Taking a baby or toddler on an international trip can feel overwhelming. Questions about flights, packing, and safety dominate the planning process, especially when crossing time zones and navigating unfamiliar destinations. Yet with the right preparation, family travel can be both safe and enjoyable.
“Travelling with kids is a whole new world,” says Dr. Shannon Thompson, a paediatrician at Cleveland Clinic Children's. She stresses the importance of “enjoying your kiddo on your trip” as much as possible. Here are practical strategies to help parents travel confidently with young children.
Before you book: check the baby-proofing basics
Choosing where to stay is about more than location and price. Parents should ask whether the accommodation provides cribs, high chairs, or portable playpens. If the property has stairs, a balcony, or a pool, inquire about baby gates. If none are available, consider renting them locally or bringing foldable mesh gates that pack flat.
Electrical outlet covers are a must, as are disinfecting wipes for surfaces your child might touch. For infants under one, safe sleep remains essential even on holiday. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises placing babies on their backs on a firm, flat surface—such as a bassinet mattress or playpen—with only a fitted sheet. The organisation also recommends that babies sleep in the parents' room, but not in the same bed, for at least the first six months.
Think about how you'll get from the airport to your lodging. Will you rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transport? Do you plan to drive or walk most days? These decisions determine whether you bring a stroller and car seat (both can be gate-checked free on most airlines) or rely on a sling or baby carrier.
On the plane: safety, snacks, and ear pressure
“Flying with kids is one of those big, intimidating things,” says Thompson. “The biggest thing to think about is always safety and then of course their comfort.” While children under two can sit on a parent's lap, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency recommends securing them in their own approved car seat, which means buying a separate ticket. For long-haul flights, ask the airline about bassinets.
At security, baby food—formula, puree pouches, and breast milk—is exempt from the usual 100-millilitre liquid rule, though you may need to prove it's for the trip. Pack plenty of nappies, wipes, a portable changing pad, and sealable bags for disposal. Extra clothes are essential for spills and accidents.
To ease ear pressure during take-off and landing, encourage swallowing: nurse, offer a bottle, or give a pacifier. If your child is prone to ear infections, consult your paediatrician before flying, and ask about recommended vaccinations for your destination.
Keeping kids entertained—on and off the plane
Christy Slavik, owner of the travel agency Mom Approved Travel, suggests “having little surprises that you can distract them with.” Think sticky mats for travel-sized playdough, suction cup toys, and other compact games. Once you're sightseeing, make activities interactive: bring notebooks for drawing in art museums, or challenge kids to spot animals in paintings. “Kids need a mission. They need games,” Slavik says. “You have to get creative sometimes when you're travelling.”
Exposing children to new cultures, foods, and languages can be a highlight. Let them pick out snacks at local markets or learn the words for their favourite dishes. Many hotels and hostels offer family-friendly amenities like pools or games. Budget-conscious families can find hostels with private rooms, avoiding dorm-style bunk beds. Meeting other travellers—especially fellow children—can turn a trip into a social adventure.
The extended family advantage
One of the best ways to give parents a break is to travel with grandparents or other relatives. They can help with babysitting while creating special bonding moments with the little ones. Just ensure they also get downtime and don't overexert themselves, Slavik advises.
With thoughtful planning, international travel with young children can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. For more inspiration, check out Europe's island hotel boom or Venice's Danieli Hotel reopening for family-friendly stays. And if you're worried about lost toys, easyJet's free Bluetooth trackers might help.
