Moving with a baby can feel just as tough and unpredictable as those first few months of parenting. When you’ve got a little one, there’s more to think about while getting ready for the move — but don’t stress! Many parents have done it before and there are lots of helpful tips to keep things running smoothly (even if your baby is full of energy and curiosity). Stick to these easy-to-follow tips and you’ll feel more organized and confident as you take on the challenge of moving with your baby.
First Things First – Consult Your Pediatrician
Before anything else, talk to your baby’s doctor about the move (chances are, you already have them on speed dial!). Once you know your moving date, go ahead and schedule a short appointment. It’s a good chance to make sure your baby is all caught up on vaccinations and to grab any medicines you might need in the next few months.
Let Your Pediatrician Know You’re Moving
Tell your baby’s doctor that you’re planning to move and ask if they can suggest a new pediatrician near your new home. Even if they don’t know someone personally, they can still offer helpful advice on how to find a good one. You’ll probably need to fill out a form to transfer your baby’s medical records to the new doctor. The good news? Your current pediatrician can take care of that paperwork during your visit and answer any questions you have. A few common things you might want to ask include:
When Is the Right Time to Move with a Baby?
Figuring out the best time to move with a newborn isn’t always easy. If you’re planning to move shortly after your baby is born, remember that recovering from childbirth and taking care of a newborn is already a lot to handle. You probably won’t be able to do much with the move yourself. While Dad or other family members might take care of packing and lifting, they’ll probably need some extra hands too.
If you’re able to wait at least six months before moving, it could make things a lot smoother. But if you’re on a deadline and can hire professional movers, that can really help take the pressure off. It’s usually not a good idea to move within the first six weeks after your baby is born, so it’s best to talk to your pediatrician and figure out what timing works best for your situation.
Should You Move Before or After Having a Baby?
If you ask around, most parents will tell you it’s easier to move before the baby is born. It’s just simpler to get everything set up in your new place when you’re not juggling feedings, nap times and diaper changes — because those things don’t exactly wait for the perfect moment!
Moving during pregnancy can still be tough but it’s usually less stressful for you, your family and especially your baby. If your timing allows it, talk to your doctor about whether moving before the baby arrives could be a better choice.
What is the Toughest Time with a Newborn?
For most parents, the first six to eight weeks after the baby is born are the hardest. You’re dealing with nonstop feedings, very little sleep, lots of emotions and learning how to bond with your baby — it’s a lot all at once. Trying to move during this time can make things feel even more stressful. If you can, take things slow, focus on adjusting to parenthood and enjoy these special early moments with your little one.
Avoid Packing Too Early
“Early” can mean different things to different people but no one wants to live around piles of moving boxes for weeks. Try to plan your packing wisely and keep all the boxes in one spot — somewhere your baby can’t reach or get into them before moving day.
Plan Your Travel with Baby in Mind
If you’re moving a long distance with your baby, try to plan ahead with their needs in mind. Many hotels actually offer cribs — just call before you arrive to make sure one will be ready in your room. If you’re flying, booking a direct flight is usually best so you can skip long layovers which can be exhausting for both you and your little one.
Once you’ve booked your flight, take a moment to check the airline and TSA rules about bringing baby items like strollers and extra diaper bags. Some airlines let you use a foldable stroller in the airport and you can check it at the gate — which can make traveling a little smoother for everyone.
Moving with a Newborn – Keep Things Calm
Even if your baby usually sticks to a routine, moving day can still feel like a whirlwind. Hiring a moving company can really help and it’s a good idea to take your baby out of the house before they show up. With all the noise and rush, it’s not the best time for a peaceful nap.
If hotel cribs don’t seem like the best choice, bring a portable crib for your baby to nap and play safely. You don’t have to be at the new house the second the movers show up — it might be easier to run a few errands while your baby naps in the car or hang out at a friend’s place for a while. It can help make the day go more smoothly for everyone.
Moving with a Toddler – Keep the Fun Going
If you’re moving with a toddler, it’s still smart to get some extra help but both parents can usually take a more active role this time. You might even let your toddler join in with small, fun tasks to keep them involved!
As soon as you get to your new home, try to baby-proof right away—especially if your toddler is very active. Set up a comfy area where they can relax and keep the mood light and playful to help prevent any of those typical toddler tantrums.
Pack Two Essential Bags for Baby
Traveling with a baby can get a little messy, so here’s a good tip, pack two different bags. For the car or plane, have your regular diaper bag ready with extra diapers, wipes, a change of clothes and a few plastic bags for anything dirty — you’ll be glad you packed them.
The second bag is for overnight stays, like in a hotel. Pack a few safety items such as outlet covers and corner protectors for sharp furniture edges that your curious baby might bump into. You might also want to bring a safety gate for move-in day to help keep your baby safe while settling into the new place.
Stick to Your Routine
It might be hard to keep up with your usual routine while getting ready to move but it really helps. Keeping nap times and feeding times the same can make your baby feel more secure, even with everything going on. Little habits—like reading a book before bed—can give both you and your baby a nice, calming break from the moving madness.
Is Moving Stressful for Babies?
Yes, moving can be stressful for babies too. Even though they’re still getting to know the world, they notice when things around them change. Leaving familiar surroundings can make them feel unsettled. Just like adults, babies can feel things like stress, sadness or anxiety during a move. They also pick up on your emotions, so the calmer you stay, the more it can help them feel safe.
Pack the Baby’s Room Last
Before you start packing up your baby’s room, snap a few photos — you’ll be glad you did later. When packing, make sure the crib is the very last thing loaded onto the moving truck or into your portable container. As you take it apart, put all the small parts in a clear plastic bag and tape it to the crib so nothing gets lost. Once you’re in your new place, set up the crib first to give your baby a familiar and cozy spot right away.
Arrange Help on Move-In Day
If you’re moving locally, ask a friend, family member or babysitter to look after your baby on moving day. For longer moves, it might be harder to find help right away, so try searching online for a babysitter in your new area. If you think you’ll need more regular help, hiring a nanny could be a good idea. No matter what, having someone to care for your baby while you unpack and get settled will make the day a lot easier.
Most Importantly, Give Yourself Some Credit
Don’t forget—you’re doing an amazing job! It’s easy to focus only on your baby but take a moment to recognize all the effort you’ve put in. With careful planning and lots of flexibility, you’ve pulled off a move that works for your baby and that’s something to be proud of.
That’s why A1a Movers is here to support you through it all. Whether you’re expecting a baby, moving with a little one or have older kids in the mix, we’re here to make your move easier, smoother and as stress-free for your family as possible.