can my baby travel overseas

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What to know about traveling internationally with a baby

There's no doubt that babies can complicate travel plans. (There's a reason parents call it a trip, not a vacation!) Still, plenty of people travel outside of the U.S. with their infants. Some have family and friends they want to visit, while others figure it's easier to travel to far-flung destinations with a baby (who still sleeps 16 hours a day) than with a toddler (who wants to spend the flight walking up and down the aisle).

Whatever your reason, your trip will go more smoothly if you make a few preparations before booking your tickets and boarding your flight. Here's what you need to know about traveling internationally with an infant.

Requirements for traveling internationally with an infant

As you're planning your trip, take care of these must-dos:

Check travel advisories

Before booking, check the  U.S. Department of State's website Opens a new window for international travel advisories. You can also look at travel health advisories for your destination at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website Opens a new window as well as information on required vaccinations by country. Although most countries have lifted COVID-related restrictions, you can quickly check requirements for international travelers on the United Nations' Destination Tracker Opens a new window .

Talk to your baby's doctor

The American Academy of Pediatrics Opens a new window advises talking to your pediatrician before flying with a baby . Some doctors recommend delaying unessential travel for the first few weeks after birth (sometimes until babies are at least until 2 to 3 months old ). Babies are prone to catching infections – especially those who were born prematurely or have certain health conditions.

Once they clear your baby for travel , your pediatrician can verify that your baby is up to date on vaccinations, recommend preventative medications to pack, and determine whether your baby requires any additional immunizations. If your destination is experiencing measles outbreaks, for example, your doctor may adjust your baby's MMR vaccine schedule.

Depending on where you're traveling, your doctor may recommend – and some countries require – vaccinations for other infectious diseases (such as yellow fever or rabies) that aren't part of the standard childhood vaccine schedule. Book your appointment at least four to six weeks in advance of your trip, because it can take time to build up immunity after a vaccination.

Make sure your baby has a passport

For international travel, your baby needs a passport . Make two copies of each family member's passport, and leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative. 

If you're traveling as a solo parent, consider bringing documentation proving you're a legal guardian – as well as letter of consent (preferably notarized) from the other custodial parent saying "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission." If you have sole custody of your child, you might want to bring a copy of the custody agreement. 

12 tips for international travel with an infant

Consider travel insurance. Travel insurance ensures that you're not out of luck if, say, your baby gets an ear infection the day before you're scheduled to fly. (Keep in mind that your credit card may already offer travel insurance.)

Bring your baby's car seat. Though babies and toddlers under age 2 are allowed to fly free (or at a discount) sitting on your lap , it's safest if you buy an airplane seat for your baby. That way you'll be able to use your car seat on the plane , as long as it's approved for aircraft as well as motor vehicles. (It likely is – just check for a sticker on the car seat confirming this.) What's more, your car seat will come in handy at your destination – or at least on the car trips to and from the airport.

Request a bassinet. If you're on a long-haul flight, and especially if you forgo buying a seat for your baby, consider reserving a baby bassinet. Most family-friendly airlines offer free portable baby bassinets that attach to the bulkhead for longer international flights. These beds, which generally accommodate babies up to 20 pounds and 26 inches long, allow your baby to snooze during the flight. There are usually only a couple of bassinets available per flight – so be sure to call early, ideally when you book your tickets, to request one. 

Bring the basics. Depending on where you're traveling with your baby or toddler , you may not find your usual brand of formula, diapers, or baby food – although you'll usually identify a decent equivalent. At the very least, be sure to bring a two- to three-day supply of these products in your checked baggage, so you aren't pressed to find a pharmacy as soon as you arrive. If you're really attached to specific products, pack enough for your full trip, plus a couple days' worth of spares. (Here's what else to put on your baby packing list .)

Don't forget adaptors. You don't want to scramble to find a store that sells adaptors for your breast pump or sound machine when you're scheduled to be at the beach. Throughout Europe and in many countries worldwide, power outlets and voltage are different from the U.S. Be sure to check the requirements at your destination, and buy a few appropriate adaptors before you leave.

• Pack a change of clothes. Having a couple of full-body changes of clothes in your carry-on bag, including socks, is essential. There's a good chance you'll have to deal with at least one leaky diaper or major spit-up on a long-haul flight .

Stock your carry-on. Besides a change of clothes, pack all of the essentials you'll need for the duration of your flight – bottles, formula, pacifiers, diapers, wipes, baby food – plus a few spares for potential delays. Think of it like your usual  diaper bag on steroids. Airports in the U.S. allow you to carry on liquids (such as water, pumped breast milk, and baby food) that surpass the usual 3.4-ounce limit, but be prepared to remove them from your bag when you go through the security checkpoint. For your return trip, you'll need to verify whether there are liquid limits in the country you're visiting.

Bring a carrier. A baby carrier is extra convenient for infant travel, especially when you're boarding your flight and when you're trying to help your baby fall asleep.

Pack sleep essentials. Sleep can be tricky when you're traveling with a baby. As much as possible, try to stick to the bedtime routine you follow at home. Pack anything your baby relies on to sleep, such as a sleep slack , night light, or sound machine. And while many hotels and rental apartments have play yards available, check beforehand to make sure your baby will have someplace safe to sleep.

Prep for jet lag. It may be worth gently adjusting your baby's sleep schedule before your trip, especially if you're traveling to a different time zone. Starting a few days before you leave, begin moving your baby's bedtime 15 minutes earlier or later every night to closer match your destination. (This trick can help you with jet lag, too!) Moving your baby's bedtime by even one hour before you travel can make a difference. When you arrive, try to stick to your baby's usual nap, meal, and bedtime schedule, adjusted for the local time zone, right away. Here are more tips for handling time changes with a baby .

Dress your baby in layers. Airplanes are usually chilly, but it's hard to predict just how cold. Dress your baby warmly in layers that you can remove or add if it's warmer or cooler than expected.

Leave yourself lots of time. Like most tasks, traveling with children takes a lot longer than traveling solo. The Transportation and Security Administration (TSA) recommends arriving three hours early for international flights, but you may want to get to the airport even earlier. That way you won't panic if, say, your baby has a massive diaper explosion on the car ride to the airport. Arriving extra early also helps ensure you can secure that baby bassinet you reserved when you booked your flight.

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2023. Flying with baby: Parent FAQs. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Flying-with-Baby.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed January 2024]

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2017. Precautions for international travel: Information for parents. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/prevention/Pages/Precautions-for-International-Travel.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed January 2024]

American Academy of Pediatrics. 2023. Tips for safe and stress-free family travel. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Travel-Safety-Tips.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed January 2024]

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2023. Travelers health: Vaccine recommendations for infants and children. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/family-travel/vaccine-recommendations-for-infants-and-children Opens a new window [Accessed January 2024]

Mayo Clinic. 2018. Prepare for jet lag before boarding the plane. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-prepare-for-jet-lag-before-boarding-the-plane/ Opens a new window [Accessed January 2024]

Transportation Security Administration. Undated. Traveling with children. https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures/traveling-children Opens a new window [Accessed January 2024]

Federal Aviation Administration. 2023. Flying with children. https://www.faa.gov/travelers/fly_children Opens a new window [Accessed January 2024]

USA.gov Opens a new window . 2023. International travel documents for children. https://www.usa.gov/travel-documents-children Opens a new window [Accessed January 2024]

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Traveling Internationally With A Baby: 11 Expert Tips To Read Before You Fly

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Our family began traveling internationally with a baby long before starting this blog – our son first joined us in Spain at 14 months old and our daughter in Germany and Netherlands before 3 month! Since it’s been a minute, I asked long-time travel expert and first-time mom Kristin Addis to share some of her best tips now that she’s globetrotting with her own baby.

Check out Kristin’s best tips for international travel with a baby and drop a comment below with your suggestions!

Top Tips for Traveling Internationally With a Baby

1. consider getting baby global entry.

You probably already know that your baby needs a passport, but did you know that they also can get their own Global Entry (or NEXUS for Canadians)? TSA PreCheck allows kids to “stay with you up”piggyback” off of their parents’ until 12 years old, but Global Entry is required from birth for each person.

Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck, which is a must-have for domestic travel in the US. It allows you to go through faster lines without taking off your shoes or removing electronics and liquids from your carry-on.

When you go through the Global Entry line, it scans your face as a method of verification for re-entry after international travel. The same is required of a baby, which is why they have to go through the same application process as anyone else. They’ll even need the in-person “interview”, which is really just the process of quickly taking their photo for the verification process.

Passports can take time to obtain. Once you have the passport, you can apply for Global Entry, which can also take months for approval and to get an appointment near you. Keep in mind that even if both parents have it, nobody can take advantage of the expedited line unless the baby has it, too.

If you plan to get Global Entry for the whole family, the good news is that many credit cards cover the fee! You can use those credits for anyone – just pay for the application on the card. Some great low-fee travel rewards credit cards that cover Global Entry include Capital One Venture Rewards, IHG One Premier Rewards and United Mileage Plus Explorer . There are lots of other best travel credit cards that include Global Entry as well!

For families who won’t do a ton of international travel, another option is to download the Mobile Passport Control app. It isn’t accepted at every port of entry all the time, but it’s a solid backup if you won’t be traveling internationally with a baby very often.

2. Add Baby to Your Plane Ticket

The safest way for baby to travel on a plane is buckled into their car seat. If you’re still deciding what’s right for your family on your upcoming trip, you can read about the pros and cons of an infant on lap vs infant in a seat of their own.

Even though your baby is allowed to ride on your lap until they turn two years of age, they still need their own flight verification document. It looks a lot like a ticket and will be printed at the check-in counter. You won’t be able to get through security without one. Some airlines, like United, will have you add the lap child when you book the flight. Others, like Singapore Airlines or Emirates, will require you to make a call and add them to your ticket over the phone.

Although your lap infant will be free on domestic flights, you will need to pay the taxes and usually about 10% of the fare for them to be on your lap for an international flight. So if you’re flying business class, even if you have booked your own ticket on points, you will probably have to fork over a few hundred dollars for the infant to ride on your lap.

Here’s an important point about that: if you’re booking a flight before your baby is born, every airline has a slightly different procedure. Often you can just put the child’s first name as “Baby” and an estimated birthday (if one is required), and then call to change your baby’s name and birthday later.

If you’re flying internationally I recommend reserving baby’s seat (or adding her as a lap infant) when you get your own ticket, otherwise the baby’s ticket price will be whatever the prevailing rate is. Adding a lap infant at check-in for an international flight means you will pay taxes plus 10% of the same-day fare – potentially thousands of dollars! For a baby riding in her own seat, the flight could also be sold out.

Be sure to sort all of this this out before arriving at the airport. Once at the airport, you will need to print out a physical ticket for the infant. Usually, I haven’t been able to check in online when I have our son added to my ticket. I have to present myself and my baby to the ticket agent, and during busy periods you’ll need to give yourself plenty of extra time.

Keep in mind, only one lap infant can be added per parent and each group of two or three seats can only have one lap infant because there’s only one “extra” oxygen mask for a child. If you have twins, each parent will need to sit in a separate group of seats. And if you’re flying a Canadian carrier with two young children, each adult can only be responsible for one infant – whether they’re on your lap or in their own seat!

3. Luggage and Carry on Requirements for Babies

My next biggest question was what can we bring for the baby, and do baby items count towards our checked baggage allowance? For most airlines, car seats and strollers do not count against checked luggage or carry-on allowances. If you do choose to check either of these items, put them in a high-quality travel bag that will keep the loose parts from getting caught. Though you’ll have to make peace with the possibility of damage or lost luggage, we thankfully haven’t had either happen yet after over 40 flights (knock on wood).

You can also opt to take both through security and onto the plane, provided they’re within regulations. Using your car seat on the airplane is the safest option for both the baby and the car seat. You can check the bottom of your car seat to see if it’s FAA-approved, but nearly every harnessed car seat in the US is. There are some great infant car seats for travel that can make your travels easy, or you can transition to a lightweight convertible car seat . Remember you can only use this car seat if you get your baby their own seat or the gate agent happens to be able to give you an extra seat on a flight that isn’t full.

For strollers, make life easy on yourself and take a smaller one that can fit through the scanners at TSA. We prefer to travel with strollers that can fit in the overhead bin so that we don’t even have to gate-check ours. It saves so much time and avoids breakage.

Diaper bags and pumps do not count towards carry-on limits.

4. Getting Through Airport Security with Your Baby

Leave extra time for TSA security now that you’re a parent! Nine times out of 10, we’ve been stopped for extra checks.

You’re allowed to travel with liquids over the usual 100ml/3oz limit with a baby ‘up to a reasonable amount’, which is up to the discretion of the TSA officer. If you get questioned on the amount of liquids you have, which has happened to me before, calmly but firmly explain you’re allowed to have them and ask to speak to a supervisor. This has worked for me.

You’re allowed to have purees, baby food, juice, water, and milk for the baby. Declare to the officer prior to passing through the x-ray machine that you have liquids for the baby. They may ask you to remove them. They will probably be put through extra machines for testing and they may perform a vapor test, but are not allowed to insert anything into the liquid. Extra checks usually take us an extra 15 or so minutes.

If you’re bringing a car seat or stroller through security, often it will be hand-inspected so that. it doesn’t get stuck in the scanner. Sometimes agents think your baby gear will fit but you can always request hand-inspection if you’re skeptical.

We love using a baby carrier in the airport to keep our hands free. If you go that route too, be sure to bring a carrier like this one that has no metal. In the US you’ll be able to leave your baby in the carrier and have your hands swabbed by TSA agents. If you use a ring sling or other carrier with metal in it, you’ll have to remove your baby (yes, even if they’re sleeping). In other countries the policies vary.

5. What’s in Our Airplane Diaper Bag

Pack way more diapers into your carry on than you think necessary, and about double the baby food you think you will need on the flight – trust me. It’s always important to plan for delays, especially since formula and diapers in the right size could be difficult to find in the airport. You’re allowed to bring baby food and liquids over the typical amounts, though prepare for extra checks (and time) at security.

You’ll also want a portable changing pad , small size diaper cream, and ample baby wipes.

We always bring some small toys, often saving one he’s never played with before for a long flight. This set is especially engaging! Bring a couple changes of clothes, because you never know, and if it’s going to be a long flight, we like to bring a sleep sack along to simulate bed time, since it’s what he sleeps in at home.

Oh and don’t forget a change of clothes for yourself – just in case.

6. Feeding on the Go

If your baby is bottle-fed, pack a few bottles and a portable bottle washing and drying station . I also bring a refillable travel sized container with our own unscented dish soap since soap in airport bathrooms can be variable or nonexistent.

For breastfeeding mothers, consider investing in a comfortable nursing cover (it doubles as a blanket too), and if traveling in the US, sign up for Mamava before you go. You’ll see these private nursing pods all over airports domestically. Some airports have nurseries as well, especially in Europe – search for the airports you’ll be visiting and “baby care lounge” or similar wording.

If your baby has started solids, carry a variety of age-appropriate snacks and/or purees for nourishment along the way. It’s not a guarantee you’ll find them in the terminal or on the flight. Some airlines offer “baby meals” but you’ll have to request it at least 24 hours in advance.

7. Plan Ahead for Travel Baby Gear

How are you going to get around? Will you need a car seat? Does wherever you are staying have a safe sleep space? You’ll definitely want to consider what baby travel gear you bring.

First, I research how people typically travel around the destination we want to visit. For our trip to Japan , I found that the train and metro system are excellent, so we would be able to leave the car seat at home and just rely on public transport. However I also found that few hotels had cribs, so that meant we needed to bring our own travel crib . I like to have the Slumberpod along as well to block out light when we’re all sharing a room.

For our trip to the Portuguese Azores , I found that most people rent a car. That meant we’d have to bring a travel car seat as the rental companies there didn’t have them available on their booking pages, but every hotel showed a crib available upon request, so we didn’t have to bring one of those along.

This research is fairly simple and straightforward with most booking sites showing these options and extras. It’s also possible to check a box that shows only properties with cribs on Airbnb. If this information isn’t displayed, feel free to reach out to the hotel or car rental company to see if they have these extras.

There are also baby rental companies the world over. Google your destination and ‘baby equipment rental’ to see what’s available where you’re going. In the US, Babyquip is a popular option.

8. Stroller or Carrier?

That is the question. The best answer will depend on the nature of your trip.

Does where you’re going even have sidewalks? Are they mostly cobblestone, like in Europe? Are you going to encounter stairs often? These may not be things you had to think much about before, but with a baby, it’s helpful to research this ahead of time.

Since we were taking all public transportation in Japan, and mostly traveled by foot on the sand on our trip to Mexico , we only brought a baby carrier for those two trips. Ultimately, I was glad not to have a stroller along, but it sure saved our backs having a stroller in Portugal! Strollers are also quite helpful at the airport, when you just need somewhere to put your little one. The older and bigger they get, the more essential a stroller will be.

9. Pack as Light as Possible

Packing light is even more important when traveling with a baby, yet it is so much more difficult to do. We look for accommodations that have a washer and dryer at some point on the trip, bring enough diapers that we trust for overnights, and look into where to buy food and formula before we go. Message boards and Google queries related to the destination are helpful for getting answers to these questions. We bring about half of what we’ll need, and buy the rest there.

I’ve actually found that diapers, formula, wipes, and baby food have all been cheaper abroad than in the US, including in Japan and Europe. Unless your baby has a very specialized diet or you’re going somewhere remote without access to baby items, I’d recommend buying some on the go.

10.  Health and Safety

Always check with your baby’s pediatrician about your travel plans. They may recommend going to a travel clinic to get travel-specific immunizations depending on where you’re going.

Always come prepared with medications for your baby as well, rather than relying on getting them abroad.

Although I knew it was best practice to always travel with a first aid kit, I admit, I didn’t bother most of the time as a solo traveler. With a baby, it’s different. We always have his thermometer and medications along.

It’s also important to consider the water safety. In Mexico, we stayed at a house that had a water filter and UV system, and in Japan we used the tap water, which is safe to drink, but boiled it first. Almost every accommodation in Japan has a water kettle, which made this easy.

If your baby is mobile, you may want to bring some outlet covers and cabinet locks for extra safety. We always have a big blanket with us that we can spread out over a floor or outside to create a play area on the go.

11.  How to Manage Sleep and Routine

One of my biggest fears when traveling with a baby was how he would handle jet lag . Babies are already not known for being the world’s best sleepers, so how in the world do you handle switching time zones?

We do what we can to maintain consistent nap and bedtimes on travel days. If nap time comes up when we would be on a flight, we do our routine and try to get him to sleep. Thankfully, the white noise helps.

When on the ground, we bring a small white noise machine , which can help drown out unfamiliar sounds and maintain a consistent sleep environment. When the evening comes, we do what we can to get him to sleep at a decent hour, following the same bedtime routine we have at home. If he wakes up in the middle of the night, we keep things dark and quiet. Gradual adjustments have been key for our jet lag, and it’s been easier each time than I expected.

Try to maintain your baby’s regular sleep and feeding schedules as much as possible to provide a sense of predictability amidst new surroundings. For naps, some babies can sleep in their stroller or in a baby carrier. If you’re road tripping, the car seat might be perfect. Some babies are less able to sleep on the go and will need a dark environment like their crib, which will probably change up how you approach your trip (maybe one spot on the beach for a week is better than a multi-stop itinerary, for example). You know your baby best.

Traveling with a baby is a voyage that challenges and rewards in equal measure, but it’s always been worth the added variables for us. What I have loved about traveling our son is how much it invites encounters with strangers that have been so heartwarming. People just LOVED our baby in Japan and Portugal. One lady even kissed his head!

Embrace these connections and watch as people play peek a boo with your baby, wave at them, or if you’re comfortable with it, even hold them. This has been my favorite part of traveling with our son. Babies have a unique ability to bridge divides, bringing smiles to faces from different cultures and backgrounds. In these moments of connection, the world becomes a little smaller, and I’m reminded that people are mostly good.

I love looking back on these memories, and can see how being in nature and exploring the world are already positively impacting him. It’s been great for me to keep up the adventures, too. 

Life absolutely doesn’t ‘end’ because you have a family. Now that we’re used to traveling with my baby, it doesn’t even feel like extra work anymore. It’s just another kind of adventure.

About Kristin Kristin Addis is the founder of  parenthoodadventures.com , a resource for adventurous parents who still want to travel the world with their little ones. She’s been a travel expert for over a decade, leading adventure trips and spending several years as a nomad. Now, she’s showing her baby the world.

Before you go…

There are so many logistics to consider before your first big trip as a family! Have you thought about how to bathe baby while traveling ? Be sure to read that article for lots of real-world tips.

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• Section 7 - Travel & Breastfeeding
• Section 7 - Vaccine Recommendations for Infants & Children

Traveling Safely with Infants & Children

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Michelle Weinberg, Nicholas Weinberg, Susan Maloney

Children increasingly are traveling and living outside their home countries. Although data about the incidence of pediatric illnesses associated with international travel are limited, the risks that children face when traveling are likely similar to those faced by their adult travel companions.

Compared with adults, however, children are less likely to receive pretravel advice. In a review of children with posttravel illnesses seen at clinics in the GeoSentinel Global Surveillance Network, 51% of all children and 32% of children visiting friends and relatives (VFRs) had received pretravel medical advice, compared with 59% of adults. The most commonly reported health problems among child travelers are dermatologic conditions, including animal and arthropod bites, cutaneous larva migrans, and sunburn; diarrheal illnesses; respiratory disorders; and systemic febrile illnesses, especially malaria.

Motor vehicle and water-related injuries, including drowning, are other major health and safety concerns for child travelers. See Box 7-03 for recommendations on assessing and preparing children for planned international travel.

Box 7-03 Assessing & preparing children for international travel: a checklist for health care providers

☐ Review travel-related and routine childhood vaccinations. The pretravel visit is an opportunity to ensure that children are up to date on their routine vaccinations.

☐ Assess all anticipated travel-related activities.

☐ Provide preventive counseling and interventions tailored to specific risks, including special travel preparations and any treatment required for infants and children with underlying health conditions, chronic diseases, or immunocompromising conditions.

☐ For children who require medications to manage chronic health conditions, caregivers should carry a supply sufficient for the trip duration.

☐ For adolescents traveling in a student group or program (see also Sec. 9, Ch. 8, Study Abroad & Other International Student Travel ), consider providing counseling on the following:

• Disease prevention
• Drug and alcohol use
• Empiric treatment and management of common travel-related illnesses
• Risks of sexually transmitted infections and sexual assault

☐ Give special consideration to travelers visiting friends and relatives in low- and middle-income countries and assess risks for malaria, intestinal parasites, and tuberculosis.

☐ Consider advising adults traveling with children and older children to take a course in basic first aid before travel.

☐ For coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) safety measures for children—including mask use, testing, and vaccination—see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 3, COVID-19 .

Travel-Associated Infections & Diseases

Arboviral infections.

Pediatric VFR travelers with frequent or prolonged travel to areas where arboviruses (e.g., chikungunya, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, yellow fever, and Zika viruses) are endemic or epidemic could be at increased risk for infection. Children traveling to areas with arboviruses should use the same mosquito protection measures described elsewhere in this chapter (also see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods ). Unlike mosquitoes that transmit malaria, the Aedes mosquitoes that transmit chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, and Zika are aggressive daytime biters; they also bite at night, especially in areas with artificial light. Consider dengue or other arboviral infections in children with fever if they recently returned from travel in endemic areas. Vaccination against dengue, tick-borne encephalitis, and yellow fever could be indicated for some children (see Sec. 7, Ch. 4, Vaccine Recommendations for Infants & Children , for details).

Diarrhea & Vomiting

Diarrhea and associated gastrointestinal illnesses are among the most common travel-related problems affecting children. Infants and children with diarrhea can become dehydrated more quickly than adults. The etiology of travelers’ diarrhea (TD) in children is similar to that in adults (see Sec. 2, Ch. 6, Travelers’ Diarrhea ).

Adults traveling with children should ensure the children follow safe food and water precautions and frequently wash their hands to prevent foodborne and waterborne illness. For infants, breastfeeding is the best way to reduce the risk for foodborne and waterborne illness (see Sec. 7, Ch. 2, Travel & Breastfeeding ). Infant formulas available abroad might not have the same nutritional composition or be held to the same manufacturing safety standards as in the traveler’s home country; parents feeding their child formula should consider whether they need to bring formula from home. If the infant is fed with formula, travelers should consider using liquid formula, which is sterile. Use of powdered infant formula has been associated with Cronobacter infection; infants <3 months old, infants born prematurely, and infants with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk. Parents should take extra precautions for preparing powdered infant formula .

Travelers should disinfect water served to young children, including water used to prepare infant formula (see Sec. 2, Ch. 8, Food & Water Precautions , and Sec. 2, Ch. 9, Water Disinfection , for details on safety practices). In some parts of the world, bottled water could be contaminated and should be disinfected to kill bacteria, viruses, and protozoa before consumption.

Similarly, travelers with children should diligently follow food precautions and ensure foods served to children are cooked thoroughly and eaten while still hot; caregivers should peel fruits typically eaten raw immediately before consumption. Additionally, adults should use caution with fresh dairy products, which might not be pasteurized or might be diluted with untreated water. For short trips, parents might want to bring a supply of safe snacks from home for times when children are hungry and available food might not be appealing or safe (see Sec. 2, Ch. 8, Food & Water Precautions , for more information).

Adult travelers with children should pay scrupulous attention that potable water is used for handwashing and cleaning bottles, pacifiers, teething rings, and toys that fall to the floor or are handled by others. After diaper changes, especially for infants with diarrhea, parents should be particularly careful to wash hands well to avoid spreading infection to themselves and other family members. When proper handwashing facilities are not available, hand sanitizer containing ≥60% alcohol can be used as a disinfecting agent. Because alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against certain pathogens, however, adults and children should wash hands with soap and water as soon as possible. In addition, alcohol does not remove organic material, and people should wash visibly soiled hands with soap and water.

Chemoprophylaxis with antibiotics is not generally used in children; typhoid vaccine might be indicated, however (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 24, Typhoid & Paratyphoid Fever ).

Antibiotics

Azithromycin.

Few data are available regarding empiric treatment of TD in children. Antimicrobial options for empiric treatment of TD in children are limited. In practice, when an antibiotic is indicated for moderate to severe diarrhea, some clinicians prescribe azithromycin as a single daily dose (10 mg/kg) for 3 days. Clinicians can prescribe unreconstituted azithromycin powder before travel, with instructions from the pharmacist for mixing it into an oral suspension prior to administration. Although resistance breakpoints have not yet been determined, elevated minimum inhibitory concentrations for azithromycin have been reported for some gastrointestinal pathogens. Therefore, counsel parents to seek medical attention for their children if they do not improve after empiric treatment. Before prescribing azithromycin for empiric TD treatment, review possible contraindications and the risks for adverse reactions (e.g., QT prolongation and cardiac arrhythmias).

Fluoroquinolones

Although fluoroquinolones frequently are used for empiric TD treatment in adults, these medications are not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this purpose in children aged <18 years because of cartilage damage seen in animal studies. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that fluoroquinolones be considered for treatment of children with severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant strains of Campylobacter jejuni , Salmonella species, Shigella species, or Vibrio cholerae .

Fluoroquinolone resistance in gastrointestinal organisms has been reported from some countries, particularly in Asia. In addition, use of fluoroquinolones has been associated with tendinopathies, development of Clostridioides difficile infection, and central nervous system side effects including confusion and hallucinations. Routine use of fluoroquinolones for prophylaxis or empiric treatment for TD among children is not recommended.

Rifaximin is approved for use in children aged ≥12 years but has limited use for empiric treatment since it is only approved to treat noninvasive strains of Escherichia coli . Children with bloody diarrhea should receive medical attention, because antibiotic treatment of enterohemorrhagic E. coli , a cause of bloody diarrhea, has been associated with increased risk for hemolytic uremic syndrome (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 7, Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli ).

Antiemetics & Antimotility Drugs

Antiemetics generally are not recommended for self- or family-administered treatment of children with vomiting and TD. Because of the association between salicylates and Reye syndrome, bismuth subsalicylate (BSS), the active ingredient in both Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate, is not generally recommended to treat diarrhea in children <12 years old. In certain circumstances, however, some clinicians use it off-label, with caution. Care should be taken if administering BSS to children with viral infections (e.g., influenza, varicella), because of the risk for Reye syndrome. BSS is not recommended for children aged <3 years.

Use of antiemetics for children with acute gastroenteritis is controversial; some clinical practice guidelines include the use of antiemetics, others do not. A Cochrane Collaboration Review of the use of antiemetics for reducing vomiting related to acute gastroenteritis in children and adolescents showed some benefits with dimenhydrinate, metoclopramide, or ondansetron. Guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America suggest that an antinausea and antiemetic medication (e.g., ondansetron) can facilitate tolerance of oral rehydration in children >4 years of age, and in adolescents with acute gastroenteritis.

A recent systematic review and network meta-analysis comparing several antiemetics in acute gastroenteritis in children showed that ondansetron was the best intervention to reduce vomiting and prevent hospitalization and the need for intravenous rehydration. Routine use of these medications as part of self-treatment for emesis associated with TD in children has not yet been studied, however, and is not generally recommended.

Antimotility drugs (e.g., the opioid receptor agonists loperamide and diphenoxylate), generally should not be given to children <18 years of age with acute diarrhea. Loperamide is particularly contraindicated for children aged <2 years because of the risks for respiratory depression and serious cardiac events. Diphenoxylate and atropine combination tablets should not be used for children aged <2 years, and should be used judiciously in older children because of potential side effects (see Sec. 2, Ch. 6, Travelers’ Diarrhea ).

Fluid & Nutrition Management

The biggest threat to an infant with diarrhea and vomiting is dehydration. Fever or increased ambient temperature increases fluid loss and accelerates dehydration. Advise adults traveling with children about the signs and symptoms of dehydration and the proper use of oral rehydration solution (ORS). Advise adults traveling with children to seek medical attention for an infant or young child with diarrhea who has signs of moderate to severe dehydration, bloody diarrhea, body temperature >101.3°F (38.5°C), or persistent vomiting (unable to maintain oral hydration). Adequate hydration is the mainstay of TD management.

