1. Choose a travel route tested and approved by fellow parents
First, discuss and carefully select your travel destination with your partner. Be sure to look at travel routes that have been tested by experienced parent travelers — they can be extremely helpful. Many of them clearly outline various pre-trip and on-the-road considerations, and some even provide detailed breakdowns of costs. It’s wise to learn from their good experiences.
2. Even infants need a passport
All infants, even those just one day old, require a passport. As for how old a baby needs to be to fly, you can check online or consult a pediatrician.
3. Allow ample time for documentation
Once your destination is set, you’ll need about a month to prepare passports and visas. While expedited services and travel agency assistance are available, it’s best to allow enough time to avoid any unexpected issues.
4. Infants under two fly free, but bring your own seat
Babies under two years old do not occupy a seat on the plane. Except during takeoff and landing when they can’t be placed in a bassinet, they can lie down or sleep during smooth flight periods. Remember to select a bassinet when checking in online to make long flights less tiring for parents.
5. Children’s tickets aren’t always cheaper than discounted adult fares
Not all child fares are cheaper than discounted adult tickets. Be sure to compare prices to find the most economical option.
6. Bring all the essentials for your baby
Always carry items your baby is accustomed to using. Many babies have small objects they must hold while sleeping — it could be a little pillow or toy. Don’t forget to bring these irreplaceable items, or you’ll understand the trouble it causes.
7. Maintaining good relations with neighboring passengers is important
Long flights are uncomfortable for adults, let alone babies, and crying is normal. If you’re worried your baby might disturb nearby passengers, apologize in advance and prepare some sweets to ask the flight attendants to distribute. Most people will be understanding.
8. There are no baby meals on the plane, so bring your own
Of course, it’s also crucial to bring enough snacks, formula, rice cereal, and other baby foods. Remember, planes do not provide baby or child-specific meals.
9. Pay extra attention to babies with allergies
If your baby has a history of allergies, be sure to visit your regular pediatrician before the trip. Parents should honestly inform the doctor about the destination’s climate and diet so they can advise on necessary medications.
10. Viruses can be especially harmful to pregnant women & infants
Avoid countries with a history of Zika virus outbreaks. This virus is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and can lead to microcephaly in newborns.
11. Renting an apartment is more convenient than staying in a hotel
Consider renting a family apartment instead of staying in a hotel. Apartments allow you to cook your own meals and come with user-friendly facilities, making you feel right at home.
12. Choose a family-friendly tour
If possible, choose a walking tour designed for families so you won’t be stuck on a bus sleeping or rushing to the bathroom.
13. Give your baby more time to experience
Don’t rush to the next stop. The pace of travel can be flexible. If there’s something your baby loves at a particular place, staying a few extra days can be wonderful.
14. Travel gives your child far more than just family time together
Once you’re back home, you’ll surely find that your child has grown in ways you never expected.