Today more than ever, it's possible to bring everything baby may need along wherever you go. To ensure your baby's comfort and security away from home, the safest and most convenient car seat, stroller, and carrier are key. For your own peace of mind as well as baby's, you don't want to get caught short—without ample diapers, extra clothes, or favorite toys—when you're away from home.

Your healthy newborn probably went for his first outing 24 to 48 hours after his birth—when he left the hospital. There's no reason he can't continue to see the world, barring any special instructions from your pediatrician. Just protect him from exposure to extreme weather conditions and contagious illnesses.

Avoid crowds
When you're taking any public transportation—planes, trains, buses, or boats—your best bet is to travel during off-peak times. Riding during rush hour can be a real nightmare if you don't have space to spread out baby's things or have to endure steely looks from other passengers while you try to keep a fussy baby entertained. The best hours are often early in the morning, which may work well with baby's early-riser schedule, but some parents swear by traveling at night so that baby can sleep through a lot of the hassle. Give yourself extra time when you travel with an infant or young child. Try to keep to baby's regular schedule as much as possible, and be aware of overstimulation. When irritability sets in, slow down, back off, and try to spend some quiet time together.