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Is air travel safe for an infant?

Air travel is typically safe for most healthy, full-term infants after the first few weeks. Air travel may not be a good idea for babies born before their due date, called premature or pre-term.

Babies born early may still need time for their lungs to mature. So check with a healthcare professional before flying in a pressurized cabin or visiting high-altitude places.

And any infant with heart or lung problems should be cleared for air travel by a healthcare professional.

As you plan your trip, here are some things to keep in mind, such as the baby's age, your health and some basics of flying.

The baby's age, overall health

Experts caution against flying in the first seven days after a baby is born. Some healthcare professionals suggest not traveling for the first few months.

In general, babies and adults face the same risk of exposure to illness from travel. But a baby's immune system is still learning how to protect against germs. And in most cases, a baby's illness needs to be more closely watched by a healthcare professional.

Caregiver health and planning

It is important for caregivers to think about their own health too. Flying with a child can cause added sleep loss and stress. And adults are at risk for new germs and illness, as well.

Finding out what illnesses are spreading in your area and where you're going can help you prepare and take thoughtful action. And basic things like handwashing are even more important to prevent the spread of germs while traveling.

The baby's ears

Offering a baby something to suck on may help relieve the baby's ear discomfort. You can offer the baby a breast, bottle or pacifier to suck on during takeoff and the start of the landing process. It might help to try to time feedings so that your baby is hungry during these times.

Ask a healthcare professional when it's safe to fly with babies who have had ear surgery or an ear infection.

Also, airplane cabin noise levels are loud, mainly during takeoff. Cotton balls, noise-canceling headphones or small earplugs may limit your baby's exposure to this noise. This may help make it easier for your baby to sleep.

The baby's safety seat

Most infant car seats are certified for air travel. Airlines often allow infants to ride on a caregiver's lap during flight. But the Federal Aviation Administration recommends that infants ride in properly secured safety seats.

If you choose not to purchase a ticket for your infant, ask about open seats when you board the plane. It's possible an open seat could be assigned to your infant.

Don't be tempted to give your baby medicine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), to help the baby sleep during the flight. The practice isn't recommended, and sometimes the medicine can have the opposite effect.

Jay L. Hoecker, M.D.

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  • Jana LA, et al. Flying the family-friendly skies. In: Heading Home With Your Newborn: From Birth to Reality. 4th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2020. https://www.aap.org/en/shopaap. Accessed Oct. 30, 2023.
  • Newborn-flying and mountain travel. Pediatric Patient Education. https://publications.aap.org/patiented. Accessed Oct. 30, 2023.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Traveling safely with infants & children. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/family/infants-and-children. Accessed Oct. 30, 2023.
  • AskMayoExpert. Infant Fever. Accessed Nov. 18, 2023.
  • Schmitt BD. Pediatric Telephone Protocols: Office Version. 17th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2021.
  • Child safety on airplanes. Federal Aviation Administration. https://www.faa.gov/travelers/fly_children/. Accessed Nov. 18, 2023.

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37 Best Travel Tips for Traveling With an Infant, Older Baby, or Toddler

traveling with an infant

Family travel is exciting for you and your kids and can create special memories that last a lifetime, whether you’re off on an adventure abroad or simply going to visit Grandma. But traveling with an infant, older baby, or toddler requires a little extra preparation to ensure a safe and comfortable trip. We’ve got the answers to common questions surrounding baby travel—short and long—plus a list of all the essentials and 37 tips for traveling with the little ones!

How Soon Can You Travel With a Newborn Baby?

When is it safe to travel with a newborn? It’s always wise to check with your healthcare provider before traveling with an infant. Your provider will likely offer specific guidance on whether you should or shouldn’t travel with your little newborn, depending on your little’s one's age and health status, as well as more general advice on when you can travel with a baby or older child. Whenever you do end up traveling with your little one, keep some safety precautions in mind. Your child is still developing their immune system, so it’s important to take protective measures, especially when flying or in crowded locations, such as

frequently washing hands

using hand sanitizer

avoiding visibly ill travelers.

Besides these basic safety precautions, keep reading for more tips on traveling with infants, plus older babies and toddlers, which include additional measures that will help keep your little one healthy, safe, and comfortable.

37 Tips for Traveling With an Infant, Older Baby, or Toddler

There are many ways you can help keep your infant, older baby, or toddler safe while traveling, and ensure that the trip is comfortable for all involved. It’s best to always consult with your child’s healthcare provider before traveling, especially with newborns or infants. Younger babies are more vulnerable than older babies and toddlers, so consider the provider’s advice and tips for traveling with an infant. Knowing how to travel with an infant isn’t much different from knowing how to travel with an older baby or toddler, but age can impact strategy. For example, traveling with a toddler opens up more opportunities for activities on your trip! You’ll probably notice that traveling with a 2-year-old is a lot more interactive than when your little one was just 3 or 6 months old. To cover all the bases, we’ve included 37 tips for traveling with babies of any age, but some apply more to younger babies, like infants and newborns, whereas others are more geared toward older babies and toddlers. However, all are worth considering when traveling with kids of any age and whether you’re flying to Paris or hopping in the car for a day trip.

1. Update Immunizations

Before you travel, including by car, on an airplane, or anywhere abroad, ensure your baby has had all the necessary immunizations. Following an immunization schedule is key to keeping your little one healthy throughout their life and, of course, when traveling. If you plan to travel abroad, be aware that some countries require additional vaccinations. You’ll want to consult your child’s healthcare provider for specific advice before planning any overseas trips, and you can contact the U.S. State Department for general information. As children will need immunizations and boosters throughout their early years, this tip also applies to travel with infants, older babies, and toddlers.

2. Consult Your Child’s Healthcare Provider

Remember that your baby’s healthcare provider is your ally and a great source of information. Don’t hesitate to be in touch if you have any questions about traveling with an infant or how to best travel with a baby of any age. If you’re thinking of traveling with a newborn, the provider may suggest waiting in some cases, such as if your little one has an underlying health condition or was born prematurely.

3. Collect Medications and Important Documents

Before setting off on your adventure, remember to pack any medication your child will need while away from home. You can also purchase a sturdy folder to keep any important documents, such as your baby’s vaccination record, copies of recent medical reports, passport, etc. When traveling with an infant, older baby, or toddler, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and bring everything you might need!

4. Do Some Research

One of the best tips for traveling with newborns or older babies and toddlers is to hunt for and gather relevant information ahead of time. Besides things like looking up vaccination requirements, you can also research details about accommodations and activities. Some hotels offer amenities that may come in handy when traveling. For example, if you’re breastfeeding your baby , you might want a refrigerator in your hotel room to store extra milk.

5. Allow Extra Time

Always remember that traveling with an infant or baby of any age means everything will take a little more time (or sometimes a lot more time!). Be sure to start early and allow extra time when packing the car or getting to the airport, going through security, checking into your accommodation, eating out, etc. This additional time makes for a smooth trip and also helps keep stress to a minimum.

6. Bring Those Baby Essentials

Although your research may reveal that hotels or accommodations offer some basic baby necessities, it’s best to bring as much as you can with you. For example, if a hotel offers cribs, unless you can guarantee that their baby cribs are up to date on safety requirements, it’s better to bring your own travel crib if you’re able to do so. Other travel essentials for your baby include bottles, bibs, diapers and wipes , pacifiers, etc. Keep these in a separate diaper bag for easy access! Our baby travel checklist below includes all these items and more.

7. Don’t Forget Favorite Toys or Blankets

Your little one is still getting used to the world around them, so bring some reminders of home to soothe any discomfort when in unfamiliar places. A favorite plush toy, a familiar rattle, or a blanket with home scents can do wonders in keeping your babies and toddlers comfortable when traveling, so be sure not to leave Mr. Rabbit (or any other "lovey") at home!

8. Double Check Car Seats

Whether traveling with your infant, older baby, or toddler by car or plane, double-check any car seats you use for safety . Look up the expiration date to make sure the seat hasn’t expired, and ensure that it’s properly installed.

9. Keep Feedings and Sleep Schedules Consistent

When traveling with babies, especially newborns and infants, it’s best to keep feeding and sleep schedules consistent, even when crossing into other time zones. It’s hard for children to adjust to new routines, and a little consistency will do wonders. If you’re moving across several time zones and it’s impossible to stick to the same feeding times, try to adjust your schedule gradually. However, what’s most important is feeding your baby when they’re hungry, regardless of the hour, and giving yourself some extra grace.

10. Bring a First-Aid Kit

In addition to all your essential must-have items, it’s also helpful to have your baby’s first-aid kit with you when traveling. You can keep one in the car, diaper bag, or your little baby’s overnight bag. Do you have all the baby necessities in your diaper bag? Take our quiz below to find out!

11. Wash Hands Frequently

Although briefly mentioned above, this is one of the most important tips for traveling with an infant or child of any age, and it deserves a friendly reminder! Because your little one is still building their body’s natural immune defenses, they’re more susceptible to catching colds, flu, or other infections. And because you’ll be carrying your newborn while traveling or holding your baby’s hand, it’s best for you to wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer.

12. Stay Hydrated

Traveling in general, but especially traveling by plane, is dehydrating to the body. Staying hydrated yourself means staying healthy and alert for your child. To keep your newborn hydrated, you’ll want to feed them more often (if needed), and older babies and toddlers will need sips of water throughout the day. Hydration is also very important if your little one has diarrhea while traveling, which is common.

13. Bring Disposable or Hybrid Diapers

When you’re traveling, nothing beats the convenience of disposable diapers. Another option is a hybrid system, like Pampers Pure Hybrid Starter Kit, which uses reusable covers and disposable inserts to cut down on waste.

14. Provide Entertainment

You may find that your newborn sleeps through much of the trip, but that probably won’t be the case for an active older baby or toddler! When traveling with a baby who’s a bit older and more alert, it helps to provide some form of entertainment, whether in the car, on the train, or on an airplane. A soft toy or a picture book work well.

15. Bring Food and Snacks

You don’t have to travel with a baby to know that meals and snacks are an important part of any outing! You’ll need to breastfeed or bring formula, of course, supplemented by solid foods once your little one has been introduced to solids at around 6 months. Good travel food for babies can be anything they regularly eat—the point is to keep their tummy happy!

16. Sing Songs

Singing is a wonderful way to bond and engage with your baby or toddler. It’s an entertaining way to pass the time on long car drives, for instance, and has the added bonus of helping to boost vocabulary as well as other important language skills and developmental milestones for babies . Before long your not so little one will be singing along and repeating their favorite songs, again and again.

17. Plan Car Games

In addition to singing songs, keep your little one entertained with some fun car games. Your toddler may enjoy the classic game I Spy or even counting things (with your help) they see out the window, like cows or red cars. Another idea is to build or purchase a travel tray, a simple tray that connects to the back of one of the front seats and provides lots of things to touch, look at, and listen to!

18. Pack Bedding From Home

When possible, pack bedding for your baby or toddler, which, of course, is easier when traveling by car or when you have extra space in your suitcase. Familiar feels and scents will help keep them at ease as they experience a disruption to their usual routine. If you’re flying far on a plane, just grab something small, like their favorite blanket or bedsheet, to help them feel “at home.”

19. Provide Extra Attention

Traveling with a baby or an older child often interrupts typical at-home routines, and your little one will probably need more attention from you. Some tips include extra hugs and snuggles during the day and at night, plus bringing interactive games and activities into the mix.

20. Maintain a Typical Meal Routine

Although traveling is a great time to try new foods or allow some “treats,” try to stick to your usual meal routines as much as possible. Let your older baby or toddler know that traveling can include trying new food while at the same time continuing to eat healthy foods and maintain normal mealtimes.

21. Look for Specials

Many accommodations and restaurants offer special prices or deals for families, which can help reduce costs. “Kids stay free” is a common feature; you can also see if a hotel provides complimentary meals or packaged discounts for kids and families. Consider working with a travel club or agency that can help you coordinate a trip with children in mind.

22. Ask for Assistance

With a baby, travel isn’t always an easy task to accomplish on your own. If your little one is feeling extra fussy on the plane or train and you’ve run out of ideas, ask an attendant if they have anything special for babies or young kids, such as a picture book or a pack of crayons. If you need a changing pad in your hotel room, call the front desk. It really does take a village, and many travel clubs, airlines, hotels, and more offer special assistance for kids and families!

23. Pack for the Weather

Take a look at the weather report before you leave and pack accordingly. Consider bringing some extra layers for cooler night temperatures or extra supplies in case of rain or snow. Socks, rain covers, a warm jacket, and a hat will all come in handy if the weather takes an unexpected turn.

24. Take Preventive Measures

It’s not unusual for an illness or another health-related issue to pop up when you’re on the go and away from home. Colds and sore throats, diarrhea, car sickness, mosquito bites or bedbug bites —all these scenarios are possible with any kind of travel, including travels with your baby. Although you might not be able to completely prevent all these issues, it helps to prepare. You can do so by

getting necessary vaccinations before traveling

checking hotel rooms, bus seats, or train cars for bedbugs

bringing your own food or eating only hot food that’s thoroughly cooked

eating only a light snack before traveling to lessen motion sickness

staying hydrated.

25. Remember Special Considerations When Flying

Don’t forget that flying with a child will require some extra steps. If you have any questions, consult your little one’s healthcare provider and contact the airline. For example, all equipment like car seats and strollers will need to be visibly inspected at the airport. Read more about air travel in our article about flying with babies .

26. Plan Age-Appropriate Trips

Of course, traveling with a 1-year-old is going to be a little different than traveling with a 2-month-old! It helps to plan a trip that works for your child’s specific age, so if you’re traveling with a 9-month-old baby, think of something to do that meshes well with their abilities and interests. A simple trip going to visit grandparents or where there are lots of playgrounds is all you really need! But, of course, kids love playing outdoors or at the beach, so see more suggestions on where to travel with a baby at the end of the article.

27. Plan Breaks

For travel of any kind, remember that kids need breaks, naps, and downtime. If you’re taking a road trip, for example, research your routes thoroughly and plan for pit stops and breaks. It’s not easy for wriggly little ones to sit for too long, and getting out of the car to stretch legs or enjoy an attraction along the way helps keep spirits and energy levels high. If you’re on a plane, get up and walk the aisle a few times for a little movement and stimulation. Or if you’re spending the day at a theme park, squeeze in some time in the shade with a blanket for a quick snooze or a calming activity, like reading.

28. Bring Craft Supplies

Your toddler may need something more interactive to keep them entertained while on a road trip, airplane, or in a hotel room. Basic arts and crafts for toddlers can keep your little one occupied. Even just some crayons and a coloring book will help.

29. Adjust Sleep Schedules 2 to 3 Days Before if Needed

As mentioned before, when traveling with infants and older babies, it’s better to try and stick to the same feeding and sleeping schedules. But when traveling with toddlers, you may have more wiggle room to adjust their routines. For short trips, you might not even need to consider this tip, but if you’re moving across multiple time zones, you can gradually adjust sleep and eating schedules to the new time zone a few days before departing on your trip.

30. Pack Books

Are you wondering what to pack when traveling with a baby or toddler? Put books at the top of your list! Any kind of books —picture books, storybooks, interactive books—will keep your little one entertained while traveling. And if you usually read before falling asleep, it’s important to maintain your bedtime routine while away from home.

31. Respect Boundaries

Traveling with babies and toddlers (or, really, kids of any age) is a lot of fun for everyone. But remember that a change in a routine can be difficult for children, so it’s important to respect any boundaries they put up. For example, if your child doesn’t want to give Grandma a hug this trip or go on a ride at a theme park, don’t force it. They might be feeling shy or nervous, and it’s best not to force interactions, even with family members or activities.

32. Allow Your Child to Make Decisions

One of the best tips for traveling with toddlers and older babies is letting them make some decisions as they start to dabble in independence. Ask them what they want to eat for dinner or what they’d like to wear. Keep decisions manageable for their little brains by offering two or three choices rather than asking open-ended questions. It will allow them to take ownership of the travel experience!

33. Try New Things

Make traveling with your baby or toddler even more memorable by encouraging new experiences. You’ll probably remember these trips forever, but to make them stick in your youngster’s mind, have some fun with unique activities that you can’t do at home. Plus, as your little one is growing and developing, they’ll naturally want to try new things and test newly developed skills!

