Practically speaking, a getaway from home is often the last thing that new parents are thinking about. Can you really pack up your baby and head out on a trip in her first year? Many parents consider it an ordeal simply taking their baby to the grocery store, so how are you going to manage a weekend or longer trip?

Things that get in the way of a trip with a baby include all of the extra gear that a baby needs, including his car seat, stroller, crib, diapers, baby food, and all of the clothes he needs. Also, your baby is going to be on a much different schedule than the rest of the family, with an early bedtime and lots of naps during the day. And many families can't handle the expense of a vacation when they are already dealing with all of the other extra expenses of having a baby.

Still, planning a getaway is not always about being practical. If you always waited for the ideal circumstances to take a vacation, like having enough free time, money, and the perfect place to go, then you might never leave the house. Taking a trip, especially when you have kids, sometimes has to be about taking whatever opportunities present themselves.

The big question may not even be whether or not you plan a getaway, but if you take your baby. Ideally, a getaway in your baby's first year, particularly your first getaway, is going to be a time for mom and dad to spend some time alone together.

Your first getaway doesn't have to be very far though — staying in a hotel overnight in your own city and having a family member or close friend watch your baby, can be a good way to leave without being too far from home. If you do take your baby, consider asking someone to come and help with the baby, so you can spend some time alone with your partner.