Tips for a smooth bus ride with your baby

Traveling with your baby can be a daunting task, especially when it involves public transport like buses. If you’re looking to get from one place to another without the hassle of securing a car seat, folding a stroller, and hoping for a peaceful journey with minimal crying, public transportation, particularly buses, is the perfect solution.

Urban bus lines, which generally offer accessibility, can be convenient and efficient for both you and your baby during shorter trips. However, adjustments are necessary to navigate this new situation successfully.

So, what should you keep in mind when traveling with your baby on the bus? How can you make the journey easier for both of you while enjoying the ride? Here’s your complete guide to traveling by bus with your baby:

Use a Carrier

If you haven't arranged a baby carrier yet, now is the time. This essential item will help you in numerous situations with your baby, including bus travel. Yes, even if you also have a stroller. Place your baby in the carrier, close to you, and make sure they are comfortable. If your baby uses a pacifier, attach it with a chain to one of the carrier's straps to prevent it from falling during the ride. On the bus, choose a stable spot to stand (or sit if your baby is comfortable) and be surprised by how the movement and proximity to you will soothe your baby.

Prepare Your Rav-Kav in Advance

It's wise to arrive for your trip with your Rav-Kav (public transport card) ready, allowing you to focus on boarding the bus and keeping your baby safe rather than searching for your wallet. If you have a pocket, keep the Rav-Kav there for easy access when it’s time to pay after you’ve settled comfortably on the bus.

Board from the Back

Most buses allow entry through the back door, so it’s best to head there directly. One reason is that it will reduce congestion, as most passengers tend to board from the front out of habit. Another reason is that you’ll be standing with the stroller in the accessible area of the bus, located in the middle, so it’s better not to maneuver your baby all the way from the driver's door to that spot.

Time Your Trip with Baby’s Sleep Schedule (if possible)

If you’re not required to be somewhere at a specific time and have flexibility in your schedule, try to time your bus ride when your baby is likely to sleep. It will be safer and easier to navigate when your baby is asleep, minimizing the chances of them being awake and fussy or frightened by the bus ride.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help

Need assistance getting the stroller onto the bus? Struggling to navigate your way off at the station? Don’t hesitate to reach out to those around you for help. You’ll be surprised at how kind people can be, and often, they’ll offer assistance without you even having to ask.

Ignore Critical Remarks and Glares

The kindness from the previous point can easily turn into critical comments and stares from fellow passengers. "It looks uncomfortable for the baby in the carrier," "Why aren’t they wearing socks?" "That’s a hungry cry," and other gems are just some of the things you might hear. You may also receive glares, especially if your baby cries. At this point, all you need to do is ignore them. You can respond with a smile or a brief answer if it suits you, but don’t engage in discussions with strangers about your baby. And of course, don’t take it personally. Throughout the ride, remember: you’re a great mom, and you know what’s best for your baby better than anyone else.

The Jama app was established to support mothers with infants from birth to age three, consolidating content, activities, expert tips, and videos to assist them during this challenging time. All content in the app evolves alongside the baby, tailored precisely to their developmental stages, ensuring mothers receive only what is relevant and interesting to them at any given moment.

The Jama app is the go-to place for mothers in Israel to meet and connect with other moms, fostering new and exciting friendships along this remarkable journey.

Search for us on Google: https://app.jama.co.il/

Daniel Sarnasky, in collaboration with JAMA