34. Anticipate Big Feelings

Again, changes in routines can be difficult for kids to manage. Traveling means leaving home behind, sleeping in a strange bed, and being without the usual comforts. This may be stressful, confusing, or even a bit scary for your little one. If these emotions come out in the form of temper tantrums , crying, or resisting, give your child extra support and love.

35. Supervise Water Play

Baby travel or traveling with a toddler might include a little water play, like splashing around in the pool or at the beach. Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in kids of any age, and it can happen in seconds, whether children are swimming , playing in a shallow pool, or simply taking a bath. Watch children closely when in the water or during bath time.

36. Take Photos and Videos

With cameras built into phones, you probably don’t need a reminder to take photos! Still, be sure to capture the memories when traveling with your kids, especially as they get older. It will be fun for them to look back and remember the trip!

37. Keep a Scrapbook

Take a blank scrapbook with you and let your toddler draw or color in it each day of the trip. For infants and newborns, press their hand or foot into the page with a bit of paint and add photos. When you return home, you can add more pictures or little trinkets like ticket stubs to the book, and your child can keep it to remember the experience. As your babies get older, traveling with them will get more and more fun, so let them be part of making the memories!

Baby Travel Checklist

We know this list of tips for traveling with an infant, older baby, or toddler is quite thorough, so to make it a bit easier for you, you’ll find a handy baby travel checklist below! We’ve included all the baby travel items that will help support a trip of any kind with any age group. Whether you’re wondering what to pack when traveling with a baby or hunting for those baby travel must-haves, we’ve included them all! This baby travel checklist works for kids of all ages, so you can use it when traveling with infants, older babies, toddlers, or even older children. It also works for short or long trips, by car, plane, or train. You can also download a version of the checklist and use it at home when preparing and packing for any upcoming family trips.

INSERT DOWNLOADABLE LINK

Baby Travel: Where to Go

Now that you have all of our travel tips, it’s time to think about where to travel with your baby. Not all destinations and activities are suitable for young children, so we’ve rounded up some of our best ideas for kid-friendly travel destinations!

Where to Vacation With an Infant, Older Baby, or Toddler in the United States

Luckily, the United States is a big country packed with various travel opportunities for babies and young children. Because there are so many choices, we’ve rounded up a few suggestions for each of the following themes: National Parks Among the best places to go when traveling with a newborn, older baby, or toddler are national and state parks. When you explore the great outdoors, you can avoid cramped environments and secure your sweet little one to your chest or carry older babies in backpacks while you enjoy fresh air and nature. Of course, toddlers will probably want a little independence as they toddle around! Some suggestions for kid-friendly national parks include the following:

All these parks offer a range of hiking suitable for carrying sleeping newborns or curious infants, plus interesting experiences for more mobile toddlers. Watch your child’s eyes light up at the scene of geysers erupting in Yellowstone, birds singing in the Everglades, or the sky-high trunks of the towering Redwoods! Vibrant Cities Although nature is ideal for traveling with babies or kids of any age, new cities also offer a lot of entertainment for the entire family (including you!). The United States is so diverse with different cultures, and your little one can enjoy various activities that can enrich their development. The list of kid-friendly cities in the United States is nearly endless, so if you’re simply looking for a bit of inspiration or a few suggestions for exciting cities, perhaps consider the following:

All these cities offer fun for you and your kids, even if your infant is simply watching the buzzy world around them. Take your little one to look for seals at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, explore adobe architecture in Santa Fe, New Mexico, or listen to street music in New Orleans. Theme Parks Although some theme parks aren’t suitable when traveling with newborns, infants, or young babies, many can be a lot of fun for toddlers and older kids! However, some of these classics cater to kids of all ages, rather than just focusing on thrilling roller coasters for the big kids. Again, you’ll find plenty of fun theme parks throughout the country, but for a few suggestions, you could consider the following:

These theme parks offer exciting scenes for even the youngest guests but can also entertain older children if you have a brood of various ages. Watch your baby delight at meeting their favorite Disney, Sesame Street, or fairy-tale characters! Beaches Although infants shouldn’t experience any direct sunlight until they are at least 6 months , beaches can offer a relaxing place to be with your little one, as long as they’re properly shaded. For older babies and toddlers, the beach is an exciting source of pure entertainment! The United States has a lot of coastlines to consider; here are just a few ideas:

A beach vacation with an infant, older baby, or toddler will expose your little one to an entirely new world. Plus, all the above suggestions offer complementary activities that your baby may love, such as visiting wildlife education centers, observing tide pools, or having fun at neighboring playgrounds. Road Trips Like national parks, road trips are also ideal for traveling with infants or children of any age, as you don’t have to interact too much with other travelers who can spread germs to your family. Plus, road trips can combine all the aforementioned ideas into one exciting adventure! A road trip doesn’t have to be long; you can simply pack snacks and head over to Grandma’s house or into the big city. But the United States is also known for its signature stretches of highway, and some of the most popular road-trip routes include the following:

Best Places to Travel With an Infant, Baby, or Toddler Abroad

A vacation abroad is a terrific way to open up the world to your little explorer! Although infants and young babies probably won’t remember much about a trip abroad, you can still use the opportunity to introduce them to new cultures and experiences. And, who knows, perhaps a trip at such a young age will spark an interest in travel as your adventurous baby grows up! A list of the best places to travel with an infant, baby, or toddler is endless, so we’ve included just a few popular family-friendly destinations in different parts of the world. Of course, use your imagination and go where you want!

The Bottom Line

Traveling with young infants, older babies, toddlers, or kids of any age can be a lot of fun, but it also requires a little extra prep! We hope this article helps you prepare for future family trips:

Use our suggestions on where to go to plan memorable experiences for the whole family.

Download our baby travel checklist to ensure you don’t forget any of the must-have items you’ll need.

Consider all our tips for traveling with newborns, babies, and toddlers to help your vacation go smoothly.

Remember that there is no age limit when it comes to travel, but it’s best to take extra precautions when traveling with infants, as they have yet to build up their body’s natural immunity. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider before planning any travel so you know what vaccinations your baby will need.

Family travel is a way to build wonderful memories that last a lifetime! Savor these exciting moments, whether you’re taking a simple trip to Grandma’s house, venturing out on an epic road trip to national parks, or enjoying an international vacation.

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.

  • Book: Caring for your baby and young child, birth to age 5, Sixth Edition Paperback – November 2, 2014 by American Academy of Pediatrics (Author)
  • Medline Plus: Traveling With Children
  • Zero to Three: Survival Strategies for Traveling With Your Baby or Toddler
  • Medline Plus: Toddler Development
  • Mayo Clinic: Infant and Toddler Health
  • Healthy Children: Sun Safety
  • Healthy Children: Travel Safety Tips
  • Healthy Children: Car Safety
  • CDC: Travel Recommendations for Nursing Families
  • CDC: Drowning Facts
  • CDC: Traveling With Children
  • Healthy Children: Car Sickness
  • La Leche League International: Travel

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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

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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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Niño-Serna LF, Acosta-Reyes J, Veroniki AA, Florez ID. Antiemetics in children with acute gastroenteritis: a meta-analysis. Pediatrics. 2020;145(4):e20183696.

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What to Pack When Traveling With Baby

Fact-checking standards, latest update:, when can you travel with your baby, read this next, what to pack for your baby in a carry-on bag, what to pack in your baby's suitcase.

Happy travels!

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Flying With a Baby? Here's What to Know Before You Go , September 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , October 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Best Travel Toys for Babies , February 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Baby Products You Can Take on a Plane , September 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019. American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for Families to Travel Now? , August 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Travel Safety Tips , August 2018.  American Academy of Pediatrics, Is It Safe for My Baby to Travel in a Car Seat a Few Hours at a Time? , August 2021. Transportation Security Administration, Traveling with Children . Federal Aviation Administration, Flying with Children , March 2021. Mayo Clinic, Is Air Travel Safe for an Infant? , October 2019.

Go to Your Baby's Age

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When Can My Baby Fly on an Airplane?

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  • When Is It Safe?
  • Preparing to Fly
  • What to Expect

For some parents, flying on an airplane is a frequent occurrence. Whether vacations are popular in your household or business trips come up frequently, you might be wondering if you can bring your baby on the plane with you. Or, you might be adopting a baby from somewhere far from home and need to bring them back just a few days after birth. In any of these situations, the question of how young is too young to fly comes up.

Even if you never expected to bring a baby on a plane soon after they're born, it's good to know what healthcare providers recommend in these situations. While medical professionals acknowledge that babies can safely fly right after birth, they recommend waiting a couple of months if possible. There are a few main reasons for this that we'll dive into.

In this article, we'll hear from experts about when babies can safely travel by plane , as well as what parents should do to prepare for flight and how to make the most of their time on board the plane.

When Is It Safe For My Baby to Fly on an Airplane? 

While it is technically OK for babies to fly just a few days after they're born, experts generally do not recommend this. One of the primary concerns with traveling so young is the lack of vaccines that the baby has had. These vaccines can fight illness and infection that a baby may encounter during travel.

"Around 3 to 6 months can be a good time to fly," says Mollie Greves Grow , MD, MPH, a pediatrician at Seattle Children’s Hospital. "This is after they have started or completed the primary immunization series and after the worst of fussiness/colic has passed, which usually peaks around six weeks."

But the vaccines aren't the end-all-be-all for why babies should fly after a certain age. "As a general rule, I advise against air travel under 2 months of age unless it is absolutely necessary," says pediatrician Gary Kramer , MD, PA. "The reason has nothing to do with the first vaccines but rather with the consequence that any infant below that age developing a fever will require a complete emergency evaluation for infection."

Fevers in newborns are considered more serious than fevers in babies who have passed the 3-month mark. These fevers must be dealt with quickly because bacterial infections for babies this young can get very bad, very fast.

This is especially concerning while flying, as there are many people packed into a small, contained space. While airplane air is very clean—Boeing likens the air in its airplanes to hospital air—that doesn't account for the other parts of airplane travel, like hired cars, public transportation, and the airport itself. It's in these areas that babies can pick up germs that could make them sick.

Every baby is different. Be sure to consult with a pediatrician if you have any questions about your infant flying on an airplane.

Preparing to Fly With Your Baby

Flying can be overwhelming for babies, simply because they don't understand what's going on. It's the parents' job to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible for them (which will also make it easy and comfortable for you). Dr. Grow suggests feeding before takeoff so your baby will be full and happy. This way you also may not have to worry about feeding on the flight (unless you're going to be in the air for a few hours).

"During the takeoff and descent, have the baby suck on either a pacifier , a bottle, or even breastfeed if you feel comfortable doing so," Dr. Kramer says. "This will equilibrate the pressure effect that flying might have in the middle ear." He does not recommend using any sort of Benadryl or OTC decongestants to try to get your baby to fall asleep.

Dr. Grow makes suggestions for traveling with a baby based on her own personal experiences as well. "Have clothing options and layers so you can help the baby be comfortable in terms of temperature," she advises. "You also want to have plenty of changes of clothing for yourself just in case of an accident or blowout. When flying with my own children as infants, I found having a nursing pillow that they could sleep on and cocoon with a thin, breathable blanket over them to be helpful."

Tips for Flying with a Newborn

Some parents find themselves in a situation where they either give birth in a place far from home or adopt a baby from a place that requires air travel to come home. In either situation, you might need to bring a newborn on a plane soon after they are born.

Pierrette Mimi Poinsett , MD, who is a pediatrician and consultant for Mom Loves Best, says the first thing parents should do is check with their airline for requirements, as some airlines will ask for a note from a healthcare provider about bringing a young baby on board. Many airlines will require this clearance for babies under 2 weeks of age.

"Babies born prematurely and infants with congenital heart and lung disease may have some respiratory distress due to the change in oxygen in the airplane cabin," she also notes. "Travel needs to be limited to essential travel. If it is an option, traveling by car instead of an airplane is safer. It is wise to consult with your baby’s pediatrician about travel."

Healthcare professionals understand, though, the extenuating circumstances of giving birth or adopting away from home. In an adoption situation, if possible, it is better to wait until the baby is a few months old to travel. That might mean staying in your baby's home state or country until it is safer to travel.

In a situation where you've given birth in a place that's not your home, your healthcare provider can give further guidance about you and baby coming home. Dr. Poinsett suggests parents dress their newborn in layers to accommodate for changing temperatures on a plane and have them suck on a pacifier to minimize ear pain from cabin pressure.

"Noise is also a factor, as is being around so many people," Dr. Grow cautions. "If your baby is sensitive to noise, you can use some sound-canceling headphones."

Both experts highly recommend putting your baby in a car seat rather than carrying them on your lap. "The infant seat should be put in the airplane seat rear-facing," she shares. "The seat chosen must be a window or middle seat. No aisle-seat travel." And while this means purchasing an extra seat, she notes that some airlines may offer a discount in this situation, but it will depend on when and on what airline you are flying.

What to Expect on Board

There are some general precautions parents might want to take before flying. Not only do you want to make your baby comfortable while on the plane, but you also want to make the whole experience safe and efficient .

"Try to make sure not to overload your hands with bags and carry-on luggage, as you want to have full attention on the baby," Dr. Kramer says. This way you don't have to worry about juggling too many things or dropping anything. Of course, this may not always be possible, especially if it's just you and your baby traveling , but trying to keep your other bags to a minimum and checking them when possible can help keep your baby safe.

Dr. Kramer also suggests not boarding the plane first, despite many airlines offering this service to families traveling with babies. "I advise to board last so that you avoid passengers climbing over you and walking past you in the baby’s path," he says. This is especially good advice if you have a row to yourself and don't have to worry about asking someone else to move to let you into your seat.

While flying with a baby is a daunting task, Dr. Kramer points out that it only gets more difficult once your little one can walk, because then they never want to stay still! At least you know your baby will stay put during the flight.

A Word From Verywell

While it's OK for babies to fly on planes as soon as a few days after birth, experts recommend not bringing them on board until they're a couple of months old if possible. This way you can reduce the chance of them catching or developing a serious illness during travel. However, if you have questions or need to travel sooner than that, speak with your baby's pediatrician to decide what's right for you and your family.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Baby vaccines at birth .

Seattle Children's Hospital. Fever(0-12 months) .

Boeing. Travel with confidence .

By Hedy Phillips Hedy Phillips is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience covering topics ranging from parenting tips to lifestyle hacks.

can you travel with 5 month baby

Safety & Prevention

can you travel with 5 month baby

Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs

can you travel with 5 month baby

By: Claire McCarthy, MD, FAAP & Jennifer Shu, MD, FAAP

Taking a baby on a plane is something that most parents approach with caution. Infants and air travel can both be unpredictable, and they don't always mix well. But some advanced planning and preparation can help make for a better experience for your baby, for you, and for everyone else on the plane.

Here are answers to some questions you may have before traveling with an infant, along with tips for a smoother and safer flight.

When is my baby old enough to fly on an airplane?

Generally, you should avoid flying with your newborn until they are at least 7 days old. Ideally, wait until your baby is two or three months old to fly. Air travel (and being in crowded airports) can increase a newborn's risk of catching an infectious disease.

Should my baby sit on my lap during the flight?

Ideally, no. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) doesn't require a ticket for children under the age of 2 years. But that means your baby will be on your lap. If there is turbulence, or worse, it may not be physically possible to protect your baby in your arms. Turbulence is the number one cause of children's injuries on an airplane.

If you do not buy a ticket for your child, you may want to ask if your airline will let you use an empty seat where you can install a car seat for your baby. If your airline's "lap baby" policy allows this, avoid the busiest travel days and times to increase your odds of finding an empty seat next to you.

The safest way for baby to fly

The safest way for your baby to fly is in a child safety restraint ―an FAA-approved car seat or airplane harness device . It should be approved for your child's age and size, and installed with the airplane's seat belt. Booster seats cannot be used on airplanes during flight.

  • Infants weighing less than 20 pounds should be bucked into a rear-facing car seat during airplane travel.
  • Children who weigh 20 to 40 pounds should be restrained in a car seat. They should not be switched to using just the airplane's lap belt until they reach at least 40 pounds.

