Plan Your Accommodation Wisely
When traveling with a newborn, picking the right accommodation is crucial. Opt for places with good reputations for cleanliness and safety. Look for hotels or rentals that provide mosquito nets or screens on windows and doors. Choosing a room on higher floors can also help as mosquitoes tend to stay close to the ground.
Additionally, consider accommodations with air conditioning. Not only does it keep the room cool, but it also helps keep mosquitoes at bay. A personal anecdote: On our first trip with our baby, we stayed at an eco-lodge that provided mosquito nets, making our stay both safe and memorable.
Use Mosquito Repellents Safely
Using mosquito repellents is essential, but you need to use them safely around your newborn. Look for repellents containing IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as these are safer for young children. Avoid DEET-based products for kids under two months old. Always apply the repellent to your hands first, then spread it on your baby’s skin and clothes, avoiding their hands, face, and mouth. Remember to reapply as often as indicated. One tip I found helpful was applying a light layer of baby lotion first, creating a barrier and making the repellent more effective.
Dress Your Baby in Protective Clothing
Dress your baby in loose-fitting, long-sleeved tops and long pants. Light-colored clothing is preferable as it’s less attractive to mosquitoes. Consider clothes treated with permethrin, which repels insects.
I once invested in a set of permethrin-treated baby clothes for a family trip to a tropical destination. It was worth every penny because our baby stayed bite-free throughout the trip.
Don’t forget to pack a hat with a wide brim to protect your baby’s head and neck, which are common mosquito targets.
Create a Mosquito-Free Zone
Creating a mosquito-free zone can be a fun and essential part of your travel preparations. Bring along a portable mosquito net for your baby’s crib or stroller. These nets are lightweight and fit easily into your luggage. Also, you can have some fun setting up an electric mosquito zapper, making sure it’s placed out of the baby’s reach. On one of our beach holidays, we brought along a miniaturized battery-powered fan that also emitted a mosquito-repelling scent. It became a conversation starter among other parents who were dealing with the same problem.
Stay Calm and Enjoy Your Trip
Traveling with a newborn can be stressful, especially when you’re worrying about mosquito bites. Take a deep breath and stay calm. Remember, babies pick up on parental stress. Plan carefully, use the preventative methods outlined in this blog, and enjoy your trip. If you’re relaxed and happy, your baby will be too.
During our first trip, despite all the precautions we took, we were constantly worried. Upon returning home, we realized we missed out on a lot of fun experiences because of our worries. Relax, and don’t let the fear of mosquitoes ruin your adventure!
