So you are a new mom/dad and thinking about how traveling with a baby works? As someone who has loved traveling for years, I was worried that my adventures would come to an end after becoming a mother. Many worry that babies shouldn’t travel because they’re too small to handle the stress. But guess what? That’s not the case! Traveling with a baby can be a wonderful experience if you plan ahead. Here are some tips for traveling with a baby to make your journey with your little one as fun and smooth as possible!
Before the trip: Preparation is a key to success.
1. Consult the pediatrician
Always check in with your pediatrician before planning any travel with your little one! Every baby is unique, and some may have specific health concerns. Your pediatrician knows your child’s history and development, so they can advise on when it’s safe for your baby to travel. Many doctors suggest that babies under 6 months might best stay put, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore nearby destinations! For example, when my baby was around 3 months old, we took a lovely 2-day trip to Dresden, and it was such a wonderful experience! We even traveled by bus and the 2-hour bus made some great memories!
2. Know your destination
When planning to travel with a baby, it’s easy to overlook whether your destination is baby-friendly. Many locations require extra preparation! For instance, during our trip to Corfu, we had no idea renting a car was essential. The island is rugged and rocky, and public transportation is limited in many areas. As a result, we ended up spending a lot on taxis while sightseeing.
Similarly, our experience in Paris was quite different from what we are used to in Germany, which has well-developed facilities. Paris is less accommodating for families with babies, as not all subway stations have elevators. We had to carry the stroller many, many times! It’s crucial to choose a destination that offers plenty of fun while also providing the necessary amenities for babies.
3. Choose the right mode of transportation
Traveling with a baby on a plane can be scary, so many families love to hop on a train! It’s not just budget-friendly; it’s also less stressful. On a train, you can easily walk around with your little one if they get fussy, which can be a challenge on a plane. I enjoy train travel for short trips, but if you’re planning a journey that’s more than 3 or 4 hours, flying might be the way to go.
When you decide to ride the rails, check out which car is meant for children and infants, and don’t forget to book your seats ahead of time. One handy tip: bring your diaper-changing mat! Trains can get a bit messy, and you’ll want to keep your baby comfy and clean.
4. Get familiar with the airline policies
Traveling with a baby by air doesn’t have to be a stressful experience! In fact, it can be a fun and memorable adventure! If you decide to book flights, be sure to check the airline’s policies. Many airlines allow you to bring a stroller and a baby bag weighing up to 5 kg. They also often allocate a window seat or seat with extra space at no extra cost. However, keep in mind that airline policies can vary significantly regarding infants, so always check their website for specific information.
If you’re on a long flight, consider calling the airline to reserve a bassinet. This way your baby can nap instead of being held the entire time (and I know that task usually falls to the mom!). Additionally, try to book early flights. While a 6 AM departure may not sound appealing, it can work in your favor if your baby typically sleeps during that time.
Traveling with a baby – during the trip
5. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
This is super important! Try to avoid booking hotels or lodgings on the outskirts of the city, even if they seem like a great deal. Being closer to the main attractions can save you a lot of travel time. Since you’ll want to soak in everything the city has to offer, it’s best to find hotels that are conveniently located near the sights you want to see. This way, you can wander around with peace of mind, knowing you can easily head back to your place if anything unexpected comes up.
If staying in the center isn’t in your budget, don’t worry—you can still find other comfy spots. Just make sure to check their connection main attractions. If you have to switch buses or trains more than two or three times to get to the highlights, it might be better to keep looking for a more accessible option.
6. Let the hotel know that you are traveling with a baby
When you’re planning a trip with your baby, it’s super helpful to get in touch with the hotel ahead of time! A quick call or email before your flight can ensure they have a cozy crib ready for your little one. Since hotels can get busy, this ensures you won’t have to worry about availability when you arrive.
Also, think about booking a room that’s spacious enough for your family—ideally one with a kitchen. That way, you’ll all make tasty meals if your baby is eating solids! If your room doesn’t have cooking facilities, simply ask the hotel staff where you can warm up your baby’s milk or food. Not all the hotels are accepting to warm up guest food (yes, your baby is also a guest). They’ll likely have a solution, as many places are happy to help families.
7. Pack smart
Packing for a trip with your little one can be exciting but also a bit overwhelming, A balance between having everything you need and overpacking is crucial when you are traveling with a baby. Here is the list of the essentials:
- Diapers and Wipes: Pack plenty for your journey and toss in a few extra just in case your plans get delayed.
- Change of Clothes: Bring a spare outfit for both your baby and yourself (because let’s face it—messy moments happen!).
- Feeding Supplies: Don’t forget the essentials like bottles, formula, baby food, bibs, and some tasty snacks, based on your baby’s age.
- Comfort Items: A beloved toy or cozy blanket can work wonders to soothe your little one while on the go.
- First-Aid Kit: It’s always good to be prepared! Make sure to include baby-safe medications, a thermometer, and any prescriptions you might need.
- Baby Carrier or Stroller: Choose one that suits your adventures. A comfy carrier or a sturdy stroller can make outings much easier!
If you’re flying with your baby, consider dedicating a carry-on bag just for their things. Most airlines allow up to 5 kg specifically for baby items, which should be more than enough. And the good news—baby food in jars and formula can go in your carry-on! Although they may require a little extra attention during security checks.
