I’ve talked about this a lot, but we have been traveling with our children since they were small infants. (My kids are almost 8, 5, and almost 4 months old.) We’ve taken them on road trips, planes, cruises, and trains. We’ve taken them on mostly domestic flights, but there were a few international flights, too. I’ve written about this multiple times on my blog and I even have done a whole video on flying with kids ages infant and up. For this blog post, we’re going to focus on traveling with an infant and all of the things to consider before the trip, on travel days, and helpful hints while you’re at your destination. I know all babies are different, and many just can’t handle being out of their element. But if you’re determined to do a little travel and have a little fun, this blog post is for you.
The biggest piece of advice out of everything here is to stop thinking about how much you can’t do with a baby, and focus on what you can do. While you may not be able to be “on the go” all day like you can with older kids, respect the fact that you may need more breaks. Welcome the rest and breaks. Having a baby is such a short blip of time, and forcing yourself to rest can actually be a good thing! A mindset shift makes all the difference. Now that you’re on board with this and thinking positively, here are a few things to consider before you leave.
Consider getting TSA Precheck or Global Entry (comes with 5 years of TSA Precheck) if you plan to do any sort of international travel. I will never be without either ever again. Flying with kids can be stressful enough, but getting through security with TSA Precheck makes life so much easier. No taking items out of your carry on bag, no taking your shoes off. It’s such a time and sanity saver. If one adult on your air reservation has TSA Precheck, the entire family can go through the line with that person. Both Greg and I have it, and I would advise both parents to get it just in case one parent ever has to travel alone with the kids.
Always check your airline’s policies for lap infants.
Make sure you have proper documentation for the baby. A lot of airlines will ask to see a birth certificate (again, check with the airline). If in doubt, call them. We have rarely been asked to show a birth certificate when we’ve traveled with our babies/kids, but it’s better to be safe than sorry if it’s in the airline’s policies.
If you’re flying internationally with a baby, make sure you call the airline and get the baby added to your reservation. Even though they are a lap child and are not charged for a seat, you do pay a small customs tax and you need to have their passport information on file.
– Nursing pillow – super helpful if you’re flying and it gives the baby a place to rest comfortably. I stow mine in the bottom of my stroller when I’m in the airport. – Baby carrier – This was very helpful to have when I flew alone with Logan and needed to do things hands free. I’m so glad I had it! – Muslin blankets – breathable and nice to have if the plane is cold or you need to nurse the baby. – Diapers and wipes – Pack more than you think. Much more than you think you need. – Changing pad – to lay down on a public changing table
– Change of clothes – You never know what kind of messes will happen – Medicine – I prefer to put this in my carryon bag for the baby in case something happens. You don’t really need to bring medicine unless you’re worried baby is getting sick and will need it. If baby gets sick on vacation, I just buy medicine when I’m there. – Hand sanitizer – Feeding essentials – anything you may need to feed your baby (formula, bottles, age-appropriate snacks, etc.)
You’ve Got This, Mama Traveling with a baby requires extra planning and extra gear, but the memories you’ll make will be ones you cherish. I’m so happy we’ve taken our children on so many adventures, and I don’t think we’ve ever regretted a single trip. You’ve got this, mama. Make those memories.