Bottle feeding on the go with your new addition to the world undoubtedly involves packing more than required for a breastfed baby. However, there's absolutely no reason you can't get out there and explore the world with your little one, and bottle feed them at the same time.
Whether you're planning a modest trip to the park, an overnight stay, or you want to pack up and go backpacking across Europe - you can use breast milk and baby formula to try out paced bottle feeding; but you're going to need to make sure that you're fully prepared for your upcoming journey.
Lucky for you, bottle feeding on the go doesn't have a set of different rules. Once you've got the hang of it, you can do it almost anywhere. In this article, we're going to fill you in on some essential tips to paced bottle feeding, and help you prepare for a life of ultimate feeding freedom.
Tips to Bottle Feeding On the Go
Choosing Breast Milk and Baby Formula
When it comes to choosing between breast milk and baby formula -it all really depends on preference. Each type has its advantages, but if you decide to go down both the breast milk and baby formula route, you're probably going to need to pack some of each to use at different times.
Breast milk is full of nutrition, but can be a burden to move if you don't have the right equipment. Powdered formula is relatively light to carry around, as long as you don't pack any excessive water. You can also choose ready-made formula; this is probably your most convenient option as it's ready to use immediately.
Whether you choose to go for breastmilk and baby formula, premixed formula, or all of the above, each selection includes some sort of preparation and accessory, so it all really comes down to what you think is best for your little one.
Preparing Baby Feeding Bottles On the Go
Preparing baby feeding bottles for a long day out requires a little more forethought and prep, but again, it's effortless once you've got the hang of it.
If you fill your baby feeding bottle with breast milk, then all you really need is to pump and keep the bottle nice and chilled in a cool bag. However, if you're looking at preparing the formula on the go, you're going to need to carry the right ingredients.
Here's what should be on your list to pack:
- A precisely measured amount of formula in a fresh and dry container.
- A vacuum bottle of hot water (not boiling) OR, a portable bottle warmer.
- A sterilized feeding bottle
- A baby bottle bag
When it's time to feed your little one, all you have to do is simply add the correct amount of water, put your measured formula in, and give it a shake. If you have added hot water, wait for it to cool a little and test it. If you brought along a portable bottle warmer, then heat it up to the right temperature, and voila! Baby's lunch is served.
To make it even easier on yourself, you can opt-in for a ready-made formula that comes as a premixed liquid. They are often more convenient; however, note that they do come at a higher cost.
Preparing Breast Milk and Baby Formula in Advance
Although this is definitely possible, freshly made bottles remain the better choice. If you do need to prepare in advance, just make sure that you cool it in the fridge for at least one hour before you leave, and put it directly into a cooling pack when removed.
Pre-made formulas should be used within 24 hours if stored inside the fridge, within 4 hours if in a cooling bag, or within 2 hours if stored at room temperature.
It's also important to keep in mind that milk remaining after a feed should be discarded due to the fact it could carry bacteria from your baby's saliva.
How Many Bottles Should You Take On the Go?
This all depends on just how many bottles your baby goes through in 24 hours, but it's always good to include one or two spares, just in case they're feeling extra hungry on the day. If you're a pro at washing and sterilizing in the evening, you'll always have enough bottles for the following day.
Make Bottle Feeding On The Go Easier
Here at Baby's Luxury Lane, we're all about making life and parenthood easier for mums and dads like you. That's why we have designed the world's first-ever portable bottle warmer; so you can feed your little bundle of joy anytime, anywhere.
We provide you with endless opportunities for travel with true portability. Amidst 14 temperature selection settings, you can have your baby's lunch ready in minutes. Simply heat up the milk or water, and insert it into your little one's favorite bottle - ultimate easy feeding for parent's on the go!
Interested in learning more? Click here to check out what else we have on offer for ultimate freedom with the family.