Lastly, make sure to organize your carry-on or diaper bag so you can easily grab diapers, wipes, and snacks when you need them. It might seem small, but digging through bags for a pacifier on a crowded plane while your baby is crying is not fun—trust me on that!
8. On the Flight (Train)
If you know your little one tends to be sensitive and might cry during takeoff or landing because of air pressure changes, consider bringing along some small earplugs to help ease the discomfort. A great way to help with ear pressure is to breastfeed, bottle-feed, or offer a pacifier during these times.
Don’t forget to bring a few sanitizing wipes! Airplanes can be, a dirty place, so it’s always a good idea to clean any surfaces your baby might touch.
To keep your baby entertained, pack some fun distractions like new toys or books. It’s a good idea to bring the baby’s favorite toys for that extra sense of safety and comfort. While I generally prefer not to rely on screens as distractions, they can be a lifesaver in a pinch!
9. A baby carrier is essential!
Even if your stroller is light as a feather, having a baby carrier with you can be very helpful on many occasions. First of all, a stroller will need to go through security screening, and you’ll have to manage all the bags you might be carrying plus the baby. Plus, many destinations are not easily accessible with a stroller, as said earlier.
If you do decide to bring a stroller, make sure to travel with the lightest option available. While it may require a bigger investment upfront, having a lightweight travel stroller and seating chair can make your journey much easier. Always ask the staff where you should leave the stroller; sometimes it’s right next to the airplane, and other times it may need to be checked with the boarding crew. It’s better to ask than to realize your stroller is missing!
At the destination – it’s all about “small things”!
10. In the Hotel
So you’ve survived that flight and reached the hotel? Amazing news! First, you need to do is to secure enough water on hand. Why, you ask? When it comes to baby formula, it’s best to avoid using tap water, even if it’s said to be safe. Just ask hotel staff for extra bottles or pick some up at the nearest supermarket. Just give it a good boil in the kettle first!
The next thing to manage is sterilizing baby bottles. If your room doesn’t have a kitchen or kitchenette, don’t worry! You can easily wash them in the bathroom sink! Just remember to pack what you need for baby bottle sterilization. While there are portable sterilizers and tablets out there, it’s a good idea to bring along enough baby bottles, as well as liquid and brush sterilizers.
11. Make sure your baby has fun, too.
It’s worth checking if your hotel has a kids’ playroom. Many five-star hotels do, and a change of scenery can do wonders for your little one, even if they’re not quite ready to play just yet! If there isn’t a designated play area, just ask the hotel concierge about fun kids’ activities nearby. They’re usually a great source of helpful info that you might not find online. Also, try to find some nearby park where the baby can play or just observe the things around! Remember, that the babies need some true entertainment instead of just being your “trip accompany”!
12. Maintain the Baby’s Routine
Traveling with a baby can be quite an adventure, and keeping a routine can make things so much smoother! Babies thrive on consistency, so sticking to familiar schedules can help them feel more at ease in new environments. Don’t forget to pack their favorite toys and snacks—these little comforts can make a big difference!
Try to maintain regular activities like bath time and feeding schedules to help your little one feel secure. You might find it helpful to use an app to keep track of these routines; it can make your life a lot easier!
13. Give up on ambitious itineraries
And when it comes to planning your days, it’s a good idea to keep things relaxed. While it’s tempting to pack your itinerary with lots of fun spots, remember that flexibility is your best friend now! Instead of trying to hit up 5 or 6 landmarks in one day, aim for just 2 or 3. This way, you can truly enjoy each moment and create wonderful memories with your baby. Packing up too many things to do in a day can be stressful not only for you but also for the baby. Remember, they are still too small to handle all these new impressions, even if they are most of the time in the stroller (which can be tiring, too!).
14. Plan your activities smart
A great tip is to plan your important activities and meals during your baby’s nap time or when they’re likely to be calm. This little trick can truly transform your dining experience from a chaotic one to a much more enjoyable one. Instead of feeling stressed about a crying baby and the looks of others, you can savor those precious moments. (And by the way, don’t let other people’s opinions weigh you down; stay focused on what matters most—your baby and your experience!)
15. Yes, your baby will cry.
As a parent, it can feel a bit uncomfortable when your baby cries in public. Remember, babies can’t express themselves in any other way, so it’s completely normal. The sooner you accept that occasional crying might happen, the more at ease you’ll feel during your outings. Don’t worry too much if other people start looking your way; most folks understand and might even offer a smile or a helping hand. And if someone ever says something unkind, just know that you have every right to stand up for your little one. They also have a right to travel, whether it’s on a plane, a train, or anywhere else!
Traveling with a baby – conclusion
In the end – take it easy! Yes, the times have changed, and traveling is not as simple as it was. You can’t just jump on a flight whenever you find a great flight deal as you did before! By focusing on other aspects of your journey, you can significantly enhance your experience.
It won’t always be easy to travel with a baby, but now you have a small companion to create memories with. Don’t forget to capture photos and videos of your baby’s first travel adventures. These moments will become cherished memories and you will be so happy that you made them later on!
It’s important that you also feel comfortable. To make the experience more manageable, remember to:
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Take turns with your partner or traveling companion to share responsibilities.
- Stay hydrated and well-nourished.
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