Oral Rehydration Solution: Use & Availability

Counsel parents that dehydration is best prevented and treated by ORS in addition to the infant’s usual food. While seeking medical attention, caregivers should provide ORS to infants by bottle, cup, oral syringe (often available in pharmacies), or spoon. Low-osmolarity ORS is the most effective agent in preventing dehydration, although other formulations are available and can be used if they are more palatable to young children. Homemade sugar-salt solutions are not recommended.

Sports drinks are designed to replace water and electrolytes lost through sweat, and do not contain the same proportions of electrolytes as the solution recommended by the World Health Organization for rehydration during diarrheal illness. Drinks with a high sugar content (e.g., juice, soft drinks) can worsen diarrhea. If ORS is not readily available, however, offer children whatever safe liquid they will take until ORS is obtained. Breastfed infants should continue to breastfeed (for more details, see Sec. 7, Ch. 2, Travel & Breastfeeding ).

ORS can be made from prepackaged glucose and electrolytes packets available at stores or pharmacies in almost all countries. Some pharmacies and stores that specialize in outdoor recreation and camping supplies also sell ORS packets.

ORS is prepared by adding 1 packet to boiled or treated water (see Sec. 2, Ch. 9, Water Disinfection ). Advise travelers to check packet instructions carefully to ensure that the contents are added to the correct volume of water. Once prepared, ORS should be consumed or discarded within 12 hours if held at room temperature, or within 24 hours if kept refrigerated. A dehydrated child will usually drink ORS avidly and should continue to receive ORS if dehydration persists.

As dehydration lessens, the child might refuse the salty-tasting ORS, and adults can offer other safe liquids. An infant or child who has been vomiting will usually keep ORS down if it is offered by spoon or oral syringe in small sips; adults should offer these small sips frequently, however, so the child can receive an adequate volume of ORS. Older children will often drink well by sipping through a straw. Severely dehydrated children often will be unable to drink adequately. Severe dehydration is a medical emergency that usually requires administration of fluids by intravenous or intraosseous routes.

In general, children weighing <22 lb (10 kg) who have mild to moderate dehydration should be administered 2–4 oz (60–120 mL) of ORS for each diarrheal stool or vomiting episode. Children who weigh ≥22 lb (10 kg) should receive 4–8 oz (120–240 mL) of ORS for each diarrheal stool or vomiting episode. AAP provides detailed guidance on rehydration for vomiting and diarrhea.

Diet Modification

Breastfed infants should continue nursing on demand. Formula-fed infants should continue their usual formula during rehydration and should receive a volume sufficient to satisfy energy and nutrient requirements. Lactose-free or lactose-reduced formulas usually are unnecessary. Diluting formula can slow resolution of diarrhea and is not recommended.

Older infants and children receiving semisolid or solid foods should continue to receive their usual diet during the illness. Recommended foods include cereals, fruits and vegetables, starches, and pasteurized yogurt. Travelers should avoid giving children food high in simple sugars (e.g., undiluted apple juice, presweetened cereals, gelatins, soft drinks) because these can exacerbate diarrhea by osmotic effects. In addition, foods high in fat tend to delay gastric emptying, and thus might not be well tolerated by ill children.

Travelers should not withhold food for ≥24 hours. Early feeding can decrease changes in intestinal permeability caused by infection, reduce illness duration, and improve nutritional outcome. Although highly specific diets (e.g., the BRAT [bananas, rice, applesauce, toast] diet) or juice-based and clear fluid diets commonly are recommended, such severely restrictive diets have no scientific basis and should be avoided.

Malaria is among the most serious and life-threatening infections acquired by pediatric international travelers. Pediatric VFR travelers are at particularly high risk for malaria infection if they do not receive prophylaxis. Among people reported with malaria in the United States in 2017, 17% were children <18 years old; 89% had traveled to Africa. Seventy percent of the children who were US residents also were VFR travelers, and 61% did not take malaria chemoprophylaxis.

Children with malaria can rapidly develop high levels of parasitemia and are at increased risk for severe complications of malaria, including seizures, coma, and death. Initial symptoms can mimic many other common causes of pediatric febrile illness, which could delay diagnosis and treatment. Among 33 children with imported malaria diagnosed at 11 medical centers in New York City, 11 (32%) had severe malaria and 14 (43%) were initially misdiagnosed. Counsel adults traveling with children to malaria-endemic areas to use preventive measures, be aware of the signs and symptoms of malaria, and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms develop.

Antimalarial Drugs

Pediatric doses for malaria prophylaxis are provided in Table 5-27 . Calculate dosing based on body weight. Medications used for infants and young children are the same as those recommended for adults, except atovaquone-proguanil, which should not be used for prophylaxis in children weighing <5 kg because of lack of data on safety and efficacy. Doxycycline should not be recommended for malaria prophylaxis for children aged <8 years. Although doxycycline has not been associated with dental staining when given as a routine treatment for some infections, other tetracyclines might cause teeth staining.

Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine, and mefloquine have a bitter taste. Mixing pulverized tablets in a small amount of food or drink can facilitate the administration of antimalarial drugs to infants and children. Clinicians also can ask compounding pharmacists to pulverize tablets and prepare gelatin capsules with calculated pediatric doses. A compounding pharmacy can alter the flavoring of malaria medication tablets so that children are more willing to take them. The Find a Compounder section on the Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding website (281-933-8400) can help with finding a compounding pharmacy. Because overdose of antimalarial drugs, particularly chloroquine, can be fatal, store medication in childproof containers and keep out of the reach of infants and children.

Personal Protective Measures & Repellent Use

Children should sleep in rooms with air conditioning or screened windows, or sleep under mosquito nets when air conditioning or screens are not available. Mosquito netting should be used over infant carriers. Children can reduce skin exposed to mosquitoes by wearing long pants and long sleeves while outdoors. Clothing and mosquito nets can be treated with an insect repellent/insecticide (e.g., permethrin) that repels and kills ticks, mosquitoes, and other arthropods. Permethrin remains effective through multiple washings. Clothing and mosquito nets should be retreated according to the product label. Permethrin should not be applied to the skin.

Although permethrin provides a longer duration of protection, recommended repellents that can be applied to skin also can be used on clothing and mosquito nets (see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods , for more details about these protective measures). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)–registered repellents containing one of the following active ingredients: DEET ( N,N -diethyl- m -toluamide); picaridin; oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE); PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol); IR3535; or 2-undecanone (methyl nonyl ketone). Repellent products must state any age restriction; if no age restriction is provided, EPA has not required a restriction on the use of the product. Most EPA-registered repellents can be used on children aged >2 months, except products containing OLE or PMD that specify they should not be used on children aged <3 years. Insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or 2-undecanone can be used on children without age restriction.

Many repellents contain DEET as the active ingredient. DEET concentration varies considerably between products. The duration of protection varies with DEET concentration; higher concentrations protect longer; products with DEET concentration >50% do not, however, offer a marked increase in protection time.

The EPA has approved DEET for use on children without an age restriction. If used appropriately, DEET does not represent a health problem. The AAP states that the use of products with the lowest effective DEET concentrations (i.e., 20%–30%) seems most prudent for infants and young children, on whom it should be applied sparingly. For more tips on protecting babies and children from mosquito bites , see  Box 7-04 .

Combination products containing repellents and sunscreen are generally not recommended because instructions for use are different, and sunscreen might need to be reapplied more often and in larger amounts than repellent. In general, apply sunscreen first, and then apply repellent. Mosquito coils should be used with caution in the presence of children to avoid burns and inadvertent ingestion. For detailed information about repellent use and other protective measures, see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods .

Box 7-04 Protecting infants & children from mosquito bites: recommendations for travelers

Dress children in clothing that covers arms and legs.

Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.

Properly use insect repellent

• Always follow all label instructions.
• In general, do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD) on children <3 years old.
• Do not apply insect repellent to a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin.
• Adults should spray insect repellent onto their hands and then apply to a child’s face.

Depending on travel destination and activities, animal exposures and bites might be a health risk for pediatric travelers. Worldwide, rabies is more common in children than adults. In addition to the potential for increased contact with animals, children also are more likely to be bitten on the head or neck, leading to more severe injuries. Counsel children and their families to avoid all stray or unfamiliar animals and to inform adults of any animal contact or bites. Bats throughout the world have the potential to transmit rabies virus.

Travelers should clean all bite and scratch wounds as soon as possible after the event occurs by using soap and water, or povidine iodine if available, for ≥20 minutes to prevent infections, (e.g., rabies). Wounds contaminated with necrotic tissue, dirt, or other foreign materials should be cleaned and debrided promptly by health care professionals, where possible. A course of antibiotics might be appropriate after animal bites or scratches, because these can lead to local or systemic infections. For mammal bites and scratches, children should be evaluated promptly to assess their need for rabies postexposure prophylaxis (see Sec. 4, Ch. 7, Zoonotic Exposures: Bites, Stings, Scratches & Other Hazards ; and Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 18, Rabies ).

Because rabies vaccine and rabies immune globulin might not be available in certain destinations, encourage families traveling to areas with high risk for rabies exposure to seriously consider preexposure rabies vaccination and to purchase medical evacuation insurance, depending on their destination and planned travel activities (see Sec. 7, Ch. 4, Vaccine Recommendations for Infants & Children , and Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

Soil & Water Contact: Infections & Infestations

Children are more likely than adults to have contact with soil or sand, and therefore could be exposed to diseases caused by infectious stages of parasites in soil, including ascariasis, hookworm, cutaneous or visceral larva migrans, strongyloidiasis, and trichuriasis. Children and infants should wear protective footwear and play on a sheet or towel rather than directly on the ground. Clothing should not be dried on the ground. In countries with a tropical climate, clothing or diapers dried in the open air should be ironed before use to prevent infestation with fly larvae.

Schistosomiasis is a risk to children and adults in endemic areas. While in schistosomiasis- endemic areas (see Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 20, Schistosomiasis ), children should not bathe, swim, or wade in fresh, unchlorinated water (e.g., lakes, ponds).

Noninfectious Hazards & Risks

Although air travel is safe for most newborns, infants, and children, people traveling with children should consider a few issues before departure. Children with chronic heart or lung problems might be at risk for hypoxia during flight, and caregivers should consult a clinician before travel.

Ear pain can be troublesome for infants and children during descent. Pressure in the middle ear can be equalized by swallowing or chewing; thus, infants should nurse or suck on a bottle, and older children can try chewing gum. Antihistamines and decongestants have not been shown to be of benefit. No evidence suggests that air travel exacerbates the symptoms or complications associated with otitis media.

Travel to different time zones, jet lag, and schedule disruptions can disturb sleep patterns in infants and children, just as in adults (Sec. 8, Ch. 4, Jet Lag ).

Safety Restraints

Travelers also should ensure that children can be restrained safely during a flight. Severe turbulence or a crash can create enough momentum that an adult cannot hold onto a child. The safest place for a child on an airplane is in a government-approved child safety restraint system (CRS) or device. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strongly urges travelers to secure children in a CRS for the duration of the flight. Car seats cannot be used in all seats or on all planes, and some airlines might have limited safety equipment available. Travelers should check with the airline about specific restrictions and approved child restraint options. FAA provides additional information .

Altitude Illness & Acute Mountain Sickness

Children are as susceptible to the deleterious effects of high elevation travel as adults (see Sec. 4, Ch. 5, High Elevation Travel & Altitude Illness ). Slow ascent is the preferable approach for avoiding acute mountain sickness (AMS). Young children unable to talk can show nonspecific symptoms (e.g., loss of appetite or irritability, unexplained fussiness, changes in sleep and activity patterns). Older children might complain of headache or shortness of breath. If children demonstrate unexplained symptoms after an ascent, descent could be necessary.

Acetazolamide is not approved for pediatric use in children aged <12 years for altitude illness but is generally safe for use in children for other indications. Some providers prescribe acetazolamide to prevent AMS in pediatric travelers <12 years of age when a slow ascent is not feasible. The dose is 2.5 mg/kg every 12 hours, up to a maximum of 125 mg per dose, twice a day. No liquid formulation is available, but tablets can be crushed or packaged by a compounding pharmacy for a correct dose.

Drinking Water Contaminants

Drinking water disinfection does not remove environmental contaminants (e.g., lead or other metals). Travelers might want to carry specific filters designed to remove environmental contaminants, particularly for travel where the risk for exposure is greater due to larger amounts of water consumed (e.g., long-term travel or when living abroad). Filters should meet National Science Foundation (NSF) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards 53 or 58 .

Accommodations: Hotels & Other Lodgings

Conditions at hotels and other lodgings abroad might not be as safe as those in the United States; adults traveling with children should carefully inspect accommodations for paint chips, pest poisons, inadequate balcony or stairway railings, or exposed wiring.

Adult caregivers should plan to provide a safe sleeping environment for infants during international travel. Caregivers should follow general recommendations from the AAP task force on preventing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related causes of infant death. Cribs in some locations might not meet US safety standards. Additional information about crib safety is available from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission .

Motor Vehicles

Vehicle-related injuries are the leading cause of death in children who travel. Whenever traveling in an automobile or other vehicle, children should be properly restrained in a car seat, booster seat, or with a seat belt, as appropriate for their age, height, and weight. See information about child passenger safety . Car seats often must be brought from home because well-maintained and approved seats might not be available (or limited in availability) in other countries.

In general, children ≤12 years of age are safest when properly buckled in the rear seat of the car while traveling; no one should ever travel in the bed of a pickup truck. Advise families that cars might lack front or rear seatbelts in many low- and middle-income countries. Traveling families should attempt to arrange transportation or rent vehicles with seatbelts and other safety features.

All family members should wear helmets when riding bicycles, motorcycles, or scooters. Pedestrians should take caution when crossing streets, particularly in countries where cars drive on the left, because children might not be used to looking in that direction before crossing.

Water-Related Injuries & Drowning

Drowning is the second leading cause of death in young travelers. Children might not be familiar with hazards in the ocean or in rivers. Swimming pools might not have protective fencing to keep toddlers and young children from accessing pool areas unattended. Adults should closely supervise children around water. An adult with swimming skills should be within an arm’s length when infants and toddlers are in or around pools and other bodies of water; even for older children and better swimmers, the supervising adult should focus on the child and not be engaged with any distracting activities.

Water safety devices (e.g., personal flotation devices [lifejackets]) might not be available abroad, and families should consider bringing these from home. In addition, adults should ensure children wear protective footwear to avoid injury in many marine environments.

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure, and particularly sunburn before age 15 years, is strongly associated with melanoma and other forms of skin cancer (see Sec. 4, Ch. 1, Sun Exposure ). Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light is greatest near the equator, at high elevations, during midday (10 a.m.–4 p.m.), and where light is reflected off water or snow.

Physical, also known as inorganic, UV filters (sunscreens) generally are recommended for children aged >6 months. Less irritating to children’s sensitive skin than chemical sunscreens, physical UV filters (e.g., titanium oxide, zinc oxide) should be applied as directed and reapplied as needed after sweating and water exposure. Babies aged <6 months require extra protection from the sun because of their thinner and more sensitive skin; severe sunburn in young infants is considered a medical emergency.

Advise parents that babies should be kept in the shade and dressed in clothing that covers the entire body. A minimal amount of sunscreen can be applied to small, exposed areas, including the infant’s face and hands. For older children, sun-blocking shirts made for swimming preclude having to apply sunscreen over the entire trunk. Hats and sunglasses also reduce sun injury to skin and eyes.

If both sunscreen and a DEET-containing insect repellent are used, apply the sunscreen first and the insect repellent second (i.e., over the sunscreen). Because insect repellent can diminish the level of UV protection provided by the sunscreen by as much as one-third, children should also wear sun-protective clothing, reapply sunscreen, or decrease their time in the sun, accordingly.

Other Considerations

Identification.

In case family members become separated, each infant or child should carry identifying information and contact numbers in their clothing or pockets. Because of concerns about illegal transport of children across international borders, parents traveling alone with children should carry relevant custody papers or a notarized permission letter from the other parent.

As with adult travelers, verify insurance coverage for illnesses and injuries while abroad before departure. Travelers should consider purchasing special medical evacuation insurance for an airlift or air ambulance transport to facilities capable of providing adequate medical care (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

Travel Stress

Changes in schedule, activities, and environment can be stressful for children. Travelers can help decrease these stresses by including children in planning for the trip and bringing along familiar toys or other objects. For children with chronic illnesses, make decisions regarding timing and itinerary in consultation with the child’s health care providers.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Michelle S. Weinberg, Nicholas Weinberg, Susan A. Maloney

Bibliography

Ashkenazi S, Schwartz E. Traveler’s diarrhea in children: new insights and existing gaps. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2020;34:101503.

Fedorowicz Z, Jagannath VA, Carter B. Antiemetics for reducing vomiting related to acute gastroenteritis in children and adolescents. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011;2011(9):CD005506.

Goldman-Yassen AE, Mony VK, Arguin PM, Daily JP. Higher rates of misdiagnosis in pediatric patients versus adults hospitalized with imported malaria. Pediatr Emerg Care. 2016;32(4):227–31.

Hagmann S, LaRocque R, Rao S, Jentes E, Sotir M, Brunette G, et al.; Global TravEpiNet Consortium. Pre-travel health preparation of pediatric international travelers: analysis from the Global TravEpiNet Consortium. J Pediatric Infect Dis Soc. 2013;2(4):327–34.

Hagmann S, Neugebauer R, Schwartz E, Perret C, Castelli F, Barnett ED, et al. Illness in children after international travel: analysis from the GeoSentinel Surveillance Network. Pediatrics. 2010;125(5):e1072–80.

Han P, Yanni E, Jentes E, Hamer D, Chen L, Wilson M, et al. Health challenges of young travelers visiting friends and relatives compared with those traveling for other purposes. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2012;31(9):915–9.

Herbinger KH, Drerup L, Alberer M, Nothdurft HD, Sonnenburg F, Loscher T. Spectrum of imported infectious diseases among children and adolescents returning from the tropics and subtropics. J Travel Med. 2012;19(3):150–7.

Hunziker T, Berger C, Staubli G, Tschopp A, Weber R, Nadal D, et al. Profile of travel-associated illness in children, Zurich, Switzerland. J Travel Med. 2012;19(3):158–62.

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Non-U.S. citizen children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents, such as a passport or visa to enter the U.S.

Additionally, if the child is traveling alone, with only one of their custodial parents, or with a guardian to the U.S., they should have:

• Each country has its own rules for the specific documents it requires for a child to be allowed to leave their home country without both of their custodial parents or with a guardian. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country the child is a citizen of to find out what specific documents the country requires to allow the child to leave their country.
• The letter should say: "I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• A parent who frequently crosses the border by land with a minor should always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.
• A parent with sole custody of the child they are traveling with should carry a copy of the custody document.

If your child is traveling alone by air, the airline may require you to submit an unaccompanied minor form and pay a fee for unaccompanied minor service. This service provides an airline employee escort for your child at the airport and on board the plane. In addition, you and the person picking your child up at their destination may also need to provide the airline with identification and contact information.

Contact your airline before your child’s trip to find out:

• What age requirements the airline has for their unaccompanied minor service
• If you can book a ticket with a connecting flight
• What documents and fees are required

U.S. citizen children traveling outside the U.S.

Children traveling to most other countries are required to have a U.S. passport. 

Learn how to get a passport for a minor under 18.

Depending on the country, the child may also need a visa and other travel documents. Search for the country the child will be visiting to find out what documentation that country requires.

Providing parental consent when a child travels without both custodial parents

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If your child is traveling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they may need a letter of consent from the other custodial parent. 

• The letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent (if the child is traveling with one custodial parent) or signed by both parents (if the child is traveling with a guardian or alone) should say: "I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."

Additionally, if a minor is traveling abroad alone:

• Contact the embassy or consulate of the country your child will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

U.S. citizen children traveling to Canada or Mexico

Traveling by air.

All U.S. citizen children who are traveling by air to Canada or Mexico must have a U.S. passport or Trusted Traveler Program card. 

Traveling by land or sea

• U.S. passport, or
• An original or a copy of their birth certificate, or
• A Certificate of Naturalization, or 
• A Consular Report of Birth Abroad 
• Age 16 or over: show a U.S. passport or Trusted Traveler Program card

Parental consent documentation for travel to Canada and Mexico

A child traveling with only one custodial parent or a guardian or who is traveling alone may need to present a written letter of consent at the border. 

LAST UPDATED: June 28, 2024

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Flying Internationally with an Infant: The Complete Guide

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I think you will agree that the prospect of traveling with your little, let alone flying internationally with an infant, can be scary, overwhelming, and downright daunting. I do not want to discourage you from flying internationally with your children.  However, I want to be honest and encourage you to work through all your trepidations and not to be hindered by your fears. This is because traveling, and specifically traveling with your children, is so magical and inspiring and personally it feeds my soul.

Let me preface this post with this: Initially, for me, flying internationally with my infant was extremely overwhelming and anxiety provoking.  I still have some of that anxiety but I have been able to travel through it and I live for the next trip. I want to encourage you to try it and experience traveling internationally with a baby for yourself.  My hope with this post is to alleviate your anxiety and consolidate a lot of useful resources into one place. This post WILL make flying internationally with an infant easier and more palatable for you.

I have found that international plane travel with an infant is all about preparation and managing your own expectations.  Before my son turned two, I flew with him 18 times (9 round trip-trips). Four of those trips were domestic and five were international.   I did one domestic trip on my own and I did four of the ten international legs by myself.  So, I understand all of the questions and preoccupations that you may have, whether flying with a companion or on your own.

I have organized this post into seven parts, I hope that you read the entire post, but feel free to jump to the part that interests you!

• Booking Tickets
• Planning your stay and Packing
• Airport & Boarding

Disembarking

• Notable Considerations

Booking Tickets for an International Flight with an Infant

Lap baby vs. buying a ticket.

When considering how to fly with your baby, you generally have two options.  (1) If your child is under two, they can fly as a ‘lap infant.’ This means that you would not have to purchase a full-priced ticket for them and they would fly sitting on your lap.  Although you may have heard that lap infants fly free, they do not; you will typically pay 10% of your fare (or full price fare) for your infant.  Generally, you will need one adult per lap child.

The main benefit of having your child fly on your lap is that it’s a lot cheaper. The primary downside is that it can be cramped and it is less safe than purchasing them their own seat. If you gate-check your car seat then before you board you can ask if there are any empty seats on the plane. Provided that there are empty seats on the plane many airlines will let you bring your car seat on board and basically ‘give’ you a seat in which you can install your car seat (and your baby).  On many overnight flights, airlines will have a bassinette option (this is still part of the ‘lap infant’ option). Typically, you would purchase your ticket on the airline’s website and then have to call in to select the bassinette seat.  I will discuss the bassinette in more detail below, but this is a great option if available.

(2) The second option is to purchase your infant his or her own seat.  If you do this then you will pay the full price for your child’s seat, regardless of their age. Some airlines have ‘child’ fares; however, these are generally more expensive as they are typically refundable. If you purchase a seat for your infant then you will be able to bring your car seat on board and secure it to the seat with the seat belt.  Your car seat must be FAA approved.  This is beneficial as it is the safer option and your child will have their own space and you obviously will too.

Here are some considerations in deciding on whether to purchase a seat for your child or not:

• The duration of your flight.
• One trick here is: if you are flying with a companion, select the window and aisle seats and leave the one in the middle open.  People are less likely to select the middle seat and if someone does, they will gladly switch with you on the flight.
• The temperament of your child.

While my son was under two, I never purchased him a seat; he always flew as a lap child.  This was because I was cheap.

Documentation That You Will Need for an International Flight with an Infant

If you are flying internationally then you will need a passport for your baby. (Note: if you are flying within the United States you will not need a passport for your infant).  Flights to Hawaii, Alaska or one of the U.S. territories do not require a passport for your baby.  If you are traveling to a far-flung (American) destination and you have a layover in a foreign country, you will need a passport for your baby.   When you apply for your child’s passport you’ll want to get a U.S. Passport Book NOT a U.S.  Passport Card!  You cannot use a U.S. Passport Card for international air travel. You can use the Card at certain land and seaports, but I would recommend just getting the Book.

Here is a link to the U.S. Department of State’s website  which contains information for applying for a Passport Book for children under 16.

Here are some notable considerations when applying for your infant’s passport:

• Social Security Number: You will need your baby’s SSN before you can apply for the passport. Here are the average wait times, by state, for parents who have applied for their baby’s SSN in the hospital.   ( We live in Illinois and it took us 2 weeks to receive our son’s social security card).
• Birth Certificate: You will need your infant’s birth certificate to show that they are a United States citizen. Contact your county’s office for vital records to inquire about how long it takes to receive your infant’s birth certificate.
• If you have sole custody, one parent cannot appear or one parent cannot be located, please see the U.S. Department of State’s website to assess your options. 
• Processing Times: Routine processing is 4-6 weeks. Expedited processing is 2-3 weeks. If you need your passport faster than that, click here to see permissible reasons and application options. 

Other Things to Consider when Booking Tickets for International Flight with an Infant:

• No Layovers: I avoid layovers at all costs. I know that sometimes they are unavoidable, or it may be financially advantageous to book them but particularly with an infant, it’s just not worth it.
• Scheduling/Flight Times: I try and schedule my international flights (well, any flight really) around my baby’s sleep schedule. And what I mean by that is, for example, the Chicago → Dublin flight has two departure options, 3:50 pm and 8:20 pm. I once chose the 3:50 pm flight, with the idea that once we boarded, settled, ate dinner and the lights dimmed, that would be about time for bed.  Well, that backfired on me; the baby was so overstimulated that he just cried the entire time and I ended up bouncing him in the aisle for four hours, so as not to wake the baby in the next seat over. So, I always book the 8:20 flight now; he sufficiently tires out by the time we get to ‘bedtime.’
• Bassinette Option: Call the airline and ask if there are bassinette options; all other things being equal, an airline with an available bassinette seat may tip the scales.
• Baby Meals: Call and ask about baby meals. The only experience that I have with this is on Aer Lingus- they have baby meals (I saw another family get one). The next time I flew I called and requested one and the operator told me that those did not exist.  I pushed back and told her that they did so she went and spoke with someone and when she came back I magically had a baby meal!!
• Note: There may be other things particular to you that are important. I cannot overstate the importance of asking questions and advocating for yourself and your child. You can do this in a calm, measured, and constructive way.  Do not be afraid to do it!
• Good Resource: Have a look at Seatguru.com for airplane layouts; you can double check your airline’s site for plane models and then check ‘seat guru.’ This can be handy if you want to see if your airplane has a bassinette row and if so, where they are located.  You can also check out things like where the bathrooms are, where the Galley(s) are, etc.…  Please note that these are not always accurate; airlines do change out planes without notice (however, I have only had that happen to me one time).

• This is British Airways flight 294, Chicago → London, you can see where the bassinet options are (sometimes they can be spread out throughout the plane); there appear to be four in aisle 28.
• Please note that many times there are more than one version of a plane; you can check the different versions for bassinet seats (and other amenities) on seatguru.com. In our example above, version one appears to have four bassinets and versions two and three do not appear to have any. In this situation I would call the airline to verify my particular flight/date.
• Also note: I am not affiliated with Seat Guru, in any way. It’s just a great resource that I use often.

How young can baby fly?

Many airlines have policies on how young babies can fly; however, these likely will not be a problem for international travel as it will take as long to obtain your baby’s social security card and get their passport.  If you are flying within the United States you will only be bound by your airline’s policy (as you do not need a passport to fly domestically).  The other consideration that I have had has been that a lot of babies receive many of their *first* vaccinations (for example, in a series of vaccinations) at the two-month checkup.  If being un-vaccinated or under-vaccinated is a concern for you (it was for me) while flying on a plane, I would recommend that you speak with your pediatrician about your concerns.

Planning Your Stay and Packing: the most important thing is to plan ahead, even if you are the fly-by-the-seat-of your-pants type

So, when flying internationally with an infant, you need to consider three different packing situations:  (1) What food/drink are you going to pack for the flight?; (2) What items are you going to pack for on the flight (carry-on/diaper bag/personal item)?; and (3) What are you going to pack for your arrival at your destination? The third question is heavily dependent upon what your destination is (hot, cold, rainy, etc. …) and with whom you are going to stay (friends/family, hotel, will you be able to do laundry, etc. …).

Food & Beverage for the Flight

The Transportation Security Administration’s website will tell you what consumables you can and cannot bring on a plane and is found here: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures/traveling-children.   In this article, I am just going to cover food and beverages, as it pertains to children.

The first thing to know is that whatever you thought you knew about TSA rules— as they pertained to your childless-self—no longer apply.  Keep in mind, though, that the same old rules still apply to you (no jug of water for you); on the other hand, you can pretty much bring anything through airport security for your child.

Below is an overview of what you can and cannot bring on the plane, for an infant and a toddler:

According to the TSA website, “an infant is defined as a child who must be physically carried by an adult throughout the screening process. A toddler is defined as a child who receives assistance in walking by an adult throughout the screening process.”

The most important thing to note is that liquids for the infant are exempt from the 3.4 ounce/100 millimeter limit.  In other words, you can bring liquids for the infant, in larger quantities, than is normally permitted.  The website states that you can bring these items in “reasonable quantities,” so don’t go crazy.  Just bring what you will need for the flight; any excess foodstuffs, you can pack in your checked bag. The website specifically mentions formula, breast milk and juice, however, I have also brought pouches and other ‘liquids’ that were larger than 4 ounces and not had a problem. You can also bring your sippy-cup with water through Security. They will test these items for explosives.

You should inform the TSA officer that you have these items with you and set them aside. I ‘pack’ all of my food and liquid items in a brown paper Starbucks handle bag and then when I get to Security I just hand that over. You do not want to be fishing out food items from the depths of your diaper bag with 50 hostile-looking people behind you.   You can also tell the TSA officer if you do not want your formula, breast milk or juice x-rayed or opened.

