Traveling with children is and will always be a challenge for any parent no matter how experienced they are. Usually, the younger they are, the more difficult they are to handle. Many parents will probably agree that toddlers and infants are the most taxing of all.

 

But taking your baby along with you for a medical education cruise isn’t as hard as you might expect, even if you’ll be attending CME seminars for part of your day. 

For starters, it’s not as stressful for the child as it often is on plane flights or on long rides in public transportation. You’ll also have much more space to take care of them as opposed to an aircraft cabin, train, or bus.

 

There are a few more things that you and your partner can do to make the entire trip even easier.

 

Most cruise-goers love booking in advance as it opens the doors to discounts and the like. 

For families, on the other hand, it allows them more freedom to choose cabin types that are more suited to their family’s needs. Balcony cabins, for instance, are very popular among parents with babies as it lets their children enjoy the fresh ocean air during naps.

 

While you might be able to buy diapers, wet wipes, medicine, and other baby products at the store aboard the ship or when at the port town you dock at, their stocks may either be limited or are not the type that you usually use for your baby. To be sure, pack extra supplies in case of emergencies. 

They will make your luggage heavier and you might never even have to use them at all, but at least you won’t have to worry about running out anytime soon.

 

Strollers are one of the most convenient ways to transport your baby around the ship and on land excursions. However, take heed not to bring a full-sized or jogger stroller. 

Opt for an umbrella type instead. Not only is it lighter, it is also easier to fold and store away to save space in your luggage. You may also want to bring a carrier if you’d like more options for carrying your baby around during the trip.

 

It may be tempting to join up with the ship’s organized land excursions all the time to save you the effort of doing DIY tours, but your child might not be that appreciative of long walks or bus rides, and will need time for naps or play time. 

Your best option is to remain flexible with your choices. Join up with guided tours if their time frame suits you. If they don’t, feel free to head out at your own pace--as long as you and your family make it back to the ship before departure time.

A medical education cruise can be a fulfilling experience that can be made even more so when you’re spending the voyage with your family as well. Your baby may be too young to fully appreciate the trip, but think of it as their first steps into the exciting world of traveling—they might even thank you for it when they grow up.