There is an FAA-approved alternative to using a car seat on an airplane called the Child Aviation Restraint System ( CARES ). This airplane safety harness is not meant for infants, however. It is designed for use by toddlers (22 to 44 pounds) and only on airplanes.

Should I bring our car seat on the plane with us? Does that count as luggage?

Car seats, booster seats, and strollers generally don't count as luggage, but policies vary by airline; check with yours before flying. In most cases they can be checked at the gate, where the risk of damage may be lower, at no cost. Consider packing the car seat in a protective bag or box. If your baby has their own airplane seat, bring your car seat with you.

Not all car seats are certified for use in airplanes.

Make sure a label on the car seat says: "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft."

Which seat on the plane is best for a baby?

Look for rows on the plane with more space , like the bulkhead. Exit rows are out, for safety reasons.

Choose a seat closer to the window, if possible . Aisle seats can be risky for babies during beverage service. Hot drinks being passed to passengers can spill and cause burns , and their little arms and legs can be caught by passing carts. Aisle seats are also closer to falling overhead bin items. If you use a car seat, most airlines require that they be installed in a window seat.

Ensure that your baby's seat is next to you on the plane. Visit the U.S. Department of Transportation Airline Family Seating Dashboard for tips. It shows which airlines guarantee adjacent seats for children under age 13 traveling with an adult at no extra fee.

Is there a way my baby can lie down flat on long flights?

Buckling your baby into a car seat or safety restraint remains the safest option. However, there are other options available to help baby sleep comfortably, especially on long-haul flights.

Airline bassinets. Some airlines offer airline bassinets attached to the plane's bulkhead wall―the wall behind the galley, or toilets or another cabin. In some premium cabins, they can be built into the seat compartment to use in bulkhead rows. Most airline bassinets require the baby to be under 6 months old and/or 20 pounds, and not yet able to sit up unassisted. These bassinets are sometimes called "skycots" or baskets.

Sleeper seat . For an added fee, some international airlines let you book three seats in a row with locking seat extensions. This creates a "sky couch" or sleeper-seat big enough for both parent and child. Some airlines also offer "lie-flat" and "flat-bed" seats.

Inflatable seat extenders . Some airlines let you bring your own inflatable, individual seat extension for your baby to snooze on lying down. Not all airlines permit these to be used, though, so check ahead of time. Your child will need their own seat to use one.

Note: For all options above, your baby would still need to be buckled into a car seat or held on your lap during takeoff, turbulence and landing.

Safe sleep practices still apply on the airplane.

  • If your baby sleeps on your lap during the flight: stay alert and check on your baby often. Make sure they can breathe easily, and their face is uncovered.
  • If your baby sleeps on another device during the flight: check that it is firm and flat, with no soft bedding. (See, " How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe .")

Will I be able to get liquid formula or expressed breast milk through security?

Yes, but you have to follow the reasonable quantities rules. This means you're exempt from the 3-1-1 rule limiting liquids to 3.4 ounces (100 mL).

Pack formula, expressed breastmilk, or water for mixing with powder separately and be ready to let the TSA know you have it. You may ask that they not go through the x-ray machine (although this shouldn't cause a health problem). Visit the TSA website for more information.

Any tips for keeping my baby comfortable and content on the plane?

Dress your baby in layers. The temperature in a plane can vary widely, especially if you are stuck waiting on a runway. So, dress your baby in layers of clothing. As you pick out clothing , choose outfits that make diaper changing in a small space easier. Also, pack a change of clothes or two, in case turbulence hits during a diaper change or when you are feeding. Bring plastic bags for soiled clothing.

Be ready for ear pain during take-off and landing. During takeoff and landing, changes in pressure between the outer ear and middle ear can cause discomfort. If your baby has had ear surgery or an ear infection in the past two weeks, ask their doctor if it's OK to fly. Having babies drink from the breast or a bottle, or suck on a pacifier, can help. If your child has a cold or ear infection, a dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help; check with your doctor for the right amount to give your child.

Reduce jet engine noise exposure . Airplane cabin noise hovers around 100 decibels, and is even louder during takeoff. Using cotton balls, small earplugs, or noise-canceling headphones may help to decrease the decibel level your baby is exposed to, and also make it easier for them to sleep or relax.

Keep in mind that sleeping babies are easier for everyone. If possible, travel at a time when your baby naturally sleeps. Or, onsider trying to put off a nap until it's time to fly. Flight delays can cause this to backfire if your exhausted baby decides to scream instead of sleep. But it may be worth a try.

Do not use diphenhydramine, or Benadryl, to help your baby sleep without talking to your doctor.

This medication can have serious side effects , especially if repeated doses are given on long flights. If you get the go-ahead and appropriate dose from your doctor, try it at home first. Some children react to the medicine by getting more awake instead of sleepy.

Consider a diaper change right before boarding the plane. A dry baby is a happy baby. Fortunately, when you do need to change a diaper in-flight, many planes have restroom changing tables . If yours doesn't, ask a flight attendant if there is a spot where you can spread out your changing pad. Some parents resort to diaper-changing on the closed toilet seat. If you try this, be sure to have a hand on your baby at all times and pack a disposable changing pad. Plan for delays; pack plenty of supplies.

Bring distractions . Pack some toys and books and be ready to play with your baby the entire time. A tablet with videos can be a good backup if the toys and books aren't helping anymore (we don't encourage entertainment media for children under the age of 2 , but desperate times can sometimes call for desperate measures).

Don't let the glares get to you . Despite the best advanced planning and efforts, babies cry sometimes. Know that you did, and are doing, all you can. At that point, one of the best ways you can calm your baby may be to stay calm yourself. And remember that for every person who is glaring at you, there are plenty of people who have been through it themselves and have lots of sympathy.

Ask for help . Arrange for your airline to help you if you need help making a connecting flight. Carrying a child safety restraint, your baby and luggage through a busy airport can be challenging.

Does my baby need a passport for international travel?

Yes. All U.S. citizens, including infants, need a current passport to travel internationally. Parents or guardians need to apply with their baby in person using the form DS-11 . Be sure to bring your baby's birth certificate and a photo taken within the last 6 months.

Passport photos must be taken with nobody else in the photo, which can be tricky with infants. To do this safely if your baby can't sit up yet , lay them on their back on a plain white blanket or sheet to ensure head support without having to hold them. Another option is covering a car seat with the sheet and taking a picture with your child in it.

What about domestic flights?

A valid passport is usually the only identification your baby will need to fly on a domestic flight, unless you need to show proof of age for a discounted child fare. Check with your airline before you leave. Note: Children under age 18 will not be required to get a Real ID .

What is the best time of day to fly with a baby?

It is hard to say whether flying during the day or night with a baby is better. After the first few weeks, some infants may sleep more reliably at nighttime than they do during naptime travel. If you and your baby can sleep on the plane, a late-night flight may be the way to go.

More information

Travel Safety Tips

Holiday Travel Tips

Flying With Children Safely (FAA.gov)

Tips for Families and Links to Airline Webpages (U.S. Department of Transportation)

Destination-Specific Vaccine Recommendations for Travelers—Including Travelers with Children (CDC.gov)

How to pack — and prepare — for travel with a baby

Lori Zaino

About to take your first trip with a new baby ? Or maybe this isn't your first time traveling with your little one , but you'd like to pack more efficiently this time around.

It can be hard to know how to prepare and pack when you have a baby in tow. Babies often change so quickly that anticipating their needs can be complicated — especially if you're planning a longer trip.

In addition to typical packing concerns, such as the weather in your destination or luggage size restrictions, it's not always clear what you can carry on or must check when it comes to your infant. Here's our advice to help you prepare, pack and travel better with your baby.

Sign up to receive the daily TPG newsletter for more travel advice .

Choose accommodations wisely (and pack accordingly)

If you're traveling by car, you can easily pack a travel crib and other larger baby items.

However, if you're flying, choosing the right accommodation is the key to packing lighter, which is the goal. Toting around an infant is strain enough — staying somewhere that provides baby items means you can leave the extras at home.

Check with your hotel to see if it offers cribs or other baby items, as well as if it provides laundry services or facilities where you can do your own. Some hotels will even provide an extra fridge for milk storage upon request.

Often, a home rental might be a better choice than a hotel, assuming you pick the right one. Airbnb allows you to filter properties by items such as "crib" and "high chair." You can also message hosts to see if they have any other baby-friendly items available.

For example, I recently filtered an Airbnb search in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic to show only rentals that included a crib, high chair, washer and dryer. I ended up picking a rental that included not only the aforementioned items, but also a bottle sterilizer, bottle warmer and a few other infant-friendly items, which allowed me to pack less.

Some rentals I've stayed in even provided baby toys, books and cutlery. The key is communication. Don't hesitate to message and confirm the equipment again with hosts as you pack. You can also request or confirm that everything will be set up and ready for the baby upon your arrival.

Access to a washer and dryer is important since babies tend to have accidents or leaky diapers. Being able to do laundry also lets you pack fewer clothes. Also, if your rental is not a stand-alone house or a unit on the first floor, check that there is an elevator. A five-floor walk-up in a multi-unit building can be difficult with a stroller, shopping bags and baby in your arms.

Call your airline to understand the regulations

Depending on your airline, fare class and destination, you may have to adhere to different rules when it comes to traveling with an infant.

Those regulations can also vary depending on whether you've purchased a lap ticket versus a separate seat for your baby. In almost all cases, airlines allow travelers with an infant to gate-check a stroller or buggy, and some may also allow a car seat. Check with your airline ahead of time to understand baggage rules for your little one to avoid getting caught off guard at the airport or paying extra, especially when flying low-cost carriers like Ryanair or Spirit .

Flying with an infant in a car seat and hoping to bring it on the plane? Make sure it's approved for air travel. You may also want to request a bassinet for your baby, if the aircraft you're flying offers one (check the weight limits, however). Ask for an aisle seat, as it makes standing up with your baby much easier.

Invest in travel-friendly baby items

can you travel with 5 month baby

Having a dedicated (foldable) travel stroller will be useful beyond air travel. It's the perfect item to have when exploring a new city. Other key travel baby items to consider taking along are:

  • Travel diaper backpack.
  • Portable changing pad.
  • Travel car seat.
  • A bag for a car seat or stroller so these items aren't damaged if checked.
  • Portable baby monitor.
  • Baby carrier or wrap.
  • Swaddle or baby blankets.
  • Inflatable bathtub .
  • Pack 'n Play or travel crib.
  • Travel neck pillow (use it while feeding your baby).
  • Baby chair strap.
  • Disposable bottle liners.
  • Disposable bibs.
  • Portable blackout shades for travel cribs or strollers.

Purchase (or preorder) diapers, formula and more at your destination

Depending on how long your trip is and where you're headed, calculate (and it's always best to over-calculate) how many diapers you'll need for the trip.

If your baby uses a specific formula or baby food, make sure you know where to buy it at your destination. Amazon and other delivery services can be useful for ordering these items -- and remember, these services are available internationally, too. You can also compare ingredients to see if you can get a similar formula or food at your destination, so you won't have to load up your suitcase with diapers or formula.

Don't worry if you forget baby socks or another basic item. Babies live all over the world, so you'll likely find many basic items available for purchase wherever you are. If your baby requires something specific, though, pack it just in case.

There are also companies that rent baby gear in many destinations around the world. Research ahead of time to find out exactly where and how to obtain these necessary items, especially when traveling abroad .

Carry on the essentials (and extras)

Always pack your baby's key essentials in your carry-on . This includes comfort items like their favorite toy or pacifier, and extra clothes for both your baby and you (in case their wardrobe disaster becomes yours, as well). You should also pack enough food, diapers and other key items to last you through the trip, plus more for any possible delays and/or cancelations.

Here's a list of items you may want to keep in your carry-on bag :

  • Extra clothing for you and your baby.
  • Layers of clothing or blankets (plane temperatures are often extreme).
  • Pacifier and clip (and backup).
  • Comfort toy(s) or blanket.
  • Extra diapers.
  • Breast pump.
  • Snacks (for you and your baby).
  • Baby wipes.
  • Sanitizing wipes.
  • Extra bibs.
  • Ziploc bags for stowing soiled clothing (or a reusable, waterproof bag).
  • Baby Tylenol or any infant medications.
  • A basic first aid kit.
  • Small toy(s).

The rest of your baby's items, like additional clothing, blankets and more, can go in your checked bag. If you're checking more than one bag, split your baby's items among different checked suitcases. That way you'll be covered if the airline loses one of your suitcases.

Know the security regulations and have a backup plan

On a recent call to Iberia Airlines , I was told I could bring "reasonable quantities" of formula and breast milk through security. However, the representative also told me that in some cases during security checks, certain agents might not allow me to pass these items through security at the Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) . What?

Not all security checks, Transportation Security Administration agents or customs agents are alike, and each country, airport or airline may have specific regulations. Call ahead of time and prepare for things to not go as planned. If you do use formula, take your bottles already mixed, but also bring extra powder in case you need to prepare new bottles on board.

If you're pumping, it might also be a good idea to bring both a hand pump and an electric pump in case you have limited access to electricity or encounter issues with electrical outlets or voltage when traveling internationally.

Arriving at the airport early is always a good idea, because you may not breeze through security as you might have in your pre-baby days. Everything takes longer with an infant, so having that extra time can ensure a low stress travel experience. Take advantage and board the airplane first to give you extra time to get settled. If your airport has a family security line, use it.

Make sure you understand any remaining COVID-19 regulations

As mask rules and COVID-19 testing, entry and vaccine regulations continue to evolve in countries around the world, stay on top of exactly what you need to know and bring for your baby to get to your destination (and back home again). It's important to understand whether you'll need masks for your 2-year-old or need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 tests upon arrival at your destination or re-entry into the U.S. when traveling abroad.

Remember that airline staff members also struggle to keep track of ever-changing rules, so if you know something has recently changed or a rule seems specific, make sure to bring along proof of this information and whatever documentation you need in case you have trouble when boarding.

Photocopy important documents and always have extras. I loathe having to take paper documents along when traveling. However, having them may mean the difference between getting through customs, being able to board or being stranded at the airport. This is especially true if your phone battery dies or you're left without service for any reason. While being denied boarding is always dramatic, it's even worse with a baby in tow.

Download the right apps

Mobile phone apps can help you anticipate what you need, as well as keep your baby (and yourself) comfortable during travel.

A white noise app is key for better sleep for your baby — and therefore better sleep for parents — and allows you to leave a white noise machine home. Nightlight apps are also helpful during travel.

You can also connect most modern baby monitors to your phone and use an app to access the video of your baby so you won't need a separate viewing device.

Parents may find an app to track sleeping and feeding especially helpful during travel, particularly when switching time zones. A general packing app could help you keep track of what you need to bring for your infant, as well as the entire family. Make sure these apps are accessible offline if you need them while flying.

Don't forget their passport

can you travel with 5 month baby

This one is obvious, but you'd be surprised. Don't forget your baby's passport when traveling.

Look into identity and consent documents, as each country has its own requirements, especially if your partner isn't with you. If you have any older children, make sure to check that their passports are valid, as children's U.S. passports expire in just five years.

Traveling with a baby might seem like a lot. However, once you get the hang of it, packing, prepping and traveling with your infant becomes second nature. Ask for help when you need it and accept help when offered.

And when things don't go quite right, stay relaxed (remember, baby can feel your moods) — you'll figure it out. While it may seem tragic in the moment (like that major diaper blowout on board a plane), it will be an epic story to share one day.

Bottom line

When in doubt, bring enough baby supplies for a few extra days or a flight delay, but don't overpack. Make sure to be clear on any and all regulations that will cover your travel, from having the right documents to understanding what baby items you can bring through airport security . With these tips, packing and traveling will be a more enjoyable experience for the entire family .

Have Baby Will Travel

Flying with Baby: Travel Tips for Flying with an Infant 3-6mos.

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Flying with an infant of this age means one thing for mom (or dad)…

You’re. Busy.

But this is also one of the more rewarding and fun times to travel with your baby! They’re alert. You can usually figure out what they need when they need it. They’re still quite easily distracted.

Unlike newborns , babies of this age are at least in the beginning stages of a routine. So, while that makes your life easier as a parent, an understandable fear is blowing that routine with travel.