Honestly, this process usually goes so fast that I have never seen them open my food/beverage items. I’ve never seen it but it could have happened.  Sometimes items will come up positive for ‘explosives’ and they will re-test them and then they’ll come back clear. This sometimes happens with pouches; it must be something in the packaging (EEK). Just make sure to leave extra time to get through Security.  Below, I’ll discuss how to get through security without a hitch!

In Flight: Carry On, Diaper Bag, Personal Item

This may or may not be an overnight flight. If it is an overnight flight, you will have slightly different items than a daytime flight.  I cannot overstate this: DO NOT OVER PACK. I always over pack and it’s always horrible.

Here are the basics of what you need on the flight: a new toy, book or sticker pack—whatever— just something new and novel. The $1 bin at Target is great for this!  If it’s an overnight flight I bring a stuffed animal or something from baby’s crib, to put in the bassinette, so they know it’s for sleeping and that it’s something familiar.

In the diaper bag, for an overnight flight, I bring anti-bacterial hand wipes, two changes of clothes for baby, a pair of pajamas for baby, and a change of shirt for me.  People often overlook bringing themselves a change of shirt, but spit-ups happen, spills happen, body odor happens— it can’t hurt.  Also, if your child is prone to blow-outs, bring an extra change of clothes.  Additionally, I bring a muslin blanket—this has two purposes: if you are breastfeeding this can be used as a cover and when baby goes to sleep it can be used as a blanket.  Muslin is great because often at beginning of a flight, it is sweltering on the plane and then it can get quite cold during cruising. Muslin is a great lightweight, breathable fabric for those conditions.

Then you’ll also need diapers and wipes. I cloth-diaper my son but on long-haul flights I use disposables. I just bring one diaper for every 2-3 hours of total travel time the (from the time you leave your house until you will arrive at your ultimate destination)— if it’s an overnight flight, I’ll leave kiddo in the diaper for the ‘night,’ which is usually about 5 hours.

Packing for When you Arrive at Your Destination

What you will pack, for when you arrive at your destination, is largely dependent upon the weather and where you are going. Things to consider are: will you have access to a washer and/or dryer (lots of places around the world have washers but no dryers), duration of stay, access to a grocery store or corner store (example: I buy wipes when I get where I am going because they are heavy; however, if I were going somewhere with no store, I’d bring them).

My advice is to pack the bare necessities and buy the rest when you get there.  If you are on a budget, many times things will be cheaper at your destination.  If you want to save money and you think that bringing certain items with you will save you money, then get very specific about the quantities that you’ll need and pack accordingly.  Bags can get very heavy very quickly, especially when traveling internationally with an infant. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been that lady in the airport with her bag open, re-arranging stuff.  An overweight checked bag will result in a very heavy and overly stuffed carry-on bag. (unless you want to pay for baggage overweight fees—and who wants to pay that?)

General Note on packing food/beverage items

There are certain places in the world that will not permit you to bring certain food items into their country. So although you can bring these items on the plane they will not permit you to bring them into your final destination country.  One example is New Zealand.  New Zealand is very remote and they do not allow certain fruits, vegetables and seeds into the country.  This is to prevent the introduction of invasive and foreign agricultural items into their eco-system.  Check with the Customs section of your destination country to see if there are any country-specific restrictions on food items.  I’d hate for you to spend hours making the perfect trail mix and then have to pitch it when you arrive at your destination.

Planning Where to Stay While Internationally Traveling with a Baby

In deciding where to stay once you reach your destination, there are lots of considerations that you did not have pre-baby.  The first one that comes to mind for me is safety; the second is quiet.  You need to find somewhere that is safe and secure (read: a lock on the door).  For me, I also need somewhere quiet, as baby needs a good nap and/or a good night sleep. So, staying at the party-all-night hostel is no longer an option.  On our honeymoon, back in 2011, my husband and I backpacked around New Zealand for a month and we stayed in some dodgy hostels. Don’t get me wrong, those establishments have their time and place in the antiquity of my travel history— just not any more.

Other possible considerations are proximity to public transit (or other mode of transit), access to washer/dryer, air conditioning/central heat, closeness to children’s activities and whatever else is important to you.  I did not realize that air conditioning was important to me until we stayed with my five-month old in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Shenandoah National Park, in September, when it was 90 degrees and our air conditioning went out.   Now that’s a priority for me.  Also think about how you are going to get around. If you have a rental car, great, but do you want to have to park that in downtown Paris?  Or perhaps you’ll take the Metro from place to place; if so, you may want to look at options near public transportation.

But everyone is different; evaluate what items are indispensable to you and those that you would like to have but could do without and go from there.

Another thing that I learned the hard way is that if you book a standard (one room) hotel room, then you are pretty much going to sleep when baby goes to sleep.  If you are the type of person who likes to read, watch tv, have a night cap or just not go bed at 7 or 8, then I recommend getting a hotel room with a separate bedroom or looking for an Airbnb.  A hotel with a separate bedroom is a good option, as you can put baby to bed and then retreat into the room and not disturb baby. The downside to this is that these can get pricey, fast.  Another thing that I have heard of is to put the baby’s pack-n-play in the bathroom; however, this means that you will have to use the lobby bathroom.

Another great option is using a service like Airbnb or HomeAway.com. When we do this, I put ‘minimum 2 bedrooms’ as a search-filter and go from there.  These are usually cheaper than hotel rooms and they usually offer more options. There are similar services available, depending on what country you are traveling to, so Google your destination to see if they have any ‘house sharing’ sites available.

Navigating the Airport & Boarding the Plane with an Infant

WEAR THAT BABY!!!  I cannot understate the idea of baby-wearing your infant to and around the airport.  Whether you bring a stroller or not and whether you gate-check the stroller or check it at check-in, my advice is to wear that baby!!  When you wear the baby that allows you to have your hands free and your child contained, which are the two most important things at this juncture.

Checking In

They will issue a ticket/boarding pass for the baby, even if you did not book a ticket for him/her.  (for example, on Southwest you book nothing for a lap child; you just show up with the child and proof that they are under 2).

Stroller and Car Seat

Stroller: the question is to check your stroller during check in or to gate-check the thing? Personally, I always gate-check my stroller because I can’t afford to buy another one if it gets damaged or lost during transit. I also advocate gate-checking the stroller because you can always plunk the kid into it or use it to carry your bags through the airport (diaper, personal and/or carry-on).

Car Seat: this is a bigger question. The first question is whether to bring one at all or get one from your rental car company.  The second question is: if you do bring one, do you bring it on the plane, do you gate-check the thing or do you check it during check-in?

• To bring or not to bring your own car seat: I always bring a car seat because you have no idea what the car rental agency will have and I have seen car rental agencies have only forward-facing car seats.  You also do not know the history of the seat that you are given; you do not know if it has been in any accidents or if it has any structural deficiency.  With an infant car seat this may be an easier question as you can usually click into the stroller.  For the convertible car seat we purchased the Cosco Nextera convertible seat that we use just for traveling.   Here is a link to the seat that we have for traveling.   It’s light, it received great safety reviews and it was inexpensive enough that if it gets damaged, we can afford to replace it.
• Taking your car seat on the Plane: This is the ideal scenario, for safety. You can install the car seat directly into the plane seat, and secure your child into the car seat.  This is the safest thing for your infant and also the safest option for the car seat.  If you have booked a lap infant this will not be an option, unless there are empty seats.
• Pros to Gate-checking: if you gate-check the car seat, there is a lower possibility that your car seat will be damaged (than if you check it at check-in). It’s the kind of thing that you need when you arrive at your destination because you’ll need it for whatever car/taxi, etc… that you get into. If it is damaged, you will have to replace it prior to leaving the airport, which could be a PITA. Chances of this happening are low, but you never know. For the car seat,  we put the car seat in this bag , whether we gate-check or regular check.  And for the stroller, we use this bag .  The bags are big and red so our items are easily identifiable.  If you gate check it or check it at check-in, always inspect it thoroughly for damage upon arrival.
• Downside to Gate-checking: you’ll have to lug it through the airport. If the car seat clicks into your stroller, like if you have a stroller/car-seat system, this is less of a consideration. This is more of an issue when you have a convertible car seat (vs. an infant/baby car seat). When our son was an infant the travel system that we used for everyday use was clunky.  The stroller was big and handled like a tractor-trailer and we did not want to lug it on an airplane; we opted to get this smaller, cheaper stroller frame for flying and just attached our infant car seat into the frame.  It worked very well and if the stroller got damaged, no biggie.  With a little bit of research, you can find a cheapie frame to snap your car seat into.
• Checking the car seat at check-in: In my opinion, this is the least preferable option. If you check the car seat at check-in, the likelihood is higher that it will be damaged in transit. If you do check it at check-in, you should inspect it thoroughly for damage upon arrival.

Getting through Security with an Infant

Navigating security can be an overwhelming experience.

• If you are baby-wearing, you can wear baby through Security and you do not have to go through that X-ray machine (as an aside: you can opt out of that big scanner machine even without a baby).  The website states that you should remove your baby from the carrier; however, I have never been asked to do that.  Under no circumstances should you be separated from your child.
• Wear shoes that you can easily slip on and off; children under 12 are not required to remove their shoes.
• You should collapse your stroller, if it will fit through the baggage X-ray machine. As an aside, you should know how to collapse your stroller (security is not the place to figure it out) and preferably be able to do it with one hand.
• You should have your liquids/food/sippy-cup, etc. … in a separate bag (even a plastic grocery store bag), so you can just hand that over to the TSA agent.
• As soon as I get through Security I usually let my son out of the carrier so that he can run around and stretch his legs.

Boarding with an Infant

Families usually get to board after first class-boarding. But every airline is different. Another consideration is sometimes you will have to obtain a gate-check tag for your stroller and/or car seat, from the gate attendant.  When I get to my gate, I always ‘check in’ with the desk to ask when we get to board and if there is anything else that I will need to gate-check my items. If you have a lap infant this would also be the time to ask if there are any empty seats and if so, can you bring your car seat on the plane (if you want to).

Flying with an Infant

You should be able to board fairly early and thus get settled into your seats.  If you’ve gotten a bassinette seat you will most likely be along the bulkhead, which typically has 3-5 seats across.  You will have a lot of leg room in this row and typically two bassinettes can be affixed to the wall, side by side.  I have gotten the bassinette seat for every international flight that I have taken; however, my son has only slept in the bassinette once.  Nonetheless, I strongly believe that even if your kid does not use the bassinette to sleep, it is still a great amenity.  You will have a lot of leg room, in which they can play, or roll around, etc. … You can also use the bassinette to put your things into.  It just gives you an extra area to use.

Notes on the bassinette seat:

• You will be the primary seat holder with the ‘bassinette seat’; the seat next to your seat is your ‘companion’ seat. If you are flying with another adult you can reserve this seat for him/her.
• When the bassinette is installed, it can come down into your personal space.   This can be problematic for a few reasons: (1) you may not be able to open/close your tray table or release/hide your television and (2) you may be confined to your seat.
• In the bulkhead row your tray table generally folds down into your arm rest and the in-flight entertainment (television) folds down under the seat (these are generalizations; every plane is different). You should check to see if these things can be deployed while the bassinette is installed; if not, make sure to get them out if you will want them before the bassinette is installed.
• Typically, the two other seats in the row are occupied by a family or are empty. On occasion the airline will sell these seats to adults.  On one trip to Dublin there were three adults in the row, along with myself and my baby.  That was awkward. On the other hand, the guy next to me ended up being wonderful!  He had kids himself and was very empathetic to my plight.  By the end of the flight, people thought he was my husband– HA!

Crazy baby contained in the bassinette!

On Board for the Long-Haul

• Using the bathroom on board : If you have managed to get your baby to sleep, you will not want to use the bathroom. I try and avoid beverages, at all costs, when I know that I’m going to be putting baby to sleep. On one occasion BB passed-out in my lap, and I was stuck for 4 hours with my legs jammed against the wall to support him. There was no blood flow for the last 3.5 hours of that experience!  If you are alone, and the baby is awake, do not be afraid to pawn that baby off onto a flight attendant or some random passenger.  I mean, read the person, but most people love that sort of thing.  Long-haul, monotonous flight… who doesn’t want to play with your bouncing bundle of joy for 5 minutes?!!
• Crying baby on board: Don’t worry about it, seriously. I don’t subscribe to the “bring treats” school of thought.  Most people are so nice, generous and comforting, more than anything else. You’ll get way more pity than eye rolls if your kid is bawling their eyes out.  There will be some grumps on the flight but generally just be positive, smile and wave at people and they’ll smile and wave back, even if your kid is crying hysterically.  The only time I *worried* about it was on an overnight flight to Ireland and there was a family next to me who had managed to get their kid to sleep in the bassinette.  I DID NOT want my crying kid to wake up their kid and then we’d have two crying babies. So I stood in the aisle for 4 hours and bounced my kid up and down, which calmed him down (although did not put him to sleep).

Don’t get me wrong, when my child cries on a plane it stresses me out to the nth degree and it makes me very anxious. What I mean by ‘don’t worry about it’ is try not to worry about what other people will think or about disturbing other people.  Because you know what? You really have no idea whether your child is disturbing them or not and all you can do is what you can do. There’s no sense in putting more stress on yourself for something that you have absolutely no control over.

• Breastfeeding on a Plane: My approach to this (if there is someone sitting directly beside me) is to just politely tell them, at the beginning of the flight that I will be breastfeeding my son at some point on the flight. No one has ever had anything negative or nasty to say.  Honestly, most people are a little caught off guard by it but most people say something like, “Oh, my wife breastfed our children until they were 2” or something comforting about some relation they have, who breastfed.  I imagine they are trying to relate, but it’s actually reassuring to me when someone says something positive as their response.

When disembarking I usually wait until everyone else has disembarked (unless I am in the front bulkhead of the plane). You likely have a lot of stuff, or at a minimum, it’s going to be awkward for you to get your stuff down and off the plane.  When you do make it off the plane you will likely have to wait, with all your stuff, just outside the plane doors for your stroller and car seat (if you gate-checked either of them). It gets real awkward real fast when folks are streaming off the plane and you are standing there with another human being strapped to you and 2-3 ‘smallish’ bags. I just wait.

I fly Aer Lingus pretty regularly; occasionally, with that airline, the gate-checked items do not come up to meet you at the gate (another reason to wear that baby!!). If you’ve been waiting a while, politely ask an airline official and they’ll give their best guess as to where your items are (read: they’ll tell you if you are standing there in vain). If it becomes apparent that your items are not going to come to the gate, the stroller and/or car seat will likely show up in the oversized baggage section, near baggage claim. This can be a little unnerving because typically, once you reach your baggage, you have already cleared customs, etc. … and there is no going back for your long-lost stroller or car seat.  Not to worry or get in a panic state (which I have done a few times); just talk to customer service and they’ll tell you where you’re likely to find your items. If they don’t appear, in say, 15-20 minutes, check back with customer service so someone can hunt these things down!

Jet Lag with an Infant

I have written a separate post on jet lag because there is not enough time here to go over all of my experiences with this beast. Also, check out the ‘Tales from the Trenches’ section of the website to read actual people’s accounts of dealing with jet lag with their infants!

But some notable things to remember are: if you are flying east (USA to Europe) when you arrive in Europe your infant will likely wake up for the first few nights at 11 pm and think it’s party time. You will have to just go with it for a few nights. Also, if possible, try not to have to be anywhere important the day after you arrive.  Everyone is exhausted and if you need to be on some sort of schedule, it’s going to be tough to convey that memo to your infant.

Another thing that I will note: on every international trip with my infant, it has been my experience that if baby is on 2 naps (for example) then he is going to want two naps, no matter what time they are.  For example, if your flight gets in at 9 am but baby has only slept 4 hours, if he sleeps for another 4 in the car to wherever, when he wakes up at 1 pm, he is going to think that he just woke up for the day. And he is going to be looking for 2 naps before his next ‘night sleep.’

What this means practically is, when you put him down for bed at 8 pm, he will wake up at 10 pm thinking that he just had his last nap. How you deal with this will vary by baby and by age.  You can try to coax him back to sleep or you can get him up for a few hours and then try to put him down for the night. For me, personally, I have found that the younger the baby, the more difficult it is to disrupt this rhythm.  The older my baby has gotten, the more easily I can coax him back to sleep at whatever ungodly hour.  Most important thing is to be flexible and just roll with it!!

Notable Considerations for Flying with an Infant

• Ask Questions: ask all questions you have and then ask some extras. There are no stupid questions! I still ask questions and I’ve done this a bunch!
• Ask for help!! Especially if you are on your own. People are happy to help!!  Read people; you can get a good sense of someone by making eye contact.
• Give yourself extra time. For everything. This is key. You already know that things take forever with an infant and they’ll take even longer when you’re on the road.
• You won’t be able to use the bathroom. I’m going to reiterate this one. In the airport, if you are wearing your baby, you can wear him or her to the bathroom. But on the plane, once the kid falls asleep, you may not be able to go.
• Visas- this will vary from country to country and depend on the nationalities and citizenships that you hold, but be sure to know whether you need a visa to get where you are going. And even if your infant flies as a lap infant, he may need a visa to get wherever you are going.  If you need a visa to enter your destination country and you don’t have one, they will not issue you a boarding pass or let you on the plane, so plan ahead on this one.

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Great article with lots of helpful info! I love when friends and family visit us from Canada with small kids, it’s the best way to meet Italians.

This guide is so complete! There are so many things I never thought of in it. I always check seatguru, though… everytime we fly. This guide is wonderful for anyone with a baby that needs to fly, especially internationally. I wish we could do non stop flights, but we need to connect just to get out of the US.

Just great information! Luckily, I’m now out of the baby stage, but this is such helpful info for anyone flying with littles!

Thank you so much for sharing, this is really helpful! I will be saving this post for reading again and again, we’ll be starting to travel with an infast next year. That will be an adventure for sure but I am so looking forward to it 😀

SUCH good tips! Especially the ones about purchasing them their own ticket, and about infant passports. It is always good to read up on this information. Thanks!

The best guide for new moms traveling for the first time. You explained everything so clearly and thoroughly. Thank you so much for this guidance. It helps alot!

Thank you Tulsi, I really appreciate that!

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Step-by-Step Guide for International Travel With an Infant

Written by:

Barbara mighdoll.

So you've got this adorable new addition to your family and you're itching to introduce them to the wonders of the world. Good news! The third and fourth months of your baby's life are the perfect time to start traveling – road trips, domestic flights in the United States, and yes, international trips too. Your little one can snooze through most flights (especially in a comfy bassinet seat) or car rides, doesn't require their own plane seat, and can be easily transported from place to place in a compact stroller.

But hold on, there's a bit of groundwork for you new parents to lay before you can jet off on international travel. It might seem like a mountain of tasks, but trust me, it's easier than you think! We had grand plans to whisk our firstborn, Caden, off to the South of France or Tuscany, Italy… and then, well, COVID happened. So, our dream three-week family trip got postponed until our second baby, Willow, was born. We learned A LOT about traveling internationally with an infant (and toddler) from our trip to Italy when Willow was 2 months old .

We were so eager to travel that we'd already booked our flights and accommodations before Willow's arrival, so when it came to getting her passport, we had to be quick off the mark. Now, our kids are seasoned travelers, ready to globe-trot with us at a moment's notice. Aside from numerous U.S. destinations, they've explored Mexico, Italy, and next on the list… Portugal. 

Needless to say, we are big fans of travel as a family, and I’m here to show you it can be done with tiny little newborns!  I hope these baby tips and tricks for international travel that we've picked up along the way will be helpful to you.

1. Secure your flights and bulkhead seats before your baby is born

2. obtain your baby’s official birth certificate and social security number asap, 3. complete form ds-11, but hold off on signing it, 4. attend your passport application appointment as a family, 5. select spacious accommodations with home-like amenities, 6. plan a conservative itinerary, 7. add a lap infant to your flight reservation, 8. set up your baby for global entry, 9. schedule baby’s vaccinations at least 2 weeks ahead of your travel, 10. buy the right baby gear, 11. craft a smart packing list, 12. plan for breast milk and formula on the flight, 13. strategize airport security, 14. airtag all your checked baggage, 15. enjoy exploring the world as a family, when to book your flights.

Book your trip far in advance – you aren’t going to want the stress of planning an international trip when you are a sleep deprived, exhausted parent of a 2 week old. Figure out the ideal dates for your trip based on when you expect your baby to be no less than 8 weeks old. You may be asking… how soon can you travel with a newborn? Most pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is at least 2 to 3 months old since your baby’s immune system is still developing. Check with your doctor for guidance.

You're going to want to buy refundable tickets for travel. Yes, refundable tickets might be a bit pricier, but they're worth every penny for the peace of mind they offer in case either baby or Mama aren't up for international travel. Again, you should consult with your pediatrician before traveling. We haven’t done this, but you may want to consider travel insurance depending on your circumstances.

Seats to reserve

Plus, booking well in advance means you're more likely to snag those coveted bulkhead seats. Of course the extra space is nice, but that's where you can also secure the airplane bassinet so that you don't feel the need to buy your baby an extra seat for long haul flights. Do check with your airline to confirm which seats – the ones by the window or the ones in the center of the plane – have bassinet access. For instance, when we flew United, we initially bought the row of bulkhead seats by the window, only to find out that the bassinet attachments were only available in the center group of seats. So, we had to switch.

You may be having the big debate of splurging for business class. My 2 cents: at minimum get yourself Premium Economy (one class up from Economy Plus). But if you plan far in advance you can take advantage of credit card bonus point deals to upgrade yourself to Business class tickets in time for your trip!

Apply for this credit card to get upgraded on your trip

American express business platinum.

Currently you can earn 120,000 membership reward points if you make $15k in purchases within the first 3 months. Apply now.

• Points Transfer: 1:1 ratio for most airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Flight Upgrades: Use points to upgrade flights on over 20 airlines
• Airline fee credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits for fees including checked bags and in-flight refreshments
• Lounge Access: Includes The Centurion Lounge, Delta Sky Club and Priority Pass Select
• Global Entry or TSA Pre-check: Statement credit up to $100

To apply for a U.S. passport , you'll need your baby’s birth certificate and their social security number. Both of these can only be obtained after your baby is born. In the hospital, you'll likely receive a certificate, but for your baby’s passport, you'll need the “certified birth certificate” (issued by your city, county, or state, depending on where you live). Once you get the official birth certificate, double-check that both parents’ names are printed correctly as it will be used as proof of parental identity. Typically, you'll receive the official birth certificate one to two weeks after giving birth. In some cases, you can request to pick it up instead of having it mailed if you're in a rush and the records office is nearby.

Pro tip: Get in touch with your hospital administration (or whoever handles processing) ASAP once your baby arrives. They usually only submit to the City/County/State once or twice a week, so you'll want to get it in early if you're in a rush, definitely before the weekend. There can be added fees for expediting, but if you're pressed for time for an international trip, ask if there's anything the hospital can do to speed things up.

The DS-11 form is the official application for your infant's passport. You'll need your baby’s social security number to fill out the form, along with the basics like date of birth, place of birth, gender, and contact info for both parents. You can find the Form DS-11 right here . *Important* don't sign the forms just yet — you'll need to sign in person during your passport appointment!

When you submit your application, you'll also need to send both the original copy of your baby’s official birth certificate (don't worry, they'll mail it right back to you!) and a photocopy of it. Both parents need to submit their own IDs. This, along with the birth certificate, verifies that you are indeed the baby’s parents. Your passports or driver’s licenses will work for this. You'll need to bring your passport/license to your appointment, along with copies for each of you.

Pro Tips: 

• If you're in a rush, schedule your passport appointment before your baby arrives. We did this and walked right into the post office when Willow was 7 days old.
• Make sure your identification copies are on white, 8.5” x 11″ standard paper, black and white, and single sided.
• If you've adopted your baby, you'll need to bring your adoption decree and copies of it as well. 

The Passport Appointment

You'll need to schedule an in-person appointment with both parents/guardians present. If one parent can't make it, fill out a “Statement of Consent” (Form DS-3053) for the non-appearing parent and get it notarized. You'll also need a clear copy of the non-applying parent's government-issued photo ID, front and back. In most cases, I highly recommend making this appointment as soon as you have the birth certificate and social security number just in case there's a wait!! Our local post offices only accept appointments 4 weeks in advance. While you wait for your appointment date, start preparing all of the forms and materials you need to bring with you.

During the appointment they'll take your baby’s passport photo, review all your forms, and check your identification. Then, you'll sign the DS-11 form in front of them, they'll attach your baby’s photo to the application, and you'll pay the fee to officially submit it. It’s $100 for the passport itself, and $35 for the processing fee. It’s important to note that the state department is a bit old school, and you must submit a check (personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's) or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State”. Unfortunately, credit and debit cards are not accepted. 

Ahead of your appointment, confirm if the location offers passport photo services because it's time to take that perfect shot of your baby for their passport, but don't worry, there's a bit more flexibility with baby passport photos. It's understood that getting a photo of a newborn with their eyes fully open, looking at the camera, and sitting up is a tall order. For tips on a DIY passport photo, check out tip #3 on this baby passport FAQ .

Tracking Your Baby's Passport Progress

After your application is submitted at your appointment, you can track your baby’s passport application with the government’s passport application tracker . For expected processing times, check out tip #7 on my baby passport FAQ.

Forgot this critical step?

Forgot to get your baby a passport and now have no time before your trip? Don’t panic. There are services for this. There are some qualifying criteria first: 

a) If you have not yet applied, you must be traveling internationally within 14 calendar days. 

b) If you have already applied, you must be traveling internationally within 5 calendar days. 

If one of these circumstances describes you, then you need to quickly find your nearest Passport Agency and call their office to make an appointment. You can find a map of these here . Be aware that these agencies and centers are different from passport acceptance facilities (for example, USPS is an acceptance facility but not going to cut it as a passport agency when you need urgent results).

Pro Tip: If you choose to expedite your passport processing, there is an additional $60 fee. Technically, that $60 additional expedited fee is for once the passport arrives. To avoid issues with mail transit, you should invest in certified tracking or pay additionally to expedite (yes this is on top of passport, processing, and expedited fees).

When traveling with an infant, your choice of accommodation can make a big difference. Instead of the usual hotel room, consider booking a vacation rental that offers more space and home-like amenities.

Having separate sleeping and living areas can be a lifesaver when traveling with a baby. You can put your baby down for a nap or bedtime in a quiet room, while you relax, squeeze in a workout, or plan your next day.

Look for accommodations with a kitchen or kitchenette. Having the ability to store and prepare baby food, formula, or breast milk can make meal times easier and more flexible. Plus, you can save money by eating meals in. We personally love shopping local and cooking meals with fun local ingredients.

Also, consider the location of your accommodation. Staying in a central location can reduce travel time and make it easier to return for nap time or if you forget something. 

Pro tip: check if your accommodation offers baby gear like a crib or high chair. Many family-friendly accommodations do, and it can save you the hassle and space of bringing your own.

Traveling with an infant means slowing down. Gone are the days of jam-packed itineraries, adventurous bucket list checking outings, rushing from one tourist spot to another. With a baby in tow, you'll want to plan a more relaxed and flexible schedule. Our go-to is always TripAdvisor to research the best local spots and tours.

Babies need frequent breaks for feeding, diaper changes, and just to relax and play. So, instead of trying to see everything, pick one, yes I said one, big outing each day. This could mean wine tasting at a beautiful winery in Tuscany, soaking in the sun with a beach day in the South of Spain, or exploring The Louvre followed by a picnic lunch in front of the Eiffel Tower. 

Also, consider your baby's nap times. If your little one sleeps well in a stroller or carrier, you might plan your day around a long walk or a museum visit during nap. If your baby prefers a quiet, dark room, you might head back to your hotel or vacation rental for nap time.

And don't forget to plan some downtime for yourself too! Traveling with a baby can be exhausting, and you'll enjoy your trip more if you're not worn out. So, whether it's a leisurely lunch while the baby naps, a quiet evening cooking dinner with local ingredients in your villa, or even a relaxing bath after the baby's bedtime, make sure to take some time for yourself doing absolutely nothing.

The goal of your trip is to enjoy your time as a family, not to see and do everything. So, take it slow, be flexible, and savor this special time with your baby.

Next up, you'll want to add your infant to your flight reservation as a lap child. Even though your baby will be on your lap for the journey, airlines still need to know they're coming. This process varies by airline, but typically, you can add a lap infant during the booking process or by calling customer service after you've booked your own ticket.

While your baby might not need their own seat, there could be additional fees for a lap infant on international flights, but the cost is nothing compared to an adult fare. So, make sure to check with your airline about any extra costs.

Pro tip: As soon as you walk onto the airplane, ask the flight attendant to set up the baby bassinet after takeoff if you were lucky enough to get the bulkhead seats. It's a good idea to board during family boarding for extra time to get on the plane and get situated in your airplane seat.

Consider setting up Global Entry for your baby. This program can make re-entry into the U.S. a breeze, saving you time and stress at customs.

To do this, you'll need to apply for Global Entry for your baby, just like you would for an adult. The process involves filling out an online application and scheduling an interview.

Keep in mind though, unlike TSA pre-check, even if both parents have Global Entry, it doesn't extend to your baby. Each individual, regardless of age, needs their own Global Entry to use the expedited lanes.

Pro tip: You can actually do your interview upon arrival back in the U.S. from an international trip. This is called “Enrollment on Arrival” and it's a great way to knock out the interview without an extra trip to the airport.

Check to ensure traveling with your infant is safe by your doctor. Ask about the specific vaccinations your destination requires, whether your baby can wear sunscreen or bug spray, and the methods to protect your baby from diseases prevalent in the area you plan to visit

If you plan to travel when your infant is 8 weeks old, you can usually administer most, if not all, of the 2-month shots safely from 6 weeks old. We chose this approach for Willow to ensure her full protection by the time we traveled when she was 8 weeks old. *I am not a medical professional, and you need to consult with your pediatrician on what is best for your family.

