Everyone loves a vacation, but it's hard to squeeze in a romantic getaway when you have a newborn baby in your family. Once your sweet baby arrives, leaving their side is tricky. Even if you have a trustworthy sitter, it can be hard to focus on vacation festivities when you have your little one at the forefront of your mind.
That's why many new parents plan a babymoon.
A babymoon is essentially the last hurrah for parents expecting their first baby. It's an opportunity for you to kick back and relax before the responsibilities of parenthood shift your priorities for good.
We've created this guide to help you plan a babymoon trip you'll never forget. You deserve to enjoy your final moments as a family of two. Read on to learn the ins and outs of planning the babymoon vacation of your dreams.
What Is a Babymoon?
Like a honeymoon, a babymoon is a celebratory vacation. It's an opportunity for expecting parents to spend quality time together before the realities of parenthood set in. For many couples, it's the final opportunity to experience peace and quiet before a sweet baby joins the family.
There are no rules for planning a babymoon except that it should be a fun, relaxing opportunity for a couple to spend time together. You might return to a favorite vacation spot, visit family out of town, or stay close to home.
Whatever you choose, prioritize freedom—it may be a while before you can make vacation plans again.
Why Take a Babymoon Trip?
Most parents-to-be take a babymoon to enjoy their final days as a family of two. Others take a baby moon to take advantage of the timing. For example, your first child might finally be old enough to stay with a grandparent.
First-time parents might not be aware of how structured life with a new baby can be. Infants eat and sleep on a tight schedule. Soon, you'll find yourself planning social calls around naptimes and feedings and ending the night before sundown to accommodate an early bedtime.
On the contrary, a babymoon is all about flexibility and following your whims. You can sleep in, stay out late, enjoy quiet conversation, and change your mind about plans. It's an opportunity to make choices on your schedule since you won't be able to do so for a long time.
Furthermore, your relationship with your partner is about to change in unpredictable ways. You'll have new priorities and responsibilities, and that takes some adjustment. A babymoon allows you to stay mindful and bask in the now.
You will never be this young or this free again, so embrace it!
When Should You Plan Your Babymoon Vacation?
The first and third trimesters are the most challenging for most pregnant women. The first trimester is early, filled with changes and nausea. By the third trimester, you'll likely be much bigger, and sleeping in a different bed might be a chore.
With that in mind, most moms-to-be have the best time during their second trimester, when nausea has decreased, and they're still in good enough shape to move and sleep easily. If you're a couple who loves to stay active, it might be hard to do everything you want with a bump in the way.
Traveling during the second trimester also ensures you won't go into labor during the trip. Complications can sometimes lead to travel restrictions, so it's better to go early.
Thus, it's a good idea to start planning your trip during the first trimester and go away between the 14th and 26th week of pregnancy. There are no rules, so plan your trip when it makes the most sense for you.
Babymooning on a Budget
A honeymoon is often an extravagant affair involving resorts or air travel. In contrast, a babymoon doesn't have to be a splurge. The goal is to spend time with your partner, so there's no reason why you can't stay close to home.
Some couples plan a "staycation." This option allows you to stay home and enjoy activities within easy driving distance. Moms-to-be who are already picky about sleeping arrangements sometimes prefer the comfort of their own bed.
Here are some things to do if you choose to babymoon from home:
- Make reservations at a fancy restaurant
- Hit local tourist destinations you haven't visited yet
- Check out library passes and visit museums and attractions for free
- Visit a local beach or pool
- Enjoy afternoon tea at a local hotel or cafe
- Spend a night at the theater or see a movie
- Take a daytime cruise
- Go out for brunch
- Schedule a spa day or couples massage
- Plan a picnic at a local park
Ultimately, a babymoon is about spending time together before your life changes. Choose activities that will bring you and your partner closer together. Prioritize things you might miss after your baby comes home.
Brilliant Babymoon Ideas for Families-To-Be
Everyone loves a vacation, but a babymoon is a parent-to-be's last hurrah before life gets a little more complicated. Planning a trip before your sweet baby arrives is a decadent way to enjoy your final days or weeks as a couple.
Get some sleep, enjoy a quiet sit-down meal, and savor your last moments before things change for the better.
Once your precious baby is here, you won't want to miss a minute. With the Pixsee smart video baby monitor, you can keep a close eye on your baby from anywhere—whether it's another room or another continent. Visit our online store to learn more about why busy families love parenting with Pixsee.