Both of my kids fell into a fairly structured routine at a very early age. And both adapted well to temporary changes during travel, as well as coming home.

Our Experiences Flying with a Baby 3-6 Months Old…

For us, this was a very easy time to travel with baby. Not yet mobile, still on a mostly liquid diet, and a fairly defined routine of eat and sleep times. In terms of getting around, baby is easily carted in their travel car seat used as an infant carrier, pretty content to ride in a stroller, and safe and snug in the infant carrier car seat used with or without the base .

Flying with an Infant 3-6 Months Old: Biggest Concerns

Our biggest concerns when flying with an infant this age were keeping him (quietly) busy and hoping to avoid him getting sick .

Our son was just shy of six months when we visited family in Florida, and we were flying in the height of the H1N1 pandemic. Little did we know that just over 10 years later, travel during COVID-19 would make H1N1 seem like a walk in the park.

Flying with an Infant 3-6 Months Old: The Reality

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Ok, I’m not gonna lie here… We totally lucked out.

Flying Southwest meant we had to figure out their unusual boarding procedures, but ultimately (since it wasn’t a full flight) we did not have to gate check his car seat (we didn’t buy our son a seat), and we were able to bring him on board and keep him in his seat . It’s safest for a baby to fly in a car seat , but that is not always doable for all families.

Our son nursed both times before takeoff, and passed out for pretty much both of our three-hour flights. I had a sippy of water for him to suck on in case he did not want to nurse, as well as a couple of teething biscuits for him to munch/dissolve into an indescribable goo. Neither of my kids seemed particularly bothered by their ears during take off and landing, but having a drink, snack, or pacifier to suck on (just in case) is always recommended.

Flying with an Infant 3-6 Months Old: Extra Consideration

As I mentioned, we were traveling during the the H1N1 pandemic. Paranoia was rampant about bringing kids into a germ-laden environment. I did bring anti-bacterial wipes, which I went over armrests and the tray tables with. And, because I worry, I then went over those again with our usual wipes. I was afraid of the anti-bacterial residue. Had our son actually been awake during those flights, I would have gone over the laminated safety card as well, since that was his go-to distraction whenever we first board.

As always, changes of clothes are recommended for baby and you, as well as plastic bags to put them in. Here your carry-on bag will be more full of diapers (and possibly bottles) than toys or snacks. If you’ve started solids already, the foil pouches of food are so easy to travel with (I had to pack jars). If baby is bottle-fed , the weight of pre-made formula may outweigh the convenience of not having to mix it. Personally, I’d travel with the can of formula powder. It’s easier going through security . You can mix it up with bottled water once you’re at the gate.

And, at this age, they are usually just as happy to play with the seat belt buckle or safety card than any toy you could pack for them.

Tips for Flying with an Infant 3-6 Months Old:

  • Get baby used to room temperature bottles and food, so you don’t have the additional hassle of heating en route.
  • If baby can bear weight on their legs, consider purchasing slip-on diapers. Not all airplane bathrooms have change tables. If they do they are only big enough to change a baby kitten on.
  • A cloth carrier or sling doesn’t take up much room in your carry-on and is useful to keep your hands free. This is most helpful especially if you’re flying solo. Keep in mind you’ll have to take baby out for taxi, take-off, and landing.

You will be busy and have your hands full when flying with an infant at this delightful stage. But be sure to relish how (relatively) easy they are to distract and comfort.  

And take lots of pictures if you can!

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93 Responses to Flying with Baby: Travel Tips for Flying with an Infant 3-6mos.

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Great tips! The only thing I would add is that it is exhausting flying with baby, so plan some rest and relaxation time for all of you right after arriving at your destination. Our youngest was three months old when we traveled to Florida, we got in late, and headed out to Kennedy first thing the next morning for a Shuttle Launch. Sure wished they had been launching a day later!

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Yes! No matter the age of your baby/toddler, it’s nice to have a free day on either end of a travel day for the inevitable “hangover” 😉

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Hi there!! Just a quick question..I’ve been reading all your blogs and I do find em very helpful. But I was Wondering if you can help me. I am flying internationally in the next couple months my baby will be 5 months old. How can I go about his stroller? I have a britax b agile and we are flying Korean Air? I tried calling the airlines and they’re not helpful language is the problem with the customer service I’m kind of getting really nervous about it. I know I probably cannot gate check my stroller so if I can check it in as luggage can I check in my car seat too? I have infant car seat and hoping to take it with us…do you think you can spare me some info? Thanks so much any help will be great I hope someone can give me some info cause I desperately been going through Internet for it…

Korean Air’s policies don’t seem much different from other airlines. You should be fine gate-checking if that’s what you choose to do. Good luck! http://www.koreanair.com/local/kr/gd/eng/cs/sn/eng_cs_sn_if.jsp

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Hi Corrine, So if the the car seat and stroller can be checked in for free, do they still allow an extra luggage for the infant, free of charge?

Thank you so much for the tips!

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Is it safe for the 5 months baby to travel internationally? The length of the flights is about 26-31 hours. Is it too long for 5 months old baby? I am afraid that the baby might be too little and if he gets weak from the trip he may get disease easily. Do I understand right .or I think too much?

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What an amazing site! I feel so lucky that I found it! I am heading to Orlando on a Sunwing charter flight in 2 weeks. After a few phones calls to the travel agent and to Sunwing, I am still confused (I know I must be stunned!) about the policy with infant car seat/stroller combinations. I have a 4 month old and wanted to gate check my Baby Trend infant seat that fits into my Baby trend snap and go stroller. Do you think this will be allowed? I cannot get a good answer about this from anyone. Thanks in advance! Love your site!

Hi Marni! If it is truly the super light snap & go then I think you should be ok in gate checking – just tell the gate agent that it’s a two-piece stroller and they should give you two gate check tags for it. People gate check Bugaboos all the time, and they fold down into two pieces.

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I bring my stroller and car seat when we travel. I have had no issues getting two gate check tickets. I do however place my car seat in a bag because it can get pretty nasty if you don’t. Lesson learned the hard way.

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Hi, I’m travelling from Dublin to Portugal with my 4 month old daughter. The flight isn’t long-3 hours but it falls right at her bedtime. My concern is will she transition from the plane, to the buggy,to the car, to the buggy, to bed ok?!!!! Any tips on helping her to sleep on through the night. She’s such a good baby at night I fear for her routine 🙁

Hi Julie! Certainly the safest and surest way for her to fall asleep is to have her own seat with her car seat/infant carrier installed, and then that way if she does drop off you won’t need to life her and transport her during all your “legs.” If that’s not an option, I suggest being as prepared as possible–don’t shift or disturb her from the plane until you’re ready to exit, and if you’ve safely done the transfer to buggy, don’t transfer to the car seat until you and the seat are all set, so once she’s in you’re off again. Same as once you’ve arrived–don’t take her out of her car seat until the bed’s ready for her to be put down in it. In my experience, the minimum amount of disturbance surrounding the necessary transfers really helped my guys transfer more easily. Good luck!

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There are really very useful tips that you shared with us and its important travel tips for flying with an infant.must follow this tips when parents travel in plane with kids.

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Thanks for all the great tips!

Quick question: if I want to bring the car seat on the plane for my 5 month old to sleep in, do I have to pay for her seat (I.e. pay for her flight)?

If you want to be assured of a seat for your daughter, you will need to pay for it. Check with your airline to see if they offer discounted fares for infants or children. Some still do!

Good luck and have a great flight!

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Hello! I love this site. I am traveling alone with my 6 month old soon. Do you have any recommendations on the best ways to nurse without flashing or offending people. I have a regular light sheet cover-up with the neck loop but sometimes the baby swipes it off to the side with her hands. Thanks for any suggestions!

Honestly Dani, I have nursed in airports and on airplanes — as discretely as I could since my littles hated covers too — and no one batted an eye. I felt most comfortable in actual “nursing” wear, so I invested in a couple of nursing tops that revealed really little except that bit that the baby usually covers 🙂 Good luck and try not to sweat it! If worse comes to worse, if you don’t make eye contact with anyone besides your baby, you won’t know if you’re getting the stink eye.

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We had a stroller that fit in the carry on luggage it was the best thing ever, especially as airports are huge and you can use to right up to the gate :). Although the flight attendants always think it is to big till we folded it up.

I’ll have to check that out, Ashley–thanks!

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Do you recall the brand ?

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I’m guessing it’s the GB Pockit stroller. Worth every penny if you travel fairly often or visit theme parks/zoos with lots of walking and designated stroller parking far away from attractions (like Disneyworld). It goes on sale on Amazon once in a while ($125).

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Hello Ladies, I am traveling tomorrow from NY to Aruba for the first time with my 5 month old, husband and family. I have asked a lot of my fellow mommy friends for tips and suggestions on traveling with an infant. Almost every single tip was covered here Corrine’s blog and your further suggestions. However something I found online and everyone has raved about its convenience for your little one is the Flyebaby travel hammock! I purchased it and plan to use it as we have a total of 6.5 hours in the air tomorrow! My son LOVES to lay back and have face to face time as he wiggles and squirms and this will allow him to do just that! Check it out! and I will let you all know if it lives up to all the hype! http://flyebaby.com/

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Hi. Flight attendants on Amazon have warned that the Flyebaby travel hammock is not FAA approved, is not safe and is not allowed on airplanes. I would suggest nobody purchase this as any quality airline will not allow you to take it on board and it is very dangerous for your baby.

Thank you, Gail! Not sure how I missed that comment and yes–I absolutely would never recommend that product.

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I’ll be flying from north carolina to Texas. It’s a fairly short plane ride 2 hours each flight so 4 in total with a 1 hour layover. My son will be just turning 3 months, he is extremely colic, so I’m petrified he will cry and cry and I won’t be able to do anything to help him calm down. Last thing I want is a plane full of angry people. Any advice for flying with a colic baby? (He is breast fed/ gets breast milk in a bottle) but when he is in one of his moods he will cry through the feeding!

So long as you are attempting to soothe your son, don’t worry about anything or anyone around you. If he seems to be in pain due to ear pressure, don’t hesitate to offer infant pain relief medication. It may be a long flight for you, so try to psyche yourself up for it and hope for the best. Good luck!

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hi Corinne , your tips are really helpful, thank you! question, can your spouse or siblings (not traveling ) help you go through the security, or is there a certain point to where they have to stop and cant make you company ?

Hi Wendy! Unfortunately, your spouse or siblings will not be able to accompany you through security.

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Hi! Great site! We are currently expecting and due in August 2016.We had planned to fly to Australia from Scotland in December 2016 – is this too far for a 3 month old?

Not too far but would definitely be a long one. At 3mos. your baby may already be in a routine, so try to mimic that as best you can (meal and nap times) while you’re en route. Good luck!

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Hi Corinne – We’re taking our 4 month old to India from NYC next week to meet the family. Our first leg of the trip is 14 hours to Dubai and then another 4 hours to our my hometown in India. We’re there for about 36 hours and then take off to attend a wedding (another 4 hour flight and a 4 hour car journey). I’m reconsidering all this at the last minute as I’m getting extremely nervous and am worried for the baby. He’s a very active baby on a good schedule, mostly sleeping through the night. Is this travel insane for him? Should we consider canceling some of it? Any advice you have to give would be very much appreciated.

Don’t cancel! Your baby is still young enough to not be TOO affected by all the time change and travel time. Try to stick to a semblance of a routine as best you can, and prepare to have a rough week or so getting back to normal. Babies are typically more resilient than we are, and your little guy will end up all the more flexible for his adventures.

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Hello I want to travel with my baby when she is 3 months but hear that is a time when they go through a huge spurt. I know it’s not set in stone but I’m afraid to risk it and travel while she’s not in her space of comfort Is going when she is 9-10 weeks easier

Hi Meleny! A few weeks here or there won’t really make much of a difference. So long as you have all her comfort items (and you!) at the ready, she will be just fine. Have a great trip!

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Hi there, I am also planning to take my 4 month old to india from nyc to attend a wedding. I am very nervous and thinking whether I should cancel my trip. Please let me know your experience. Thanks!

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I’m thinking of flying to Spain with my little one. By that time he will be almost 6 months old. Is flying from New York to Spain which is around a 6 hour flight to much for my little one. Is it safe at this age?

Hi Ahinoa! Your trip sounds great and 6 hours is not too long to fly with a 6-month-old. Just make sure you’re prepared and all will be well!

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Hi Corinne! I will be flying out from Seattle to Texas sometime in April with my 3 month old infant. (He will be 5 months when we fly). I’ve read one of the previous comments and I was curious of the baby’s ears can hurt by the pressure. So I was wondering if I was to buy an ear muff for my LO, would it help? And I was also curious if I would have to pay for us to bring his carseat?

Hi Naomi! The pressure doesn’t damage their ears, but it can really hurt. Ear muffs won’t do much, but the act of swallowing can help, which is why it’s recommend to give a bottle or pacifier or nurse during take-off and landing. Most airlines will allow you to gate-check a car seat free of charge, and I recommend transporting it in a padded travel bag, since baggage handlers aren’t always very gentle with your belongings. Have a great flight!

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What a great website! Im planning to have long holiday with my baby next month, will be 4,5 months when we travel. We will travel from auckland to singapore ( 12 hours) and i will travel without my husband. We booked car seat. I just wonder if my baby will be ok sleep on car seat for that long? Would he be fine with his back? and im so worry with other passangers if he is cranky during flt so im so nervous. Also.. any tips on how i will carry that car seat to the airplane and pass the security? While i will also have my trolley? As i dont wanna miss anything that i might need during the flight. Thanks

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I’ll be traveling with my five month old next week. We didn’t buy her a plane ticket. But can we still bring a car seat if there’s vacant seats on the plane? And do lap infant have a seat belt?

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Flying from TN to AZ in March with my 6 month old. What are the dos and don’ts of checked baby baggage? Food, formula, diaper rash cream, etc.

Make sure your carry-on is packed with more than you think you’ll need for the duration of your travel day. Keep all of baby’s items together to present for inspection when going through security. You don’t have to abide by the liquid restriction rules when travel with baby but you do need to justify everything you’re bringing. Have a great flight!

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Hi’ I have a 4 month little boy and am flying to Hawaii at the end of February with him. I was wondering if you happen to know if Alaska Airlines allows the flyebaby? I want to order one because I think that will be great to put him in for the 5 hour plane ride but I want to make sure that he will be able to use it for the majority of the plane ride. Thank you!!

Hi Taylor. I wouldn’t use one of those things. Either purchase a seat for your son and he can ride in his car seat, or resign yourself to holding a lap infant for the duration of the flight. If you’re not flying solo, you can spell each other off. Have a great flight!

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Hai , I am planning to travel with my 6 month old baby from boston to india. It’s long hour journey ..will it be safe fot my baby pls let me know thank u

Perfectly safe for baby, but a long flight required lots of preparation–not the least of which includes enough food and diapers. Good luck!

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Hello to Everyone i am travelling in April with my 5 months old baby. i have no idea how it ll be with 5 months old. Is it safe for baby to travel like 13 hours flight? Can i have some information regarding this situation please? Thank you

13 hours is a long flight, make sure you’re prepared with enough food and diapers, and hopefully you won’t be flying alone so you can take a break!

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Hi Corinne! I will be traveling to Abu Dhabi and Dubai from San Diego. I have a 4 month old son who screams and fights sleep all the time! I am also thinking he is very colicky because he is very fussy all the time. I am kind of waiting it out till he is 6 months so that he is a bit matured, or does it really matter? I know I should purchase his own seat and also I am planning on taking a stroller that turns into a bassinet just in case he falls asleep. Also the thing is my little one won’t sleep unless he is swaddled and hears white noise, otherwise he will be screaming at the top of his lungs! He is the most fussiest baby in the world! Do you think I should still pursue my travel plans? Also since it’s my first time visiting this country, I don’t think we can take tours cause I have a fussy baby! What should I do? Is this trip worth going to?

I don’t think waiting will change much! If it’s any consolation, airplanes are quite noisy and you may find the hum of the engine kind of works as a white noise machine–certainly you can swaddle and hold him. You might be better off seeing if you can arrange for a car or taxi to do your own tours at your own pace. That way you can call it quits if baby is not cooperating and at the very least you can operate on your own time frame. Good luck!