The must-have baby gear

You’ll need the right baby gear to make your travel simpler. Here are my must-have travel essentials along with the actual brands we use:

• a compact, lightweight stroller that fits in the overhead bin | UppaBaby Minu V2 with the car seat adapters for the UppaBaby Mesa
• comfortable baby carrier | Artipoppe (but cheaper option is the Wildbird Aerial Carrier ) 
• travel diaper bag | No Reception Club Getaway Bag Code: NMM20 for $20 off 
• car seat travel bag | versatile option from Amazon

If the hotel or vacation rental you’re staying at does not have a crib, you’ll also need to bring a lightweight portable travel crib (we love the Guava Lotus ) and depending on the age of your baby, you'll also want the Slumberpod . However, I strongly recommend booking one that does have a crib so you don’t need to pack this!

The nice-to-have baby gear

Some other items I couldn’t live without: I highly recommend packing the Baby Bjorn Bouncer if your baby is not sitting up on their own yet. It may be bulky to travel with, but you can bring it as a carry on in this handy Travel Bag and it's 100% worth the hassle to have a safe place to set down your infant while you are getting ready, during meals, really any time of the day. Another travel must for me was the SnuggleMe Feeding Pillow , which allowed for hands free feeding on the airplane, and hands free napping on Mama on the airplane or during meals out and about.

Packing list for your infant

Packing for a trip with an infant requires a bit more thought and planning. You're not just packing for yourself anymore, but for a tiny human who has their own set of needs. So craft your packing list well in advance of your trip.

First, make a list of all the everyday essentials your baby will need. Diapers, wipes, clothes, feeding supplies, and comfort items like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal.

Second, think about what you'll need for the flight itself. Pack enough diapers in your carry-on bag for 3 days, and 3 changes of extra clothes – you never know if your flight will be delayed, diverted or canceled.

Third, consider what you can buy like diapers and formula at your destination. But if you are like me, and are very particular about the products you use on your baby or if your destination is a bit more remote, I recommend utilizing the extra space in your checked car seat bag to fill it with enough diapers for your trip .

Fourth, plan for the medical unknowns. Pack an infant thermometer , infant tylenol, infant ibuprofen, infant benadryl, medicine dispenser , nose frida with extra filters, saline spray , natural vapor rub , antibiotic ointment, bandaids, adult tylenol, adult cold and flu medicine, and tums. You can usually find most of these items at a local pharmacy, but pharmacies often don't operate 24/7.

Lastly, pack items that will help maintain your baby's sleep routine, like a portable white noise machine, swaddle or sleep sack. I love how small the new Hatch’s Rest Go sound machine is.

Your packing list

For your own packing list, I know it is HARD, but I recommend fighting the urge to overpack for the “just in case” moments. Instead, build a thoughtful capsule wardrobe to save space in your luggage and minimize shoe options (both Jason and I basically lived in our Birkenstocks for 3 weeks in Italy). It’s a fun project during your middle-of-the-night feedings in those hazy first few weeks of newborn life 🙂

For luggage, we brought 3 roller bags: two large checked bags and one small carry-on bag. My favorite carry-on bags are Beis The Carry On Roller or July Carry On Pro .

Nursing while traveling

If you're breastfeeding, consider your comfort and privacy while on the move. Many airports offer nursing rooms, but on the plane, you might want a window seat for a bit more privacy. A nursing cover can also be a lifesaver (literally every single friend of mine owns this one ). Personally I opted for this with Caden, but with my second baby, Willow, I embraced feeding in public and cared less about modesty.

Pumping while traveling

If you are at all reliant on pumping, bring your breast pumps with you in your carry-on bag. The last thing you'll want to stress about is your luggage getting lost with your pump in it. I also highly recommend bringing a manual breast pump as a backup in case your pump stops working or you lose a part.

I tested multiple coolers and ice packs and these are the winners to bring with you on the plane:

• Hydro flask 20L Carry Out Soft Cooler
• Cooler Shock Reusable Ice Packs

Using formula while traveling

For those using formula, pack enough for the long flight and bring 3 days of extra formula in your carry-on luggage for any unexpected delays or difficulties in finding formula at your final destination. Pack a travel sized formula container and ask the airline for hot water.

• TSA allows you to bring a reasonable amount of breast milk, formula, and baby food for your infant. It's exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule, but you do need to declare it at security.
• Pack a few extra bottles, a bottle warmer and portable bottle cleaner and soap.
• Pack these breast pump cleaning wipes for on-the-go pumping.
• To avoid ear pain, plan to feed your baby during takeoff and landing.

Navigating airport security with an infant requires a bit of strategy when you have young children. Jason and I literally talked through the entire ordeal prior to arriving at the airport – who would wear the baby, who would lift the stroller, etc.

If you do not have TSA pre-check check if the airport has a family lane. These lanes are designed for families, and can make the process smoother without having an annoyed traveler giving you dirty looks behind you.

Baby gear like strollers and car seats need to go through the X-ray machine. Decide who will be in charge of folding up your stroller. If you bring your car seat through security, you'll need to clip the straps together and flip it upside down to go through the machine.

Wear your baby in a baby carrier if possible. This frees up your hands for handling IDs, tickets, and luggage. In most cases, you will not be asked to remove your baby from the carrier during the screening process.

Plan to do a diaper change after you get through security, before boarding.

Pro tip: If you are traveling with the UppaBaby Vista, it won’t fit through the X-ray machine. You’ll need to wait for a TSA agent to conduct an extra security check. This stroller is bulky and heavy to be traveling with, which is why I’m the absolute biggest fan of the UppaBaby Minu V2 .

When it comes to international travel with an infant, keeping track of your belongings becomes even more crucial. Airlines, unfortunately, can misplace luggage, and this risk seems to increase with international travel. To help prevent this, consider using Apple AirTags on your checked luggage, including gate-checked stroller bags. Use different colored keychain holders and assign the colors to your Find My app. Make note of which bag is which color. The airline actually lost our gate-checked stroller when we went to Italy and it took 8 days to get it back. By having the AirTag we were able to locate our stroller and help the airline coordinate delivery.

Always make sure to have your most valuable and essential items – like passports, wallets, and necessary baby supplies – in your carry-on luggage. And when it comes to gate-checked items, make sure they're securely packed and labeled with your contact information. 

Once you reach your final destination, expect jet lag to take three days to wear off. We had one of the most magical experiences on our international family trip to Italy during our parental leaves. Will my kids remember it? No, but there is photographic proof they were there, and it was made so much more special because of it.

So, there you have it, a step-by-step guide full of my best tips to traveling internationally with an infant. Follow these steps to enjoy the adventure of a lifetime with your little one. If this still seems too overwhelming, but you're anxious for a getaway, consider a roadtrip (and here are some tips )!

Interested in an extended international trip with your baby?

And if you are ready for an extended international trip, I’m excited to share we’ve booked a two-month “ Boundless Life ” experience next summer. This program is for digital nomad families, with co-working space for adults and daycare, preschool and elementary school for the kids. Want to join us? I’ll be writing more about Boundless Life and our decision to take this adventure soon. But in the meantime, 2024 cohorts are almost sold out, so book an intro call, and use code NEWMODERNMOM for €400 off your trip. 

I live in San Francisco with my husband, Jason, toddler, Caden, one year old baby, Willow, and Bernese Mountain Dog, Bear. I previously held multiple VP of Marketing roles at tech startups before deciding to take the leap to build New Modern Mom full time in an effort to find fulfillment and flexibility in my life. I also was a fitness instructor in an earlier life. I created this space to curate the best products and real advice on pregnancy, motherhood, cooking, travel and more to make doing it all for ambitious moms like me a whole lot easier.

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Travelling Abroad With A Baby: The Ultimate Guide

Travelling abroad with a baby can feel like an overwhelming experience for any parent. You want to make sure that your little one is comfortable and happy while also navigating through the logistics of international travel. But don’t worry, I’m here to help!

As a mom who has been in your shoes, I understand the unique challenges of travelling with a baby. I know that you want to create amazing memories with your family but that you also want to make sure that your baby’s needs are fully met. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to make your journey stress-free and enjoyable.

In this guide you will find plenty of travel tips and tricks – from researching your destination and booking family-friendly accommodations to packing essential items for your little one and and advice on how to keep your baby entertained during the flight.

From my own experience, I have also learnt that travelling can be unpredictable, so I’ve tried to include advice on handling unexpected situations like delays, lost luggage, or illness.

My goal is to help you feel confident and prepared so that you can focus on enjoying your family trip rather than worry something might go wrong for the entire trip.

I know that travelling abroad with a baby may seem daunting right now, but always try to remember that it is such a great opportunity to create unforgettable memories. So, whether you’re planning a family beach vacation or a trip to see loved ones abroad, let me help you make your next family adventure stress-free and enjoyable.

PREPARATIONS BEFORE YOU TRAVEL WITH A BABY

As a mum who travels a lot with my little one, I totally get how daunting it can feel to plan you first trip with your baby. In fact, as a keen traveller, I already started to worry about this during my pregnancy.

But trust me, it’s worth it! With a little extra planning and preparation, you and your little one can have an amazing time exploring new places together.

First things first, it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly to ensure a safe and comfortable trip for both you and your baby.

In this section, I will therefore share some helpful tips based on my own experiences travelling with my little one.

CHECK THE TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS AND DOCUMENTS

Let’s start by getting all your paperwork in order. Before you start packing your bags for your family trip, it’s crucial to check that you have all the necessary travel requirements and documents for your baby and the rest of the family.

Every country has its own rules and regulations, so it’s essential to research and plan accordingly. The information can usually be found easily on the web.

The most important document you will need to bring for your little one is a passport, so make sure to apply for it as early as possible. Keep in mind that obtaining a passport for your baby can take several weeks, so it’s best to get started right away.

You might be worried about taking a photo for your baby’s passport. But it isn’t as complicated as you might think. The guidelines for passport photos for babies are far less rigid than for adults. T

Some countries may also require additional documents such as a visa or a birth certificate for your baby, so be sure to check for these requirements before you go.

Apart from travel documents, it’s also important to check if the country you’re travelling to has any specific health requirements for your baby.

Some destinations may require a certificate of vaccination or a letter from your doctor stating that your baby is in good health. Taking care of these details beforehand will ensure a smooth and stress-free trip for both you and your little one.

VACCINATIONS AND HEALTH CHECKS

When travelling abroad with your baby, their health and well-being is probably (and should be) your top priority.

Before embarking on your trip, make sure to talk to your paediatrician to ensure that your little one is up to date on all necessary vaccinations for the country you’ll be visiting. This will help protect your baby from potentially harmful diseases that may be present in the region.

Additionally, it’s crucial to be prepared for any potential health issues that may arise during your trip. Research the medical facilities in the area you’ll be visiting and consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Packing a small first aid kit with basic supplies like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and fever reducers is a good idea and can also be helpful in case of minor injuries or illnesses.

With these precautions in place, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for any situation that may come your way.

PACKING ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR BABY

When you start packing for your family trip, make sure to include all the essential items your baby might need to have a comfortable and stress-free journey. Items that immediately come to my mind include diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, and baby food if your baby is already on solids.

Travelling with a baby, is one of those rare occasions, where I believe that it is better to pack more than you think you’ll need. This is even more important if you’re traveling to a country where these items may be difficult to find.

Another important factor to consider is the weather and climate of your destination. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for your baby, such as plenty of layers for colder weather or lightweight clothing for warmer weather.

You might also need your baby carrier, stroller and car seat, depending on the type of trip you are taking. So take some time to think about all the baby gear you might need to take with you. Or read our thorough guide on all the travel baby necessities for some inspiration and to get you started.

When travelling abroad with a baby, space can be a real challenge. Luckily, fold-away pushchairs are a game-changer! They’re compact, easy to store, and fit into even the smallest car boot. Plus, they’re a lifesaver when it comes to flying. Some models even come with car seats that attach to the pushchair, giving you the best of both worlds (and one less item to carry).

When choosing a fold-away pushchair, be sure to opt for a model that is suitable for your baby from birth with a seat that lies flat. Keep in mind that some models are only suitable for babies from six months when they can sit up. With the right pushchair, you can make travelling with your little one a breeze!

Another option for carrying little ones whilst traveling is to use a sling or backpack carrier. Slings can be a comfortable way to keep your little one close to you while leaving your hands free, while backpack carriers are a great option for older babies who want to look around and explore. Just be sure to choose a carrier that is appropriate for your baby’s size and age, and practice using it before your trip to ensure a comfortable fit.

By packing everything your baby needs, you can ensure that your trip will be enjoyable for both you and your little one.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT ACCOMMODATION

Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference when you travel with your baby. Make the wrong choice and your trip could become very challenging. Make the right one and your trip has a much better chance at being trouble free.

Look for hotels or apartments that offer amenities like cribs, highchairs, and kitchenettes to make your stay more comfortable.

Choosing a central location can also be helpful, especially if you’ll be exploring the area with your little one.

Before booking your accommodation, be sure to ask about any additional services they offer, like babysitting or laundry services. You should also read reviews from other families to see if they had a good experience.

Note that some places require you to book a family hotel room for fire reasons. We nearly got caught out by this when we first travelled to France.

TIPS FOR FLYING WITH A BABY

If you’re planning to fly with a baby, it can be nerve-wracking to imagine all the possible challenges that you might face.

I remember the first time we flew with our son. I remember the first time we flew with our son. He wasn’t even one year old. In fact, he was only a 3 month old, so really still a newborn baby. I was so worried that our baby son would cry throughout the entire flight and was desperate not to upset the other passengers.

But fear not! I soon learned, that with a little bit of preparation and the right mindset, you can breeze through the journey without any hiccups (or very few).

As a fellow mom who has now flown with her little one on several occasions, I’m here to share some valuable tips that can help make your trip stress-free.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FLIGHT

To ensure that your little one is well-rested during the journey, try to find a flight that suits their sleep schedule. While in the past, my priority was to maximise our time at the destination, now I try to find flights that align with my baby’s sleep schedule.

This means we usually opt for mid-day flights that give us enough time to get ready in the morning without being too early, and allow my little one to nap during the flight. Priorities change when you travel as a family.

It’s also important to avoid flying when your baby is unwell, particularly if they have an ear infection or are experiencing ear pain. This is because the pressure changes during take off and landing can cause discomfort and pain in young children. In my experience, this always leads to crying with little ones, which can be stressful for both you and your baby.

It’s better to wait until your baby has recovered before flying, unless you have no other choice.

PACKING FOR THE FLIGHT

When it comes to packing for the flight, specifically your hand luggage – remember that less is more. Even for a long haul flight. From my own experience, I’ve found that packing light is key when travelling with a baby. It can be tempting to bring everything you think you might need, but in reality, you won’t use half of it.

Pack only the essentials in your diaper bag, such as diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and a few toys to keep your baby entertained. You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy bag that you can barely carry, especially when you have to tend to your little one.

A lightweight blanket or swaddle is also a must-have item in your hand luggage. Airplane cabins can get chilly, and you want to make sure your baby is cozy and warm throughout the flight. This can also double up as a nursing cover if you’re breastfeeding your baby.

Also, don’t forget to bring a few plastic bags to dispose of dirty diapers and clothes. You don’t want to be caught in a situation where you have nowhere to throw away a dirty diaper, especially during a long flight. Bring a couple of bags to ensure you have enough for the entire journey.

KEEPING YOUR BABY ENTERTAINED

Finding ways to keep your baby entertained during a flight can be tricky, but there are plenty of tricks to keep them happy and engaged.

Bringing along some favourite toys, like a teething toy or a soft book, can be a great way to keep them occupied.

Additionally, downloading some of their favorite TV shows or movies on your phone or tablet for older babies can be a lifesaver during a long flight. I am not ashamed to say that we discovered the wonders of the amazon fire tablet for kids early on into our family travels .

However, to avoid disturbing other passengers, be sure to pack a pair of headphones to keep the noise level down or set the device to mute. Babies are mainly interested in the colourful pictures anyway.

FEEDING YOUR BABY DURING THE FLIGHT

Ensuring your baby is well-fed during a flight is vital to keep them comfortable and hydrated.

If you are breastfeeding, try to nurse your baby during take off and landing, as it can help stop your baby’s ears from popping due to the change in air pressure. We found that this family travel tip also work with a bottle. In fact these days we give our toddler juice or gummies to eat. It’s all about that swallowing movement.

If you’re formula feeding, remember to pack enough formula in your carry-on bag for the entire flight. Be sure to bring a bottle warmer and a few extra bottles to make feeding easy.

If your baby is already eating solid foods, pack some snacks like rice cakes, Cheerios, or pouches of baby food to nibble on.

In summary, flying with a baby requires some extra planning and preparation, but it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience.

By choosing the right flight, packing smart, keeping your baby entertained, and feeding them during the flight, you can ensure a stress-free journey for both you and your little one.

ENJOYING THE TRIP WITH YOUR BABY

Taking a trip abroad with your baby can be very different from travelling alone. Gone are the days when you would cram your itinerary full to the brim out of fear of missing out.

Travelling internationally with a baby requires some forethought. So, in this section we will provide tips on how to make the most of your trip whilst keeping your baby happy and comfortable.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT ACTIVITIES

When planning the itinerary for your trip , it’s essential to select options that cater to your baby’s needs and are compatible with your schedule.

Look for activities that are adaptable and won’t disrupt your baby’s daily routine.

Opt for attractions and activities that are age appropriate. Some of our go-tos when our son was still a baby were visiting a wildlife park or aquarium, going for a hike, or spending a day relaxing on the shore.

You might also want to consider booking tours or activities that are tailored to families with young children.

The best tip that I can give you, is to plan ahead but still be ready for any unexpected situations that may arise during your travels with your baby.

With some patience, flexibility, and creativity, you can create an unforgettable and hassle-free trip for your entire family.

GETTING AROUND WITH A BABY

Travelling abroad with a baby requires some extra thought when it comes to transportation. No matter what mode of transportation you choose to use, we would highly recommend you plan ahead (before you have left your house).

If you are planning to use the local public transportation, make sure to bring a stroller that’s easy to fold up and transport. You don’t want to be caught out by an underground tube that is packed to the brim.

If you are planning to rent a car, remember to request a car seat for your little one or bring your own. Personally, we like to take our son’s car seat with us, as we know for sure it’s safe and fits him.

If you choose to hire a taxi, make sure the car has enough room to fir both you and your baby in comfort.

In summary, take some the time before your holiday to consider your transportation options to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for both you and your baby.

NAVIGATING MEAL TIMES

When you’re traveling with a baby, mealtime can be tricky.

To make things easier, try to locate baby-friendly restaurants that have highchairs or booster seats, so that you can eat hands free. It’s a good idea to do some research beforehand to avoid any surprises.

Additionally, if your little one has been weaned, it’s always a good idea to pack some snacks for your them, such as fruits, crackers, and baby food. This way you always have something to hand for your baby to munch on.

Be sure to pack some spill-proof cups and utensils as well to avoid any messes.

DEALING WITH EMERGENCIES

It’s always good to be prepared for emergencies when traveling with a baby.

Pack a first aid kit with essentials such as bandages and antiseptic cream, as well as any medications your baby may need.

Keep a copy of your baby’s medical records and have the contact information of a paediatrician on hand in case of any medical issues.

It’s also important to keep important items like passports and tickets in a safe and easily accessible place in case they get lost.

Remember to stay flexible during your trip and be willing to change plans if necessary to accommodate your baby’s needs. Prioritize your baby’s well-being above all else. Make the most of your trip, capture plenty of memories, and take lots of photos!

RETURNING HOME AFTER A TRIP WITH YOUR BABY

Congratulations, you’ve reached the final section of our ultimate guide on traveling abroad with a baby!

By now, you’ve probably had an incredible time exploring new destinations and making unforgettable memories with your little one. However, as your adventure draws to a close, it’s essential to get ready for your journey back home.

PREPARING FOR THE FLIGHT HOME

Preparing for the return flight is just as pivotal as preparing for the outbound one, particularly when traveling with a baby. To make the journey back as seamless as possible, here are a few tips to consider:

Pack wisely: Remember to pack all the essentials in your carry-on bag, such as extra diapers, wipes, formula or baby food, and a change of clothes for both you and your little one. Keep in mind that you may have acquired some souvenirs during your trip, so leave some room in your luggage or consider shipping items home.

Check in online: Save time at the airport by checking in online. Choose seats that will provide you and your baby with the most comfort and convenience. If possible, upgrade to a seat with extra legroom or request a bassinet for your baby.

Time your flight: Try to book a flight that works well with your baby’s feeding and sleeping schedule. This can help ensure that your baby is well-rested and content during the flight. Avoid connecting flights if possible, as they can add stress and extra time to your travel.

DEALING WITH JET LAG

Travelling to a different time zone with a baby can be tough, but there are some tricks to help your baby adjust to the new schedule and reduce the effects of jet lag:

Spend time outdoors: Exposing your baby to natural light during the day can help regulate their sleep cycle and reset their internal clock. We like to plan in plenty of outdoor activities like walks in the stroller or trips to nearby parks to get some fresh air. This tip also forks for adjusting to the new time zone when you first arrive at your destination.

Stick to a routine: Keeping to your usual routine, especially with feeding and sleeping times, can help your baby adapt to the new time zone faster.

Be patient: It may take a few days for your baby to fully adjust to the new time zone, so try to stay calm and patient. Your baby can sense your stress, so staying relaxed will help them relax too.

Travelling abroad with a baby can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to be prepared and informed. We hope the tips and advice in this guide will help you feel confident and excited to embark on your next adventure with your little one. Wishing you safe travels!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TRAVELLING ABROAD WITH A BABY

Can You Fly Internationally With A Newborn?

Yes, it’s possible to travel internationally with a newborn, but it’s important to plan ahead and keep a few things in mind. As someone who has flown several times with a baby, I’ve learned that it’s crucial to research the airline and destination country’s policies on traveling with newborns. Some airlines require babies to be at least 2 weeks old, while others may need a doctor’s note confirming that the baby is fit for air travel. You’ll also want to make sure that you have all the necessary documents for your baby, including their passport, visas (if required), and any other essential paperwork. The process of obtaining a passport can take some time and you can usually only apply for a passport after your baby is born. Your baby’s health and comfort during the flight should also be taken into consideration. Bear in mind, that doctors usually advise parents to wait until their baby’s immune system has had a chance to mature before flying. So be sure to speak with your paediatrician before the trip to ensure that your baby is healthy and ready for air travel. Finally you will want to consider your own recovery after giving birth before planning an international trip with a newborn before even reaching your due date.

What is the best age to travel internationally with a baby?

There really is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best age to travel with a baby overseas really depends on a number of factors such as your baby’s temperament, health, and developmental stage, as well as your own comfort level with traveling and the destination you have in mind. That being said, many parents find that the best age to travel with a baby overseas is between six and nine months. At this age, babies are generally more adaptable and can handle longer periods of time away from home. They are also usually still breastfeeding or taking formula, which makes feeding easier while traveling. Additionally, babies in this age range may not be mobile yet, so you won’t have to worry about chasing after a crawling or walking baby in an unfamiliar place. However, I would like to stress that every baby is different and there are many factors to consider when deciding the best age to travel with your little one. For example, if your baby has health issues, you may need to wait until they are older and stronger before traveling. Similarly, if your baby is a fussy or difficult traveller, you may want to wait until they are more settled and can handle the stress of travel better. Ultimately, the decision of when to travel with a baby overseas is a personal one that should be based on your individual circumstances and preferences. I would recommend consulting with your paediatrician before making any travel plans, as they can provide advice based on your baby’s specific needs and health. And always remember to take it easy and enjoy the journey, no matter what age your baby is when you travel!

How do I keep my baby safe while travelling?

Travelling with a baby can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. As a parent, your number one priority is (and should be) to keep your little one safe and sound throughout the journey. That’s why it’s crucial to take all those extra precautions to ensure their safety. First and foremost, it’s essential to properly secure your baby in their car seat during any car rides. Never leave your baby unattended, even for a moment. When checking into a hotel or any other accommodation, take the time to baby-proof the room and remove any potential hazards. To create a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your baby, consider bringing a portable crib or playpen. This will give your little one a familiar and secure place to sleep, no matter where you are in the world. By prioritizing safety, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind and create unforgettable memories with your family.

Is it safe to use car seats and cribs provided by hotels or rental car companies?

It can be tempting to use the car seats and cribs provided by hotels or rental car companies when travelling with a baby, but safety should always be your top priority. So before blindly using these items, take the time to do some research and make sure they meet the highest safety standards. Always check that the car seat or crib has been properly installed and is in a good condition. If you’re uncertain about the safety of the provided equipment, it’s always better to bring your own to ensure your baby stays safe and secure. We certainly always opt to bring our own with us.

What do I do if my baby gets sick while we are traveling?

When your little one falls ill during a trip, it can be concerning. The best thing to do is to seek medical attention right away. This could involve finding a local doctor or hospital or reaching out to your paediatrician for guidance. It’s always wise to pack a small first-aid kit with essentials like fever reducers, cough syrup, and bandages, just in case of any unexpected health issues. It is also why we always make sure to get travel insurance before any trip.

What vaccinations does my baby need before travelling abroad?

It’s crucial to check with your doctor or a travel health clinic well in advance of your trip to determine what vaccinations your baby may need. The recommended vaccinations vary depending on your destination country and your baby’s age and health status. Some vaccinations may require multiple doses over several weeks or months, so it’s important to start the process early to ensure your baby is fully protected before your trip.

What documents do I need to travel with my baby?

When travelling abroad with a baby, you will need to bring several important documents. These usually include your baby’s passport, visa (if required), and any medical certificates required by your destination country. It’s essential to check the requirements well in advance of your trip to allow enough time to obtain any necessary documents. Remember to also check the expiration dates of your baby’s documents, as some countries require that passports be valid for at least three or six months after your travel dates.

Can I bring my baby’s stroller on the plane?

When travelling with a baby, bringing a stroller can be a lifesaver and save your back from a lot of pain. However, whether you can bring your stroller on to a plane depends entirely on the airline. In our experience most airlines will at least let you check it in as luggage. Some airlines may require you to check in your stroller at the gate, while others may allow you to bring it on board and store it in an overhead bin or designated closet – as long as it folds up small enough. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to bring a lightweight and compact stroller that’s easy to fold and transport. This will make your trip a lot easier. PS: We bought a stroller specifically for our holiday, that folds up nice and compactly, because our main stroller was way to clunky. We also like to use it when we are eating out at a restaurant.

How do I handle airport security with a baby?

Going through airport security can be a daunting experience for anyone, but it can feel especially challenging with a little one in tow. To help ease the stress, here are a few tips that can make the whole process a bit smoother. First and foremost, pack all liquids you need for your baby (like formula, breastmilk or food pouches) in a clear plastic bag and keep them separate for easy screening. Note that the usual restrictions for liquids do not apply for your baby’s items. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your baby’s birth certificate or passport handy to confirm their age and identity. When you get to security, don’t hesitate to communicate any concerns or questions you may have to the staff. You will normally be asked to carry your child in your arm as you walk through the metal detectors. Remember, patience and flexibility are key, and taking a deep breath can go a long way in keeping everyone calm and relaxed.

Can I bring baby food and formula through airport security?

Travelling with baby food and formula through airport security is allowed, so no need to worry! If you feel particularly anxious about this, give the airport a ring before your trip. They will be happy to answer any of your questions. Just be sure to pack the food, formula or breastmilk in a clear plastic bag and inform the security officers during screening. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to pack a little more baby food / formula to cover any potential delays during travel.

Can I breastfeed on the plane?

Yes, most airlines allow breastfeeding on the plane. However, it’s a good idea to bring a nursing cover or a lightweight blanket to ensure your privacy and your baby’s comfort during feeding times. Covering your little darling in a lightweight breathable fabric will shelter them from distractions (of which there are many on the plane) and keep them focussed on nursing. If you are formula feeding, consider bringing pre-measured formula and a portable bottle warmer to make feeding on the go easier.

How do I deal with a crying baby on the plane?

Crying babies can be stressful for both parents and other passengers on the plane. However, it’s important to remember that crying is a natural way for babies to communicate their needs, especially during a flight when they may be uncomfortable or experiencing ear pressure changes. Try to stay calm and comfort your baby with gentle rocking, feeding, or a change of position. Bring along some favourite toys or books to distract your baby and consider taking short walks up and down the aisle to soothe your baby and give them a change of scenery.

What should I pack in my carry-on bag for my baby during a long flight?

As a parent, you never know what to expect when it comes to travelling with a baby. That’s why it’s crucial to pack your carry-on bag / nappy bag wisely and prepare for any situation. In addition to the usual necessities like diapers and wipes, I always make sure to bring extra food, formula, and snacks to keep my little one happy and fed. I also pack a few of their favorite toys and books to keep them entertained during the flight. It’s important to remember that accidents happen, especially when travelling with a baby. That’s why I always pack a change (or two) of spare clothes for both me and my baby, as well as a small blanket to keep us warm on the plane. I also bring a few plastic bags to store any dirty clothes or diapers, making clean-up a breeze.

How do I find baby-friendly accommodations when travelling?

Travelling with a baby requires careful planning, especially when it comes to finding the right accommodations. To ensure a comfortable stay, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for options that offer baby-friendly amenities, like cribs or playpens, and consider whether the location is suitable for travelling with a stroller. It’s also important to check if there’s a kitchenette or microwave available for preparing baby food. Reading reviews from other parents who have stayed at the accommodation can also be helpful in gauging its family-friendliness. If you have any specific needs or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the hotel or rental property directly. With a bit of research and communication, you can find a place that meets your family’s needs and ensures a comfortable stay.

How do I manage sleep schedules when travelling with a baby?

Travelling with a baby can wreak havoc on their sleep schedule, but there are ways to ease the transition. One helpful tactic is to gradually adjust their sleep schedule a few days before your trip, so they’re closer to the new time zone when you arrive. Another option is to maintain their routine as much as possible while on the trip, like keeping their usual bedtime routine or nap schedule.  Above all, it’s vital to be understanding and patient since your baby might need some time to adjust to the new environment and routine.

