Traveling with babies and toddlers can be daunting for parents. Questions about air travel, packing, and safety often come to mind, especially on long-distance flights and international trips.
“Traveling with kids is a whole new world,” says Dr. Shannon Thompson, a pediatrician at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, emphasizing the importance of enjoying your child during the trip.
Here are some tips and tricks for parents to travel safely with young children while having fun too.
Look for amenities like cribs and high chairs before you book
Before deciding where to stay, consider options for baby-proofing. Check if portable playpens, cribs, and high chairs are available. If staying somewhere with stairs, a balcony, or a pool, ask about baby gates; if unavailable, consider renting or bringing travel-friendly foldable gates. Don’t forget electrical outlet covers and wipes for cleaning surfaces.
For babies, safe sleeping is crucial. Infants under 1 should sleep on their back on a flat, firm surface, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. They recommend babies sleep in the parents’ room—but not in the same bed—for at least the first six months.
Consider your transport options: flying and renting a car, taking a taxi, or using public transit. These factors can influence whether you’ll bring a stroller and car seat—both of which can be gate-checked for free—or use a sling or baby carrier.
Plan for snacks and diaper changes on the plane
“Flying with kids is one of those big, intimidating things,” notes Thompson. “Safety and comfort are essential.” While children under two can fly in their parents’ lap, the Federal Aviation Administration recommends securing them in their own safety seat, which requires purchasing a seat for your child.
For long-haul or international flights, inquire about available bassinets. Food and drink for babies and toddlers, including breast milk, formula, and puree pouches, are deemed medically necessary liquids by the Transportation Security Administration, thus not subject to the usual 3.4-ounce limit. Notify the TSA officer if you have these items in your carry-on when passing through security.
Don’t forget to carry diapers, wipes, a portable changing pad, and sealable plastic bags for disposal. Bring extra clothes in case of accidents or messy spills. To help with ear pressure during take-off and landing, nursing or giving a bottle or pacifier can ease discomfort. Consult your pediatrician if your child is prone to ear infections or if any travel vaccinations are recommended.
Keep kids entertained on and off the plane
For flying with young kids, Christy Slavik, owner of Mom Approved Travel, suggests “little surprises to distract them”—like travel-sized play dough, suction cup toys, and small games.
If sightseeing, enrich activities by making them fun and interactive, such as bringing notebooks for drawing in art museums or identifying animals in paintings. “Kids need a mission and games,” she advises. Mixing exposure to different cultures, foods, and languages can also be enjoyable—think picking out snacks or learning foreign words for favorite dishes.
Look for family-friendly accommodations with amenities like pools or games. Budget travelers can consider hostels with private family rooms to avoid dorm-style accommodations.
The perks of traveling with extended family
One benefit of family vacations is allowing parents to relax amid the stress of planning. Trips with grandparents or relatives help with babysitting and give loved ones special bonding time with children. Care should be taken to ensure that grandparents also get their downtime and are not overwhelmed.
“When you bring grandparents on vacation, you’re letting them experience those moments together,” says Slavik.
Feel free to modify any section or let me know if you need more information on any specific tips!
