Frequently, especially with emergency placements, there’s no definite time frame for how long prospective adoptive parents will need to be away from home once they get that call saying an expecting mother has gone into labor. There are many things to consider, like:

  • How far you live from where the mother is giving birth
  • If the baby has to stay in the hospital for a few days more
  • If you can’t get a timely flight back home, etc.

Here are a few things that make sense for a prospective adoptive parent preparing for an extended stay.

  1. Where to Stay: When preparing for an extended stay, it can be challenging to decide what kinds of places would make you feel the most comfortable. Two of the growing popular choices are extended stays at your typical hotel or Airbnb rentals, both excellent choices in their rights. Let’s explore these options. 

Hotels are great to consider if you are looking for something low-maintenance. With added-in housekeeping services, on-site dining, and all its relaxing amenities, it’s a good choice when seeking some zen during such a life-changing time. Another thing to consider is a million websites that offer great deals and packages for travelers. Sites like Priceline, Expedia, or Kayak allow you to book at discounted prices along with car rental services, transport to and from the airport as needed, flights, and beyond. This may be the better option if you are traveling a long distance and won’t have access to a car but still want to save some money and get the best bang for your buck.  

At a hotel, you have a safe bet that your experience is guaranteed to be professional. While some Airbnb hosts are keen on 5-Star experiences, you won’t always get extra towels, blankets, toiletries, and customer service on hand if something goes wrong.

Here are a few other sites you can explore if you are considering an extended stay at a hotel:

(Be sure to research these sites as they might only be for some. Each site has the right to change its rules, so make sure they meet your wants and needs.)

Airbnb is another excellent option when considering extended stays. These allow families to experience a home away from home. In many cases, extended stays with Airbnb will be the cheaper option even though their fees and taxes add up to a pretty penny depending on the avg—price per night. A fantastic thing to consider, though, is that, unlike hotels, the more days you book your stay for, the lower your cost will be per day. In an Airbnb, you’ll often have access to a full kitchen, maybe outdoor living spaces, and better wifi for working purposes. 

Here are a few other sites you can explore if you are considering an extended stay at a home rental like Airbnb:

(Be sure to research these sites as they might only be for some. Each site has the right to change its rules, so make sure they meet your wants and needs.)

 

  1. Must-Have’s: Now that we’ve covered stays, let’s dive into a few tips on things to remember when planning your extended stay, regardless of your chosen stay. 
    1. Checklist For Baby:
      • Baby Formula (check with doctor)
      • Nursery water
      • Pampers
      • Baby wipes
      • body wash and shampoo 
      • Receiving blankets 
      • Clothes, hats, and mittens
      • Complete bottle set with cleaning tools 
      • Changing pad
      • Thermometer
      • Grooming tools and a sturdy diaper bag
      • Stroller and Car seat 
      • Bottle warmer 
    1. Checklist For You: 
      • Clothes
      • Toiletries
      • Entertainment (Tablets or Laptops for on-the-go)
      • Purse (with cash, checkbook, credit cards, and coins for laundry)
      •  Identification Cards
      • Snacks and Groceries (prepackaged and microwaveable for hotel stays)
      • Rain jacket/ umbrella 
      • First-aid kit
      • Medications (pain relievers, vitamins)
      • Cellphone and laptop charger
      • Camera for memories
      • Travel documents
      • Extra pillows
      • Face masks
      • and a bag to carry it all 

It can be challenging to know or remember everything you would need, especially during an emergency placement. Hopefully, this list and tips and tricks have put you a tad bit at ease as you prepare for this life-changing time and a new beginning. For more questions or inquiries on what you need to prepare, feel free to reach out to your neighboring agency or contact your social worker for a list of things you may need.