Thanks to coronavirus, making international trips hasn't been easy, or even possible, for most families, especially those with little ones. But don't let the virus put you off local travel.

Staycations are the perfect way to take a break from the norm and enjoy some family time, without being far from the comfort and safety of local resources and facilities you may need should the worst happen. We all know it is not business as usual at the moment, but our children need stability, and a stress-free break for the whole family could be just what the doctor ordered.

Choithrams.com is packed full of clever and convenient products, and founder of Baby Souk and mum, Kirsten Fairfield, offers her top tips for parents planning a first stay away from home with the little ones.

Stroller stress

Pick a lightweight stroller with a bassinet if you have a newborn - the bassinet can be used to sleep in and there is no need to get a travel cot. We love the BabyZen Yoyo for weight and ease – it also fits into the overhead compartment of the plane, for when you can start taking trips a little further from home.

BABYZEN STROLLER YOYO2 6+ WHITE FRAME & AQUA; Dhs 2,249.00

A good night sleep

If you choose to, take your own travel cot, be sure to make it a lightweight option and don't underestimate the importance of taking other sleep accessories that help settle your baby. It will all contribute to you getting a good night sleep while away from your usual surroundings. Try taking a familiar blanket, sleeping bag or comforter, because your baby will recognise the smell which may help them settle easier. 

MAXI COSI IRIS TRAVEL COT - ESSENTIAL GREY; Dhs 913.50

Water babies

One of the best things about a staycation, especially at this time of year, is the cooler mornings and afternoons for some calm pool time. Little ones love the water and research suggests it's also good for their well-being. Don't forget the swimming essentials, just in case of accidents, and applying sun cream goes without saying.

Huggies Little Swimmers come in various sizes by the small are specifically for babies weighing 7-12kg. There are 12 in a pack meaning you'll be covered for the whole of your trip.

Bag it up

Choose a nice big baby bag with lots of pockets and ‘pods’ that help you keep organised while you are away from home. The PacaPod pods can also help you separate the dirty items from the clean while your away.  For everyday essentials, keeping organised helps you enjoy your vacation. Pack in sections so keep all sleepwear together, all beachwear together (think suncreams, hats, nappies etc), all bath stuff together and all every day wear. Makes life a lot easier when you are unpacking/packing.

Happy hygiene

Keep on top of hygiene - these items help you keep these germs away - always take your own medical bag you don’t know what is available at your destination. 
Pacifier holders are always a good idea to keep the little runaways hitting the ground and the My Little Pharmacy bag, available at BabySouk, is a great find for those who prefer to be prepared. Other essentials include thermometers, masks and the trusty cleaning wipes and hand sanitisers. Check out the wide range available at Choithrams.com below.

Feeding on the move

It’s hard weaning at the best of times but does not need to stop you while you are on your staycay - here are top picks weather you are breastfeeding or weaning!

Breastfeeding - take a coverup, choose a breast pump that is manual and you don’t need a electricity point. If your only going for the night take milk with you but keep it stored in a cooler bag. The Medela Cooling Bag is a wonderful way to pump and store while on the move.

Weaning - choose items that can be put away without leaving a mess in your bag. Silicone bibs, feeding sets and formula dispensers are all good tools to have packed and Choithrams.com stock a wide range of organic food pouches for babies from four months old. Ella's Kitchen is just one of many brands to consider and pouches come in many different flavours to suit all manner of fussy tastebuds!

Enjoy bath time

It can be hard to bathe your baby in a hotel bath – pack or request a bath mat so you can get in the tub with your little one without slipping and sliding everywhere.

For older tots

For the little traveller let them take their own bag, this is very exciting! Rolling luggage is even better as it allows your kid to sit on the top when they need some rest. We love the range from Skip Hop – the colours and animals are great!