car seat without issue. You’ll also want to make sure that the area is comfortable for your little one, with plenty of room to move around and stretch out.
Consider The Weather
If you’re traveling with an infant, you’ll want to take the weather into consideration. You may not be able to camp in extreme heat or cold, so plan your trip accordingly. You’ll also want to make sure you have plenty of blankets and warm clothing for your baby.
Plan Your Route Carefully
The first step to traveling in an RV with a baby is to plan your route carefully. You’ll want to take into account the weather, the terrain, and any other factors that could potentially impact your trip. For example, if you’re traveling in winter, you’ll want to make sure you have a clear route planned so you don’t run into any problems with snow or ice. If you’re traveling in an area with a lot of hills and mountains, you’ll need to be extra careful about planning your route so you don’t over-exert yourself or put too much strain on the engine. And if you’re traveling with young children, it’s always a good idea to plan your stops ahead of time so you can find places to stay that are child-friendly.
Choose Foldable, Stowable, Durable Gear
Once you’ve planned your route, it’s time to start packing for the trip. When you’re packing for an RV trip, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:
- First, you’ll need to pack enough food and water for everyone on the trip;
- Second, you’ll need to pack bedding and towels for each person;
- Third, you should pack clothes for all types of weather conditions;
- And fourth, don’t forget to pack any necessary items for your babies, such as diapers, wipes, formula, and bottles;
Know When You Can Safely Travel
The age of your baby is one important factor to consider before you start traveling in an RV with them. You will want to wait until they are at least six months old before taking them on any long trips. This is because babies under six months old have not yet developed the necessary immunity to fight off illnesses while on the road. If you must travel with a younger baby, be sure to talk to your pediatrician first and get their approval.
Make Note Of Local Hospitals And Urgent Care Clinics
Another important factor to consider is your baby’s health. If your child has any medical conditions that could make travel more difficult, it might be best to wait until they are older or consult with their doctor beforehand. For example, if your child suffers from motion sickness, you might want to avoid long car rides or take breaks often. Similarly, if your baby has a heart condition, you’ll want to be aware of the nearest hospitals and urgent care clinics in case of an emergency.
On the Road
Naps Take The Highest Priority
Whether you’re driving or stopped for the night, your baby’s nap schedule should be your number one priority. A well-rested baby is a happy baby, and a happy baby makes RVing with infants so much easier. If you’re on the road, try to time your drives around your little one’s naps. If they usually sleep for two hours in the afternoon, plan to drive during that time. This way, they can snooze peacefully in their car seat while you focus on the road. And if you happen to get stuck in traffic or run into some other delays, your baby will already be sleeping soundly and won’t be as likely to get fussy. If you’re staying in one spot for a while, make sure your RV is set up in a way that promotes good napping. Blackout shades can help create a dark and cozy environment, and white noise can be soothing for both you and your baby. Again, their nap schedule should be your top priority, so do whatever you need to do to make sure they can get the rest they need.
Keep Milk And Snacks Handy
No matter how well you plan your RV trip with a baby, there will always be moments when your little one gets cranky. Be prepared for these hunger and thirst attacks by keeping milk and snacks close at hand. A small cooler can come in handy for storing things like yogurt, cheese sticks, and juice boxes. And don’t forget the wipes!
Wear Your Baby Properly
Wearing your baby is one of the best ways to travel with them in an RV. It frees up your hands so you can cook, clean, and move around easily. Plus, it allows your baby to feel close to you and stay warm. There are a few different ways to wear your baby. You can use a wrap, sling, or carrier. Whichever way you choose, make sure that you follow the instructions carefully. Another great tip for traveling with a baby in an RV is to bring along a portable crib or playpen. vThis will give your little one a safe place to sleep or play while you are on the road. Be sure to pack all of the bedding and toys that your child will need so they will be comfortable. Another essential for traveling with a baby in an RV is a changing station. This doesn’t have to be anything fancy; a simple diaper changing pad will do the trick. But it’s important to have a dedicated space for changing diapers, so you don’t have to worry about making a mess of your RV’s interior.
Go Out Early
This way, you can avoid the heat of the day and the crowds that come with it. Plus, your baby will be fresh and rested for a full day of exploring. Another advantage of getting out early is that you can beat the traffic. If you’re planning on visiting popular attractions, consider going first thing in the morning before everyone else arrives. You’ll have a much better experience and won’t have to deal with long lines or cranky children.
Use An iPhone App to Help Your Baby Fall Asleep
If you have an iPhone, there is an app that can help your baby fall asleep while traveling in an RV. The app is called “white noise”. It plays calming sounds that can help your baby relax and fall asleep.
FAQ
Where does a baby sleep in an RV?
Parents usually put their baby in the bed with them, but there are a few other options as well. Some people travel with portable cribs or pack-n-plays, others use RV bunk beds, and some build custom solutions like converting a closet into a sleeping nook. If you have an RV with a slide-out, you might be able to convert part of the living space into a bedroom for your little one. This can give them their own space and make nighttime feedings and changing easier. Another option is to bring along a small bassinet or travel bed that can be used both inside and outside of the RV. These are great because they’re lightweight and easy to set up, plus they give your baby a place to sleep that’s separate from your bed.
Where do you put an infant car seat in a motorhome?
The best place for an infant car seat is on the passenger side of the vehicle. This allows you to have easy access to your baby while driving. If possible, put the car seat in the middle of the RV so that it is not in the way of any cabinets or appliances. You may also want to consider putting a blanket over the car seat to protect your baby from the sun.
How do you babyproof an RV door?
There are a few things you can do to babyproof an RV door:
- You can purchase a door guard or latch that will prevent your child from opening the door;
- You can also keep the door locked when you are not in the RV;
- If you have an RV with a sliding door, you can install a lock on the inside of the door so your child cannot open it;
- Finally, you can teach your child not to play with the door and to stay away from it when it is open;
How do you keep a baby in a camper bunk?
A few things you can do to make sure your baby is comfortable and safe while traveling in an RV:
- First, bring along a crib or playpen for your baby to sleep in;
- You can also pack a few toys and books to keep your little one entertained;
- Finally, make sure to bring along plenty of diapers and wipes;
