We Asked Nikki Gil Albert Some Questions About Her Family Trip to New York and Some Tips About Traveling with a Baby

Have you ever traveled with a baby? Well, if you’re a new mom wondering what that experience will be like, we got someone to share her thoughts on the topic. Nikki Gil Albert recently came back from a family trip to New York, and we asked her all about it–from the experience to her recommendations, and tips she could give other moms. Read on to see what this lovely momma had to say, and don’t forget to ooh and ahh over these bright snaps from Sweet Escape!

Baby and Breakfast: Motherhood We Asked Nikki Gil-Albert for Some Tips About Traveling with a Baby!

 

Was this your first time traveling with your baby?

This was his Finn’s first long haul flight. But the first time we traveled with him was when he was only four months old. We went to Hong Kong Disneyland with the family. I think that was good practice for the longer trip because it was only a one and a half hour flight, and we didn’t have to deal with baby jet lag.

 

How was it?

Other than the fact that we had to pack the entire nursery, i think it went pretty well! Thankfully, he was good on the plane and was asleep for the most part. And when he’d be awake, we’d just walk him up and down the aisle or go to the attendants’ station for a chat with the service crew. Nappy changes in the tiny restrooms were a bit of a challenge though.

 

What was the most stressful part about traveling with a baby?

Goodness, the PACKING. Packing is always so stressful for me because I don’t want to leave anything behind. Packing for adults is easy. If you happen to leave something behind, you can always buy it where you’re staying. But if you leave a favorite binky, prescription medicine, or some other item that your baby is used to and can’t do without, you can imagine it’s going to be quite an ordeal. Oh, and baby jet lag is not the most fun. It helps to be out and about the whole day so they’re pooped by the time you get to your hotel or house.

 

What was the most enjoyable part?

I loved seeing Finn’s face light up when he experienced something new. Like feeling the cold air for the first time, petting a bunny, tasting a new dish, hearing live instruments playing, chasing the pigeons, etc. I know he won’t remember any of these, but I will for sure.

 

What was something you wish you knew before traveling with a baby?

For those moms who have already stopped breastfeeding like me, bring enough infant formula for the entire trip. Your destination might not have the exact same brand that your baby is used to, and the whole trial and error thing can get expensive.

 

Most memorable moment?

I think for this trip it was a series of little things more than just one big unforgettable moment.

 

Do you have any tips for first time moms about to travel with their babies?

If you’re traveling with someone (like your husband), make sure you divide the work before you even leave so by the time you get to the airport, you already have a working “system”. It will help eliminate unnecessary stress. Make sure you pack enough nappies, milk, and clothes in your carry on bag for the plane ride and a possible one day flight delay. It’s going to be a lot of work for sure, but cherish every moment and don’t forget to have fun!

 

What are your top three travel must-haves?

1. A compact stroller (I highly recommend the Babyzen Yo-Yo),

2. A good backpack diaper bag (so your hands are free),

3. And a portable play pen (we used the Baby Bjorn. Not the most convenient to pack, but it sure came in handy when we needed a place to put Finn while we fixed up or used the bathroom).

 

What’s the next destination on your list?

No plans yet, but a short road trip within the country sounds less tedious than an 18 hour flight. Haha!

 

Favorite place in New York?

Apart from Sephora, Target and Buy Buy Baby? I’ve always liked the Met, but this trip I found a greater appreciation for it because I was fresh from a class called History of Arts and Architecture, one of the classes I took in Philippine School of Interior Design.

 

Recommended eating spots?

Cafe Habana for some elote, Benjamin’s for some Peter Luger level steak (for when Peter Luger is fully booked. Which it always is.), Chelsea Market for some lobster rolls and seafood chowder, Junior’s for cheesecake, and last but definitely not the least, Shake Shack. Haha! All touristy, but oh well, they’re popular for a reason. Haha!

 

What are your top recommended things to do in NYC?

In the city, I just eat and watch as many shows as I can. Haha! But if you’re traveling with kids, you’ll want to take them to the American Natural Museum of History. Central Park is also an inexpensive (not to mention photogenic) way to tire them little ones out. If you’re in the suburbs, they have really nice playgrounds, nature centers, and children’s museums.

 

Photographer: Sweet Escape

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