with insight from seasoned professionals, all part of Vermont Birth Network

The holidays with a new baby are equal parts magic and meltdown. Between travel plans, feeding schedules, and family expectations, it’s easy to feel like you’re juggling nap times and mashed potatoes all at once.

Take a breath — you’re not alone. We asked Vermont Birth Network professionals to share their best real-world advice for staying calm, connected, and (mostly) rested this holiday season.

*The first holiday with a baby can be exciting (and stressful!)*

Holiday Travel Tips for New Parents

Traveling with a baby takes extra planning — but a few small tweaks can make the journey smoother for everyone.

On the road:
Plan to stop every couple of hours to give everyone a break. Babies shouldn’t spend long stretches in car seats outside of travel time, so schedule quick pauses for feeding, diaper changes, and stretching.

Try to time driving with nap times if you can. Some babies snooze best after a full belly; others need a little time upright first to avoid reflux. Expect a bit of trial and error — you’ll find your rhythm.

If it’s cold, skip the bulky snowsuit in the car seat. Instead, dress your baby in thin, warm layers and add a blanket or car-seat–safe cover over the straps once they’re secured.

Flying somewhere?
Feed or offer a pacifier during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure. Many parents find babywearing through the airport or boarding makes things easier (and keeps hands free for bags).

Pack extra outfits for baby — and yourself (because somehow blowouts always target your only clean sweater) — plus a small bag of essentials: diapers, wipes, a changing pad, snacks, and a cozy blanket.

And remember: even the most organized travel days rarely go perfectly. Give yourself permission to slow down and reset when needed. Keep this mantra in your back pocket: “It will be great — and if not, a great story.” Those tough travel moments? They’ll become family legends someday.

Feeding Your Baby During Holiday Travel or Gatherings

Feeding outside your usual cozy setup can feel intimidating at first — but a little planning goes a long way.

“Remember: oxytocin, the letdown hormone, flows best when you’re calm and comfortable,” says Dani, lactation counselor and postpartum doula. “Feed at your comfort level — public or private is up to you.”

You can pack a nursing cover, wear a scarf or long cardigan for privacy, or layer a tank top under a loose sweater. (Bonus: It’s pretty easy to find stylish nursing clothes with strategic zippers these days!)

“When you’re out and about, look for Mamava pods (a Vermont company) or lactation rooms in airports or malls,” adds Dani.

If your schedule shifts, don’t panic. “Feed or pump on demand whenever possible,” Dani says. “A single missed session won’t hurt, but frequent skipped sessions can affect supply.” Staying hydrated, eating balanced meals, and resting when you can also help. A small hand pump or wearable pump makes travel days much easier.

When well-meaning relatives chime in with opinions, Dani reminds parents to stand firm: “Take a deep breath, thank them for their input, and redirect. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for how you feed your baby.”

If comments continue, it’s okay to draw a gentle line — and to ask your partner or support person to help back you up.

*Traveling with an infant is easier when you’re prepared and able to be flexible.*

Helping Your Baby (and You) Sleep During the Holidays

“No more silent nights?” Yep — your holidays may look a little louder (and sleepier) this year.

When you’re away from home, a few familiar bedtime cues go a long way. Try dim lights, a favorite lullaby, or the same sleep sack from home. And don’t underestimate the power of closeness: holding or babywearing can help your little one regulate through all the new sights and sounds.

Lisa Kerns, BS, IBCLC, RLC of Promise Lactation Consulting, notes that babies show clear signs when they’re overstimulated. Sleeping through noise and being passed around can look peaceful but may actually be a stress response. Some babies even sleep through hunger, leading to extra wake-ups once things quiet down.

Older babies might turn away from faces or toward their caregiver when they need a break. Watching for those cues — and taking a few minutes in a quiet room — can help your baby reset.

“Go into gatherings expecting to step out and support your baby,” Lisa says. “That shift in mindset can make everything feel easier.”

*Wearing your baby can help keep them calm, provide a place to snooze and minimize exposure to germs.*

Babywearing During the Holidays: Comfort and Germ Protection

New places, new faces, and new routines can be a lot for a little one. The comfort of being close to you provides safety, warmth, and calm.

Lisa says, “My number one recommendation is a carrier or sling for mom and dad. Life saver!”

In addition to the emotional benefits, babywearing also offers a layer of protection during germ season, as it naturally discourages people from reaching in for a touch or cuddle. It lets you move freely, keeps baby cozy, and signals to others that baby is settled and doesn’t need to be passed around.

A few germ-season reminders:
• Ask family or friends who are sick to postpone visits
• Encourage hand washing before anyone holds or touches your baby
• Set boundaries around kisses or close face-to-face contact
• Keep sanitizer and wipes handy for travel and gatherings

Protecting your baby’s health isn’t being overprotective — it’s being responsive.

Caring for Yourself This Holiday Season

Whether you’re traveling across the state or cozy at home, remember: babies thrive when parents feel supported and calm. Give yourself permission to slow down, adjust expectations, and say no when needed.

Just like you’re making arrangements to make your baby more comfortable, consider what would make you feel more comfortable. Bring earbuds to soften the noise of baby crying, queue up a favorite podcast, plan an easy dinner for when you arrive, or treat yourself to a special coffee before you go. Even wearing your comfiest clothes can make a world of difference in how you feel!

In our next post, we’ll share more strategies for communicating boundaries, managing stress, and finding calm when the holidays start to feel overwhelming.

Looking for more local support this season? Explore the Vermont Birth Network Directory to connect with Vermont-based doulas, IBCLCs, sleep consultants, and other perinatal professionals.