How can I make sure my baby gets enough sleep while we are traveling?

One key to ensuring that your baby gets enough sleep while traveling is to maintain a sense of consistency. Stick to your typical nap and bedtime routines as closely as possible, and don’t forget to bring along comforting items like a familiar stuffed animal or cozy blanket. If you can, consider booking accommodations that provide a separate sleeping area for your little one so that everyone can rest peacefully throughout the night.

How do I navigate cultural differences when travelling with a baby?

Travelling to a foreign country with your little one can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to be mindful of the cultural differences you may encounter. To ensure a smooth trip, take some time to research the cultural norms and practices around parenting in your destination country. This can help you avoid any unintentional cultural faux pas and allow you to better appreciate and respect the local customs. For instance you might want to bring a lightweight blanket to cover yourself and your nursing baby in a country where modesty is a concern. Additionally, be sure to pack any necessary supplies, such as formula or baby food, as these may not be available in the country you’re visiting. Especially if your baby has very specific requirements. Remember, embracing new cultures and customs can be a wonderful learning experience for both you and your baby.

As I wrap up this ultimate guide on travelling abroad with a baby, I want to remind you that it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed or nervous about travelling with young babies. But, as I mentioned a couple of times above, with some planning and preparation, your trip can be a wonderful experience for both you and your little one.

Travelling with a baby can be challenging, but it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience. Seeing the world through your baby’s eyes is a joy and creates memories that will last a lifetime.

Always remember to prioritise your baby’s needs and plan ahead. But also think of your own wellbeing and don’t overwhelm yourself. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.

By following the travel tips and tricks in this guide, you can make travelling abroad with your baby an enjoyable experience.

So go ahead and plan that trip you’ve been dreaming of with your little one. With the right mindset and preparation, you can both have an amazing time exploring new places, meeting new people, and making unforgettable memories together.

ABOUT KATHARINA

Katharina is the founder, editor, photographer and the main travel writer at A Life Beautifully Travelled. She created this British family travel blog in 2017 to document her adventures around the globe with her husband. Born in Munich, Germany she has since lived in Dusseldorf, Paris, Glasgow, and London. She currently resides in Yorkshire with her family.

Katharina started travelling in her early teens and has explored over 4 continents, 16 countries, and 87 cities. Growing up trilingual and having graduated from an international school, she has a strong interest in other cultures. When she isn’t gallivanting around the globe or busy in her 9-to-5 job as an architect, she can be found exploring the UK (the country she currently calls home). There isn’t much Katharina, her husband and their son Finn love more than a fun family weekend getaway.

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How I've kept traveling -- even after having a baby

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Before I had a baby, I had traveled to almost 60 countries and was on a plane every other week.

A huge fan of solo travel , yoga retreats with friends and adventurous escapes with my husband, I was always on the move. Thanks to the ability to work remotely, travel was easy. Then COVID-19 hit, and shortly after, I got pregnant .

So life changed, and so did travel.

But now that travel is picking up again , I'm back at it — with my eight-month-old in tow.

Here's how — and why — I've navigated travel with a baby.

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Why I travel with my baby

Because i have to, and so does he.

I live in Europe and my entire family lives in the United States . Like it or not, my child will have to constantly go back and forth between the two continents, and I want this to become second nature for him. I started flying with my child when he was three months old. He's already on his 15th flight and 4th high-speed train ride -- and has a few road trips under his elastic waistband.

Have some flights been really easy? Yes. Have some flights been harder? Also yes. But it doesn't matter all that much either way, because we have to travel if we want to spend time with friends and family back in the United States. And most of the flights, with a few small exceptions, have been great.

Even you don't need to travel with a baby, just know it's possible. It may not always be easy, but you can absolutely do it if you want to.

I want him to experience the wonders of the world instead of material things

My apartment was recently broken into. As violating and frustrating as it was, I realized that I was able to get over the things they took from me (cash and jewelry) relatively quickly, even though some of the jewelry pieces were family heirlooms.

When I'm still traumatized emotionally about having my space invaded, the robbers couldn't take from me what I most valued: my family and our shared experiences, especially the ones we've had traveling.

My hope is that my son will grow up understanding these same lessons and placing value on experiences and connections instead of things. And the best way to show this is by modeling the same behavior for him, which is often what motivates me to plan that next family vacation .

Because it's fun

Playing with my son in the peaceful Caribbean ocean waves, watching him stare at the Chicago skyline with awe or seeing him smile at the iconic Eiffel Tower are memories I'll never forget. Although he definitely won't remember these trips, we will — and we'll have lots of photos to show him one day.

How I make travel with my baby easier

Traveling with a baby isn't always easy. From diaper blowouts during landing and bleary-eyed nights with a jet-lagged infant to nasty stares from passengers if my overtired son shrieks during take-off, traveling with a baby has its downsides and complications. Here are some hacks I use to make it easier.

I bring someone along to help

I know I'll travel alone with my child as he gets older. However, for now, whenever possible, I try to have another adult in tow to help out — whether that be my partner, a family member or friend.

While I'm not expecting a friend to deal with a crying baby or his meltdowns, it's helpful to have someone along to help carry luggage, make sure I don't forget my jacket in the airport, hold the baby while I head to the restroom or help me fold up the stroller at TSA .

These little things can really make a difference when traveling. Once my child can at least walk on his own, I'll start traveling with just the two of us.

I pack as light as possible

It's true that kids — and especially babies — can need a lot of stuff. And there are things I really don't want to be stuck without on a long plane ride like diapers or snacks (more on this in a moment).

When traveling with my baby, I try to bring everything I need but don't go overboard. I swear by lightweight travel strollers and always take along a baby carrier and diaper backpack for a hands-free airport experience.

I like to book rental properties with as many baby and kid amenities already present as possible, such as a crib, high chair and more to avoid taking extra stuff along. I've also used rental companies in destinations for key items such as car seats, too.

Always bring these key items — especially when flying

What you can carry with you when flying is obviously very different than what you can lug along on a road trip, which offers you more space and added flexibility. That being said, these are key items I always take in my carry-on when flying with a baby:

• Extra clothing for both you and your baby (yes, trust me, you need a backup outfit just in case).
• Layers of clothing or blankets (plane temperatures can vary).
• Pacifier and clip (and backup).
• Comfort toy or blanket.
• Extra diapers (enough for an unexpected delay).
• Formula/breast milk/pump.
• Snacks (for you and/or your baby).
• Baby wipes.
• Sanitizing wipes.
• Extra bibs.
• Ziploc bags for soiled clothing (or a reusable, waterproof bag).
• Baby Tylenol or any infant medications.
• A basic first aid kit.
• Small toy(s).
• Anything that can help your baby fall asleep.

For more on what to pack and how to prepare for traveling with a baby, read this article .

Use points and miles for a more comfortable and affordable trip

This may be an unpopular opinion, but I love using my points and miles to fly in business class with my baby .

He's actually better behaved than other passengers in some cases. Also, having the extra space to stretch out makes a real difference for all of us, especially on long-haul flights where sleep is essential for the entire family.

I have also dipped into my stash of points and miles to buy three seats in economy, taking a car seat along so my baby can safely sit in his own seat, even though that isn't required at this age. The bassinet was once an option if I had enough points or miles for just two seats, although now my baby has surpassed the weight limit.

If you want to use the bassinet, always call the airline to see if this option is available and what the weight/size limits are, which can vary by airline or even route .

I verbally prepare my baby for travel

I'm well aware that my baby probably can't understand what I'm saying. But as he gets older, he is starting to recognize words, and I want "airplane" to be one of them as quickly as possible. Whenever we travel, I softly and carefully explain to him what's happening several days in advance each day before the trip.

I tell him we're going to fly high in the sky on a plane, that we need to be calm, quiet and happy. I tell him that we'll be spending time with many other people in a small space, so we need to not scream or kick the seat in front of us and bother other passengers.

I explain that we're visiting a certain destination or specific family members or friends, where we'll be sleeping and for how long we'll be gone.

One day, he'll slowly begin to associate these explanations with the journeys that follow them. Kids ask a lot of questions and want to understand what's going on, so I hope explaining things to him will help him feel safe and in control as he gets older, as well as excited to fly and to travel.

I fly or take a train trip at least every two months with my son

I realize that as someone who's worked remotely for more than 10 years, I'm afforded the flexibility to travel frequently and take my son along with me. I'm teaching my child how to eat properly and sleep well, and will pretty soon potty train, so I'm training him to travel, too.

With the convenience of low-cost air carriers and high-speed trains here in Europe (and a solid stash of points and miles), it's easy to get my baby on a plane or train every few months to get — and keep — him used to travel and make it part of a familiar routine.

I minimize travel stress with early arrivals, elite status and lounge access

Running through the airport with a baby and luggage is stressful and not at all how I want to start a trip.

I find the calmer I am, the calmer our whole family is — especially my baby, who tends to absorb my energy and mental state. Getting to the airport with lots of extra time helps me feel relaxed and in control — and these feelings transfer to everyone in my travel party, especially my son.

Having elite status and lounge access doesn't hurt, either, as I can avoid long lines and hang out in the lounge if I have time to kill before flying.

Both The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offer lounge access, and considering my home airport of Madrid Barajas (MAD) has several really nice Sala VIPs that are part of the Priority Pass network, I find this credit card perk a valuable one.

My Oneworld Sapphire status makes flying on airlines like Iberia much more comfortable, too, allowing me to use the business class check-in area, board first and check a bag at no added cost.

I plan flights around bedtime and nap times whenever possible

While my son sleeps fairly well on planes, I prefer to plan flights strategically at times where he'll already be fed, calm and rested. Although I can't always make this happen, I do so whenever my schedule and flight schedules permit it.

I organize sightseeing and beach days around naps, too

When traveling, I always try to organize my days so that my baby can either nap at the hotel or vacation rental, or while we walk in his stroller.

Cobblestoned European streets are particularly helpful in coaxing my son to sleep in his stroller, as the vibration is relaxing for him. I also bring everything along possible to encourage sleep while on the road — a portable sound machine in the stroller, a portable night light, his lovey, a tent for the beach , our own sheet for the travel crib to remind him of home — really anything that will help him to nap and sleep, keeping him and the whole family calm and happy.

Bottom line

While I'm not hopping on a flight every other week like I was in those pre-pandemic, pre-baby days, having a baby hasn't ruined travel for me.

I know it can be more restrictive and more expensive, but I now look at travel in a whole new way. I see it as an opportunity to bond as a family, give my son new experiences and help him grow into a flexible, excited young traveler .

My hope is that starting with these experiences while he is young will make travel a habit for him, just like going to school or playing with friends — something he is familiar with and learns to love and do with joy.

Flying With a Baby? Here’s What to Know Before You Go

How old should a baby be to fly, read this next, what do children need to fly, tips for flying with an infant.

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff.  WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , May 2019.  WhatToExpect.com, Should You Bring Your Child’s Car Seat on an Airplane? , August 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling While Breastfeeding , August 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Family Friendly Flying , November 2015.  American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying With Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019.   American Airlines, Traveling With Children .  Delta Air Lines, Infant Air Travel , 2021.  Federal Aviation Administration, Flying With Children , March 2021.  Transportation Security Administration, Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQ .  Transportation Security Administration, Identification .  Transportation Security Administration, Will Minors Need to Have a State ID to Fly Domestically? United Airlines, Traveling With Children , 2021.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Children – Child Traveling With One Parent or Someone Who Is Not a Parent or Legal Guardian or a Group , December 2019.

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The Secrets of Traveling Around the World With a Baby

By Nadine Jolie Courtney

When I got pregnant, my husband and I weren’t worried about the effects on our social life, sex life, or sleep schedules (perhaps a little on the last front). Our main concern was how having a baby would affect our travels. Most frequent jet-setters have heard similar refrains while pregnant: “Get your travel done now, because one that baby comes . . .” bleary-eyed parents say ominously.

Ignore the naysayers—it is possible to enjoy a robust traveling life after having children. While, yes, it requires enough planning and recon to put a CIA operative to shame, so do basically all aspects of life post-baby. We threw ourselves into the deep end early and often, and now that our daughter is almost 2, she’s been on more than 20 flights to five countries, with trips to spots both exceedingly child-friendly (shout-out to the kids’ club at Round Hill in Jamaica) and . . . well . . . not. (You can take a baby wine tasting in Bordeaux, right?)

Half the stress of traveling with children is simply getting there. Once you’re at your final destination, it all seems to fall into place. (At least, until you have to do it all over again on the return flight.) Here are but a few hard-won pieces of advice about how to travel with a baby while keeping your sanity intact.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare A simple outing to the park with your baby requires 15 minutes of packing and planning, so a lengthy trip—especially to a foreign country—demands serious preparation. Make a list, check it twice—and then rip it to shreds, because parenting-on-the-go is all about flexibility.

Don’t Over Pack The understandable temptation will be to bring everything and the kitchen sink. Don’t. Figure out what baby gear you can temporarily do without, and have the rest shipped to you using a service such as Baby’s Away. Everything from high chairs to pack-and-plays to toys and beach tents can be waiting for you at your final destination, making the journey itself less stressful. “It makes packing a million times easier and ensures you’ll have everything you need,” says Rebecca Mall, head of industry, media, and entertainment at Google and mother of 19-month-old twins. “And your kids are excited to play with all the new toys, too. Best find ever.”

Schedule Flights During Nap Time Whether your flight is a long haul or a quick jaunt, schedule it during your child’s nap time. If you’re taking a red-eye, pick a departure time that coincides with bedtime. When your baby’s sleep schedule isn’t disrupted, it’ll be a more pleasant experience for everybody.

Ship Ahead If you’ll be gone longer than a few days, ship ahead items like diapers, wipes, and formula with Amazon or Diapers.com, and luggage with a shipment site specializing in travel, like Luggage Free. “You don't want to be in a strange place with weird diapers or not have access to the food your baby loves, but you don’t want to take up precious luggage space with that stuff, either,” says Kim-Marie Evans, mother of four and founder of the site Luxury Travel Mom.

Be Your Own Pharmacy Whatever might go wrong often will when traveling with kids. Whether it’s a cold, fever, stomach bug, or just a garden-variety headache, it helps to have your own medicine, prescriptions, and supplies at the ready. Otherwise, you might spend 20 minutes wandering the streets of Copenhagen looking for a pharmacy, only to discover that Aleve requires a prescription. (True story.) Do yourself a favor and bring, at minimum, baby Benadryl, baby Tylenol, a baby thermometer, and adult ibuprofen. Extra points for Xanax and Ambien for mom and dad.

Arrive Early—But Not Too Early Getting to the airport early both minimizes stress and allows your little ones time to run around beforehand and tire themselves out, if they’re already walking. However, excess airport time leads to bored children, which can lead to tears and tantrums. Half an hour earlier than you’d arrive if traveling child-free is usually the sweet spot.

Consider Your Final Destination If you’ll be hiking in New Zealand or strolling over miles of European cobblestones, forgo the convenience of a lightweight umbrella stroller for the mobility of your regular stroller. Keep in mind that standard baggage allowances make exceptions for baby gear: Most airlines will allow you to check a stroller and car seat for free.

But Gate Check the Stroller If You Can If you don’t need to bring your behemoth day-to-day stroller because of terrain, don’t—instead, gate-check a lightweight umbrella stroller. Some swear by the Babyzen Yoyo (which folds easily and can be stored in the overhead bin), others by the über-light UPPABaby G-Lite; my umbrella-of-choice is the Summer Infant 3D Lite, which reclines for naps-on-the-go—a critical feature.

By Alice Newbold

By Leah Faye Cooper

By Héloïse Salessy

Buy a Seat for Your Baby For a long-haul flight, having an extra seat for your child—even if they’re under 2, when they can ride in your lap for free—is a must. Flights are always smoother when your child has their own space, and even the crankiest child is more likely to fall asleep in his car seat. (And if you’re flying first or business class—yes, children are allowed, despite what the evil glares from cabinmates might have you think.)

Even If You’re Shipping Everything Else Ahead, Always Bring a Car Seat Domestic airlines allow you to bring a car seat on board if there’s an open space, meaning you might luck into a seat for your under-two’s even if you haven’t purchased one. (We’ve gotten lucky on international flights, too, although it’s rarer.) When you check-in, ask if the flight is full: if it’s not, bring the car seat through security to the gate. If the flight suddenly becomes full, you can gate-check it using a protective car seat bag like the JL Childress. It’s also worth investing in a lightweight and compact convertible car seat solely for your travels—two favorites are the Cosco Scenera Next, which weighs just 10 pounds, or the Graco ComfortSport, which weighs 12 pounds.

Be Seat Savvy If your baby is fewer than 20 pounds, reserve a bulkhead seat to take advantage of the bassinet, which can attach to the wall—plus, obviously, to enjoy extra legroom. If the bulkhead isn’t an option, try reserving an aisle and window seat in the back of the plane. It’s often the last row to get filled, and if you happen to have a stranger in between you and your partner, they’ll frequently swap. Many airlines are now reserving the last two rows for families, so that’s another reason to get to the airport early and claim those seats at the gate, especially if you have multiple kids.

Baby Wear Baby carriers can be lifesavers when traveling. Not only can you wear children through security—leaving you with two free hands for strollers, carry-ons, or boarding passes—but they’ll also come in handy when visiting museums, beaches, or other places where strollers either aren’t practical or aren’t permitted. They also allow for discreet breastfeeding, especially helpful during takeoff and landing.

Bonus: A baby strapped to your chest is a baby not crawling around, running down the aisles, or banging on the seat in front of you.

Prepare for the Worst on the Plane Think of the worst flight you ever took: the one where your flight was delayed, and you spent several hungry, cranky, miserable hours in the terminal or on the tarmac. Now imagine that with a baby. Even if you’re only flying a short distance, be prepared for the worst-case scenario, which means an iPad pre-loaded with kid-friendly content, a change of clothes for you and the baby, and enough diapers, formula, and snacks (if you’re not breastfeeding or your child is older) to last for up to 24 hours. Mother-of-three Stacey Bendet, CEO and Creative Director of Alice and Olivia, says, “iPads are an airplane mom’s best friend, I’m not opposed to travel bribes and keep an emergency Starburst stash, and I always have at least two outfit changes for everyone in case of spills and ills.”

Spring for VIP Services Whether it’s curbside check-in, expedited lines, or pre-boarding, VIP services at the airport will make the entire experience that much more enjoyable for you. Philanthropist Allison Weiss Brady, mother of two, swears by American Airlines Five Star Service, which starts at $250 per adult. “A representative from the airline greets you curbside, gets you right to the front of security, and then you have a mini-adventure on their golf cart en route to your gate, where they walk you right onto the plane,” she says. Delta and United offer VIP programs, too.

Get TSA PreCheck and Global Entry TSA understaffing means that airport security lines are expected to be especially long this summer, with travelers advised to get to the airport a mind-numbing three hours early. Skip the queue with TSA PreCheck. For only $85, TSA PreCheck provides you with five years of shorter lines, expedited screening, and the ability to leave your shoes on while going through security. If you travel internationally, Global Entry costs $100 and allows you to zip through customs when returning to the US, plus enrolls you in TSA PreCheck automatically.

Rent an Apartment House or apartment rental sites like VRBO, Airbnb, or Home Away help mimic a home environment, which can be especially helpful when traveling with babies and needing to frequently clean bottles, stock milk, or make special meals. Some cities have their own luxury rental sites, like Paris Perfect in the City of Lights, or One Fine Stay in London.

Family-Friendly Can Still Be Luxurious Sure, you could forgo the Four Seasons for the Hampton Inn—but why? “We've just done our most luxurious travel ever this year with our 13-month-old son, Henrik,” says Kathleen Porter Kristiansen, founder of the site Triple Passport. “Luxury travel is absolutely possible with kids—he’s been on 19 flights to eight countries.” Many five-star hotel chains have their own programs for the littles—Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, Rosewood Collection, and St. Regis all offer kids programs with varying levels of activities, play structures, and even babysitting.

Request a Crib Ahead of Time Call the hotel in advance to request a pack-and-play, if you haven’t shipped one ahead, but remember to bring your child’s own sheets and loveys. The familiar scents of home will help them sleep better in a foreign environment. Telling a hotel you’re traveling with children also ensures a quieter room away from the elevators and with a tub.

Book An Extra Night Hotels often won’t let you check in until the afternoon, which can be problematic if you’re taking a red-eye and due to land at your final destination early in the morning. Brady recommends booking your hotel room from the night before. “That way, you can get into your room as soon as you arrive in the morning, have a good nap with the kids, and be fresh for an afternoon of sightseeing,” she says.

Out of Sight Whenever possible, book a suite or a room with a living room or two adjoining rooms so that your baby can sleep in the other room without seeing you. If a suite isn’t an option, get creative: The hallway or even bathroom can be excellent places to put the crib so you’re not in your baby’s line of sight at 6:00 a.m.

Stay On Your Own Time Zone The clock says 8:00 p.m. in your new destination, but to your child, it’s only 3:00 p.m. What to do? Consider keeping them on a schedule that’s as close to your original time zone as possible. If you’re traveling to Europe, this could mean wake-ups at noon and bedtime at midnight—confusing for nosy passers-by who see you out with your children at 9:30 p.m., but potentially easier for both you and the kids.

But Give it Three Days If You Can’t However, if staying on your own time zone isn’t practical—especially for trips longer than a week—babies are surprisingly flexible. (No, really.) After three days of crankiness and middle-of-the-night wake-ups, your little one will adjust to the new schedule.

Nap on the Go As schedule enthusiasts, my husband and I were terrified the first time our baby had to nap on the go. Turns out, kids are surprisingly malleable (when they’re young, at least). A little white noise on the iPhone, a swaddle or blanket over the stroller to block out light, and a long walk around town ensures museums or lunch for you while they’re zonked.

Babysitters are Your Friends If you feel comfortable leaving your children with a sitter, most five-star hotels have relationships with local babysitting agencies and can arrange a background-checked sitter for you. As weird as it might sound having a stranger in your hotel room, it’s a common request—although be forewarned that some agencies won’t allow hotel sitters to bathe children or perform certain duties. For children going through separation or stranger anxiety, book a late dinner and arrange for the sitter to come after they’re asleep.

Eat Early Just because you’re traveling with children doesn’t mean you’re condemned to a vacation involving kid’s menus and paper tablecloths. For nights when you don’t have a babysitter, figure out which restaurants you’re dying to try—and then book in for right when they open. Yes, this will occasionally mean 5:00 p.m. dinners, but you won’t have to endure nasty looks or rush out if the kids start acting up, and you’ll still be able to enjoy that hot new restaurant—no babysitter required.

Shiny and New While an iPad is a godsend for children as young as one year, they’re all but useless for infants—though great for you when your baby inevitably falls asleep in a weird position that means absolutely . . . no . . . moving. Babies can be distracted by shockingly pedestrian items: keys, tissues, even tape. “For on the plane activities, I usually bring a few small zippered bags filled with little toys to unwrap and play with,” says Marissa Hermer, restaurateur and mother of three. “Anything new, fun, and small makes the journey fly by.”

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Everything You Need to Know About Traveling With a Baby

Traveling with a baby? Here are expert tips to make your trip as safe and comfortable as possible.

Years ago, Kristiana Choquet was nervous about taking her then three-month-old, Olivia, on her first flight. It would be long — 11 hours from Johannesburg to Paris — and like many new parents, she wasn't sure what to bring. "I packed a backpack of her own, with diapers and wipes, a messenger bag with extra clothes, and a rolling suitcase and stroller," she said. "Our friends were like, 'You're never going to need all this stuff.'"

Since that momentous first trip — which Air France made easy with a complimentary bassinet — Choquet has gotten smarter about packing. "Now I only fly with just one backpack for both of us," she says, laughing.

We asked Kristiana Choquet, the associate director of leisure for Embark Beyond , a travel agency in New York, and other experts for their best advice on how to travel with a child under 2. Here's what they told us.

Before the Trip

Check With Your Pediatrician

"If the family is traveling internationally, it's always a good idea to check with the pediatrician at least two weeks before to see if the child would require any extra immunizations," says Dr. David Fagan, vice chairman of the Pediatric Ambulatory Administration at Northwell Health in Massapequa, New York. Depending on where you're going, your child may need to have certain vaccines earlier, like the measles vaccine , or take a particular medicine before or during travel. Your baby may also need a COVID-19 vaccine (if he or she is older than 6 months) or a negative test result before traveling. The Centers for Disease Control's online Traveler's Health information page is a great place to research.

In general, there is no enforced minimum age a newborn has to be before they fly, although rules may vary by airline. For example, Vueling and Delta will allow newborns as young as seven days old to fly. JetBlue will allow infants as young as 3 days old to fly, but between three and 14 days you will need a doctor's letter of approval. However, it is generally recommended that you wait a few months before traveling in order to let your baby's immune system more fully develop. If flying internationally, it takes about six weeks to obtain a passport for your baby .

On the Flight

Consider a Rear-Facing Car Seat

Yes, it's a hassle. But on a plane, a rear-facing car seat is still the safest place for an infant, insists Fagan. And if you're traveling by car, this piece of safety equipment is a must. Check with your airline to determine the specific policies for using a car seat on board, and keep in mind that you may need to spring for a separate ticket. Be sure to take the infant out of the seat every couple of hours. "This allows them to stretch out and move their legs," Fagan notes, and they'll probably need a diaper change anyway.

Bring a Collapsible Baby Stroller

Choquet swears by the popular Babyzen Yoyo2 stroller, which folds neatly and can be slung over the shoulder like a tote bag. It also meets most airlines' carry-on luggage requirements, making it easy to navigate airports and train stations before throwing it in the overhead bin once on board. The only downsides are the price (this stroller is over $400), and the fact that it's not recommended for travelers under 6 months old.

Choquet also likes the Ergobaby, a wearable, space-saving baby carrier. "A lot of times baby falls asleep on your chest," and if your baby's a lap child, or under the age of two, this carrier can alleviate the stress of toting a stroller around.

Ask for a Bassinet

Heading abroad? Choquet recommends calling ahead to see if the airline offers a bassinet on board. These specially-made bassinets are designed to fit in the extra space of bulkhead seating sections. These are typically complimentary on international flights, though they're subject to availability. Delta advises to check ahead, especially for domestic flights, while United Airlines provides a limited number of bassinets on international flights only, which also need to be reserved prior to boarding. No matter what carrier you travel with, bassinets may not be used during taxi, takeoff, or landing, or when the seatbelt sign is illuminated.

Keep Your Baby Entertained

Choquet advises keeping your little one busy with "snacks, puzzles, coloring books," or "anything you can stuff in your bag that's not bulky." Load the iPad with games and kid-friendly movies, and stock up on favorite snacks, so you're not at the mercy of the food cart. Backpack too heavy? Old-school hand-clapping games like Patty Cake are always a hit and don't require toting around extra toys.

Deal With Changes in Air Pressure

"Most children are usually okay with changes in air pressure during takeoffs and landings," explains Fagan, but since infants can't swallow, pop their ears, or yawn, their only alternative for clearing their ears is sucking. Breastfeeding, or sucking on a bottle or a pacifier works well, especially during the initial descent, when the biggest change in pressure occurs. Ask a flight attendant to let you know when the descent is about to begin.

At the Hotel

Check for Safety

Safety standards vary by country, so be sure to do a thorough inspection of the hotel room upon arrival. "Parents should be comfortable with railings and check that the child can't slip through," Fagan warns. Also, scan your accommodations for exposed electrical wires and peeling paint chips. Parents of toddlers who walk should be especially vigilant.

Ask for Baby Amenities

Why pack a bottle warmer or car seat when you can get them at the hotel? Every Rosewood property comes fully equipped with diaper pails, baby baths, and monitors. At St. Regis hotels , parents can borrow strollers and stock up on diapers. "I've never really had to travel with a stroller," says Choquet, who advises calling ahead. Just remember to thoroughly check cribs and strollers for safety — visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website for current rules — especially if you're staying abroad, urges Fagan. If the hotel you book is not up on the family amenity trend, Choquet advises buying diapers, wipes, formula, and bottles online, and then having them shipped to your U.S. destination. If you're also traveling with a toddler, it's not a bad idea to invest in a toddler's travel bed , preferably one that you can easily pack in a carry-on.

Arm Against Mosquitoes

You shouldn't let your child drink tap water (Fagan advises opting for bottled water while traveling), so don't let them skip the mosquito repellent , either. In tropical climates especially, long-sleeved shirts and pants are best, but also consider lotions with no more than 30 percent DEET , recommended for children over two months. (Never spray an infant due to the risk of inhalation.) Fagan says that placing mosquito netting around a crib can be helpful, too, but check with your pediatrician and the CDC to hear your options.

Related Articles

Babies Abroad: Age Limit For Travel

• Last updated Jun 28, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Travelling with a baby can be a challenging experience, but it's not impossible. Many parents opt to travel with their infants, whether it's to visit family or explore new destinations. The key to a smooth journey is preparation. Before embarking on international travel with a baby, it's crucial to ensure you have the necessary documentation, including a valid passport for the infant and, in some cases, a letter of consent from the other parent. Additionally, consulting a paediatrician before the trip is advisable to ensure the baby is up to date with vaccinations and to seek advice on any additional immunisations or preventative medications that may be required. It's also worth considering travel insurance that covers children for free, as it can provide peace of mind in case of any medical emergencies during the trip.

What You'll Learn

Travel insurance, vaccinations and health, travel documents, luggage rules, baby-friendly destinations.