Aww thank you Corinne! Yes I agree with you in regards in doing our own tours or taxi to get around, that would be the best thing to do! I will see what I can do to make it work, if not I guess I will wait till he gets a bit older.

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We never purchased a seat for our son until we had two. Honestly, if we had he would have just ended up in mom’s lap anyways. And he has always been a great traveler. He’s quiet, except for fits of giggles, never cries, and sleeps for most of the time.

Unfortunately we had one incident with a guy being disgusted at my wife breast-feeding when he joined us in our row. She was even completely covered. For all he knew she was doing magic tricks under there. But he made a disgusted sound, and ultimately asked to move. I had to bite my tongue very hard.

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Hi there, I just came across your site and thank goodness! I love all the information and it’s been so helpful in getting ready for our first flight with a baby! I exclusively pump for my 4 month old and i’m nervous about flying with pumped breastmilk. I tried calling the airline I’m flying with but honestly they didn’t help much at all they just said I can bring some. Any idea how much I can bring? How I should store it? I have a small cooler bag for it but should I put it in bags? or bottles? Help!

Wowza–good for you for exclusively pumping. The rules about breast milk are the same for any other liquid when traveling with an infant under 2. You aren’t restricted by the amount you can bring, but it’s easiest and best if you keep it all together in whatever vessel you prefer. Bring as much as you think you’ll need and extra to see you through any delays. Will baby take the breast or do you supplement with formula at all? Would be ideal if you had some kind of back up as well.

My son’s first flight (cross-country) wasn’t until he was 6 months old. Luckily he was always very well behaved. We didn’t bother buying him a seat for his car seat as he always wanted to be on mom or dad anyways. We found breast feeding helped a lot at take off and landing, he never cried. Also, he generally just fell right asleep for the duration of the flight.

But of course there was one issue with a guy who was supposed to next to us being very displeased with mom breastfeeding (even though it was even under a cover). But we’ll just leave that be.

Awesome to hear. Thanks for sharing!

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Hi Corinne. I have a 3 month old and she will be just turning 4 months when I travel with her and my mom to Michigan. It is a 2 hour time difference. Currently she sleeps through the night…10pm to 7am. I am very stressed/worried that she will be thrown off and stop sleeping through the night. For istance, our flight out leaves at 7am…when she would usually wake up, but we will have to leave for airport around 430 am so, I will have to get her in carseat to airport etc. I am worried that waking her for the travel to the airport will mess up her full night sleep schedule I am exclusively breastfeeding and nurse to sleep at night, but she is such a good night sleep I don’t want to undo that….suggestions? Thoughts?

Hi Reyna! She may get thrown off for a day or two, but at 4mos you will have plenty of time to get back on track. The night before your flight, put her to bed in her travel clothes (should be comfy enough for sleep anyway) and if she is like mine were, you will have a few hours yet before a diaper change is necessary. Lift her straight from her bed into the car seat, and (fingers crossed) she won’t stir too much. If she stays awake, she may drift off again as you drive to the airport or when your flight is taking off. Try to stay on schedule for the remainder of the day, even if that means waking her from a nap that she went down late for. Stick to your usual routines while you’re away and you may have a few “off” days but it shouldn’t take too long to get back on track. Good luck!!!

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Hi, I’m flying from CA to NYC on Saturday with my 4.5 month old. I am very nervous about the almost 6 hour flight. I am nursing so don’t have to worry about bringing food. However what other staples besides diapers and wipes do you recommend for a 6 hour flight with a baby that age?

Will they let me nurse during take off and landing ?

Hi Allison! If baby will not be in his/her own seat, they will ask you to hold baby in a specific way during take-off and landing, which some believe to be possible to nurse in that position, but it’s not your traditional “cradle” hold. But the pressure may not affect your baby’s ears so nursing during that time is not a must. It is the act of swallowing that helps, so if baby takes a pacifier make sure to have one (or several) on hand and it might be a good idea to invest in one of those clips since they tend to get dropped so often. At 4.5 months you don’t have to really worry about toys or games or snacks, but don’t forget a change of outfit for baby and at least a clean top for you as well, because whatever mess baby may make, it will likely be on your lap 🙂 Have a great trip!!

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Have you had any issues when using a infant carrier/car seat and having the seat in front of the car seat not being able to recline? Going on our first trip (flying Southwest) and dreading having to tell someone that they can’t recline their seat.

If you are traveling Southwest (or any other US airline governed by the FAA) your infant’s need to be rear-facing overrides any reclining “rights” PLease read this post: https://havebabywilltravel.com/2014/10/20/using-car-seats-planes/ and print out the FAA regs. so you’ll be prepared once you’re on board. Good luck!!

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Hi Corrine. Thanks for the great info. I am a little confused about my situation. I don’t have an infant car seat. I have a kind of bulky 3 in 1. I normally carry my 4 month old in my wrap when we are out and about. I will be traveling from GA to MA. I don’t know if I should bring my lightweight stroller or my car seat in which I would purchase this TRAVELMATE car seat travel stroller. Although he prefers to be in my wrap, occasionally he doesnt want to be in it so Id like to bring something to put him in and it also helps when I have to use the bathroom. I’ll be traveling alone with him. Thanks for all your good tips.

Hi Carolina!

I agree, the bulky 3-in-1 isn’t ideal to travel with. Did you buy him a seat? It might be worthwhile to invest in a lightweight car seat used specifically for travel, but you can’t bring it on board unless you’ve purchased him a seat. Also, if you’re traveling alone you won’t want to leave in in the car seat alone while you went to the bathroom. Do you have a more structured carrier than the wrap to use? I know I “wore” my kids in the bathroom more than once. Not ideal but thank goodness for elastic waist pants!

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Hi, Corrine,

Great tips! I’m traveling solo with my 3.5m/o. I don’t see anything about carseat bases. Obviously, I will definitely need to bring a carseat to get her around Texas, but do I need to bring the base for the carseat as well? A base, carrier and stroller, plust carry-on, diaper bag and ergobaby carrier seem like A LOT to travel with solo! Also, do you know if the airline will count my lightweight overhead stroller (mtnbuggy) as a carry-on? I am hoping they’ll let me check-in the carrier at the gate, but i’d like to keep the stroller and my carry-on with me, as well as the diaper bag. So much! I’m already dreading this trip, but I would love to bring baby with me if it isn’t going to be toooo overwhelming and stressful. /c:

Hi Brenda! Best bet is to use an infant carrier car seat that can also be used without the base. The install might be a bit tricky, but is just as safe as when installed with the base. Good luck!

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Hi.. we are to deliver a baby in Nov 18 to 24 and want to know if I can take the baby after three months on a 24 hour travel through flight ?

It will be a long flight for everyone, most especially you! But it is totally fine, just be prepared to be tired 🙂

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Hi I am planning for a trip with my 4month boy and the flight is for 3hrs layover for 1hr then flight for 1hr and then a by road for 5hrs will it be to hectic for my baby and what all can i do to make the journey most comfortable for both of us keeping in mind that the baby is just satisfied with breastfeeding

He should be ok–at 4mos. he will not yet be mobile and the fact that he is exclusively breastfed also makes things easier. YOU will need to make sure you eat and drink enough to keep up your supply. The layover and short flight will be hectic and will probably zoom by. During the first flight try to rest as much as possible. If you’re on the road in a car, see if it’s possible to stop occasionally to feed and change him. Good luck!

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Great tips,but I dont believe I would be this fortunate with my 5 almost 6 month old.My mom is wanting to fly my lo anf I to Dallas to visit.Its only a 1-2hr flight I believe,from Midland to Dallas,however my babygirl dont do well being in such close quarters,with strangers,or loud noises,and is not consolable when she gets to crying and screaming,in fact it makes it worse,no matter what I do.Nothing works,not even breastfeeding her.I have tried everything I could think of.

Hi, Sharee… If possible, try to book your flight at a time when she is most cheerful and easily distracted. If you try to go at nap times and she’s over-stimulated it might make things worse. Best of luck to you!

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It’s my first time going on vacation with a baby. He will almost be 4 months. We are going to San Francisco..I’m not sure what to do when we go sight seeing. We aren’t renting a car it will be cheaper to taxi or Uber than pay for hotel parking . So do I just take his stroller that his car seat can sit on and use that while going around the town? I was told not to take my big stroller and just take an umbrella stroller. Idk what to do. Advice is needed

Hi Stacia! It depends on how big your “big stroller” is. Something like the Uppababy Vista is considered big but if the seat’s off and the car seat can snap in the frame is not bulky at all and could fit in the trunk of your cab or Uber. If you’ll be doing lots of walking and sightseeing, a stroller that you like pushing and your baby finds comfortable to ride in is key. A decent umbrella stroller that reclines is great for older babies and toddlers, but at 4 months your little guy will need extra support and comfort. Another option is to buy one of those frames that are not strollers at all but specifically for snapping a car seat into, but I don’t know how those will be for you if you’ll be putting a lot of miles in sightseeing. Always a good idea to pack a lightweight carrier or sling as well to give you and baby another option. Have a great trip!!

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Hi Corinne, flying with 6 month baby from Boston to manila in Jan. Concerned that we’ll mess up his sleep routine. Our flight is 1:30 am and arrives 6 am in Hongkong. He is breastfed and we have not started solids. Should we start solids soon? We will be back in Boston after 4 weeks so he’d be 7 months by then. I am traveling with my parents and sister, but without my husband. Wonder what we should prepare for the flighy as well.

Your trip sounds amazing! You will be gone for a long time, and I would probably think about starting a few solids–maybe ones that you can take with you or won’t change formulations much between countries like instant cereal or ripe, mashed bananas and avocados. At 6-7mos. their main nutrition is still breast milk or formula but this will get him used to the idea. Your routine will certainly be off for a few days, but keep in mind you can’t force someone to sleep but you can (sometimes) keep them awake. In a perfect world he will sleep for much of the flight, but if not he will certainly be tired and ready to nap at (likely) odd times. Once you arrive try to keep to local time as much as possible right away. And keep him busy with lots of fresh air and daylight when he’s supposed to be awake and keep lights and stimulation low when he’s supposed to be sleeping. Good luck!!

Oh yes, if you will be needing his car seat and stroller while you are in Manila, you should definitely bring them with you–unless you can borrow or rent what you’ll need when you arrive.

Also should we take his car seat and stroller? He has a bassinet reserved on the plane.

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Hi, I’m flying from North Carolina to California with a 9 yr old and 5 months old. I chose to ergo baby carry my daughter. How does take off and landing work? TIA

Hi Nicole! For takeoff and landing you will have to take your daughter out of the Ergo and hold her in the “burping” position on your lap. Have a great flight!

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Hello, I really like your site and it has been very helpful in preparing for our trip. My husband and I are planning a trip to Europe and at that time our son will be 16 months old and we will have our other son who will be 3 months old. So, we were planning on bringing a double stroller with one car seat on board. How would that have to be checked in? Also do you recommend that we get one seat for the car seat and have our 16 month old in our lab or get two seats? The flight should be around 8 hours or so…We were told that the airlines offer a bassinet type gear for infants who are 3 months and that the bassinet is placed with us. Do you know anything about that? Anyway before we make the commitment and purchase the tickets we wanted some advise…Any advise or info you can offer us would be greatly appreciated. Thank you… Georgina

Hi Georgina! If you can swing it, I definitely recommend purchasing at least one additional airplane seat for your sons, and you will have to install a car seat for whichever baby will be sitting in it. The bassinet is a great option for your littlest one, but I’m not sure which car seat you were planning on bringing on board. Certainly you can get the bassinet for your little guy and bring on board a convertible seat for the additional seat you purchased for your older son. If you still need to bring a car seat for your little one you could gate check that along with the stroller, although I recommend using a padded travel bag to protect it. Best case scenario is you get the bassinet AND additional seat for your older guy. Usually they are in the bulkhead seating area which usually costs a bit more, but some airlines (still) don’t charge for this (which is nice!) Hope I actually helped and didn’t confuse you further!

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No no no no no.

Do not fly with your baby unless you have no choice — as in you’re moving or emigrating. Do not torture hundreds of people for hours and hours because you can’t accept that babies have no self-control and that this will affect your life for some time.

I am a mother. I have needs, and I take care of them. I also recognize that I live in a society with other people. When my child was an infant, she was a big screamer for a long time. So here’s what I did: I recognized that there would be many years in which I could sit for hours in coffeeshops, and fly places with my child, but that this was not that time.

A few days ago I was on a two-hour flight with an infant who screamed like its parents were strangling and beating it for an hour. Every damn person on that plane had to share in the anxiety and unhappiness for a solid half hour at each end. It became clear that the baby was reacting to cabin pressurization and depressurization — its ears hurt, poor thing, and all because its parents were so selfish that they couldn’t wait a while to jet off again.

Some of the people on that flight may have needed sleep. Some may have been traveling with migraines, or nausea, or some other kind of pain worsened by having to listen to screaming that went on and on and on. NOBODY needed the stress those two parents generated by bringing their infant along.

DON’T DO IT. It’s selfish and anti-social. Wait till your child is older and can travel well — you’ll enjoy your family vacations then without making everyone else pay.

Might I suggest these for the next time you have to venture out into society: Noise Cancelling Headphones

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Hello Corinne

Nice Article you share with us.

Needs to know you What to pack in the diaper bag ???

Diapers – 03 – 04 depending on how long the journey is. More if your baby has looses or poops more often than others. Wet wipes – Buy a small pack for travelling purposes or keep aside a packet of wet wipes that has been used 75% to optimise the space in your bag. Washcloth – 2 or 3 2 X Change of clothes for the baby to be on the safe side (depends on how long the flight is). Cap in case it gets cold for the baby in the flight Extra blanket Medicines – as mentioned above Small pack of baby cream Rattles Pacifier Expressed breast milk in a bottle (if you don’t want to breastfeed on the flight) or formula, if formula fed. Bib, if carrying feed in a bottle. Mosquito roll on or patches, for travelling after. Hand sanitiser Nursing bib or shrug, if not wearing already. Comb and other essentials Hand cream for the mother (you can use the baby cream as well) Lip balm for the mother Small bottle of drinking water (use when water not available at the airport or flight). Wet bag (for soiled clothes or if using cloth diapers). Nursing pads for the mother 2 zip locs, just in case Any other essentials of the mother (carry your essentials also in the diaper bag and travel light). Mosquito net for the stroller / car seat for travel later. Ring Sling, if you’re a baby wearing mother. Change of clothes for yourself and the person accompanying you (if).

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Hi Corinne,

I read everything what your respond to concerning mothers for their infant child.

All of it made sense. I’m the GrandPa of my granddaughter… thanks for the advise your answered does answered the questions.. 🙂

Have a good day ma’am… GrandPa

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Hi, I’m new to this site but it all seems so insightful we are planning a trip to Vegas for October because my husband has a conference there so we decided to bring my friend that has a baby 12 days younger than my own to help with baby and watch her for a night or two while were there my question is if were only taking a taxi to get to and from the airport do I need to take a carseat my biggest dilemma being that it would then mean wed have to take two cabs 3 adults and 2 6mo olds

Hi Bethany! As strange as it may sound, it’s perfectly legal in most cities to ride in the back seat of a taxi with a baby or toddler on your lap. So there is really no need to bring a car seat if you would just be doing those two trips and you are comfortable with the idea of doing that.

However, I’m sure in Vegas you would be able to hire a car service or arrange for other airport transfer services like a shuttle bus. With the car service you could likely arrange to have one with a car seat installed. With a shuttle bus, car seats typically can’t be installed anyway.

Hope this helps and have a wonderful trip!

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I have recently booked a flight, hopefully this prepares me enough for the flight !

Tell us how it goes, Lana! Have a great trip and stay safe 🙂

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So helpful Corinne! Our first flight with baby is a casual 6 hour flight. We have our work cut out for us! These tips were helpful to make me feel a bit more at ease in the planning.

Have a great trip!

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” Flying with a baby is a major headache on its own. I wouldn’t say I like flying as it is, but things become all the more difficult with a baby. “

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I really like your site and it has been very helpful in preparing for our trip.

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Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2021 Categories Family Travel Advice

By: Author Kate

The Best Age to Travel with a Baby

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“What is the best age to travel with a baby?”

