Travelling with Your Baby

Navigating the world

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Embarking on a journey, of travelling with your baby, can seem daunting. I will admit I come across as quite a laid-back person. However, I do all the planning and let everyone else do all the worrying. In this post, I will try to help you calm those nerves with some tips for travelling with your young child. We did a month of travelling when our first was four months old. We spent just over 2 weeks in Taiwan, a few days in Hong Kong and a few days in Tokyo. It was incredible.

Deciding to travel with a baby

So, you’ve decided travelling with your baby is something you would love to do. Some people might ask you “Why bother to travel with a young child, especially when they will not remember it?” The thing is, though, you will remember it. If travelling is something you enjoy and you wish to share it with your children then there is no reason you should not get up and do it.

Children are adaptable, this whole idea that they need a rigid routine to function is not the case. Every child is different and once you get to know your child, you will start to learn how you can navigate travelling with your baby. We took our 4-month-old to Taiwan. That was a 16-hour flight with a stop-off in Bangkok. We took a night flight and got the bulkhead with a bassinet. When we started to get off the plane, the people around us were shocked there was a child on board.

You might think that 4 months is young, but it is so much easier to go away with a child that is not mobile. When we went with a 1 year old all he wanted to do was walk around the plane and not sit still.

Planning ahead

When I first went travelling by myself I researched where I wanted to go and looked up some of the accommodations. However, I only booked the first couple of nights’ accommodation and then winged it. When a child is involved there needs to be a bit more planning involved, just to keep safe. If you are breastfeeding I have started putting together some information regarding breastfeeding in different countries, I hope to expand over time. So, here is a list of things to think about before jetting off for however long.

Travel Documents

Passports, visas, identification, and any necessary travel documents for you and your child. It isn’t just essential to remember your documents, it is worth making copies and securing them in a cloud vault and/or having copies left with family.

Health Records

Remember to check that you are okay to take your medication with you and have copies of your prescriptions and a doctor’s note to show when you’re travelling.

Vaccinations

Before travelling ensure that you check for any necessary vaccinations and whether your child is old enough to have them. You don’t want to be taking your child somewhere they may not be safe, due to their lower immune system. It is also worth checking that your baby has had enough of their at-home vaccinations to be safe in your chosen destination.

Travel Insurance

Ensure that you have the relevant travel insurance for your trip and that it covers everything from flights to medical care. There are plenty of family options.

Baby Gear

Depending on your trip you will need to think about whether you are taking a car seat, pushchair and/or baby carrier. When we went travelling we took a pushchair and baby carrier, however, the second time we only took the baby carrier. It all depends on what your plan is and the transport you will use when you get there.

Clothing

Packing weather-appropriate clothing is important, but remember depending on how long you are going for it might be best to buy some things while you are at your destination. You do not want to be carting loads of baggage with you, after all the airports can be a nightmare as it is.

First Aid Kit

Basic first aid supplies, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and children’s pain reliever.

Child

If you are breastfeeding and your baby is under 6 months, then there is no real need to take any baby food-related items with you. Honestly, I would say the same if your child is over 6 months. Take snacks for the plane journey out, but everywhere has children so you will find baby products or snacks, as long as there are no allergies you’ll be fine. Always worth checking what products are available at your destination if there is an allergy.

The same applies to nappies, wipes and nappy bags. Take enough for a few days or a week, and research before you leave where you can pick some up when you get there. If you are only going somewhere for a week, you could probably take all you need with you.

Daily Items

Does your child use a sippy cup? Then take that along with you. A blanket to keep them warm and a book and/or toys for entertainment. You don’t need to pack bags of things that they use at home, there’ll be enough new things at your destination to keep your child occupied. You might also want to take a small foldable travel cot. We used this one, it was perfect.

Health & Hygiene

Don’t forget to pack your child’s toiletries the same as you would pack yours. However, if you are only using hand luggage you may need to wait till you are through security to buy. Also, pack sun tan lotion and any other creams your baby may need.

Comfort Items

If your child has a comfort item, do not forget to pack it, and keep it safe.

Jetlag

Is there a possibility of jetlag once you get to your destination? Think about gradually altering your baby’s sleep schedule to align with the new destination. This can help with the shock of the change. Ensure your baby is well hydrated on the flight and adjust to the new schedule as soon as you arrive. If you arrive during the day, try to be outside in the daylight as much as possible, as this can help your baby adjust.

Travelling

Navigating the airport with children does not have to be a daunting task. With a bit of planning, it can run smoothly and stress-free to a degree. Here are a few tips for travelling with your baby through an airport.

Flights

Think about when your baby naps or goes to bed. Try and book flights at those times. For long-haul flights, I would recommend that you book a nighttime flight. That way your child can sleep through most of it, and the journey can be calm and enjoyable. As mentioned above try and reserve the bulkhead. This gives you extra legroom and comfort and allows for a bassinet if your baby is still young enough.

Carry-On Bags

Check with your airline about what extra items might be allowed with your child. Some will enable you to check your pushchair in at the gate and it doesn’t cost extra to have it on board. Remember to pack enough nappies, nappy bags and a few changes of clothes for the flight. As well as reusable water bottles. Don’t forget entertainment and snacks if your child is old enough, and any medication.

Breastmilk/Formula

You can take breast milk, formula and baby food onto the plane. Ensure you have enough for the flight and any possible delays. Check with your airline for further information, but you shouldn’t need to worry about the size of the containers either.

Security

Ensure you are aware of security procedures before you get there. This can make moving through this section far less stressful.

During the Flight

A child under two years old will be on your lap for take-off. I recommend nursing your child while you take off to help with the pressure in their ears. The same way you would suck on a boiled sweet. If your baby has a sleep aid of some kind that is portable, think about taking that along to help them rest on the flight.

Destination

Travel

Think about how you are going to get about when you are there. Will you be getting buses, taxis or other public transport? Research the options before you leave, so that you know what to expect.

Accommodation

Accommodation is very important when travelling with children. You want to ensure it is safe, clean and comfortable, with enough space for everything you have brought. Is your accommodation easily accessible from the airport and other public transport? Is it in a noisy neighbourhood?

Security

Is there somewhere that you can lock your valuables? Think about a device that you can attach to the handle of your door so it can’t be opened while you are inside. Are your bank cards in RFID anti-scan sleeves? Possibly think about anti-thief bags.

Making Memories

Now for the important part. Enjoy your time travelling with your baby. Enjoy every moment. Take those pictures, see those sights, dive into the culture and let your little one explore.

Conclusion

Travelling with a baby does not have to be stressful, with a bit of preplanning and calm it can be a wonderful experience. Remember, if things start to get on top of you take a step back, breathe and start again. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask, it can make things easier for everyone. Above all else, have a great time creating memories with your family.

If you feel that I have missed something, please leave a comment.