Benefits of Travel Insurance for Babies

• Medical Coverage: Travel insurance can cover medical expenses if your baby falls ill or gets injured during your trip. It can reimburse you for emergency doctor visits or hospital expenses, which can be costly, especially in foreign countries.
• Trip Cancellation or Interruption: If your baby becomes ill or injured before or during your trip, travel insurance may cover the cost of cancelling or interrupting your trip. This includes reimbursement for non-refundable travel expenses and accommodations.
• Lost/Damaged Belongings: Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and belongings. This is particularly important when travelling with a baby, as you may have expensive baby gear, such as strollers, car seats, or travel cots.
• Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Ensure that your baby's travel insurance covers any pre-existing medical conditions they may have. This will ensure they can access the necessary medication and treatment while away from home.
• Sports and Activities Coverage: If your baby or older child plans to participate in sports or activities with specific risks, such as skiing, water sports, climbing, or hiking, ensure these are covered by your travel insurance policy.
• Concierge Services: Some travel insurance providers offer concierge services to assist you in finding child-friendly activities and services at your destination. This can be a helpful timesaver when travelling with children.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Travel Insurance for Babies:

• Family Travel Insurance: If you're travelling as a family, consider a family travel insurance policy, which typically covers one or two adults and up to eight children under 18.
• Single-Trip vs. Annual Cover: If you're taking multiple trips in a year, annual travel insurance can save you money and the hassle of taking out a separate policy for each trip. Ensure your annual policy covers all the destinations you plan to visit.
• Credit Card Travel Insurance: Check if your credit card offers any travel insurance benefits. This could provide additional coverage or save you money by avoiding duplicate coverage.
• EHIC or GHIC Card: If you're a UK citizen travelling within the European Economic Area, ensure you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for each family member. These cards provide access to state-provided healthcare during your stay. However, they don't replace travel insurance, as they may not cover all medical expenses.
• Vaccinations and Health Requirements: Before your trip, consult your paediatrician or GP to ensure your baby is up to date with their vaccinations and to discuss any additional health precautions or requirements for your destination.

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Before booking your trip, it is important to consult your healthcare provider or a travel health clinic about your travel plans, preferably six weeks before you travel. This is because your baby may need certain vaccines, and these can take time to take effect. Some vaccines are given over a period of days or weeks, and your baby's body will need time to build up immunity.

Different countries have different health risks and may require specific vaccines. For example, if travelling to certain parts of Africa or South America, your family will need the yellow fever vaccine. The CDC's travellers' health website provides a list of recommended or required vaccines for each destination. You may need to visit a clinic that specializes in travel medicine if your doctor doesn't stock the vaccines you need.

Make sure your baby is up to date on all routine vaccines. Routine vaccinations protect your child from infectious diseases such as measles, which can spread quickly in groups of unvaccinated people. Many diseases prevented by routine vaccination are not common in the United States but are still common in other countries. Some routine vaccines for young children have different recommendations if you plan to travel internationally. For example, although the first dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is not usually given until after 12 months of age, infants 6 to 11 months old should get one dose before international travel.

Some travel vaccines can be given on an accelerated schedule, meaning doses are given in a shorter period of time. However, not all travel vaccines can be given to very young children, so it is important to check with a travel medicine doctor or your paediatrician as early as possible before travelling.

If you are breastfeeding, discuss your vaccination options with your healthcare provider.

Besides vaccinations, there are other health considerations to keep in mind when travelling with a baby:

• Diarrhoea is among the most common illnesses experienced by children who travel abroad. Breastfeeding is the best way to prevent diarrhoea and keep infants hydrated. If using formula, follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to prepare it. If there is poor water quality where you are travelling, use sterile water to prepare formula and to sterilize bottles, nipples, caps, and rings.
• To prevent other illnesses, choose safer food and drinks. This includes eating food that is served hot, dry, or packaged, and drinking bottled, canned, or hot drinks. Only drink milk that has been pasteurized.
• Wash hands with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Protect your child from diseases spread by bugs, such as mosquitoes and ticks, by using insect repellents containing EPA-registered active ingredients such as picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol. Dress your child in clothing that covers their arms and legs, and cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
• If travelling to an area with malaria, your child should take malaria prevention medicine.
• Rabies is spread through contact with infected animals, and children are at greater risk due to their size and curiosity. Supervise children closely around animals, especially dogs, cats, and wildlife. Any animal bite should be washed thoroughly with soap and water, and medical attention should be sought immediately.
• Children should always wear a seat belt or sit in an appropriate car seat or booster seat. Research car seat guidelines for your destination, as guidelines may differ from those in the United States.
• When doing water activities, supervise children closely and have them wear a life jacket.

Can Travel Itinerary for Schengen Change After Visa Approval?

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents, such as a passport, to enter the U.S. or travel internationally. Here are the essential documents you need to prepare when travelling with a baby:

• Passport: Ensure your baby has a valid passport. In the U.S., a child's passport is valid for five years, unlike adult passports, which are valid for ten years. The passport application process involves obtaining a birth certificate, finding the right location to apply, making an appointment, taking a passport photo, and gathering the necessary paperwork, including Form DS-11, the baby's birth certificate, and photocopies of each document. Both parents and the baby must be present at the appointment. The fees for a child's passport and processing are currently $100 and $35, respectively.
• Global Entry: If you have Global Entry, you will need to apply for your baby to be included if you wish to use the service as a family.
• Letter of Consent: If you are travelling as a solo parent, a letter of consent from the other custodial parent is recommended. The letter should be notarized and state, "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is travelling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission." If you have sole custody, a copy of the custody agreement may be presented instead.
• Child Travel Consent: This document is required when a child is travelling without one or both parents or legal guardians. It should include the child's basic information, both parents' contact information, and travel arrangements. It is highly recommended to have this form notarized to reduce the chances of travel authorities questioning its validity.
• Proof of Relationship: It is advisable to carry documents that prove your relationship with your child, especially if you have different last names. This can include a marriage certificate, certificates of name change, or the child's birth certificate.
• Other Documents: Depending on the country you are visiting, additional documents may be required. Check with the relevant embassy or consulate to determine the entry and exit requirements. For example, some countries may ask for proof of vaccinations or negative COVID-19 tests.

It is important to note that the requirements for travel documents may vary depending on the country and are subject to change. Always check with official sources and consult with your travel agent, airline company, or government officials to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and all the necessary documents for your trip.

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Different airlines have different rules for how much luggage you can bring when travelling with a baby. It's important to check with your airline before you travel to avoid unnecessary delays.

British Airways

Children over the age of 2 get the same luggage allowance as adults, plus their essential extras, such as a pushchair and car seat. Infants also have their own allowance for essentials.

If you're travelling with an infant under 2, you'll be able to bring an extra bag for in-flight essentials, which is included in your allowance. However, if you pay for a plane seat for your infant, they're booked as a 'child' and are given the same baggage allowance as an adult.

Children between 2 and 11 years old will have the same free checked baggage allowance as you, which will vary depending on the cabin you're travelling in. Infants under 2 have a free checked baggage allowance of one standard 23kg bag in the hold, for all cabins. This does not apply when travelling on a hand-baggage-only (Basic) fare, where there is no free checked bag allowance.

Each infant and child can take up to two of the following essential extras in the hold:

• A fully collapsible pushchair (stroller)
• A pushchair and car seat

Other Airlines

Many other airlines also offer additional checked luggage, as well as a carry-on bag or item for the baby. For example, Cathay Pacific allows lap infants two additional bags at 10kg each when flying between most destinations.

Breast milk, baby food, baby milk, and sterilised water are allowed in hand luggage when travelling with a baby. There is no legal limit to how much you can take, but individual containers of breast milk must hold no more than 2,000ml. Each container will need to be screened at the security point. Airport staff might need to open the containers to screen the liquids.

You can carry breast milk in hand luggage even if you're not travelling with a baby. You cannot carry frozen breast milk in hand luggage.

Other Items

You can take a car seat on board the plane if you've booked a seat for your infant or child and intend to secure the car seat. Alternatively, your car seat must be checked into the hold.

Pushchairs and walking aids are usually allowed in the cabin but will need to be security screened first.

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling from Monroe, WA to SeaTac Airport, WA

Travelling with a baby can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Here are some baby-friendly destinations to consider for your next trip:

The Algarve region in Portugal is known for its stunning coastal beauty and charming white-washed towns. Lagos, a laid-back surfer's paradise, offers secluded beaches with calm waters that are ideal for paddling and swimming with babies. Lisbon, the colourful and vibrant capital, is also a great option, with its tram-filled streets, aquariums and child-friendly attractions.

Italy is a child-friendly country with diverse cities, beautiful beaches, mountains and countryside. Tuscany, with its sweeping hills and spacious villas, is a great choice for families. The region boasts baby-friendly activities such as bike rides and picnics. Sicily, with its ancient history and culture, is another excellent option, offering unique experiences like traditional Sicilian puppet shows.

Jamaica, especially the Negril area, is known for its sparkling waters and sandy beaches. Many resorts in Jamaica cater specifically to families with babies, offering kids' clubs, baby-specific amenities and onsite babysitting services.

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is a great destination for families who love the outdoors. The city offers walkable avenues, green spaces and family-friendly attractions such as the Vancouver Aquarium and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. There are also nearby day trip options, such as the Redwood Park Fairy Forest and the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary.

Although the long flight to Japan can be daunting, it is one of the most kid-friendly destinations in the world. The level of social trust in Japan is high, and you'll find friendly faces everywhere. Tokyo offers attractions such as Ueno Zoo and Kidzania, while outside the city, you can enjoy natural escapes like Yoyogi Park.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona combines cultural icons like Parc Guell and Sagrada Familia with perfect weather and delicious food. The city is known for its siesta culture, which can be great for families with babies. Barcelona also has plenty of stroller-friendly spaces and attractions, including the massive aquarium, L'Aquarium Barcelona.

Top Destinations to Travel in America in June

Frequently asked questions.

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on various factors, including the baby's health, the travel destination, and the mode of transportation. However, most pediatricians recommend waiting until the baby is at least 3 to 6 months old before travelling, as their immune system is still developing during the first few months of life.

When travelling internationally with a baby, you will need a valid passport for the baby. Some countries may also require additional documentation, such as a birth certificate, proof of guardianship, or a letter of consent from the other parent if you are travelling as a single parent. It is important to check the specific requirements of your destination country and any countries you will be transiting through.

Travelling with a baby can be challenging, but there are some things you can do to make the trip smoother. Consult your paediatrician before the trip to ensure your baby is up to date on vaccinations and ask for advice on keeping your baby healthy while travelling. Pack more than you think you'll need, including formula, diapers, and a change of clothes for both you and the baby. Consider investing in travel insurance that covers children in case of any medical emergencies during your trip.

• Steffi Montoya Author Traveller

• Julia May Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

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Can You Travel Internationally with a 3-Month-Old Baby?

This was the age we brought my son on his first flight: when he was just 3 months old! We flew across Canada, from Vancouver to Montreal. That was followed by an international flight to the U.S. and soon after, to Spain. So to the question about whether or not it’s possible to fly with an infant this young, I say:

It is possible to travel internationally with a 3-month-old baby. There is no definitive age for when an infant can begin international travel; but most parents will wait until at least 2-3 months of age due to health recommendations and the time needed to acquire travel documentation.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know to prepare yourself for traveling with your 3-month-old baby: documentation, what to pack in your carry-on to have a successful flight, how to handle feedings, and more.

Please take a deep breath and know that it’s going to be fine! And perhaps even wonderful because it may open up a whole new world of family travel for you. I know that you may be nervous (I was!) but a baby this age is actually ideal for travel (speaking as a mom of a now-toddler!). You can do it! 🙂

Checklist: What to Pack for Your 3-Month-Old Baby on the Plane

I remember that it seemed like I needed to pack SO much stuff for my baby in our diaper bag and carry-on bags when we first flew with him.

Even though I still think it’s a lot of stuff to pack these days with a toddler , I’m much better at streamlining and trusting that I don’t need as much stuff as it may seem.

I would encourage you to make some cuts where you can, because traveling with just the things you actually need is such a freeing feeling (or is this just me?). Remember that you can check your car seat and stroller for free on most airlines!

I’m going to give you a checklist as a foundation, but you know yourself and your baby best and will have to decide what other items are truly important for your trip. Here’s a list of what to pack in your carry-on for you and your 3-month-old baby:

• Diapers (1 per hour of travel)
• Wipes (1-2 packs)
• Changing pad
• Diaper rash cream
• Pajamas (x3)
• Light hoodie/sweater
• Baby blanket
• Light, breathable muslin blanket (to cover up for breastfeeding)
• Pacifier (x2)
• Pacifier/toy leashes
• Portable sound machine + extra batteries
• Water bottle
• Baby bottles
• Formula/milk
• Dish wipes to clean bottles and pump parts
• Baby Tylenol
• Hand sanitizer
• Baby nail clippers
• Snacks for you!
• Mini first aid kit
• Ziploc/wet bag for soiled or wet clothes
• A few small toys (your baby’s favorites)
• Basic mini travel size toiletries for you (baby soap, toothpaste, toothbrush)
• A change of clothes for you!
• Electronics, chargers, and batteries
• Plug converters for your destination
• Tylenol for you!
• Handheld breast pump if breastfeeding
• Baby monitor (to have handy when you arrive at your destination)
• Fanny pack to wear at the airport, filled with your important documents!

How to Dress Your 3-Month-Old Baby on the Plane

I recommend dressing your baby in what I call “ the perfect airplane outfit. ” Put your baby in a comfy, cotton (or other breathable fabric) zip-up onesie (long sleeves and covering the legs) — that’s it!

The breathable fabric will keep them comfortable on the flight. The fact that the onesie is footed will keep them warm without you having to worry about losing separates (baby socks always get lost!).

And the zipper (not some dreaded buttons or snaps) will allow you to maintain your sanity while changing your baby on the plane and in the airport and anywhere else you need to.

Then pack 2-3 more outfits just like this one in case your baby soils the first one! You do not, I repeat, you do NOT want to be caught out with no back up outfits on a travel day (that goes for the parents too!).

Tips for Navigating the Airport with Your 3-Month-Old Baby

I wasn’t sure how the car, airport time, and actual time on the plane would play out with my little baby, but all went quite smoothly actually — and has (knock on wood) continued to be really smooth on all flights since that first one.

I think some of the tips we put into practice were really helpful and I hope they save you some grief as well! Here goes:

1. Change your baby right before you board the plane. Put on a fresh diaper and hope that you won’t have any blow outs in the air!

2. Feed your baby at the gate before boarding. Sometimes the boarding process can be annoyingly long and you don’t want a cranky, hungry baby while standing in line on the jetway with nothing you can do about it.

3. I know it’s hard to time changing and feeding your baby (both!) RIGHT before boarding, but do your best.

4. Many people will advise you to feed your baby during takeoff and landing because the sucking motion can help protect your baby’s ears, but this is easier said than done! In my experience, I was just lucky if the timing worked out and my baby was hungry during takeoff.

5. You can also try to offer your baby a pacifier during takeoff and landing to serve the same purpose.

6. Baby wear with a wrap or soft carrier as you’re navigating the airport and boarding the plane. This is what we’ve always done to great success but other parents use a small, easily collapsible stroller which would also be super useful I’m sure.

7. Look up the security’s rules for liquids (breastmilk and/or formula) in the country where you’ll be traveling. And then screenshot the rules on your phone and show them to a supervisor if you feel that the security workers have it wrong and want to throw away your milk.

TSA in the United States allows milk, formula, water, and baby food to be brought on board in amounts greater than 100ml for people traveling with babies, but some workers are ill-informed and have been known to throw away breastmilk and formula (the absolute horror — I cannot imagine!).

How to Keep Your 3-Month-Old Baby Comfortable on the Plane

To make sure you have the best chance of keeping your baby comfy and happy on the plane, try your best to:

1. Attend to their needs first. It helps if you arrive at the airport with plenty of extra time. If you can slow down and make sure you’re doing whatever it is you need to do for your baby (feeding, changing, etc.) before worrying about rushing around the airport, you’re more likely to have a happier baby.

2. Dress them appropriately. A warm, but not overheated, baby is a happy baby. Bring a baby blanket in case the flight gets chilly.

3. Be prepared to care for their ears. Make an attempt to feed them or offer them a pacifier on takeoff and landing. It may not work, but you can give it a shot!

4. Don’t be shy. If you need help, ask for help. If you need to breastfeed, do it. Sometimes feeling embarrassed or like we’re inconveniencing others can make us delay getting the help we need for our baby and we just make things worse in the end. People are mostly kind and will be very willing to help a family with a small baby.

How to Feed Your 3 Month Old on the Plane and in the Airport

This is a question that seems straightforward enough but still we may wonder: How do we feed our babies at the airport and on the plane?

If you’re breastfeeding, you really can just breastfeed wherever you are — you can sit on a bench anywhere in the airport and breastfeed.

If you want more privacy, many airports these days have nursing and baby rooms that you can seek out.

As for breastfeeding on the plane, again you just… do it. I don’t want to say whip it out and go for it, but that’s kind of what I have always done! You can use a cover or blanket to give yourself more privacy. If anyone at all makes you feel uncomfortable about breastfeeding, tell a flight attendant right away.

If you’re using formula, I have seen a great travel hack of pre-measuring out the formula into Ziploc bags. You’ll just ask the flight attendants for water when you board so you can make your bottle(s).

Documents You Will Need to Travel With Your 3 Month Old

So first of all, your baby is going to need a passport to travel internationally ( unless you happen to be traveling within North America — Canada, the U.S., and Mexico — and you’re driving instead of flying).

Additionally, you may need other documents for your baby, depending on your specific family and travel circumstances. You can refer to my article about the 6 documents you may need to travel with an infant internationally for more details if you’re still unsure after reading the chart below:

How to Get a Passport for Your 3-Month-Old Baby

I recommend  getting a passport  as soon as possible for your baby if you plan on traveling together as a family. For minors (children under 16),  you have to go in person   with your partner  to apply for your baby’s passport. Their passport will be valid for 5 years.

You can find your  nearest passport office here . Some require you to make an appointment, while others have walk-in availability. When you visit the passport office in person, you’ll need to bring:

• Form DS-11  filled out
• Proof of U.S. citizenship
• Photocopy of evidence of U.S. citizenship
• Proof of parental relationship to your child
• Identification for the parents
• Photocopy of identification
• Parental consent (if one parent is not present)

You can check the most recent  processing times  on the State Department website  here  to get an idea of how long it’s going to take to receive your child’s passport in the mail.

Review all of the important details and updates on the  State Department website  for applying for a passport for minors. Remember that you  cannot  submit a mail-in or online application for children under 16.

How to Take a Passport Photo for Your 3-Month-Old Baby

You have two choices for getting a passport photo taken for an infant: You can take them to a regular passport photo place (know that unfortunately, some places won’t take infant photos); or you can take your baby’s photo at home.

I’ve done both (one for my son’s Canadian passport and one for his American passport) and I much preferred the photo that I took myself at home with my iPhone!

At the photographer’s, I sat with my son in my lap and the guy slid a big white piece of paper between my baby and my chest. My baby was a little squish ball with no neck and the photo is pretty bad!

I recommend laying out a white sheet at home with your baby on it. Stand over them and take a photo with your iPhone. If you have some editing skills, it would be helpful because your photo can’t have any shadows. Your baby should be facing straight ahead with their eyes open.

If it doesn’t work out the first time you try, don’t worry! Try again later in the day or the next day — the lighting might be better and you’ll feel more relaxed after having done a “practice run.”

Happy travels with your 3 month old and best of luck to you and your family for all future travels! This is only the beginning 🙂 You can follow our family travel adventures on Instagram: @wayfaring.humans

Brittany is a Wayfaring Human who loves to adventure with her husband and son. When she's not having adventures, she's taking pictures of them and writing about them.

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International Travel with a 6-Month Old Baby Tips and Tricks

Once my son turned six months old, we decided to do two big trips with him – one to Mexico and one to Japan . The destinations couldn’t have been more different, nor could the trip experiences. For one we mostly lounged on the beach, and for the other we hit 4 different cities traveling on public transportation the whole way.

We learned a lot from those experiences. Here’s everything you should know before traveling internationally with your six month old:

Get a Passport and Potentially Global Entry

No matter how young they are, yes, your baby does need their own passport . If you have Global Entry and want to use the expedited line, you will also need take to get your baby their own Global Entry prior to the trip! Although TSA pre-check extends to children, everybody has to have their own global entry regardless of age. Keep in mind these are US rules. Your country may have different ones depending on where you’re from.

To get the passport, I recommend taking your own passport photos , then making an appointment either at a post office or an expedited passport agency, filling out all of the paperwork, and then waiting for the passport to arrive. Keep in mind you will need the birth certificate first. Depending on which state you live in, there could be a delay in obtaining a copy.

Since we wanted to travel by the time my son was 5 1/2 months, we made sure to pay extra to expedite the passport. If your trip takes place even sooner, consider using a passport agency for a quick turnaround. Unfortunately they only exist in major cities. Find out more about passports here and Global Entry here .

Leave Extra Time for Everything

We arrive at the airport much earlier now than we ever did before having a baby. The first step is ordering an Uber and quickly installing the car seat before we go and taking it out once we get to the airport. From there, check in usually takes a bit longer because babies are required to have a printed boarding pass , and we usually have baggage to check.

Unless your baby is exclusively breast-fed, chances are you will have some baby food along with you whether you’re traveling with formula , expressed milk, or any combination of the two. Your baby might also already be on solids, in which case you might have baby food. All of this is allowed by TSA, but you’ll need to leave extra time as they’ll perform extra checks on the liquids over 3oz. Read more about TSA with a baby here .

Once at the airport, you’ll probably need time to change the baby and potentially do a feed before boarding. Look for a family bathroom to easily take care of everyone’s needs at once. Most US airports also have Mamava lactation pods for breastfeeding or pumping, or nurseries.

If you’re mainly pumping like I was, I highly recommend bringing portable/wearable pumps along. I can’t imagine exclusively pumping without them! Here’s the pump I used.

What to Bring (and How to Pack Light)

It seems like the younger the baby is, the more things they need. Still, when we traveled to Japan , we had to pack light and could only bring what the two of us could feasibly carry through Japan’s train and metro stations. That meant one large bag, a couple of backpacks, and a large purse for the three of us to share.

This is my minimalist packing list . No matter what, I’d bring:

• Plenty of very absorbent diapers. There’s really no contest when it comes to the best brand to prevent leaks – Coterie .
• Multiple changes of clothes for the carry on.
• A comfortable carrier for the airport. This is the one I tend to use and this is my partner’s favorite.
• More than enough food for baby.
• Small toys. We love the ones from our Lovevery subscription .
• A nice, big diaper bag that will fit everything.

Most airlines will allow you to check a stroller and car seat as hold luggage at no cost. Diaper bags usually do not count against carry-on allowance, either. You can also gate check your car seat and stroller, though be prepared for extra checks at security.

How to Survive the Flight

Flying can be the most nerve-racking part of international travel for a lot of parents. Nobody wants to be the one with the screaming baby on board. Plus, how do you keep them entertained for 13+ hours? Thankfully I’ve found that at 6 months, babies are pretty easy to travel with. They’re usually not crawling yet, so lap sitting is less of a big deal. Here’s what to consider:

• Babies usually do not fly free internationally, even if they are sitting on your lap! They usually cost 10% of the adult fare.
• If you’re able to get in the front row, you can sometimes reserve a bassinet ahead of time. Call your airline to inquire.
• We usually fly coach with our little one, but we have flown business class our baby as well. If you have the miles or funds, this makes tummy time and sleep easier.
• Breast, bottle or binkie at takeoff and landing to help with their ears. This is key for a happy baby!
• Try to maintain nap times and wake windows as usual.
• Bring small toys or books to keep baby engaged during wake times. So far we have completely avoided screen time.
• Airplane bathrooms have changing tables. Bring a portable changing mat for airport and airplane changes.

Also, if your baby cries, it’s OK. It bothered me the first time it happened, but then I stopped caring. Sometimes babies cry, and they are a part of society. They’re allowed to fly like the rest of us! Plus, I’m never going to see any of those strangers again.

Dealing with Jet Lag

One of my biggest fears about traveling internationally with my baby was dealing with jet lag. To be honest, baby sleep on vacation is rarely as good as at home. When traveling to Mexico, we were two time zones ahead, so we just kept my baby’s normal schedule and shifted everything two hours later – I didn’t mind sleeping in! But Japan was 16 hours ahead, so we had no choice but to adjust.

Our flight out took place in the afternoon, so we kept our usual nap time and by the time we landed, it was nighttime in Japan so we went straight to bed. When our baby woke up early or in the middle of the night, we just kept things quiet, dark, and fed and rocked him back to sleep. For the most part, he adjusted better than I usually do! Within a few days, we were on Japan time.

Back at home was a little rougher. I traveled to over 60 countries before having my son, and I have always struggled more with going east than west. The same was true for our baby. Our flight back home was an overnight flight, so we slept on board, but since we landed at night due to the time change, it was tougher to get to sleep and adjust back to Pacific time. Still, he did better than I did and was back on his normal sleep schedule within four days.

Baby Sleep Abroad

How can you practice safe sleep abroad and how should you handle naps and bedtime? Every baby is different. Some of them will nap just fine in a baby carrier or stroller , others need darkness and to be kept to a schedule. Some are somewhere in between.

For our trip to San Pancho, Mexico, we decided to stay in the same vacation rental for the week with our only transit being to and from the airport. It had two bedrooms and its own the kitchen and living room, which made eating, sleeping, and nap time easy. We didn’t have any set schedule or goals other than to chill out and enjoy ourselves. Maintaining nap time and bedtime was easy in this scenario.

We brought along his portable bassinet since the rental didn’t have one. If you’ll all be in one room, consider bringing a Slumberpod as well to create a dark sleep space without having to go lights out at 7pm for everyone.

Our trip to Japan was a different story. We didn’t have space to bring a bassinet. He mostly had his naps in the baby carrier and would sleep on the floor beds offered by our accommodation at night. We only found one hotel crib for him out of the four places we stayed. He certainly did not sleep as well that trip as he normally would, but it was worth it to travel together as a family.

You can also consider using local baby gear rental companies abroad to cut down on luggage, or booking accommodation that has baby bedding.

Baby Products Abroad

Depending on how long you’ll be gone, you might want to re-up your baby products abroad. I would Google your destination and see what the options are for baby food, formula (if you’re using a specialized kind, travel with formula from home), diapers, and whatever else you may need. Depending on how small the town is that you are visiting, you may need to make a stop before you get there to get provisions. Since we only went to Mexico for a week, we brought enough with us, but I did see baby food and formula in both large and small grocery stores.

In Japan, we ended up buying diapers locally except for the Coteries we bring from home for overnights. They also had formula and baby food, which I would have happily tried had we run out. Since we do baby-led weaning , we mostly bought his food at grocery stores and fed him in the room or shared what we had at restaurants as long as it didn’t seem salted. Candidly we didn’t worry too much about solids and mostly did breast milk and formula since he was only six months old.

Cleaning and Sanitizing Abroad

Unless you exclusively breastfeed, you’re going to need to wash baby bottles and potentially pacifiers and teethers abroad. I always bring our portable bottle washing station as well as these microwave steam clean bags. They are tiny and can be used up to 20 times. It feels like the ultimate parenting hack, though it does require a microwave.

In Japan the tap water is potable and rooms almost always come with hot water kettles. In Mexico, our rental had a home water filter and UV system. If you’re worried about the cleanliness of the water, boil it first if you can. You can also bring your own water filtration system to clean the water before using. I prefer this to using bottled whenever possible to reduce plastic waste, though we did use bottled water for his formula in Mexico.

Adjusting Schedules and Expectations

When I traveled without a baby previously, I could pack so much into my day. I would often wake up for sunrise or photograph the stars. These are two of my passions but I have yet to do either one on a trip with my baby. Traveling with a six month old is different.

Adjust your expectations for how many things you are going to do in a day. You are probably not going to cross as much off of your bucket list. Your baby is going to need to sleep, it’s going to take more time to get out the door because you need to make sure the baby is fed, the diaper bag is packed, the diapers changed, etc. This is something that was hard for me to adjust to at first.

But with the right understanding of the difference of traveling with a baby – putting their needs first – it’s a rewarding experience. I loved how people interacted with our son in Japan, and it was so beautiful going to the beach with him for the first time in Mexico. You’re not losing out on experiences, you are exchanging them for new ones.

All of that said, it’s easier to plan and take a trip where you have just one destination and aren’t going to be moving. But although our Japan trip with major transit days was a lot more involved, I still enjoyed it immensely.

Ground Transportation

Research what type of transportation you’ll be using ahead of time and discern whether you need to bring a car seat or can travel without one .

Can you rent at your destination? Are you mostly taking public transport and won’t need one? We brought one to Mexico for the ride to and from the airport, but did not bring one to Japan, and I am so glad that we did it that way each time! It all comes down to what you’ll encounter abroad, and that’s location-dependent.

When it comes down to it, traveling with your baby is going to be different than traveling without. But we found traveling with a six month old to be the perfect age. They are alert enough to take in their surroundings, usually aren’t yet crawling and are therefore easier to contain, can be interactive with people but don’t usually have stranger danger yet, and since they are only beginning solids, feeding is a bit easier.

I’m so thankful for the family trips we took and I’m glad that nobody scared us out of traveling internationally with our six month old. Enjoy your journey – you got this!

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support our site at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products that we use and love ourselves.

Kristin is the founder of Parenthood Adventures, combining her love of travel and newfound joy of motherhood. She's the creator of one of the most-read women's travel blogs in the world, bemytravelmuse.com, with a readership in the millions each year.

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27 Best Places to Travel with a Baby (Safe + Baby-Friendly)!

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Home » 27 Best Places to Travel with a Baby (Safe + Baby-Friendly)!

Are you wondering where to travel with a baby?

Our youngest daughter, Avalee, was just 2.5 months old when we embarked on our very first trip with her. Our first trip with her took us to Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands.

After Indonesia, we ventured further afield to Australia and explored Perth and Sydney.

We then set off to Asia visiting Japan and Europe for a big extended road trip that included France, Switzerland, and Italy – all before Avalee had reached her first birthday! As seasoned family travelers (we have 3 children) we’ve learned a lot about what works best when traveling with babies in tow.

With input from other parents who have traveled with their babies too, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to travel with a baby along with practical tips based on our experiences on how to choose the perfect baby-friendly holiday destinations. 

