Planning a family holiday to Spain with your little one? This vibrant country is a fantastic destination for families, offering beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and a warm, child-friendly culture. However, traveling with a baby requires extra preparation. To ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience, we've compiled a list of 10 essential tips to consider before you set off on your Spanish adventure.
In Spain, the popular diaper brand Pampers is known as Dodot. You can find Dodot and other brands like Huggies in most supermarkets, so there's no need to pack a large supply in your luggage. Baby wipes are widely available, but nappy sacks may be harder to come by.
Be aware that baby formula milk, such as Cow & Gate and Aptamil, can be significantly more expensive in Spain than in the UK. These brands are sold under different names and at higher prices. Spanish brands like Nestlé Nidina and Hero are readily available in supermarkets and pharmacies.
Tapas, or small portions of food meant for sharing, are an excellent way for children to try a variety of Spanish dishes. Kid-friendly options include habitas (beans), tortilla (Spanish potato omelette), and croquetas. Don't be surprised if your little ones enjoy more adventurous choices like chopitos (baby squid) or cazon (marinated shark).
When using bottled water for your baby in Spain, look for brands low in sodium ('sodio'). Some bottles even feature images of babies to help you identify the right choice. This is particularly important in coastal areas where tap water can have high calcium content and may not be suitable for drinking.
Spanish mothers often use Apiretal (paracetamol) and Dalsy (ibuprofen) for their babies. Calpol is not widely available, so consider bringing travel-friendly 5ml sachets. For any medications, visit a pharmacy, as supermarkets in Spain do not sell medicines.
While Spaniards are known for their love of children, some establishments may lack baby changing facilities or high chairs. It's a good idea to bring a portable travel chair and be prepared to change your baby in their stroller if necessary.
Spain's markets are filled with fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, perfect for making baby purees or as snacks for toddlers. Depending on the season, you can find delicious strawberries, melons, and nectarines.
Spanish children often stay up late, especially during the long summer holiday. It's common to see families with young children dining out late in the evening. In tourist areas, restaurants may serve dinner from around 6 pm, but elsewhere, they might not open until 8:30 or 9 pm.
To access healthcare services for your children in Spain, you'll need an EHIC card and usually a passport. Apply for the EHIC card online for each family member before traveling, and consider downloading a translation form for doctor visits.
In Spain, children under 12 years old or shorter than 135cm must use an appropriate car seat in the back of the car. While taxis are exempt from this rule, some local regulations may still require car seats.
With these tips in mind, you're set to enjoy all that Spain has to offer for you and your little ones. For more information on traveling with your baby to Spain, visit authoritative sources like BabyCentre and Gov.uk.
Happy travels and enjoy your family holiday in Spain!
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