I’ve been asked this question countless times by friends and family who know I’ve been brave (read: crazy) enough to travel with my young babies multiple times. 3 months? 6 months? 12 months? When is the best time to travel with a baby? Or REALLY, Is there any best time to travel with baby ? Is it CRAZY to even bother traveling with a baby? Am I going to feel like I am ‘just parenting’ in a tropical destination?! Will it be any fun??

We’ve traveled with our young ones at a variety of ages and I’m here to report back on the best age for baby to travel.  I’ve summarized the pros and cons of each age group based on our experience of traveling with young kids.  Of course, each baby is different, some babies ‘just sleep’ for the first three months and some (like mine) ‘just screams’ for the first three months. You never know when teething, developmental leaps or other (disastrous) baby phases are going to strike. So what age is best to travel with a baby? I do have a favorite age, so make sure to read through to the end to find out!

What is the best age for a baby to travel?

can you travel with 5 month baby

I have to say that we haven’t traveled much at the infant stage. The first three months with both my kids were a foggy blur that I mostly want to forget! The earliest we have traveled with our youngest son was 2.5 months and I was basically counting that as 3 months by then.  For those with limited maternity leaves, this may be the best age to travel with baby simply because it may be the only time you have off! If you’re wondering when is the best time to travel with a newborn, I would recommend pushing it to as close to 10-12 weeks as possible!

Pros: 0-3 months

  • The baby will sleep a lot. Usually not when you want the baby to sleep, but nevertheless, he will be sleeping for most of the hours of the day.
  • Baby is completely immobile. Wherever you put the baby down is likely where they are going to stay. Put the baby in a beach tent with a mobile or play gym and enjoy the LUXURY of reading a book, or drinking a coffee while it’s hot!
  • This is the best age to fly with a baby.  Forget about needing complicated busy bags, coloring books, stickers or other tricks to keep kids entertained on a plane . All a baby needs at this age is formula or breastmilk and a comfy spot to snooze. Flying at this age is almost as easy as when your kids learn to watch movies for 4 hours straight!

Cons: 0-3 months

  • You are still recovering from a baby exiting your body. Your life is one padsicle after another. I could barely manage a 5-minute walk let alone a beach vacation for a good 6 weeks after the birth of my first (c-section) and second (VBAC) babies.
  • Sleep deprivation. Although this got better with my second, the initial shock of sleep deprivation with my first was the worst. I remember people telling me ‘this too shall pass’ and I clearly remember wanting to punch those people in the face! Sleep deprivation sucks and being on vacation doesn’t help.
  • Potential illness. For us, this is the biggest reason we don’t travel much before three months. it’s not good when babies under 3 months get sick, their little immune system is not yet mature. I like to have at least the first set of immunizations done before we leave the country, especially if it’s a country with fewer healthcare resources. Since I live in Canada, where temperatures are pretty frigid for much of the year, I tend to want to leave the country when I travel!

 The best age to vacation with baby?

The Perfect Age to Travel with a baby

We have traveled the most at this age with our littles. We have been to Costa Rica , Bahamas, and Mexico . Our friends over at Sailing Chance have even been to Italy with a baby this age – and the people of Italy were SO accomodating ! There are lots of different trips you can take at this age, all with their own set of pros and cons.

Pros: 3-6 months

  • Bring your breasts only. If your baby is exclusively breastfed, it’s super easy to travel at this age. No need to worry about food contamination or washing and sterilizing bottles. All you need are your breastst and you are good to go! My youngest also got formula supplementation and although washing bottles was a pain, it was still easier than when eating solids became an issue. I would bring the prepared formula bottles or the travel packs and use bottled water. I would use these microwave sterilizer bags or a sterilizer rented from the hotel or resort to keep the bottles sterilized.
  • Mostly immobile. Although some babies are rolling pretty well or even starting to crawl towards 6 months most are still pretty immobile. I definitely think the best time to travel with an infant is before they become mobile! My little ones were pretty happy to be parked in their stroller at a restaurant or at the beach. The sights and sounds and people were enough entertainment! If I try keeping my now 14-month-old in a stroller for more than 35 seconds and I’m doomed.
  • (Still) sleeps a lot . 3-6 months tends to be the time when (most) babies start consolidating their night sleep (thank YOU) and being more awake during the day. Check out my post on how to get your baby to sleep on vacation to hear the crazy stuff we’ve done to keep our precious ‘sleep routine’ intact on vacation. Well-rested parents = much higher chance of actually enjoying your vacation.

Cons: 3-6 months.

  • They won’t enjoy anything. At this age, babies don’t really care if they are in a tropical paradise or not. They aren’t going to particularly enjoy the pool or the ocean more than they would enjoy the bath. Putting their toes in the sand is probably just going to make them cry. The picture is NOT going to turn out as cute as you wanted it to. Or if it does, it will take 105,678 attempts to do it. This vacation is for you. Not them. If you’re wondering what is the best age for a baby to travel AND actually enjoy it meaningfully, skip ahead a few months!

 When is a good time to travel with a baby?

6-9 months:.

Benefits of family travel

Ok so, in my opinion, this is the worst age to travel with a baby so I have to admit I struggled to come up with ANY pros for this age. Despite this, I have actually traveled with a baby at this age quite a bit. Maybe I’m still scarred from those trips! We stayed at the Empress Hotel in Victoria BC and we went on a Disney Cruise when my youngest was between 6-9 months. We still had fun, but it was a hard age for both of our kids.

Pros: 6-9 months

  • Everything is exciting.   Clearly, I wasn’t up to my usual Pinterest standards on my recent trip to Victoria BC with my then 6-month-old.  For the plane trip, I literally brought NOTHING. I did not bring a single thing to entertain my child for a four-hour plane ride. At this age, EVERYTHING is exciting. Cups are exciting. Napkins are exciting. The seat tray is SUPER exciting. We made it through the flight using only the items already on the plane without causing any sort of ‘scene’. Take that, Pinterest! In general, I find the bes age to fly with baby is any time before they learn to walk!
  • High Chairs are still fun.  Once my babies started really walking or crawling there was no chance they were going to be staying in their high chairs longer than 5-10 minutes. No matter how many delicious treats I was bribing them with. At 6-9 months, most babies are pretty content to sit in a high chair and enjoy the excitement of a meal with their family. Since solids are still a pretty new and exciting thing, it’s easy for that to take up some serious entertainment. I even brought my 6-month-old to the high tea at the Fairmont Empress in Victoria (and he was reasonably well behaved!)

Cons: 6-9 months

  • Eating sand.  If you are planning a beach trip with kids , FORGET IT at this age. Especially if your baby is already crawling, this is a sure disaster. Babies love eating sand, and I’ve tried those Pinterest hacks with the mattress cover on the beach and let me tell you there is NO HACK that will keep sand away from an 8-month-old baby who is determined to eat sand. So what age can I take my baby to the beach? If you want it to be enjoyable, I would say before they are mobile and then after they stop putting everything in their mouth! Certainly a sightseeing or city trip is a better bet at this age.
  • Eating everything.   6-9 months is the peak of the ‘put everything in your mouth stage’. If you are a germaphobe it’s probably not a good idea to travel with your baby at this age. Even myself, with a dog that basically french kissed my babies every day since birth, draw the line at some point. I tend to use a lot of the stroller or the baby carrier at this age to keep those little exploring hands out of every disgusting thing they can find.
  • Eating real food.  When babies start to eat real food, they start to demand real food on schedule. Which means you have to be prepared with REAL FOOD on demand. No joke. We opted to do a mix of purees and baby-led weaning with both of our littles simply because it afforded us the flexibility to be a bit lazy in this regard. Depending on the type of trip, having separate meals made for baby may be a hassle, or hard to find!

 The best age to take baby on holiday?

9-12 months.

The Best age to Travel with a baby

9-12 months has been very hit or miss for us.  Babies can be so different at this age! Some are walking and some are just starting to crawl. Those developmental leaps (complete with cranky periods) are so unpredictable.

Pros: 9-12 months

  • They might start to actually like some stuff . Splashing in the pool and dipping their toes in the ocean might genuinely be the greatest moment of their little lives. Warning, also possible they will REALLY hate it. My sons have loved splashing in the pool, dancing to music and exploring new activities at this age. They have so much curiosity (and no fear) which makes everything awesome. all. the. time.
  • Feeding and naps will be well established . Although both of my kids seemed to strongly resist any sort of schedule I imposed on them, by 9-12 months they had a somewhat predictable routine. They reliably had two naps and both MOSTLY slept through the night. At this point, they were both eating mostly ‘table food’ which made them much better travel buddies.

Cons: 9-12 months

  • Might be too mobile. One of our worst trips with a baby was Jamaica when our son was exactly 12 months. He had JUST learned to walk and when we arrived at our destination with slippery floors and lots of bumps and stairs, he latched on to daddy and basically didn’t let go of him for 7 days straight. Although he could ‘walk’ it sure didn’t seem like it for the 7 days he was there.
  • Sleep regression. For both of our kids, the 9-12 month sleep regression was KILLER. On the same trip as above, our son woke up at 4 am every single night. I didn’t think our hotel room neighbors would appreciate any renewed attempts at sleep training so the only thing that kept him quiet was to bounce him UP AND DOWN UP AND DOWN in a baby carrier for an hour straight until he fell back asleep. Not fun.
  • Separation anxiety. Thankfully, my hubby is a PROSTAR DAD who is quite popular with both my kiddos. In fact, until recently, he was definitely both boys ‘favorite’. As such, when we go on vacation, the kids typically need to ensure they have some sort of body part touching him at all times. Or ELSE. Sorry, Daddy! I’ll just be over here sipping my strawberry daiquiri…

 The worst age to travel with toddler?

12-18 months.

Grand Palladium White Sands Beach

Pros: 12-18 months

  • They won’t eat sand! Ok, they might put a little in their mouth at first. Usually, one taste will be enough to make them realize their mistake fast! Not eating sand = not having to be constantly hovering over them on the beach. Win!
  • They may only take one nap . This is likely closer to the 18-month mark, but having only one nap a day allowed for a lot of flexibility when traveling. When our kids are napping two naps a day having a separate bedroom is a MUST for us. I am NOT going on vacation to sit in a dark room for hours on end.

Cons: 12-18 months

  • They know what they want, but don’t know how to tell you! Ok, this is pretty much the trend for the next 2.5 years, but I’ve found it all starts after 12 months. In fact, as I’m currently writing this post, my 14-month old’s favorite method of getting my attention is screaming at the top of his lungs. I have to admit, it’s quite effective. Until they are speaking in sentences, expressing what they want, and understanding why they sometimes can’t have it, is a constant battle. This is where choosing the right trip with kids is so important! Don’t pick a trip where you are going to be constantly saying ‘NO’ or no one will have any fun!
  • This is the WORST age to fly with a baby. Plane trips are especially hard at this age. 12-18-month-olds don’t like to be restrained and have NO IDEA why being on a plane would require them to stay in the same place for HOURS. AND unlike 18month+ babies who can be entertained with iPad apps on the plane , they aren’t too enthralled with the iPad either. I keep my plane trips <4 hours at this age and try to plan at least a short nap on the plane to pass the time.

SOOOOOO…What is the best age for a baby to travel?

I think the best age to take a baby on holiday is definitely 3-6 months. We have now done 3 trips at this age with our two kids and each one has been a success. Ah, the blissful long stroller walks! Casually enjoying lunch while baby naps in the stroller or carrier.  Not needing to think about food and not needing to worry about illness it’s a perfect age to travel with a baby. After 3-6 months it’s all downhill until age 3.5 when you can start to actually reason with your kids.

What do you think? What is a good age to travel with baby? Drop me a line in the comments below to let me know your favorite age to travel with baby! 

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The best age to vacation with a baby

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My Top 5 Sleep Tips for Traveling With a Baby

Last updated January 2nd, 2024 .

A headshot of Cara Dumaplin

Article by:

Cara Dumaplin

RN, BSN, Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant

traveling with a baby

Just so you know, I do review everything I recommend. When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission. Learn more about affiliate links

Traveling can be such an exciting adventure. However, if you are traveling with a baby, “vacation” can often feel like more “work” than staying home. 

A mom of a 9-month-old told me, “Cara, I’m thinking of canceling our trip. We were so sleep deprived for the first 7 months of my daughter’s life. The last 2 months of her sleeping has been so great that I just don’t want to mess it up.”

Want to hear my advice?

Please, please, please do NOT cancel your trip. Do NOT let your fear of sleepless nights rob you of priceless memories with family and friends. Please, GO!

Let me share some of my tried and true sleep tips for traveling with a baby.

How do I get my baby to sleep while traveling on vacation? # anchor

1. start with a well-rested baby. # anchor.

Even before we travel, we have schedules full of loose ends to tie up, errands to run, and packing to do. This can make your days hectic and also interfere with your little one’s sleep. Do your best to protect your baby’s sleep time before your trip so that you don’t start your travels with a sleep deficit. An overtired baby nearly guarantees a rough trip.

2. Plan accommodations carefully. # anchor

If your baby is accustomed to sleeping in her own space at home, you will want to TRY to continue this while traveling. Room-sharing can lead to tough nights if your baby is not accustomed to sharing her space.

If you’re staying at a hotel, try to book a room with a separate living area or attached room. I know this is not always feasible, so in a pinch, the bathroom of your hotel room works just fine too, as long as it has adequate circulation!

If you’re staying with friends or family, talk to them in advance about the possibility of separate room accommodations for you and the baby. (Even an office works great as a makeshift nursery!)

Maintaining your baby’s own sleeping space is the best-case scenario for making sure EVERYONE gets a good night of sleep! If this simply isn’t an option, try to provide a barrier – or at least a considerable distance – between your bed and the baby. Check out the Slumberpod too (Code CARA saves you 5%).

 3. Pack the essentials to recreate the baby’s bedroom. # anchor

Try to replicate your baby’s normal nighttime surroundings as closely as possible. Bring your:

Sound machine  

Lots of pacifiers

Sleep sack/swaddle

Portable blackout curtains (use code Cara for 10% off)

Bedtime routine essentials

If you’re staying at a hotel, you can request an actual crib. For some babies, this can work much better than a Pack ‘n Play. Also, check out Baby’s Away for renting a crib (or other baby equipment) if you are staying with family.

4. Maintain your bedtime routine while away. # anchor

A familiar bedtime routine cues your baby’s brain to the coming sleep. If you typically do a bath, give a mini massage, dress in jammies, feed her, and then read a book before placing her in the crib, continue to do that while you travel. This predictable series of events remind her that bedtime is coming, even if her surroundings are slightly different or if bedtime is later than normal. Consistency in this routine is key!

5. Try to get one good nap a day. # anchor

During trips, we often try to pack in as many activities as possible. Unfortunately, your carefully planned fun can turn into an absolute disaster with a cranky, overtired baby. If your little one is taking more than one nap a day, attempt to get a solid morning nap at the hotel (or at the home where you are staying). Send someone out for a coffee run, plan out your day, or just enjoy some relaxing quiet time, all while allowing your baby to get that restful nap.

Starting the day rested can allow future naps to happen in the car seat, in grandma’s arms, or in the stroller.

Remember, traveling can be tiring!  You’ll need to be flexible when it comes to how your plans fit into your baby’s nap schedule . If your baby is under 5 months, sleepy cues are important to keep your baby from becoming overtired. If one of your baby’s naps is short or on the go, you may need to make bedtime 30-60 minutes earlier than usual.

Our travel includes a time change, how do we help our baby adjust to a new time zone? # anchor

If possible, keep your baby on his own time zone . Holiday travels and even most vacations are often short trips, and shifting times can be difficult—even for adults!

If you’re traveling west to east, the time difference can actually make your life easier. The few hours you get traveling east will allow you to put your baby down for a “late” bedtime, even though it will feel like the same bedtime to your baby. So if your baby’s bedtime is typically 7 p.m., maybe it gets “moved” to 8 p.m. And the added bonus is you won’t have to leave your fun evening plans in the middle of dinner!

If you are traveling east to west and the time difference just isn’t feasible to maintain your same time zone, try adding in a catnap in the late afternoon to help your little one make it to bedtime.

