Traveling To Mexico With A 5-Month-Old: Is It Safe?

can a 5 month old baby travel to mexico

Travelling to Mexico with a baby can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. One of the most important considerations is the baby's health and safety. It is essential to be aware of the health risks associated with drinking water in Mexico and take necessary precautions such as using purified water for consumption, brushing teeth, and preparing baby bottles. Bug sprays with DEET are recommended for babies over two months old, and mosquito nets can provide additional protection. When it comes to dining, it is worth checking if high chairs are available at restaurants, or bringing a portable option.

Transporting your baby is another key aspect to consider. A fold-up travel stroller or baby carrier can be more convenient than a standard stroller, especially when navigating cobblestone streets or taxis. It is also advisable to bring your own car seat, as rental options may not be reliable. Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding during takeoff and landing can help ease the pressure in the baby's ears. Entertainment options, such as magnetic puzzles or colouring books, can keep toddlers engaged during flights.

When packing for Mexico, it is crucial to bring lightweight clothing, sun protection like hats and sunglasses, and your preferred brand of sunscreen. It is also recommended to bring your own formula, as the variety in Mexico may be limited and could upset your baby's stomach. Lastly, it is worth checking with your hotel about the availability of cribs and other baby equipment rentals to make your stay more comfortable. With careful planning and flexibility, travelling to Mexico with a baby can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Characteristics Values
Ease of travel Relatively easy to get to, affordable, safe, clean, and welcoming to children
Zika and mosquito-borne diseases Not dangerous unless pregnant or planning to become pregnant
Food Breastfeeding is easiest, formula and bottled water can be used for babies over 3 months, baby food in pouches is more portable than jars
Accommodation Hotels may not have appropriate or safe cribs or cots, consider bringing your own travel bed
Sun protection Babies under 6 months can't wear sunscreen, use shade, UV swimwear, portable baby UV tents and hats
Water safety Don't use tap water for drinking, brushing teeth or cooking, use purified drinking water
Transport Car seats are not necessary for hotel transfers, but bring your own if you want to explore
Vaccinations Consult your doctor or pharmacist prior to your trip, certain vaccines are indicated for children as young as two
Baby products Most American and European brands are available in Mexico

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Feeding a 5-month-old in Mexico

Feeding a baby can be stressful, and feeding a baby while on vacation in Mexico with different food and water can be even more stressful. However, with some planning, it is manageable. Here are some tips for feeding a 5-month-old baby in Mexico:

Pre-Solids

If your baby is still exclusively breastfeeding, you only need to ensure that the mother is well-fed and properly hydrated. If you are formula feeding, you can bring your preferred brand of formula mix in your carry-on luggage. After your baby is past three months, you can use most bottled water to mix formula (water with less than 200 mg/litre of sodium and no more than 250mg/litre of sulphate). If there is no microwave or kitchenette in your accommodation, you can sterilize baby bottles using a kettle in your hotel room.

Post-Solids

Today's baby food in foil pouches is lightweight and convenient for travel. Packing a box of instant cereal is also a good idea to ensure a healthy meal. Once your baby has progressed to finger foods and more complex meals, it is essential to be vigilant about handwashing. It is also advisable to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before your trip to discuss vaccination options and any other health concerns.

Baby Food in Mexico

If your baby is eating solids, you can find baby food in Mexico, including purees in pouches and jars of Gerber. You can also find staples such as plain rice, pasta, bread, butter, grilled meat, and fish at resort buffets and restaurants. Mexico is also a great place to enjoy fresh, locally grown, tropical fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, avocados, fried plantains, and mangoes.

Water in Mexico

While it is generally not recommended to drink tap water in Mexico, it is possible to buy bottled water or ask for it at hotels and resorts. If you are concerned about cleaning bottles, you can use bottled water or boil tap water. Hotels usually provide filtered water for consumption, and you can use a microwave or tea kettle in your room to heat water for cleaning bottles.

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Baby-safe bug spray and sunscreen

When travelling to Mexico with a baby, it is important to take precautions to protect them from mosquitoes and the sun. Bug spray and sunscreen are essential items to pack, but it is important to choose products that are safe for babies.

Bug Spray

Bug sprays containing DEET are considered safe for babies over two months old. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have all deemed DEET safe for babies when used as directed. Concentrations of 10 to 30 percent DEET are effective for repelling mosquitoes and other insects for up to 5 hours. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the product and not overuse.

Picaridin is another effective bug repellent that is considered safe for babies over two months. It is the insect repellent of choice for children in Europe and Australia and is available in 5, 10, and 20 percent solutions. A 20 percent concentration can provide up to 12 hours of protection.

For babies under six months, a mosquito net for the stroller or baby carrier is a good alternative to bug spray.

There are also natural bug sprays on the market that contain essential oils such as citronella, lemongrass, and cedarwood. These are generally considered safe for babies but may be less effective than DEET or picaridin. California Baby's Natural Bug Blend, which contains citronella and lemongrass, is safe for babies six months and up.

Sunscreen

Babies under six months cannot wear sunscreen, so it is important to protect them from the sun with shade, UV swimwear, hats, and portable UV tents and umbrellas. For babies over six months, choose a sunscreen that is gentle on sensitive skin and offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Look for mineral-based sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium oxide as the active ingredients.

Some recommended baby-safe sunscreens include:

  • Babyganics 50 SPF Baby Sunscreen Spray
  • ThinkBaby Sunscreen
  • Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream
  • Blue Lizard Baby Sunscreen
  • Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sunscreen Lotion

In addition to sunscreen, continue to protect your baby from the sun with shade and clothing, such as SPF shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and lightweight, loose clothing that covers the skin.