Just because you have a new baby doesn’t mean you have to be stuck at home. Now is a great time to make memories with your little one and travel the world!

It might not always be easy to travel with a baby, but in my opinion, it is always worth any challenges.

Here is a list of the best baby-friendly countries to visit to ensure your trip will run as smoothly as possible.

27 Best Places to Travel with a Baby in the World

Wondering where to travel with your baby?

We love traveling with our baby as we scout out the best places to visit with an infant.

In our opinion, the best countries to visit with a baby in USA, Australia, South Africa, Japan, Italy, and the UK, but you can find more ideas on our list down below.

But first! Sign up for our ‘Wanderlust Storytellers Family Tribe’ newsletter to get loads of helpful information about how to travel with a baby! 

1. Tuscany, Italy

For one of the best holiday destinations with a baby or even older kids, head to beautiful Italy!

Children are adored in this country, and you will find that Italians will often go out of their way to help parents. And expect them, to come to say hello to your little ones too.

Italy is one of the best places to go on holiday with a baby. It is easy to find some beautiful family-friendly accommodation options.

We chose Tuscany for our list because it has plenty of stroller-friendly destinations.

I recommend you choose either Florence or Lucca for a home base. Both cities are great for strollers, although we recommend a stroller with large cushioned wheels to handle bumpy or cobble-stone roads.

Florence has plenty of playgrounds for older babies and toddlers, and the restaurants typically can prepare a small plate for younger kids or a simple pasta dish (when Avie was a toddler, she often had simple pasta and butter).

If you decide on Florence, be sure to have a look at the best neighborhood to stay in Florence .

You can also find many beautiful small towns scattered through Tuscany that will allow you to explore this region of Italy without the masses of tourists.

Recommended attractions in Tuscany that you should see with your baby include the Leaning Tower of Pisa and The Boboli Gardens.

If time permits, you should also visit Capo Sant’Andrea on Elba Island (make sure to take baby beach shoes if you are planning to spend some time on the beach).

Personally speaking, Italy is arguably the best place to travel with baby options for us so far, as well as one of the best baby-friendly travel destinations and baby-friendly countries.

• Bring your baby carrier along, as you will often find stairs at the main attractions in Italy.
• Always have a baby change mat on hand, as change tables in public restrooms are rare.
• You can rent a stroller in Italy, and check out sites such as TravelBaby.It and BabyGuest.com.
• Pre-book your taxi online , that way, you can request a baby car seat for the transfer as well.

Where to Stay in Tuscany with a Baby:

We recommend basing yourselves in either Florence or Lucca (cheaper) and then planning your day trips from there.

Best Place to Stay in Florence with a Baby:

• Best Hotel: For a fantastic stay I would choose  MyFlorenceHoliday Gold Bridge . Their family room includes a cot and high chair and has a kitchen area where you can prepare bottles etc. The hotel is located 100 meters from Ponte Vecchio.
• Best VRBO: I love The Time Machine apartment which is located next to Palazzo Vecchio. It has 2 bedrooms and includes a travel crib, high chair, and dishes & utensils for kids- it also has a lift to the apartment which is on the second level.

Best Place to Stay in Lucca with a Baby:

• Best Hotel: The 4-Star Hotel Ilaria has a triple room that includes a cot. This popular hotel is located in the historic centre of Lucca.

Further Reading:

• Visit Tuscany with Kids (Tips and Information)
• See our full blog post with helpful information about traveling to Italy with a baby
• Watch our Video on YouTube: Italy with a Baby or Toddler .
• Florence with Kids

Wondering where to travel with a baby in Asia?  Japan is one of the best places to travel with an infant in Asia.

This destination is very baby-friendly. You can easily choose from some of these great destinations in Japan perfect for first-timers .

“ Baby Cafes ” located throughout Tokyo have childproof areas and food for mom and dad to purchase.

There are also family rooms throughout (mainly in the larger supermarkets) around, the larger cities where moms can nurse or change their babies.

Baby supplies are available from pharmacies, and let’s not forget how clean the country is (you won’t see rubbish anywhere!).

• Bring your baby carrier along and leave your stroller at home.
• You will typically find beautiful baby rooms in the larger supermarkets.
• Public restrooms should have change tables and a parent-friendly toilet with a baby highchair, so you have somewhere to pop baby while you do your business.
• Choose Airbnb over small hotel rooms.
• For toddlers, we can highly recommend some popular theme parks such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan.

READ MORE: See our helpful post on how to visit Japan with a baby

3. London, England

London is one of the best places to travel in Europe with a baby.

This city has parent rooms and changing facilities readily available, making it a great place to visit with a baby.

Many sights can easily be accessed by public transportation or on foot. We love how easy the city is to navigate with a stroller; simply use the   step-free Tube map to navigate the underground with your stroller.

Breastfeeding in public is accepted and considered perfectly normal. Children under five can travel for free on public transport, and there are plenty of family-friend restaurants.

If your bubs is a bit older, he/she might also really enjoy outings to a  baby disco, one of the children ‘s  theatres, the city farms, zoos, or a day out at one of the many parks.

• Top 10 Things to do in London with Kids
• Make sure you download NCT’s Babychange app, which will show you all the baby-changing facilities in your vicinity, and the Wowmum app, which lists baby change areas, as well as child-friendly activities, parks, and more.
• Book your taxi online. Book Taxi London is a reliable website that you can use to quickly and easily book your taxi (you can even select to have a car seat for your little one)!

After one of the most affordable places to visit with your baby?

With rice paddies, waterfalls, beaches, and great people, Bali certainly has it all.

This dreamy vacation is very baby-friendly, and nannies or babysitters are super affordable.  You can also very easily rent baby gear and equipment for super low prices if you need them.

Hotels and resorts will be equipped with baby cots and high chairs, and with a bit of effort, you can also pre-book transfers with baby car seats.

Avoid Kuta and head to more family-friendly areas such as Canggu, Ubud, Legian, Jimbaran, or Nusa Lembongan.

We love to combine some time in Ubud to soak up the peaceful rice paddy atmosphere with some luxury and relaxation at one of the beachside areas such as Canggu or Jimbaran.

Bali might be the best place to travel with a baby for those living in Australia.

• Bring your baby carrier along and leave your stroller behind
• Always have a baby change mat on hand
• Book a cheap nanny to tag along with you on your outings
• Pre-book your transfers if you wish to have a baby car seat
• Don’t forget to bring along your  sun tent for baby , as well as some handy and essential  beach items for baby

5. Tulum, Mexico

One of the best travel destinations with a baby if you are after some beautiful beaches and warm weather. This city can make for a very relaxing vacation.

Many family-friendly beaches and hotels accommodate those traveling with babies, as they often provide cribs and strollers.

If you are wondering if it is safe to travel to Mexico with a baby, you will be glad to know that it is.

What you will need to consider is taking enough baby formula if you are not breastfeeding your little one as the variety of formula available is limited.

If you do use baby formula, make sure to use bottled water when making your baby’s milk.

If you do take a baby stroller, take one that can fold up and will fit easily into any taxi that you may take whilst on holiday.

If you are planning on venturing out and about, a baby carrier is a great choice as you will be hands-free, and is perfect for any hikes are strolls on the beach.

Top places to visit include Sian Ka’an Biosphere and Playa Paraiso.  Mexico offers some of the best baby-friendly travel destinations for those in the USA.

6. Chicago, Illinois

One of the best places to travel to with a baby in the United States is Chicago. This city is so baby friendly making it hands down one of the best cities to travel with a baby and one of the best travel destinations with baby options.

The great thing about Chicago is that it has a ton of baby sights, attractions, and tours to enjoy.

Taking your baby out and about during the day is great for you and the baby and in Chicago, they celebrate that.

The town of Chicago has free stroller tours at some of the area’s major museums, including The Field Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago, and The Museum of Contemporary Art.

Besides the museums, you can also visit the Shedd Aquarium and Navy Pier.

If you are explicitly wondering where to travel with a newborn, this would be one of our top picks.

7. Montreal, Canada

After stroller-friendly places to visit with a baby? One of the nice things about Montreal is that it’s very stroller-friendly.

Numerous kid-friendly festivals occur throughout the year. Popular attractions include Jean-Talon Farmer’s Market, Clock Tower Beach, and The Botanical Gardens.

If you visit Montreal outside of these festivals do not worry because there is still lots to do. Experience much of the cultural scene in Montreal by visiting many of the galleries and museums. Kids under 12 can go free to many of these local Montreal attractions.

In summer there are many parks and open green spaces that you can enjoy as a family. Enjoy a picnic and the many playgrounds that can be found in the parks.

Montreal boasts a large variety of baby-friendly and welcoming cafes and restaurants, so when it comes to enjoying a bite to eat, you and your baby can relax.

8. Tasmania, Australia

Definitely, one of the most baby-friendly countries to visit.

Australia is another brilliant country to visit with a baby. While there are many baby-friendly places to travel to in Australia, we love Tasmania.

This Australian state is an excellent destination for children of all ages. You can easily find high chairs in restaurants, which typically have special kids’ menus to keep toddlers happy.

You can easily find all baby supplies in small or large grocery stores. Hotels have cots available (typically free of charge), and destinations are all stroller-friendly.

One of the nice things about Tasmania is that you don’t have to haul a stroller with you on your flight if you don’t want to because plenty of stroller rentals are available.

Many activities here are nature-based, including a visit to the Bay of Fires and Russell Falls. A great activity during the summer months is to head to one of the beautiful sandy beaches for some much-needed relaxation.

9. Wales, United Kingdom

Wales is another one of the best places to travel with a baby in Europe!  People love babies in Wales and will bend backward to ensure you enjoy your time here as much as possible.

Hotels will provide everything from cribs to baby gates and can even recommend babysitting services if you need some alone time. Good places to visit with your baby include Cardiff Castle, Tenby Harbour, and Bodnant Garden.

When you are out and about enjoying the lush Welsh countryside, be sure to take a baby carrier with you.

If you plan to spend more time exploring the Welsh villages and towns, a baby stroller will definitely come in handy. If you can, a stroller that folds up compactly is best as you are guaranteed it will be able to travel in your taxi.

10. San Diego, California

This is one of the most baby-friendly destinations on the list. There are a lot of boardwalks, walking trails, and plenty of beaches.

If you take a stroller with you when you travel to San Diego with a baby, you will be able to move around with ease.

If you are looking for some great baby-friendly activities then a visit to the Birch Aquarium, Mission Beach & Boardwalk, or the San Diego Botanic Garden are all great choices.

Be sure to also make your way to the San Diego Zoo. This huge zoo has so much to see and do and is a huge amount of fun for everyone.

If you visit during warmer months, be sure to pack sunblock and a swimming costume so you can take a dip at the many beaches.

Pack some kids’ beach toys or grab a set from one of the local shops on the boardwalk as all kids love to play in water and sand and most of all build sandcastles.

For kids big and small, head to Legoland which is under an hour’s drive from San Diego. The best part about the rides at Legoland resorts is that they do not have height restrictions so even the shortest of visitors can enjoy the rides when visiting.

Is it any surprise that Hawaii happens to be one of the best places to vacation with a baby? This island is a dream vacation for many due to the many resorts that cater to families.

So it is probably no surprise that Hawaii happens to be one of the best places to vacation with a baby!

If you do not want to explore the island and just need to relax and take it easy, then staying at your beach resort is great as you can lunge around the pool or on the beach.

Head to the beach for some sand and fun and when baby is tired and ready for a nap, the room is only a short walk away. If you want to do an activity that is a bit more strenuous, many of the resorts do offer activities at the resort that you can enjoy.

The best way to get around this island is with a rental car. You will be able to see plenty of amazing sights that will allow you to take unforgettable pictures of yourself and your baby.

Exploring Hawaii by car also means that your baby can take a nap when traveling and not be tired to enjoy the sights.

Baby-friendly places include Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail and Valley of the Temples.

12. Cape Town, South Africa

Not many people associate good places to travel with a baby, including South Africa. However, those who’ve been to Cape Town know it’s one of the best places to visit with a baby or even older kids.

Cape Town is also one of the best cities to visit with a baby because baby facilities are readily available everywhere.

There are plenty of picturesque views and things to do, visiting the penguins, heading out on a boat to see the seals, or having a picnic in a vineyard.

If you want to travel around Cape Town then make sure to rent a car. Many places that you will visit may be an hour or so drive out of the City center.

You do not need to take a car seat with you as many of the car rental companies will be able to offer you car seat rental.

Cape Town is known for its many wine farms. If you think that visiting is not great for kids, you will be pleased to know that many of the wine farms cater to all ages, with most offering children their own version of a “wine-tasting menu “with treats and kids’ drinks.

Nearly everywhere you visit a baby chair will be available to use. Most wine farms have play parks for kids to enjoy with swings, slides, and jungle gyms. If you are traveling with older kids.

Head to one of the many beaches, the most renowned being Camps Bay and enjoy a sunset picnic.

You can find our full guide on how to travel South Africa with a baby here. We visited South Africa with our youngest and two older kids and spent 5 weeks exploring various parts of the country and we loved it!

Further Reading

• Grab some ideas of what to do in Cape Town with kids here.

13. Taipei, Taiwan

Another popular destination for family travelers in Taiwan. This destination is very safe and the people of Taiwan are very welcoming of babies and children.

Many places in Taiwan have mothers’ rooms, similar to those found in Japan, but this city is a great place to travel with a baby because of its many attractions.

Unlike other places, you can easily strap a baby into a stroller and walk around, as the terrain isn’t tough to maneuver making it super easy to get around and explore.

This allows families to see a lot of exciting sights like Longshan Temple or Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.

The city of Taipei is exciting and colorful and at night looks a lot like Times Square in New York.

Head to the 101 Building which cannot be missed when you arrive in the city. You can go up this building and it is strongly recommended to buy tickets in advance rather than queuing.

Head out of the city and you will find the Silver Stream Cave which is a temple carved into the rock face behind a stunning waterfall. The nerve-wracking walk-up is definitely worth the trek and be sure to pack a baby carrier for this to make the walk easy.

Belize is one of the most baby and kid-friendly places to visit. It has so many different attractions and activities that everyone can enjoy.

One of the other biggest perks for families visiting here is its affordability.

The country is also English-speaking, so you don’t have to worry about the need to whip out your language translator while trying to balance a baby on your hip.

There are a lot of great places to take your little one in this country, including the Blue Morpho Butterfly Farm and the Mayan Ruins.

If your trip to Belize is to have some downtime and not be out and about too much, be sure to stay at one of the many resorts that offer guests all they need from horseback riding to pools and a health spa.

You can easily find what you need in the stores in Belize however if your baby is drinking formula, it is best to take your own with you as you may not be able to find the same make in Belize.

15. Ecuador

Ecuador may not be the first place you think of when traveling a with baby however you will find that this country is very welcoming of children and is affordable for a family vacation.

Ecuador is one of the best places to visit in South America, so you can’t go wrong with this destination!

The safest way to get around Ecuador is by renting a vehicle. Although there is a lot of public transport like taxis and buses, seatbelts are not always readily available and the maneuvers that the drivers take along the winding roads are quite hair-raising!

When it comes to mealtimes and feeding, you will be pleased to know that breastfeeding is very acceptable and normal. If you need baby formula, this is readily available however you may not find your usual brand.

The terrain is challenging to get around with a stroller, so you will need to use a baby carrier instead. You can even take a backpack carrier as this will be the easiest way to get around and carry your baby.

It’s worth exploring the city as much as possible with your baby as there’s a lot to see. This includes The Otavalo Indigenous Market and the Manabi Coast.

It can get pretty noisy at night too so you may want to bring along something to create white noise. Top tip – book hotels and places to stay that is away from main roads to help reduce the noise at night.

Wondering where to travel with your baby in Greece?

Those who visit Greece can tell pretty quickly that the culture is family-oriented. Often children can eat free at restaurants, stay free at hotels and ride public transportation for free.

While we recommend you leave the cliff-top towns such as Santorini for another year, you could visit many other beautiful destinations in Greece with your baby in tow. 

There are many islands that you can visit in Greece offering you and your baby warm beaches to enjoy like the infamous Mykonos.

Another great place to visit in Greece is Crete and the great thing is that this is not the first place most people think of visiting in Greece.

This makes it a great destination as it is not crowded and Crete also has a range of activities to do with kids.

Greece is also a very safe place to visit so it is a definite for any family vacation. If you want to explore by walking, a stroller may be difficult to use so a baby carrier may be best. Or a stroller with larger wheels will be ok.

Make sure you and your baby visit the Plaka District of Athens and The Castles Of Rhodes.

How To Get Around

Of course, the best way to get around Rhodes is with the locals. Get your local Rhodes taxi here.

And if you are staying in Athens (check out our list of the best hotels with rooftop pools in Athens here ), the best way to get around town is by taxi! Book your taxi here !

• The Best Places to Visit on a Family Holiday To Crete
• Where to visit in Greece for first-timers

17. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is full of incredible sights to explore; it would be a shame not to discover the elegant harbors because you have a baby. Instead, Stockholm is one of the best places to travel with a baby.

One of the best things about Stockholm is that you can walk almost everywhere. It is an incredibly safe city and is the perfect size for a family to explore.

Sweden is one of the best places in Europe to visit with kids , because there are plenty of age-appropriate entertainment spots, such as;

• Old Town – the quaint part of town with fantastic toy stores
• Vasparken – a massive park with a lovely playground
• Skansen – a giant ocean-air museum and zoo

It is a legal requirement for all city buses to ensure space for wheelchairs for disabled people and prams for children. This makes it easy to get around if you push a stroller.

A trip to Stockholm is one of the best baby-friendly vacations you can plan.

Tip: One of the best ways to check out Stockholm is from the water. Take a look at our list of best Stockholm boat tours here.

The USA is one of the best baby-friendly vacation spots in the world. There are so many different places in the USA that it is a hard choice of where to go when visiting the USA with a baby and young children.

Washington, DC, is such a vibrant, beautiful city, and it promises to be a memorable and enjoyable experience for the whole family. It is an icon of democracy, full of history and progressive happenings.

There is so much to see and do – a lot of which is free. The best time to visit Washington, DC, with your baby is during spring (March to May), as the temperature is pleasant, with the pink cherry blossoms blooming around early April.

Avoid July and August, which can get uncomfortably hot and cause your baby to fuss.

The city has an excellent public transport system, making getting around easy. While the law doesn’t require car seats for cabs, you can pre-request one for a taxi or Uber.

Florida is another great place to visit and has so many family-friendly resorts to choose from. Florida is well known for all the amusement parks for toddlers such as Disney World, Magic Kingdom Park, etc.

Your young children and even baby will love the splash pads inside Magic Kingdom

Take a trip to Utah to see Zion National Park. There are short hikes inside the park which will be enjoyable for the whole family.

If you do decide to hike in Zion National Park, make sure to take a baby hiking carrier. Find more tips for visiting Zion National Park with kids here.

The same applies if you visit Colorado and the Rocky Mountain National Park.

North Carolina has many fun activities for the family. There is the North Carolina Zoo which is bound to make your little one smile.

Spend a night or two under the stars in the Uwharrie National Forest. There are many activities that you can do from swimming to fishing and boating. Make sure that you put safety first and use life vests for water sports and activities.

If you happen to travel to New York, make sure to take a stroll around central park. It is perfect for walking with a baby stroller or baby carrier.

19. Reykjavik, Iceland

Due to the chilly temperatures, Reykjavik and the rest of Iceland are often overlooked when deciding where to travel with a baby.

However, the city is breathtakingly beautiful, and if you bundle up your baby, you can enjoy the Northern Lights, geothermal hot springs, and fascinating history without the fuss!

Boasting surreal landscapes and fascinating natural phenomena, your little one may be lucky enough to capture a memory.

Reykjavik is fast becoming a trendy tourist destination, so there have been increased tour options. Many of these tours are family-friendly and remove all the fuss when planning your trip.

Make sure you pack in a few extra warm goodies, and you and your baby are good to go.

20. Runaway Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica is known as a paradise getaway, and no reason having a baby should change this experience. Runaway Island in Jamaica prioritizes an atmosphere of relaxation and is one of the top places to travel with a baby.

As a fabulous family vacation destination, Runaway Bay boasts many villas, resorts, and accommodation options focused on the family. Many of these resorts offer family-sized rooms that can comfortably sleep up to three children.

Many of these resorts also help arrange the services of a nanny or babysitter to help you better relax on the beach. Some resorts even have a baby club where trusted employees mind your child during nap time.

If we can give you one little piece of advice, it’s to pack a lot of sunblock (keeping in mind that babies under six months can’t use sunblock). Chances are, your little one will enjoy the sun, sand, and clear waters as much as you.

21. Cascais, Portugal

Cascais is a quaint village in Portugal full of culture, history, and, most importantly, families. The laid-back destination promises one of the best vacations with infants possible.

There is a tangible warmth in the air reflected in the locals’ cheery expressions, and it is sure to be a holiday you will never forget.

If you don’t choose to push your stroller on the wide, open streets, you can be comforted that child seats in taxis are not mandatory, making taxi cabs easily accessible.

There is a wide selection of parks, calm beaches, and historical sites to explore. One thing to remember is that the rich traditions in the seaside village mean that local restaurants don’t necessarily serve chicken nuggets and the like.

However, if your baby wants to venture from their formula, you can rest assured that the local food isn’t particularly spicy and generally quite soft.

22. Vail, Colorado

Vail, Colorado, is one of the best places to travel with a baby.

The breathtaking images of gorgeous mountains, vast open spaces, and reflecting lakes may make you think Vail is better suited to adults; however, that assumption couldn’t be further from the truth.

There is an entire baby brand named ‘Travel Vail Baby’, which serves as proof of how excellent the destination is for infant-friendly vacations.

The baby and toddler equipment rental company provides cribs, strollers, high chairs, hiking backpacks, and bouncy seats (among many other items) to help parents enjoy Vail’s jagged peaks and slopes.

When ascending to higher altitudes, your baby should be fine, as babies older than three months old adjust to altitude much better than adults.

Handy Tip: The Vail Public Library has incredibly fun baby storytime!

23. Barcelona, Spain

A trip to Barcelona with your baby is a sure way to begin stimulating their creativity from a young age.

From the eccentric design of the Gaudi buildings to the intricate stained glass windows of the cathedrals, your baby will be so busy absorbing the environment that they’ll have little time to cry.

If you want to make the most of your time in Barcelona, travel in the summer when you can enjoy the multiple parks and outdoors. Babies are often happier and more relaxed when moving about.

With so many sights and attractions, you can be sure your little one will be happy as a clam.

Top tip: Make sure to pack a sling or baby carrier. The streets in Barcelona are cobbled, and the bumps could make your baby uncomfortable.

24. Nice, France

Nice is a romantic and magical destination filled with bustling alleyways, quaint little shops, and outdoor restaurants.

One of the best parts about traveling to Nice, France, with a baby is the excellent promenade which offers surreal views while pushing a buggy.

As Nice is such a popular tourist destination, you’ll find that the hospitality industry accommodates babies.

From heating bottles to providing changing facilities, you can visit Nice quickly without any baby hassles.

The French Riviera offers sun, sea, and delectable food; it would be a shame to miss out on this. The charming city is easy to travel to with a baby, especially if you follow our tips on how to travel through France with a baby .

25. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is one of the most accessible places to visit with a baby. The cosmopolitan city has a lot to offer the entire family and caters to its attractions.

In addition to fantastic shopping, music, and food experiences, there are a lot of free and budget attractions to enjoy.

Seoul has plenty of indoor playgrounds, known as Kids’ cafes that are great for toddlers under two years old. These are a great option during the extreme seasons when the weather can be icy or uncomfortably hot.

The city’s very efficient public transportation system and a wide variety of family-friendly accommodation options make day-to-day living in Seoul very easy.

If you prefer to walk, you’ll be pleased to know that Seoul is also fairly stroller friendly.

One piece of advice is to not breastfeed in public. The Koreans don’t make a habit of the practice, so choosing to do so will attract unwanted attention.

Although there are baby nursing stations in larger subway stations, department stores, and restaurants.

26. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin City and the rolling green hills surrounding the area are on the top of many people’s bucket lists – for a good reason.

There is a stunning culture of friendliness in the city, and the beautiful design of the city mimics the breathtaking landscapes on the outskirts.

Dublin is well-supplied with formula, food, nappies, and clothing for your little one. Most restaurants will go as far as to prepare a bowl for your child and offer high chairs and baby-changing facilities.

Getting around Dublin is very easy. In addition to speaking English, the city is also easy to navigate, and baby car seats are available for a small additional cost. There is even a child-friendly taxi service .

There are many baby-friendly activities to discover in the city, including live Irish music performances.

Be aware that Dublin has quite a vibrant pub culture, and while children are allowed in the pubs and bars during the day, they are not legally allowed entry after 9 pm.

27. Thailand

Thailand is such a great destination to travel with a baby as it is so baby friendly. We love traveling to Thailand and have done it many times with our daughter when she was a baby and a toddler.

The Thai people and culture are so welcoming it makes this country a perfect destination for families who want to travel to a beach destination with a baby.

Another perk is that there are quite a few 4+ star hotels that are more than willing to accommodate your baby’s needs.

Many of them include indoor pools and even water parks. If you are after great cultural travel destinations with a baby, you can’t look further than Thailand. Here is a list of the best resorts on Koh Samui for families .

Some of the best places and great destinations to travel with a baby in Thailand are Khao Lak, Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui .

How to Choose Infant-Friendly Holiday Destinations

Wondering how to choose the best place to travel with an infant? Find below some of our requirements when we decide where to travel next.

1. Is the Transportation Safe?

An important consideration when we choose holiday destinations with our baby is whether transportation will be safe for our little one.

For example, you might consider whether taxis and private transfers offer infant travel car seats. 

If they don’t, it might be best if you rent a car and add a child car seat onto the rental costs, or you might prefer to bring your own – find a post on the best infant travel car seats to travel with here.

(However, it is essential to check if your car seat can be adequately secured in a different country as they all have different systems to install car seats).

How safe are these to use if you plan to take public transport? Some countries are crazy when it comes to driving.

Think about what you are comfortable with and choose the best vacation that ticks your boxes.

2. Is the Climate Baby-Friendly?

Look at the average temperatures and how much rain the destination will get at the time of year you plan to visit.

We made the mistake of traveling to Asia during their hot season, and our baby developed a heat rash from the constant heat; it made life more challenging than it needed to be as she was unhappy and pretty grumpy.

We also went to Japan when it was freezing, and it was tricky to keep our little baby warm and snug in the temperature.

3. Keep Travel Time Short

Keep flight time as short as you can. It is much easier to fly with a newborn who sleeps a lot, in comparison to a baby who has just become mobile.

It might be a good idea to pick infant-friendly travel destinations closer to home.

An 8-hour flight overseas might be okay, but a 15-hour long-haul flight will be much more challenging (If you are traveling long-haul, you might appreciate our long-haul flight checking list for babies ).

So while we list baby-friendly holidays from around the world in our list below, it will be essential to consider the ones closer to your home.

Also, think about how long your transfers are once you land, and keep your travel days nice and short so that there is plenty of downtime for your baby.

4. Which Countries Are Safe?

The best countries to travel to with a baby are the ones that are safe for little kids. Have a look to see if there is any unrest in the destination you will be visiting.

Look at which vaccines you might have to get (and whether your baby can even get them).

It might be best to avoid rural and remote areas of a country until your baby is a bit older.

We visited Bali when our daughter was only six weeks old, but we stayed clear of the monkey forests and spent a lot more time on hotel grounds than we would typically have done to keep the trip safe for her.

5. Consider Health Care

Think about the amenities and healthcare facilities you would typically be comfortable with at home.

Are there good hospitals, and will the medical staff be able to understand you?

6. Baby Facilities

Another thing that will make traveling with a baby easier is choosing a destination with baby facilities readily available.

Can you find hotels that have baby cots available? You might prefer to travel with a crib; you can find our top recommendations for a lightweight travel crib here.

Are high chairs available in restaurants, and are there baby change rooms?

If not, you can always travel with your own high chair – find a post on the best high chair for travel here.

You can also find a list of all our recommendations for baby travel gear to make your life easier while on holiday here.

Consider how easy it will be to purchase baby diapers, formulae, baby food, or baby medication.

If you have to travel with baby food, you can find a post about TSA baby food and formulae rules here.

Also, think about your baby’s age; the best places to travel with a newborn will not be the same as the best places to travel with a 1-year-old, because a 1-year-old is mobile.

If your baby is at the age where they are eating and drinking water, it is also essential to consider how safe the water and food are to eat in the country you are visiting.

Hopefully, all the tips above are helpful and will guide you to choose one of the best baby-friendly holiday destinations from our guide below.

Jolene’s Pro Tips for Traveling with an Infant

• Do it your way: People seem to think that if you go somewhere and you stay in your resort you are doing it wrong! But there is nothing wrong with a holiday with your baby where you do nothing but stay on the resort grounds.
• Have plenty of time to rest: Everything needs to happen slower when you travel with a baby. Plan to have only half days of exploring and half a day to relax, plan to have relax days after big travel days.
• Stay longer in one hotel: Our baby took a few days to adjust to a new hotel/crib. Which meant we had a few rough nights before she settled back into sleeping better. So we learned to stay in one spot for at least 5+ nights.
• Beach vs City trips: We personally found it much easier to go on a beach vacation in comparison to exploring towns and cities in a country. Life moves slower on islands and so that is where we prefer to be with our baby.
• What works for someone else might not work for you: Babies are all different, just because someone else had an incredible road trip holiday with their baby, does not mean your road trip will go smoothly. Our baby hated the car and the stroller, so road trips or days exploring all day long in a stroller were not fun for anyone!

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Vacation With A Baby

So hopefully, if you have been wondering where to travel with an infant, you have made a list of the best holiday destinations with a baby you would love to visit.

The best destination with a baby will be different for each of us as it depends on your current location, as well as what sort of current baby ‘comforts’ you might be used to.

Most parents feel most comfortable when they choose destinations that offer the same level of baby care as the country where they live.