Other parents find just pushing bedtime an hour or so later helps when the time change is just two hours. With all the new surroundings and constant activity, your baby may do okay staying awake for a bit longer. This “splitting the difference” works for many babies.

When adjusting to a different time zone , make sure to use light to your advantage! During your baby’s awake time, be active and exposed to as much daylight or even bright indoor light as possible to adjust to the local time. As for early morning wakings: please be sure to keep the baby’s room as dark as possible. This will help to keep your baby from waking up quite as early in an unfamiliar environment. (Here are some fabulous travel blackout shades (use code Cara for 10% off.)

Help! My baby won’t sleep on vacation, what should I do? # anchor

First, take a deep breath. Vacations can be tricky for baby sleep. Read through my tips above and see if there are any tweaks you can make. 

Just remember, vacations are temporary, and you can leave any tricky sleep behind when you return home. If you need a plan to help you when you get back, check out my 5–24 Month Collection .

If you have been consistent at home with your baby’s sleep and you’re having a bit of trouble, now is the time to let go a bit. Relax and have fun; enjoy your family time. You have a great sleeper, so don’t stress over how much (or how little) sleep your baby is getting. This is a short-lived time with your family and friends. Your baby will get back on track when you return home. Yes, your sleep consultant is giving you this advice!

Please Note: If you took my newborn class, you don’t have to stop implementing your newborn tips during your travels! The same techniques can certainly still be applied on your trip. Remember—you can even let your sweet little one nap in your mom’s arms most of the day without ruining the night sleep you’ve established.

Where should my baby sleep while on vacation? # anchor

Take a look at tip #2 above. My general recommendation is to have your baby sleep like they do at home. If they share a room with you at home, they should also share one with you on vacation. If they have their own sleeping space at home, try to give them their own sleep space on vacation – as much as this is possible. Just keep in mind that even on vacation all of our same safe sleep rules apply.

How do I help my baby sleep on a plane?  # anchor

Bring anything you might need to make your baby’s sleep on the plane successful: sound machine (if it’s portable, but your phone can work in a pinch), sleep sack / swaddle, books, pacifiers , bottle.

Whenever you expect your little one to sleep, take your baby through a mini version of their normal sleep routine. If your sleep routine includes a bath, skip that part but still change their diaper, offer a feeding, read them a book, or whatever your routine steps are shortened down.

At the end of the day, all you can do is try your best. It’s your job to offer the nap, and it’s your baby’s job to take it, so don’t stress about it. Remember, what happens on vacation stays on vacation.

What do I do when I get home from traveling with a baby?  # anchor

Once you get back from vacation, return to your normal routine and leave any tricky vacation sleep behind. To help you get back to your normal routine, refer back to the information you have from the 5–24 Month Collection . Pull out your sleep plan, read it again, watch your class, and get right back on it. Be 110% consistent. Typically within 3-5 nights, you’ll have your great little sleeper back.

Case in point: Remember that 9-month-old whose mom was considering canceling their travel plans?

She admitted it was the best trip ever; her family simply fell in love with her daughter! Now, the trip wasn’t 100% blissful: Naps were rough on a few days. They had some middle-of-the-night wakings and twice fed her in the night (even when Mom knew she wasn’t hungry).

Guess what?!? Within just 3 nights of returning home, they were back to 10.5-12 hour nights simply by following their plan.

If your nights are tough before traveling, you can still apply the tips above to help you survive your travels. When you return from your trip, I can help. The 5–24 Month Collection gives you a step-by-step plan to follow. It’s a balanced approach to teaching your little one to sleep in her crib while still providing hands-on reassurance. It’s a plan to restful nights AND peace of mind knowing that your baby can quickly recover from an exciting vacation. 

Whatever happens with sleep while you are traveling with your baby, I know it will be worth the memories. You’ve got this. 

If you're overwhelmed, exhausted, or just not sure where to start. I was there too. Let me show you everything you need to confidently handle sleep so your whole family can thrive!

Select your child's age to get started:

can you travel with 5 month baby

Are you ready to have a great little sleeper?

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What to know about traveling internationally with a baby

Caroline Picard

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 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]

Colleen de Bellefonds

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Wanderlust Storytellers – An Inspirational Family Travel Blog

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

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

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

best cities in Europe Florence with Kids

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.

best places to visit in tuscany - Florence with kids

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.

best towns to visit in tuscany - Pisa with kids

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

Tokyo Government Building | What to do in Tokyo

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

Westminster Bridge at sunset, London, UK

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)!

Bali with a baby

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

Wild Beach at Tulum - Riviera Maya in 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

Chicago River

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

immeubles à montreal

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

Tasmania with a Baby

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

View of Tenby Harbour, with Castle Hill.

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

Mission Beach Boardwalk, Summer Sunset, 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.

(Waikiki Beach)

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

Cape Town with a Baby

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

TAIPEI, TAIWAN - May 5, 2015 : Many people including tourist and believers come to Longshan Temple, Taiwan on May 5th, 2015. It is one of the oldest Traditional Temple in Taipei

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.

xunantunich maya site ruins in belize

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

Coconut palms

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.

scenic Rhodes island, Lindos bay. Greece

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-with-Kids_thumb.jpg

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.

Washington, DC, United States

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

Reykjavik

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

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, 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

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

Barcelona-Spain.jpg

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

Promenade-des-Anglais-Nice.jpg

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, 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 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

Sunrise Beach Koh Lipe 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.

Traveling with a baby in a train

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.

Meiji Shrine in Japan with a Baby

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.

Flying with a baby

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.

Baby facilities in a hotel

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

Traveling Japan with a Baby

  • 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.

Kurashiki Japan with kids

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 .

Best holidays with a baby

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?

Photo of author

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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I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

Emily Siner

can you travel with 5 month baby

Journalist Emily Siner went on a trip to Japan with her 8-month-old son and knew it would be daunting. What should she pack? What should she expect? Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Journalist Emily Siner went on a trip to Japan with her 8-month-old son and knew it would be daunting. What should she pack? What should she expect?

Last winter, my husband and I made the ambitious decision to fly 13 hours with our 8 month old for a two-week vacation around Japan.

We knew flying with a baby would be daunting. What if he has a meltdown on the airplane? What gear do we bring? How will he adjust to the 15-hour time change? And ... will we actually get to enjoy ourselves?

can you travel with 5 month baby

Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane. Emily Siner hide caption

Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane.

Preethi Harbuck, author of the travel blog Local Passport Family and a mom of six agrees that taking a big trip with young children — that is, babies and toddlers under age 2 — isn't easy. But with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be fun for everyone. You may even be able to "connect with people and places in a new way that [you] wouldn't have been able to experience without kids," she says.

To help set parents up for success, Harbuck and Christine Sarkis, editor-in-chief of the travel website Family Vacationist , share tips on what to pack, how to overcome travel challenges and set realistic expectations.

Take a practice trip

can you travel with 5 month baby

Before you pack your passports for a big international trip, try a shorter trip that's closer to home so you can work out the kinks of traveling with a young child. Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Before you pack your passports for a big international trip, try a shorter trip that's closer to home so you can work out the kinks of traveling with a young child.

The first step to preparing for a big trip is to take a smaller one, like an overnight trip somewhere close by. It can give you a sense of what it's like to travel with your little one and grow your confidence, says Harbuck. "Find what feels comfortable and keep practicing. It will become easier."

Luckily, my husband and I had a chance to take some shorter trips with our baby before going to Japan. When our baby was three months old, we stayed overnight at a cabin about a half hour away by car. A month later, we took an 8-hour road trip to Chicago to see family.

How to take better (and more distinctive) photos on vacation

How to take better (and more distinctive) photos on vacation

From these outings. I learned how important it was to pack a sound machine, which helps my baby fall asleep, and a portable diaper changing pad. I also learned that I didn't need to bring too many toys. My kid loved watching other people talk, walk and interact with each other.

So when we went to Japan, I put those lessons to use. I packed the essentials, left half the toys behind and made sure to sit in an aisle seat on the plane so that my baby, who sat on my lap, could get a good view of the passengers and stay entertained.

Make plans your future self will thank you for

When traveling with a baby or a toddler, everything becomes a little more complicated. There's a lot more to pack (more on that later) and a lot more considerations to make (like naps and kid-friendly meals, perhaps). So the key is to prioritize decisions that will simplify travel, says Sarkis. "Anything you can do to smooth your way [will make you] so happy with yourself."

Here are some planning decisions that our experts recommend.

Put your kid in their own plane seat. Many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly in your lap for a very low rate, sometimes even for free. While that can make travel more budget friendly, Harbuck says it's worth buying your child their own seat. Placing them in a car seat is the safest place for them to sit on an airplane, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Plus, having your own seats can make long flights more comfortable for the both of you.

Consider their developmental stage. Keep in mind that your child's needs will change as they age. For example, if your kid is walking, it may be harder to "keep them busy and happy" on the airplane, says Sarkis. So you might enjoy your trip more if you choose a destination that's closer to home. Anticipate what stage they'll be in at the time of travel and plan accordingly.

Add more adults to the trip. My husband and I traveled with friends for part of our trip around Japan. They helped us carry luggage and held our baby while we ate. "If you have someone to trade off with, that's really helpful," says Sarkis.

7 tips to help you keep the peace when traveling with a group

7 tips to help you keep the peace when traveling with a group

Book a vacation rental. If you are traveling with a little one who still naps in the middle of the day or has an early bedtime, you may not want to book a single hotel room. Sarkis says she made that mistake on a trip once and had to bring pillows into the bathtub just to have a place to read after her kids went to bed. "Whereas in a vacation rental I could have sat on a couch."

Plan solo time. Carve out time for you and your travel partners to do things without the baby. On our trip to Japan, my husband and I decided we'd give each other as much time as we wanted in the guesthouse onsen , the heated communal bath, while the other watched our sleeping baby. Another night, we hired a babysitter so we could go out together and sing karaoke.

Pack well ... and lightly

It’s hard to travel light with a baby. So opt for the travel versions of strollers, cribs and car seats — they are often smaller and weigh less than the usual gear.

Credit: Becky Harlan/NPR

Portable cribs, high chairs, playpens and sleep canopies? There's no shortage of recommendations when it comes to choosing travel gear for your little one. But the No. 1 takeaway is to make sure "everything you're carrying is worth the stress of carrying it," says Sarkis.

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Focus on the basic gear. At the minimum, your child will likely need a stroller or baby carrier to get around, a car seat for car trips and a safe place to sleep, like a portable crib. See if you can get travel versions of that gear, which are often lighter, smaller and easier to carry. Many airlines will let you check a stroller and a car seat for free, either before you go through security or at the gate. (If you do this, get some sort of carrying case to protect them.)

Cut down the big stuff ... There may be opportunities to leave some of that gear behind, says Sarkis. Check whether you can rent a stroller at your destination. Your accommodation may offer baby cribs. And some ridesharing apps may have vehicles outfitted with infant car seats.

... and the little stuff. "Kids live all around the world so you can access most of what you really, truly need" at your destination, says Harbuck. If your luggage is getting too full, consider buying diapers, wipes, formula or baby food when you land. In Japan, we did laundry halfway through our trip to minimize the clothing we had to pack.

Set your expectations

can you travel with 5 month baby

Traveling with young children alters the nature of the experience. It's important to set realistic expectations for your trip. Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Traveling with young children alters the nature of the experience. It's important to set realistic expectations for your trip.

I'll be honest: There were a lot of moments on our trip when I felt overwhelmed and a bit disappointed. Like when my jet-lagged baby woke up crying at 1 a.m., 3 a.m. and somehow again at 3:30 a.m. — for two nights in a row.

Both Harbuck and Sarkis acknowledge that post-kid travel is harder in many ways. But there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success.

Redirect your attention to the positive aspects of your journey. "If you're focused only on the challenges, you're going to miss the joys," says Sarkis. For me, it was delightful to witness my baby do new things in Japan. He ate new foods like udon, miso soup and smoked fish. He was mesmerized by the Ryoanji Temple's rock garden in Kyoto and even more mesmerized by the steady stream of tourists' faces to observe.

A flight expert's hot take on holiday travel: 'Don't do it'

A flight expert's hot take on holiday travel: 'Don't do it'

See drawbacks as opportunities. If you have to go back to your hotel twice a day to let your child nap, see it as a moment to read, journal or "recharge for the next thing you do," says Sarkis.

Look out for special ways your child is helping you connect with the world. On flights, our neighbors told us about their own children or nieces and nephews. In restaurants, servers would come over to coo at him and make conversation with us in the process, despite the language barrier.

And finally, give yourself some kudos. For us parents, traveling was a big priority for us before he was born, and the experience made us proud to realize that yes — even with a small child, we can still see the world.

The audio portion of this episode was produced by Andee Tagle. The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

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  • Life Kit: Parenting

June 1, 2020

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9 Tips For International Travel with an Infant

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Mediafeed

Have baby, will travel: Tips for new parents

Posted: June 5, 2023 | Last updated: June 5, 2023

<p>The most obvious perk of traveling with a baby: You don’t need to pay for their airplane seat until they reach age two! Besides that, the upsides and downsides depend on your approach to parenting.</p><p>Generally speaking, traveling around the 6-month mark is mostly positive. Before babies start crawling, they don’t struggle to be put down or need a baby-proofed hotel room in which to roam. You can ditch the stroller and opt for a carrier as you explore, and the baby can either nap or observe the scenery.</p><p>There’s also a good chance your baby isn’t yet relying on solid food — we actually delayed kickoff by a month or two until after our travels — so there’s no need to hunt down special infant meals. If you’re breastfeeding, keep it up through your trip and you’ll barely need to pack a thing for your baby. Otherwise, just bring enough formula (yes, TSA will allow it through) and you’ll be good to go.</p><p>With infants younger than 6 months, you may face more fussiness. And depending on the conditions your little one needs to get to sleep, your schedule may have to revolve around nap times. After they’ve started to crawl or toddle, you’ll want to be more vigilant of potential hazards in your hotel, rental, or host’s home.</p><p>When planning your day, keep in mind that picky eaters can take time to satisfy. But what better way to expand your kid’s palate than in another country? Our daughter tried her first taste of pancakes in Amsterdam, while sitting in her first-ever high chair, and it remains one of our favorite early-parenting memories.</p><p>By the way, we also have good tips for new parents wondering <a href="https://www.sofi.com/learn/content/how-families-afford-to-travel/">how families afford to travel</a>.</p>

Pros and Cons of Traveling With a Baby

The most obvious perk of traveling with a baby: You don’t need to pay for their airplane seat until they reach age two! Besides that, the upsides and downsides depend on your approach to parenting.

Generally speaking, traveling around the 6-month mark is mostly positive. Before babies start crawling, they don’t struggle to be put down or need a baby-proofed hotel room in which to roam. You can ditch the stroller and opt for a carrier as you explore, and the baby can either nap or observe the scenery.

There’s also a good chance your baby isn’t yet relying on solid food — we actually delayed kickoff by a month or two until after our travels — so there’s no need to hunt down special infant meals. If you’re breastfeeding, keep it up through your trip and you’ll barely need to pack a thing for your baby. Otherwise, just bring enough formula (yes, TSA will allow it through) and you’ll be good to go.

With infants younger than 6 months, you may face more fussiness. And depending on the conditions your little one needs to get to sleep, your schedule may have to revolve around nap times. After they’ve started to crawl or toddle, you’ll want to be more vigilant of potential hazards in your hotel, rental, or host’s home.

When planning your day, keep in mind that picky eaters can take time to satisfy. But what better way to expand your kid’s palate than in another country? Our daughter tried her first taste of pancakes in Amsterdam, while sitting in her first-ever high chair, and it remains one of our favorite early-parenting memories.

By the way, we also have good tips for new parents wondering  how families afford to travel .