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Baby gear and equipment

When travelling to Mexico with a 5-month-old baby, it's important to be well-prepared. Here is a list of baby gear and equipment to consider:

Baby Feeding and Nursing Essentials:

  • Breastfeeding supplies: If you plan to breastfeed, consider bringing nursing pillows, nursing bras, nursing pads, and nipple cream.
  • Bottles and nipples: Pack enough bottles and nipples in different sizes (4 oz and 8 oz).
  • Dishwasher basket: For cleaning small items.
  • Formula: If you're formula feeding, bring an adequate supply.
  • Breast pump: If you plan to pump, a portable breast pump can be useful.
  • Milk storage bags: To store expressed milk.
  • High chair: For when your baby is older and starts solid foods.
  • Bottle warmer and sterilizer: Optional, but can be helpful for warming milk and sterilizing bottles.

Baby Diapering and Bathing Essentials:

  • Diapers: Pack disposable diapers or cloth diapers with covers. Newborns typically use 8-12 diapers per day.
  • Diaper bag: To carry diapering essentials when on the go.
  • Diaper cream: To soothe and protect baby's delicate skin.
  • Diaper changing table or pad: Look for a portable option if you plan to travel around Mexico.
  • Baby shampoo and body wash: Gentle and tear-free options are best.
  • Hooded baby towels: To keep your baby warm and cosy after bath time.
  • Baby lotion: Optional, but can help moisturise baby's skin.

Baby Gear and Travel Essentials:

  • Infant car seat: Ensure it meets safety standards and can be installed properly in your vehicle.
  • Stroller: Choose a lightweight, travel-friendly stroller with storage space and adjustable handlebars.
  • Baby carrier: A wrap, sling, or structured carrier can be a lifesaver when you need hands-free mobility.
  • Portable crib or bassinet: Look for a lightweight and easy-to-assemble option for travel.
  • Baby swing or bouncer: These can provide a safe place to park your baby when you need a break.
  • Baby monitor: A sound or video monitor can help you keep an eye on your baby while they sleep.

Baby Health and Grooming Essentials:

  • Baby nail clippers or file: To trim baby's nails safely.
  • Baby toothbrush: For when your baby's first teeth erupt.
  • Baby-safe detergent: Choose a gentle, hypoallergenic detergent for washing baby's clothes and bedding.
  • Baby lotion: To moisturise and protect baby's delicate skin.
  • Baby thermometer: To monitor your baby's temperature if they get sick.
  • Pacifiers: Optional, but some babies find comfort in sucking on pacifiers.

Baby Playtime and Entertainment Essentials:

  • Board books: Look for books with high-contrast patterns to aid in your baby's visual development.
  • Pack and play: A portable playpen can provide a safe space for your baby to play and nap.
  • Activity centre: These can help stimulate your baby's senses and encourage exploration.
  • Toys: Rattles, teethers, and toys for tummy time can keep your baby entertained.
  • Toy storage: To keep your baby's toys organised and your space clutter-free.

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Entertainment for the flight

  • Tummy time water mat: An inflatable play mat with built-in toys and colours can help develop your baby's muscles and keep them entertained.
  • Baby bouncer: A vibrating baby bouncer with a toy bar can keep your baby entertained and relaxed. Some models have adjustable recline positions and a removable headrest for added comfort.
  • Baby play gym: A play gym with a piano and other toys can stimulate your baby's senses and help with their motor skills.
  • Baby swing: A portable baby swing with music and adjustable speeds can keep your baby entertained and relaxed during the flight.
  • Baby walker: A walker with music, lights, and adjustable height settings can help your baby practise walking and keep them entertained.
  • Soft toys: Soft toys, such as stuffed animals or cloth books, can provide comfort and entertainment for your baby during the flight.
  • Sensory toys: Toys with different textures, lights, and sounds can help stimulate your baby's senses and keep them entertained.
  • Teething toys: If your baby is teething, consider bringing teethers or teething toys to help soothe their gums and keep them occupied.
  • Board books: Small board books with colourful pictures can be entertaining for your baby to look at and begin to explore.
  • Peek-a-boo games: Playing peek-a-boo or hiding objects under a cloth can be a fun and interactive game for your baby.
  • Nursery rhymes and songs: Singing nursery rhymes or lullabies can be soothing for your baby and provide a sense of familiarity during the flight.

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Formula and drinking water

Formula Options:

When it comes to formula, you have a few options. If your baby is still exclusively breastfeeding, that's the easiest option as you only need to ensure that the mother is well-nourished and hydrated. Alternatively, you can use formula, and if you're not sure if you'll find your preferred brand in Mexico, it's best to bring it with you. After your baby turns 3 months old, you can use most kinds of bottled water to mix formula, as long as it has less than 200 mg/litre of sodium and no more than 250mg/litre of sulphate.

Drinking Water:

Now, let's talk about drinking water. Tap water in Mexico might not be safe for drinking, so it's best to rely on bottled water or water provided by your hotel. If you're staying in a hotel, they usually provide filtered water for consumption, and you can use their microwave or tea kettle to heat water for cleaning baby bottles. Alternatively, you can bring bottled water and use a kettle or microwave cleaning bags to heat the water for cleaning bottles. Remember to be careful when handling boiling water, and always test the formula's temperature before feeding your baby.

If you're renting an apartment or staying outside of a resort, you can find bottled water at grocery stores or pharmacies. Additionally, most resorts have their own in-house water purification systems, but it's always a good idea to consult your doctor or pharmacist before your trip to discuss any specific concerns or recommendations.

In conclusion, travelling to Mexico with a 5-month-old baby is feasible, but it requires careful planning and consideration of your baby's formula and drinking water needs. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your baby stays safe and healthy during your trip.

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