Ultimately you can travel anywhere in the world with a baby; after all, babies are born in each country worldwide.

But the most comfortable holiday where you will be less stressed out will be the country that matches your current baby’s facilities, amenities, and healthcare standards.

And as a last resort, go with your gut instinct. If the destination doesn’t feel right, it might be best to leave it until your child is older.

• Wondering what to take along on your trip? Here is our guide to handy travel accessories for baby that you should take on your holiday.
• First time flying with your baby? Grab our top tips on how to survive your flight with an infant .
• Wondering whether you should take a car seat on your flight? Here is a handy guide to help you decide .

Leave us a Comment:

• Which of these destinations on our best countries to travel with a baby list do you want to see the most?
• Can you add other best places to holiday with a baby?

Jolene Ejmont

20 thoughts on “27 best places to travel with a baby (safe + baby-friendly)”.

Hi, totally understand where you are coming from, but we visited Bali, Lombok and Gili Islands with our 2-month-old baby and her normal vaccines that she needs to get anyways was sufficient to keep her safe. And that was on doctor’s advice. We have also just visited Vietnam (she is 2 now) and again her normal routine vaccines was enough for her to go. Always best to choose a destination that you are comfortable visiting though and make sure you pop into your travel doctor for advice as well.

I would add Reykjavik

Oh Great tip Ana! Can you tell me why you found it baby friendly? 🙂

I love this! You guys have had some pretty awesome places – all the pictures are simply beautiful. That has to be one of the most memorable, not many people get to say that they have accomplished that! Great Job! and one more question How difficult is it to travel with a 2 month old baby?

A 2-month-old is EASY 🙂 They sleep a lot, they fall asleep anywhere and when they cry you can breastfeed. The hard months arrive once a baby is mobile.

Very interesting article about traveling of the baby. The traveling helps a baby to grow their physical and mental health. Baby strollers and prams are essential things during travel. Thank you for your well-written article.

Thanks for your comment Donna. Do you have a favorite destination that you love visiting with your baby?

I love to travel with my baby. Very interesting & informative post. Just lovely. Thanks a lot for sharing.

We traveled with our 7 month old to Florence and Tuscany and had an amazing time. People are incredibly friendly and helpful. If you get an Airbnb be careful for stairs!

Hi Matt, we love Italy because Italians love our kids! 🙂 We are actually heading to Italy for a 13 week trip early in 2019 – so excited!! Great tip with the stairs, I think it is important to ask that question in all European countries.

Great article. Thanks for sharing this post about best places to travel with baby. It’s very informative and helpful.

Korea is also really great for young children. Lots of kids’ cafes, people love children, most people in the big cities speak at least some English, safe, clean and quite cheap (compared to Japan).

Autumn (September/October) is the best time to come, summer is too hot, winter is too cold and there is often dirty air in spring. The autumn leaves are beautiful and sky is usually blue. The best area to visit is Gangwondo, to the north east.

Thanks for all those wonderful tips 🙂

I would suggest Portugal as well. People there love babies. If you’re pregnant or have a baby you have priority anywhere, from the queue at the supermarket to being seated at a restaurant. The country is beautiful, especially if you don’t just stay in the hyper touristy places like Algarve. Alentejo has great beaches and skies that go on forever and the further up North you go the cheaper it is, with some great hidden gems for both culture and nature.

Brilliant! Thanks for sharing and for giving some info on why you found it to be perfect for babies! We have actually had a few recommendations of Portugal, so might have to add it to the list 🙂

Jolene thank you for your list, we waiting for our baby and looking forward to starting travel with our boy.

Glad you like the info. Hope you have a great time once you can travel again 🙂 All best.

Thank you for the comment. Much appreciated it!

Thank you for the comment

Hi! Great post! Where would you recommend to travel with a 6 month old in December (internationally)? We would like the weather to be around 70F if possible as we are traveling from Minnesota and crave warmer weather in the winter months. Thanks!

Comments are closed.

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How to travel with your baby and use parental leave for a vacation.

F or those who love to travel, parenthood may feel like the end. The extra hassle, expense and disruption to routine make even the most passionate travelers think twice. But for parents fortunate enough to get parental leave, it’s a unique opportunity to celebrate their new arrival with a once-in-a-lifetime family trip . It’s often the longest break you can get from work, but is it ok to use it to travel with a baby? Is it safe to take your baby away, and is it too stressful?

Although the United States is one of the only developed countries without mandated parental leave, it’s a popular employee benefit. According to researchers at the Washington Center for Equitable Growth, over half of employers (55 percent) now offer paid maternity leave and 45 percent offer paid paternity leave. We spoke to three families who took advantage of this time away from the office to travel with their kids and despite the perceived challenges, here’s how they pulled it off.

Grab the chance to make memories with your new family

Lee Turner Friedman, a working mom of two from Washington D.C, says: “Maternity leave isn’t a vacation, but it is a nice break from work. Getting out of the chaos of your own house gives you a really nice way to bond with your baby.”

Friedman, who works at a law firm, had five months of leave and used one week for a trip to the Caribbean with three other families who also had babies.

Photo: Lee Turner Friedman

“We bought these Integra baby carriers that were waterproof and we went to this beautiful beach in the Caribbean,” Lee remembers. “The baby was asleep on me, I had a cocktail in my hand and I felt like: I can do this!”

The memorable experience inspired Lee to launch her own travel business, Mango Tree Travel , to help other families plan trips together.

Babies are actually easier to travel with than older kids

You might assume babies are hard to travel with, but in my experience, the opposite is true. Not only is it possible to take a baby on a long trip, but it’s also a lot of fun.

Photo: Karen Ni Eadbhard

Karen Ni Eadbhard, who works as a director in Abu Dhabi and runs the travel blog Travel Mad Mum , is a veteran of maternity leave travel, taking trips with all four of her babies.

“With my first baby I definitely got scared to leave once the time came, but that trip was incredible for bonding and making special memories,” she says.

Eadbhard and her husband traveled around southeast Asia with their first child and drove the pan American highway from Canada to Argentina with their second. “This was the most incredible trip, passing through the entire West Coast of the US, all of Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Argentina. This was the best trip ever!”

Currently, Eadbhard and her family are enjoying another stint of maternity leave with her twins in Switzerland.

“First and second time I did this, I was much more daring and didn’t mind being around lots of people. However, the world has changed so much and this time, traveling in a campervan in the mountains, as much as possible away from groups, seemed right,” she says.

Once you’ve sorted out a passport, the cost of taking a baby with you is fairly minimal. If you fly with them as a lap baby, you’re usually only paying their taxes. Hotels will often offer a crib for free. And as they’re not mobile yet, there is less concern about them getting sick from touching grimy surfaces.

Traveling as a family opens up new experiences

Cassandra Trzebski, who lives in Canada and owns the family travel blog Have Kids Still Traveling , also chose to spend part of her maternity leave away from home. Canadians can take up to a year away from their jobs, split between the parents.

They decided to use six weeks traveling together as a new family. Cassandra and her husband had Thailand in their sights “mostly for our love of Thai food,” she says, but decided to add Cambodia and Hong Kong to the itinerary too.

Photo: Cassandra Trzebski

Friends and family thought they were crazy for taking a child so young and questioned what a baby would get out of the trip. Trzebski says she did have some trepidation about traveling with a baby.

“One thing that kept popping up was that restaurants didn’t have high chairs, instead the waiters and waitresses would hold your baby for you while you ate,” says Trzebski. She was nervous about strangers wanting to hold her son.

But after arriving in Thailand and seeing how friendly the locals were, she relaxed.

“By the end of the trip, our son had visited the back of many kitchens and received lots of free food.”

The challenges of traveling with a baby

That’s not to say there aren’t challenges to traveling with a baby. “Packing was like a logic game,” says Friedman. “I definitely spent a lot of time on blogs figuring out how to take stuff with me.”

“The biggest challenge is packing up home and renting it,” says Eadbhard, who took the longest trip. “It’s like leaving a safe cocoon.”

While all these families took very different trips during their maternity leave, they all said the same thing: travel helped with the adjustment to their new roles as parents and brought more benefits than they expected.

“There is something about being away from home, no dishes to do, no laundry, no work and no other household chores. All your time is spent bonding as a family,” Trzebski says.

“I think it allows for an incredible time as a family to be together and although the kids might not remember it, the adults do, and that’s OK,” Eadbhard adds.

I also discovered this on my own trip overseas when my son was born. I loved travel before he came along and was worried I would have to leave that part of my life behind once I became a mother.

But the trans-Atlantic trip to see friends and family when he was just four months was magical and helped me realize I would not have to give travel up at all. We’ve since taken our kids to all kinds of places and never felt like parenthood held us back.

Taking the plunge and traveling on parental leave is difficult, but the hardest part is making the decision to go. Once on the road, everything falls into place, and you can spend your parental leave doing exactly what it is designed for — bonding as a family and making amazing memories together.

Essential tips on travel with a baby

1. apply for a passport as soon as you have the birth certificate.

Passports can take up to 11 weeks to process, or up to seven weeks if you pay to have it expedited. Kids need both parents at the appointment. You can book your flight before you have the passport, just make sure you have enough time to receive it.

When flying with a child under two, you can add your infant as a lap baby. But it’s worth considering buying them their own seat so they can sit in their car seat for the flight. It’s safer, gives you a break, and you don’t have to check your car seat.

2. Research healthcare in the countries you’re visiting

Make sure you take all medications you may require with you – your usual over-the-counter medications may not be available overseas. Find out how the country’s health system works and make sure you have an insurance policy that will cover your family. It’s a good idea to wait until your baby has had their first set of vaccinations to give them some protection from illness.

3. A baby carrier will be more useful than a stroller

Don’t take too much stuff, only bring the absolute essentials on your travel. Strollers take up a lot of space and aren’t much good on cobblestones anyway.

4. Don’t over plan

Build in plenty of time during your days for naps and time for relaxing together as a family. Make sure you have flexibility in your schedule for days when you just don’t feel like doing very much. It’s best to make your own itinerary, as tour groups usually move at a fast pace.

5. If taking an extended trip, pick somewhere with low living costs

For a longer trip, think about countries where your money will stretch further. You could also think about renting out your house while you’re gone to save some cash.

What to pack when traveling with a baby

Here are a few of my favorite essential items, I won’t travel with a baby without.

We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.

Portable booster chair

This booster chair is essential for dining comfortably in restaurants, or anywhere you need to put your baby down. It packs away easily into a bag, so you can bring it wherever you go.

Baby carrier

A comfortable baby carrier should be top of every parent’s list. Pick one with wide, padded straps to spread the weight and a mesh outer layer to allow for good airflow.

Travel crib with a blackout shade

When your little roommate wants to go to bed at 7:00 PM, you don’t want to disturb their precious rest with too much light. Go for a travel crib with a black-out shade , and you won’t have to worry about waking the baby whenever you turn on the light.

Multi pocket diaper backpack

Diaper bags are full of handy compartments to keep everything exactly where you need it, but don’t buy a shoulder bag — think of your back! Backpacks are more ergonomic, and you can stow everything you need for yourself and your baby.

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Here Are the Rules for Flying When You're Pregnant

Whether you're newly pregnant or planning a babymoon right before welcoming your baby, here's what parents-to-be need to know about airline travel during each trimester.

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Expectant parents need to know: Can you fly when pregnant?

While it's mostly OK to travel until the last few weeks of pregnancy, there are some precautions to take depending on when you decide to book a trip and how high risk your pregnancy is. Here's what you need to know before your next vacation.

Pregnancy and Flying: Your Trimester by Trimester Guide

As a general rule of thumb, most airlines will allow pregnant people to fly right up until week 36 of pregnancy, but you should absolutely do your research before booking your flight to check restrictions. You'll also want to consult with your OB-GYN or midwife before traveling—especially if you're at a higher risk for complications during pregnancy.

Before you travel

While you may be accustomed to planning a vacation on a whim or only packing your usual necessities, there's one extra thing you should consider doing before booking a flight during your pregnancy: Opt for travel insurance.

Should travel restrictions change, your health care provider recommends you stay home, or if you experience any concerning symptoms —like bleeding, abdominal pain, swelling, headaches, vision changes, or decreased fetal movement—you'll want to postpone or cancel your plans and see your doctor as soon as possible.

According to the ACOG, travel is not recommended for pregnant people with certain complications like preeclampsia, premature rupture of membranes (PROM), or who are at risk of preterm labor.

First trimester

Flying earlier on in pregnancy is actually considered pretty safe. And, no, metal detectors won't harm your fetus.

"Pregnant women can observe the same basic precautions for air travel as the general public," Raul Artal, M.D., former vice chairman of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Committee on Obstetric Practice, previously told Parents .

One thing pregnant air travelers should take extra precautions to avoid at any trimester? Blood clots, which pregnant people are 7 times more likely to develop—especially during long flights. To help minimize your risk, you can book an aisle seat, walk around every so often, and wiggle your legs and toes while seated.

And since morning sickness and fatigue might be your biggest first trimester complaints, you may want to check with your health care provider about bringing anti-nausea medicine with you.

Second trimester

According to the ACOG, "The best time to travel is mid-pregnancy (14 to 28 weeks). During these weeks, your energy has returned, morning sickness is improved or gone, and you are still able to get around easily. After 28 weeks , it may be harder to move around or sit for a long time."

If you're flying during your second trimester, it's a good idea to stay hydrated, think about wearing support stockings to reduce edema and clot risk, and make sure you've done your research on hospitals located near your destination should an emergency arise.

Carrying twins or more? Your health care provider might recommend you stop traveling earlier due to the higher risk of complications.

Third trimester

How late in pregnancy can you fly? If you're relatively healthy—and not at risk of complications like preterm labor, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or placenta previa—then you're usually OK to travel up until 36 weeks, though some OB-GYNs may prefer you stay closer to your home near the end should you encounter any complications or in case your baby comes sooner than expected.

High-risk patients—and especially those with pregnancy-induced hypertension, diabetes, and sickle-cell disease—may be advised not to fly after 24 weeks—or not at all.

Check with your doctor before traveling at the end of your pregnancy.

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Tips for getting baby back on schedule after travel.

Traveling with a baby requires a lot – a lot of flexibility, a lot of luggage, a lot of patience. Whether you’re traveling for the holidays, to visit family, or just for fun, going away with an infant can take a little bit more planning.

Taking your baby on vacation also requires a bit of acceptance – any change to your baby’s daily routine will likely affect your baby’s sleep schedule. Even if you try hard to keep your baby’s feeding and sleep schedule consistent when traveling and bring along some of the comforts from home, the likelihood of some part of the schedule shifting is inevitable.

In this article, we'll tackle some of the most common questions you may have about getting a baby back on schedule after a vacation, which includes how to help your baby to adjust to a different time zone and whether you need to revisit sleep training when you get home from vacation. We’ll also give you advice straight from sleep consultants on how to get your baby back on schedule after you get home from a trip.

How Does Traveling Impact My Baby’s Sleep?

Any change in your baby’s routine, whether it be a shift in naptime, change in environment, or new time zone, may impact your baby’s sleep schedule. Despite your best efforts to maintain consistency, sometimes even just the excitement of travel can make it harder for your baby to sleep.

Not being in their familiar sleeping space or different sleeping arrangements might also cause some changes to when they sleep.

Travelling with your baby can also lead to some new habits that they may continue to rely on when they get home. For example, if you are sharing a hotel room with your baby, they may become used to you sleeping nearby. Other times, if a strange environment makes it harder for them to settle to sleep and you help them by rocking or feeding them, they may develop a sleep association that’s continued when you get home.

However, as with anything, how travel affects your baby’s sleep schedule differs from little one to little one!

Tips to Help Your Baby Readjust to Their Schedule After Traveling Locally

If your baby’s sleep schedule is thrown after getting back from a vacation, don’t stress –sleep struggles and sleep regressions are normal after traveling. Even if you’re in the same time zone or just gone for a weekend, any disruption to your baby’s normal sleep schedule can be a trigger!

Here are tips for adjusting to getting home: If you were able to keep your baby on the same sleep schedule while on vacation, stick with it! It’s helpful to stay as close as possible to your baby's regular schedule if you’re staying in the same time zone.

If your baby’s sleep schedule shifts during travel though, don’t worry. There are ways to get them back on track quickly.

Slowly Readjust Their Schedule: When you get home you can start by putting them to bed at the same time they slept during your trip. Over the next few days adjust their bedtime by 15 minutes closer to their usual bedtime.

For example: if your baby usually goes to bed at 7:00 PM but goes down closer to 8:30 PM while you are away, continue with an 8:30 PM bedtime on your first night home. The next night try for 8:15 PM and then 8:00 PM the following night. Keep shifting back 15 minutes until you’re back on your schedule pre-travel.

Restart Their Bedtime Routine: A consistent bedtime routine and a calm sleep environment can signal that it’s time for sleep. Getting your baby back on track with their nightly routine is key for helping them readjust to being home from vacation.

Revisit Sleep Training: If you had implemented a sleep training approach before your trip, it can be helpful to reinforce that approach when you get home. Often this helps them get back in the swing of sleep fast. If your baby is still struggling with bedtime after vacation or you want to explore sleep training now that you’re home, the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™ can walk you step-by-step through a sleep training method of your choice to help you get your baby back on track after travel.

How to Return Home from a Different Time Zone with a Baby

Traveling home from east to west time zone with baby.

The first night home, put your baby down for sleep at the same time you put them to sleep while away according to the clocks

The next morning, wake your baby at their normal time, according to their schedule before you went away – the sunlight helps them realign with their circadian rhythm

The second night, shift bedtime a little closer to their usual bedtime before your trip – after a few nights their baby’s bedtime should be back to what it was before your trip

If your trip is longer than a week, some parents choose to start shifting your baby’s bedtime closer to their “home” bedtime a few days before they go home. For shorter trips, it’s often easiest to just wait until you get home.

Traveling home from west to east time zone with baby

The first night home, put your baby down to sleep at the same time you put them to sleep according to their bedtime when they were away. For example, if you live in New York and were visiting California where your baby went to sleep at 7PM PT, when you return home put your baby to sleep at 10PM ET.

The next morning wake them up at their normal wake up time at home. Get them outside – they may be a little cranky but it’ll help them adjust to being home!

That night, put them to sleep about 15 minute to 30 minutes closer to when they usually go to bed. For example, try 9:30PM ET if you were in California.

Continue waking your baby at their usual wake time and putting them to sleep closer to their usual bedtime until all is back to normal.

Do I Need to Sleep Train Again After Travel?

A common question sleep consultants are asked by parents going on vacation with a baby is, “Do I need to sleep train again after travel?”

Regardless of if you are changing time zones or not, if you sleep trained your baby in the past you may find that revisiting that sleep training approach can help your baby readjust to their sleep schedule.

If previously successful, sleep training can quickly remind your baby that it’s bedtime, helping them fall asleep faster and readjust to home after vacation faster.

If you're new to sleep training or interested in learning about what approach may work for your baby and parenting style, take this free 3-minute sleep quiz and get a personalized plan tailored to you.

The Bottom Line

Traveling with a baby can be wonderful – yet stressful. While a disruption to your baby’s sleep schedule may be inevitable when you go on vacation, there are ways to make the readjustment period when you return home easier for both you and your baby.

Don’t let concern of your baby’s sleep schedule while traveling deter you from getting out and exploring the world with them! There are ways to get them back on track when you get back to reality.

How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.

• “Developing circadian rhythmicity in infants,” Pediatrics.
• “Disruption of Circadian Rhythms by Light During Day and Night,” Current Sleep Medicine Reports.
• “The development of circadian rhythms in a human infant,” Sleep.

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Where You Already Belong

Warning: American tourists are being profiled. Don't be one of them.

• Tourists are being profiled like never before.
• Sometimes, it's harmless. For example, you might get the English menu at a restaurant.
• But sometimes, the profiling is deadly. If you're pegged as a tourist in some places, you could get drugged, robbed or even killed.

If it feels like you have a target on your back when you're traveling, you might be right. Tourists are being profiled like never before.

Sometimes, it's harmless. For example, I recently walked into a cafe in Rio de Janeiro. Before I could say "Bom dia," a server handed me two menus – in English. 

How did she know? No matter how hard I try, I look like an American, and when I walk into a restaurant, I smile like an American. So, of course, I get the English menu.

Check out   Elliott Confidential , the newsletter the travel industry doesn't want you to read. Each issue is filled with breaking news, deep insights, and exclusive strategies for becoming a better traveler. But don't tell anyone!

But sometimes, the profiling is deadly. If you're pegged as a tourist in some places, you could get drugged, robbed or even killed. The State Department has issued a warning that numerous U.S. citizens have fallen victim to dating scams in Colombia that can end with them getting seriously hurt – or worse.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

"U.S. citizens should definitely use caution while traveling and try their best not to stick out or be profiled as American while abroad," said John Gobbels, chief operating officer of Medjet , an air medical transport program for travelers.

No one keeps statistics on the number of foreign tourists profiled or killed abroad. But based on the number of new State Department warnings and some of the stories I've been hearing from international travelers, the problem has never been worse.

Although most profiling is just irritating – a hard sell of souvenirs or tip-baiting, for example – some of it can be hazardous. But there are things you can do to avoid being targeted. I'll tell you how in a minute.

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Most profiling is not dangerous – it's just annoying

Reality check: Most tourist profiling is harmless and should come as no surprise to the average traveler.

Ellie Blake was on a tour of Japan with her college alumni association when she began to feel the pressure to buy things. 

"For example, our tour guide took us to a museum shop," she said. "It was a very long stop compared to other sites we visited."

Along the way, the people they met would ask them, "What did you buy?" almost as if they were egging them on to purchase more souvenirs.

Blake believes the tour guides added these shopping breaks because they pegged their group as affluent Americans. It's something I've seen recently in Japan, too. I was on a coastal cruise last summer, and our land tours always seemed to end at a business that sold pricey art.

The solution: Resist the temptation. Better yet, choose a tour where they put the attractions – not the shopping – first. (If you're on a guided tour, always ask about the shopping opportunities. If there are too many, you may want to select another tour.)

Sometimes, the profiling is scary

You can't always walk away. Consider what happened to Ariel Figg recently when she booked a last-minute tour in the Dominican Republic.

One day, the guides detoured to a village, where they took Figg to a gift store filled with trinkets and pressured her to buy local artwork. She refused.

At the end, she offered the guides a generous tip . "They counted the money in front of us, scoffed at our faces, and told us that, as Americans, we should pay more because we can afford it," she said. 

Figg said she should have known better. After all, she's a travel coach , and before taking a last-minute tour, she would have told her clients to research the tour operator carefully. 

I had a similarly awkward moment recently in Santiago, Chile. After having lunch at a small vegetarian restaurant, I stood up to pay. The server brought over a mobile point-of-sale system. She asked me to enter a tip amount in front of her and then tap my card to pay. There was no apparent option for "no tip." 

Figg is right – avoiding this more forceful kind of profiling is easy if you do your homework. I learned my lesson about restaurant tipping in Chile and ordered takeout after that. And Figg will never take a last-minute tour again without doing her homework.

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Profiling can also turn deadly

"Americans have been targeted overseas by criminals and sometimes by dishonest businesses, simply for being Americans," explained Michael O’Rourke, CEO of Advanced Operational Concepts , a security consulting firm.

Why? He said thanks to Hollywood, people in many foreign countries perceive that all Americans are rich. The perception has some validity when compared to income levels and the standard of living in other nations.

Fortunately, the profiling rarely leads to death. But experts like O'Rourke warn that in some parts of the world, people are desperate enough to use force against a visitor. And especially at a time when Americans are going to far-flung places, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. 

I've never been attacked because of my nationality, but I've been followed. A few years ago, I was in an ancient village in a remote part of Turkey. I turned a corner and was face-to-face with a group of young men hanging out and smoking. They looked at me and said, "American! Hi!" and then started to follow me. 

I wasn't sure what they wanted and didn't want to find out, so I turned around and walked back toward the town square – and safety. 

But maybe I should have stayed.

“Profiling is not always negative,” said Thomas Swick, author of the memoir "Falling into Place: A Story of Love, Poland, and the Making of a Travel Writer."

Swick remembers visiting Vietnam in the early 1990s. Students would approach him and ask if he was American. 

"When I told them I was, they politely asked if they could practice their English. Then we’d go off to a café for an hour of conversation, which was as beneficial to me as a travel writer as it was to them," he recalled.

He makes a valid point. Being recognized as an American when you're abroad can make your next trip more interesting – as long as you're being recognized for the right reasons.

Elliott's tips for avoiding profiling 

If you're traveling abroad, here are a few strategies to avoid being profiled as an American.

• Dress down : Avoid wearing USA T-shirts and American sports jerseys. And since this is an election year, I have to say it: No political caps or shirts, please. You could be putting yourself in danger. Wear muted colors and avoid sweatshirts with hoodies, and you will at least keep them guessing.
• Mind your manners : Kitty Werner, a former airline reservation agent who has lived overseas, said nothing gives away your nationality faster than your etiquette – or lack of etiquette. That's true in Europe, but in places like the Middle East or Japan, your casual attire screams "American!" "You can tell an American tourist immediately by their manners," she said.
• Shut up : “Many tourists are too loud," said Harding Bush, associate director of security for Global Rescue . "Be mindful of your volume and avoid drawing attention to yourself." Your noise level is a dead giveaway and may also mark you as an American tourist.

Christopher Elliott  is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded  Elliott Advocacy , a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes  Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the  Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can  reach him here  or email him at  [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Planning to Travel Abroad? You Can Now Renew Your US Passport Online

I f you're in a rush to get your passport renewed, you might be in luck. The US State Department has made it easier for citizens to get their passports by opening six new passport agencies across the country and relaunching a beta version of its online passport renewal system . You can save a lot of time by renewing your passport online, but you'll need to be lightning quick to make it happen.

There are a limited number of slots for US passport holders to renew online each day. The window for passport renewal applications opens each day at 1 p.m. ET and closes when it reaches an unspecified number. During the first week of the new beta test, CNET found that the application window closed in mere minutes.

MyTravelGov  -- the website for the US State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs -- first introduced online passport renewals back in 2022, and had multiple open windows for the pilot program before it shut down in March last year. For this beta release, a certain number of applicants can apply each day during a "limited midday eastern time window."

Learn everything you need to know about the new online US passport renewals, including who is eligible and how you can apply. For more travel tips, check out  how to plan your travel with AI ,  how to perfectly pack your carry-on luggage and how to avoid airline baggage fees .

How does the new US online passport renewal system work?

Most US citizens currently renew their passports  by printing and filling out form DS-82 , then mailing that form with a new passport photo and a renewal fee in the form of a check or money order. The online passport renewal system instead uses a website form and a payment system that allows credit cards, debit cards or online ACH transfers. 

Renewing your passport online doesn't mean that you'll receive it any sooner than usual, though. The State Department is sticking to its " routine service " for passport renewals, whether they're online or by mail. That means you'll receive your new passport in six to eight weeks, no matter how you apply. If you need your passport sooner than that, you'll need to apply by mail and pay $60 more for expedited service .

Who is eligible to renew their US passport online?

The most important qualifying factors for renewing your passport online are:

• You are at least 25 years old.
• You live in the US (state or territory).
• Your current passport is or was valid for 10 years.
• Your current passport must be at least 9 years old and have been issued within the last 15 years (2009-2015).
• You still have your existing passport, and it's not mutilated or damaged.

Along with the main eligibility requirements, the State Department provides a list of further restrictions for online renewal:

• You can only renew regular passports online, not "special issuance" passports (like diplomatic, official or service passports).
• You cannot change your name, gender, place of birth or date of birth from your previous passport.
• You must be able to pay for online renewal using a credit card, a debit card or ACH transfer.
• You must be able to upload a new passport photo.
• You cannot travel internationally for eight weeks after submitting your online renewal application.

That last restriction is important because your existing passport, if still valid, will be immediately canceled as soon as your online renewal application is accepted.

If you don't meet the eligibility requirements for renewing your passport online, you'll need to renew by mail or in person at a passport agency .

If I'm eligible, how do I renew my US passport online?

Right now, MyTravelGov is accepting a certain number of online passport renewals each day (including weekends) around midday ET. Several news publications, however, including the Thrifty Traveler , are reporting the window will open each day right at 1 p.m. ET.

Before you can apply for an online passport renewal, you'll need to create a MyTravelGov account, if you don't already have one. Visit the MyTravelGov website , click on the blue Sign In  button in the top-right corner, then click Create an account . This will begin the process of creating an account with login.gov , the US federal government's authentication system.

You'll then need to enter an email address and your choice of language -- login.gov is available in English, Spanish and French. After submitting your email address, you'll need to verify it by clicking on a link in an email message from login.gov, after which you'll choose a password and preferred form of multifactor authentication.

You'll then need to provide personal information for the account, at minimum your first and last name. Once you're finished, you should be able to access the online passport renewal page . Hit the blue Start button at the bottom of the page to begin the application.

If the online passport renewal application window is not open, you'll receive a message that you'll need to return and try again tomorrow. If you're lucky enough to begin the application, you'll need the following items:

• Your existing US passport.
• A digital passport photo.
• Credit card, debit card or your bank's routing and account numbers for ACH transfer.

In the first part of the application, you'll enter information about your current passport, your legal name and whether you want a passport book, passport card or both. Next you'll update your digital passport photo , and then finally your payment information.

MyTravelGov will send you two email verifications after you submit your renewal application -- the first will confirm your pending payment; the second will confirm that the payment has been received. One week after you apply, you can sign up for email updates about your passport using the State Department's online passport status system . You should expect to receive your new passport in the mail within six to eight weeks.

What about renewing US passport cards online?

Passport cards are objects that look much like US driver's licenses and can be kept in your wallet. They allow for travel from the US by land or sea to Canada, Mexico or Caribbean countries. They are not valid for any international travel by air.

You can renew both passport books and cards online. Basically, you can renew whichever US passport document that you currently hold. If you have an old passport book and passport card, you can renew both at the same time. If you have one or the other, you can only renew that specific document.