Do you want to go on vacation this summer with your baby for the first time? You are probably wondering where to go on vacation with a baby and at what age they can go on vacation. Discover our advice for Kids friendly destinations and a hassle-free trip!
First vacation with baby in France
We are lucky to live in a country that is full of varied landscapes. You can choose between the sea, the mountains or even the forest, all just a few hours from home.
Holidays by the water with baby
Sea air is known to be particularly appreciated by babies. You will have the choice between the Mediterranean, the Atlantic or even by a lake!
The Côte d'Azur with a baby
To enjoy the good weather, the sea and the small waves, nothing better than the Côte d'Azur. We're not going to spit on it, we come from the south ourselves, we actually have the impression of being on vacation almost all year round!
So, even if we love our beautiful region and the entire Côte d'Azur, we warn you: avoid this destination in the middle of summer. Many tourists meet on the Côte d'Azur every year, the beaches and all tourist places quickly become crowded. In addition, in the middle of summer we easily reach 35°C. These are definitely not ideal temperatures for babies. Choose this destination out of season, when the sun is less strong and there are still few tourists. The French Riviera from May to June is the ideal place for a peaceful holiday with a baby!
The Atlantic with a baby
The Atlantic has a more family-friendly side and is quieter. The beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, you won't step on them! You will find kid friendly rentals all along the west coast.
For the more sporty, cycle on kilometers of cycle paths! You won't be able to miss it! The bikes can be equipped with a trolley to comfortably transport children. It's ideal for family walks and to put them to sleep during the walk. It's also ideal for looking for shells during low tide, souvenirs guaranteed! Take the opportunity to admire the most beautiful sunsets over the Atlantic, a new show is offered to you every evening!
Labenne, Cap Ferret or Belle île are perfect destinations to do with a young child. The advantage of these family destinations is that they are full of numerous kid-friendly campsites and regularly offer activities for all ages! Some vacation spots also have kids clubs. It's perfect for enjoying a few hours of respite (that's also what a real vacation is about!)
What's better than recharging your batteries in the mountains?
The fresh air in midsummer is often very appreciated by young children. You can go on many hikes in the forest, with an ultra comfortable baby carrier . Calm and serenity will be there for these holidays in the great outdoors!
Be careful with the altitude though! Babies do not tolerate altitude very well; their small bodies are not adapted to these conditions where oxygen is scarce. Avoid altitudes above 1500m for a baby under 1 year old and no more than 1800m for a baby under 2 years old. The older your baby gets, the higher you can go. But always seek the advice of a doctor and take several steps (small breaks to get used to the altitude).
Get closer to Annecy, between city and mountains, there is something for everyone! It is a very welcoming little town, perfect for a family vacation. This season, you can even enjoy a few swims in the lake.
Heat all year round!
For frequent travellers, lovers of destinations under the sun, bet on the French Overseas Territories, it is good there all year round. Just be careful of the rainy season, which is not very fun for exploring with a baby, and the sun which is still very intense!
Traveling by car with a baby
If you have decided to go by car, organization will be essential. Have you swapped your Fiat 500 for a family car? You've done well, because your baby's belongings will take up 50% of your trunk's capacity... Between the stroller, the travel cot, the baby's travel bag and yours... you'll never have been so loaded.
And no, it's not a myth: the smaller they are, the more space they take up!
For those many hours of car travel with your baby, remember to take some toys and a mobile. He will sleep most of the time (we hope that!). During his waking moments, always have something to occupy him. Besides, you can also try traveling at night! There is a greater chance that baby will fall asleep rocked by the car.
Find out more about how to transport baby in the car
From what age can babies go on vacation?
There are no specific recommendations that answer this question. It is often recommended to wait a few weeks or even a few months before traveling with a baby. You and the baby need time to adapt, to get your bearings and your habits... But everyone is free to do what they want, as long as it suits everyone.
Also, going on a trip with a baby requires a lot of organization. You have to be ready for that. The older they get, the easier this will become as they become more and more independent.