<p>Before you go anywhere, you’ll want to check a few important items off your to-do list.</p><h3>Collect Your Baby’s Travel Documents</h3><p>When you’re traveling within the United States, your baby is good to go. Just be sure to have their birth certificate on hand and, if only one parent is present, a letter of consent from the other, to avoid any custody dramas while you’re trying to enjoy a vacation.</p><p>If you’re traveling internationally, via plane, your little one will need a passport just like every other U.S. citizen. When traveling by sea, you’ll want to bring the birth certificate and consent letter from a parent who stays at home.</p><p>To apply for your baby’s passport, be sure to start the process as early as possible by filling out form <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/under-16.html">DS-11 </a>, found on the State Department’s site. You’ll be asked for evidence of a birth certificate (and/or other options to prove citizenship, if they apply to you) and a properly formatted photo. This image will be used until your kid is 5 and needs an updated passport — a source of great amusement for them until then, guaranteed.</p>

Pre-Trip Checklist

Before you go anywhere, you’ll want to check a few important items off your to-do list.

Collect Your Baby’s Travel Documents

When you’re traveling within the United States, your baby is good to go. Just be sure to have their birth certificate on hand and, if only one parent is present, a letter of consent from the other, to avoid any custody dramas while you’re trying to enjoy a vacation.

If you’re traveling internationally, via plane, your little one will need a passport just like every other U.S. citizen. When traveling by sea, you’ll want to bring the birth certificate and consent letter from a parent who stays at home.

To apply for your baby’s passport, be sure to start the process as early as possible by filling out form  DS-11  , found on the State Department’s site. You’ll be asked for evidence of a birth certificate (and/or other options to prove citizenship, if they apply to you) and a properly formatted photo. This image will be used until your kid is 5 and needs an updated passport — a source of great amusement for them until then, guaranteed.

<p>Consider bringing your baby to the pediatrician about a month before your departure, and make sure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. <a href="https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/family-travel/vaccine-recommendations-for-infants-and-children">Additional shots </a> may be required depending on your destination.</p><p>Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for other travel alerts. And be sure to pack any medications your child might need, such as baby acetaminophen in case of teething pain or fever.</p><p>(By the way, this article will tell you what to do if you or your baby <a href="https://www.sofi.com/learn/content/sick-on-vacation/">get sick on vacation</a>.)</p>

Visit the Pediatrician

Consider bringing your baby to the pediatrician about a month before your departure, and make sure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations.  Additional shots   may be required depending on your destination.

Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for other travel alerts. And be sure to pack any medications your child might need, such as baby acetaminophen in case of teething pain or fever.

(By the way, this article will tell you what to do if you or your baby  get sick on vacation .)

<p>Think about what you might need at your destination: bassinet, Pack ‘n Play, etc. You may be able to call to request larger items at your hotel or rental, attached to your reservation. If you plan on <a href="https://www.sofi.com/learn/content/do-you-need-credit-card-to-rent-car/">renting a car</a>, make sure you reserve a car seat.</p><p>If you don’t already have a baby-wearing sling or pack that’s light and comfortable, consider investing in one. The structured Ergobaby and Tula are two excellent options. If you’re not a baby-wearing type and your baby is old enough to sit up, think about getting a lightweight folding stroller (Maclaren has a range of great options) that’s easy to carry and maneuver (and should meet all carry-on specifications). Leave your souped-up fancy version at home.</p>

Pack or Reserve Baby Items

Think about what you might need at your destination: bassinet, Pack ‘n Play, etc. You may be able to call to request larger items at your hotel or rental, attached to your reservation. If you plan on  renting a car , make sure you reserve a car seat.

If you don’t already have a baby-wearing sling or pack that’s light and comfortable, consider investing in one. The structured Ergobaby and Tula are two excellent options. If you’re not a baby-wearing type and your baby is old enough to sit up, think about getting a lightweight folding stroller (Maclaren has a range of great options) that’s easy to carry and maneuver (and should meet all carry-on specifications). Leave your souped-up fancy version at home.

<h3>What to Bring</h3><p>The things you’ll need when traveling with a baby are not so different from what you need for a day in the park. Besides a stroller or carrier, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got enough amusements on hand to get your baby (and those around you) through the flight without much drama. I remember getting great new-parent tips from others about flying, including the advice to bring a small bag stuffed with distractions: board books, her Sophie the Giraffe teether, a light-up rattle. It was an excellent idea, even though she wound up happily playing with an empty plastic water bottle for much of our time in the air — anything that works!</p><p>If you’ve got a toddler who likes to snack, have plenty of their favorites with you (for yourself, too, as they’re not the only one who needs to be distracted from grumpiness). Other useful items to bring in your carry-on: plenty of diapers, wipes, a travel diaper pad to use in the cramped bathroom (not fun), formula, and a small cozy blanket.</p><h4>Dealing With Air Pressure Changes</h4><p>When flying with a baby, take-off and landing are likely to be the toughest parts, due to air-pressure changes in the cabin that can plug up their little ears. Start breastfeeding or bottle-feeding a few minutes before the actual take-off or landing. The sucking and swallowing actions will help their ears keep popping. Your little one will be blissfully unaware that they’re supposed to start screaming.</p>

Flying With a Baby

What to bring.

The things you’ll need when traveling with a baby are not so different from what you need for a day in the park. Besides a stroller or carrier, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got enough amusements on hand to get your baby (and those around you) through the flight without much drama. I remember getting great new-parent tips from others about flying, including the advice to bring a small bag stuffed with distractions: board books, her Sophie the Giraffe teether, a light-up rattle. It was an excellent idea, even though she wound up happily playing with an empty plastic water bottle for much of our time in the air — anything that works!

If you’ve got a toddler who likes to snack, have plenty of their favorites with you (for yourself, too, as they’re not the only one who needs to be distracted from grumpiness). Other useful items to bring in your carry-on: plenty of diapers, wipes, a travel diaper pad to use in the cramped bathroom (not fun), formula, and a small cozy blanket.

Dealing With Air Pressure Changes

When flying with a baby, take-off and landing are likely to be the toughest parts, due to air-pressure changes in the cabin that can plug up their little ears. Start breastfeeding or bottle-feeding a few minutes before the actual take-off or landing. The sucking and swallowing actions will help their ears keep popping. Your little one will be blissfully unaware that they’re supposed to start screaming.

<p>When traveling, think of your baby as a mini-version of you, and take all precautions (and then some) that you’d take for yourself. For <a href="https://www.sofi.com/learn/content/summer-travel-tips/">summer travel</a> in warm climates, apply mosquito repellant, use plenty of sunscreen (don’t forget to reapply!), and dress them in long-sleeved rash guards while swimming or on the beach. In new countries, avoid tap water.</p><p>Consider nap times, and where you’d like to be to help facilitate your baby falling asleep in a strange environment. Finally, be prepared to adjust your plan as you go to accommodate any fussiness and meltdowns.</p>

At Your Destination

When traveling, think of your baby as a mini-version of you, and take all precautions (and then some) that you’d take for yourself. For  summer travel  in warm climates, apply mosquito repellant, use plenty of sunscreen (don’t forget to reapply!), and dress them in long-sleeved rash guards while swimming or on the beach. In new countries, avoid tap water.

Consider nap times, and where you’d like to be to help facilitate your baby falling asleep in a strange environment. Finally, be prepared to adjust your plan as you go to accommodate any fussiness and meltdowns.

<p>Don’t stress out about traveling with your infant — enjoy it! Now, when your little one is still portable and not yet making their own demands, might be your last chance to feel free as a bird while exploring a new place. No, they won’t remember the experience, but you will. And you’ll have the pictures and stories to prove it.</p><p class="p1"><i>This article originally appeared on </i><a href="https://www.sofi.com/learn/content/how-to-live-on-minimum-wage/"><i>SoFi.com</i></a><i> and was syndicated by</i><a href="https://mediafeed.org/"><i> MediaFeed.org</i></a><i>.</i></p><p class="p1"><i>Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.</i></p><p class="p1"><i>The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment AdvisorSoFi isn’t recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.</i></p><p class="p1"><i>Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Information about SoFi Wealth’s advisory operations, services, and fees is set forth in SoFi Wealth’s current Form ADV Part 2 (Brochure), a copy of which is available upon request and at </i><a href="https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/"><i>www.adviserinfo.sec.gov</i></a><i>. Liz Young is a Registered Representative of SoFi Securities and Investment Advisor Representative of SoFi Wealth. Her ADV 2B is available at </i><a href="https://www.sofi.com/legal/adv"><i>www.sofi.com/legal/adv</i></a><i>.</i></p>

The Takeaway

Don’t stress out about traveling with your infant — enjoy it! Now, when your little one is still portable and not yet making their own demands, might be your last chance to feel free as a bird while exploring a new place. No, they won’t remember the experience, but you will. And you’ll have the pictures and stories to prove it.

This article originally appeared on  SoFi.com  and was syndicated by  MediaFeed.org .

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment AdvisorSoFi isn’t recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Information about SoFi Wealth’s advisory operations, services, and fees is set forth in SoFi Wealth’s current Form ADV Part 2 (Brochure), a copy of which is available upon request and at  www.adviserinfo.sec.gov . Liz Young is a Registered Representative of SoFi Securities and Investment Advisor Representative of SoFi Wealth. Her ADV 2B is available at  www.sofi.com/legal/adv .

<h1><p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/4-ways-travel-credit-cards-can-really-save-you-big-on-your-next-vacation/ss-AA19dn7t#image=2">4 ways travel credit cards can really save you big on your next vacation</a></p></h1>

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. Air travel with infant: Is it safe?

    Answer From Jay L. Hoecker, M.D. Air travel is typically safe for most healthy, full-term infants after the first few weeks. Air travel may not be a good idea for babies born before their due date, called premature or pre-term. Babies born early may still need time for their lungs to mature. So check with a healthcare professional before flying ...

  2. Ultimate Guide to Travel With a Baby: Including Expert Tips

    Best Time to Travel with a Baby by Age (3 Months to 1 Year) Traveling with a baby can be a rewarding experience, but the best time to travel largely depends on your baby's age. Traveling with a 3-month-old Baby. At three months old, babies are starting to develop a routine, and their immune systems are becoming stronger.

  3. Tips for Flying With a 5 Month Old Baby

    If you are traveling with a 5 month old as a lap baby, typically they either fly for free, or at a reduced fare of approximately 10% of the adult fare plus any applicable taxes. This obviously depends on the airline, the destination and whether it's a domestic or international flight. If you purchase a seat to use your carseat for your infant ...

  4. 37 Tips for Traveling with Infants & Older Babies

    Whether traveling with your infant, older baby, or toddler by car or plane, double-check any car seats you use for safety. Look up the expiration date to make sure the seat hasn't expired, and ensure that it's properly installed. 9. Keep Feedings and Sleep Schedules Consistent.

  5. Flying With a Baby

    A passport for international flights. All U.S. citizens, including newborns, need their own passports to fly internationally. To obtain one for your baby, you'll need to use the DS-11 form and apply together in person, so plan ahead. For domestic flights, babies and children under 18 don't need a passport or an ID. Her birth certificate.

  6. Traveling Safely with Infants & Children

    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.

  7. 40 tips for traveling with your baby or toddler

    When can you travel with a baby? It depends! There's no standard age when you can or can't travel with a baby, and most airlines allow newborns to fly after the first few days or weeks of life. ... Also, waiting a few months before traveling may help you and your baby get into a better routine. Still, infants aren't as fragile as parents ...

  8. 15 tips for flying with a baby

    Be ready for flight delays and cancellations. 8. Plan ahead to bring formula, breast milk, and bottles. 9. Pack formula safely …. Ready-to-feed formula: Bring an unopened container and clean, empty bottles on board. When your baby is ready for feeding, pour the formula into the bottle and serve it right away.

  9. How to plan an international trip with a baby

    Check with your doctor. Check with your pediatrician to see when your baby can start flying. To give you an idea, TPG talked to Dr. Jenny Yu, medical director at Healthline, to find out when it's typically safe for babies to travel."While babies typically develop their immune system around 1 month, most pediatricians would recommend waiting until 3 to 6 months for travel," she said.

  10. The ultimate packing list for traveling with a baby

    Travel gear. To get your baby from point A to point B, you'll need a few basics. Travel stroller. If you're running late to catch a flight, it's much easier to push your baby in a lightweight umbrella stroller than to carry them through a long terminal. Some travel strollers are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved and fold to fit in the carry-on bins on board, but most get gate-checked.

  11. Everything You Need To Know

    Check the flying with an infant rules as per your airline regulations. Flying with a newborn baby rules may vary from airline to airline. Some may specify a baby must be at least 7 days old, whereas other airlines may say newborn babies must be 14 days old and/or meet other requirements to travel by airplane.

  12. What to Pack When Traveling With Baby

    Wipes, lots of them. A changing pad. Diaper cream (no more than 3.4 ounces if you're flying by plane) Two bibs. Three baby blankets that you can use as burp cloths or to cover yourself up with while breastfeeding. Two bottles (if you use them) Change of clothes for your baby.

  13. Safety When Traveling With a Newborn

    While you can travel with a newborn baby, including airplane travel, it doesn't mean that you should.A lot depends on your baby's age and health. Generally, travel before one week old is not recommended and many doctors will also advise you to limit travel for several months. Using caution is not about the oxygen levels, the pressurized cabin on the plane, or the effects of high altitude.

  14. When Can My Baby Fly on an Airplane?

    These vaccines can fight illness and infection that a baby may encounter during travel. "Around 3 to 6 months can be a good time to fly," says Mollie Greves Grow, MD, MPH, a pediatrician at Seattle Children's Hospital. "This is after they have started or completed the primary immunization series and after the worst of fussiness/colic has ...

  15. Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs

    Generally, you should avoid flying with your newborn until they are at least 7 days old. Ideally, wait until your baby is two or three months old to fly. Air travel (and being in crowded airports) can increase a newborn's risk of catching an infectious disease.

  16. How to pack

    Here's a list of items you may want to keep in your carry-on bag: Extra clothing for you and your baby. Layers of clothing or blankets (plane temperatures are often extreme). Pacifier and clip (and backup). Comfort toy (s) or blanket. Extra diapers. Formula. Breast pump. Snacks (for you and your baby).

  17. Flying with Baby: Travel Tips for Flying with an Infant 3-6mos

    Tips for Flying with an Infant 3-6 Months Old: Get baby used to room temperature bottles and food, so you don't have the additional hassle of heating en route. If baby can bear weight on their legs, consider purchasing slip-on diapers. Not all airplane bathrooms have change tables.

  18. 6 ESSENTIAL Tips for a Road Trip with a Baby (0

    4. Getting Baby Sleeping in the Car. Every baby is unique and hopefully you'll have a good idea of what conditions make your baby sleep in the car. This is stating the obvious, but for a baby on a road trip, sleeping in the car is a great way to easily pass the time. Our daughter asleep in the car.

  19. The Best Age to Travel with a Baby

    Casually enjoying lunch while baby naps in the stroller or carrier. Not needing to think about food and not needing to worry about illness it's a perfect age to travel with a baby. After 3-6 months it's all downhill until age 3.5 when you can start to actually reason with your kids.

  20. My Top 5 Sleep Tips for Traveling With a Baby

    However, if you are traveling with a baby, "vacation" can often feel like more "work" than staying home. ... If your baby is under 5 months, sleepy cues are important to keep your baby from becoming overtired. If one of your baby's naps is short or on the go, you may need to make bedtime 30-60 minutes earlier than usual.

  21. What to know about traveling internationally with a baby

    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.

  22. 27 Best Places to Travel with a Baby (Safe + Baby-Friendly)!

    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.

  23. Tips for Flying With a Baby: What to Know Before You Go

    Make sure you wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer to protect baby from germs, and keep a safe distance between your little ones and other travelers. 2. Fly with a lap baby to avoid ...

  24. Traveling with babies and toddlers: What to pack, what to expect

    Preethi Harbuck, author of the travel blog Local Passport Family and a mom of six agrees that taking a big trip with young children — that is, babies and toddlers under age 2 — isn't easy. But ...

  25. 9 Tips For International Travel with an Infant

    Both the OneTrip Prime Plan and the OneTrip Premier Plan cover children aged 17 and under for free when they're traveling with a parent or grandparent. 4. Choose a baby-friendly destination. One of the hardest parts of traveling with an infant (or young children) is that insidious feeling that people are judging you.

  26. Have baby, will travel: Tips for new parents

    Generally speaking, traveling around the 6-month mark is mostly positive. Before babies start crawling, they don't struggle to be put down or need a baby-proofed hotel room in which to roam ...