We’re not going to lie, travelling with a baby can be challenging! But with proper planning and preparation, it can be a rewarding and memorable start to a lifetime of adventure!
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Things to consider when travelling abroad with a baby
Before you even think about booking your holiday there are a few important considerations to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for you, your baby, and anyone else travelling with you!
- Choose a baby-friendly destination: Avoid party places packed with clubs and bars. Licensing laws abroad are very different to the UK, and you could find yourself in a 24h party place!
- Choose baby-friendly accommodation: Stair gates for little ones who are crawling, laundry facilities for the inevitable cleanups, pool fences for little ones who may be on the move at a private villa, or cots and bottle warming facilities at a hotel. You know what you need at home, make sure that you book somewhere that can cater for your needs.
- Get family-friendly travel insurance: Choose a family travel insurance policy that offers the right cover for each family member’s needs whatever the age!
- Research local customs and culture: Some destinations are immensely family friendly, with even the smallest kids welcome at all hours. Others less so! Do your research to avoid any cultural faux pas and ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Which countries are baby-friendly?
Feedback in travel forums suggests the following locations over and over again: Italy, Portugal, Spain, Greece & Thailand. Here you can expect your tiny ones to be doted on, get all the help you need with feeding and changing, and even have someone hold your baby so you can enjoy your meal!
What to pack for baby’s first holiday
When travelling abroad with a baby, it is important to pack the right essentials to ensure a smooth and comfortable trip. Here are some must-have items to consider:
- Passport and other travel documents
- Baby sling and/or umbrella stroller
- Calpol, thermometer, & first aid kit
- Favourite toys and entertainment
- Pacifier, taggie, teddy or blanket – and a spare of each!
- Sunscreen and mosquito repellent for sensitive skin
- Travel steam steriliser
- Skycot or Bassinet if travelling by air, or a suitable car seat
How old does a baby need to be to travel by aeroplane?
It is recommended to wait until the baby is 2 weeks old to travel, however, babies between 2 days old and seven days old are allowed to travel by plane, but you will need a permission-to-fly letter from your doctor. Babies under 48 hours old will not be allowed to board the aeroplane.
How much baby milk and baby food can you take through airport security?
There isn’t a limit on how much you can pack, but there are restrictions. This is the advice from Gov.uk, they do however suggest contacting the airport for more accurate information ahead of your trip.
From Gov.uk
Tips for a Smooth Trip with a Baby
You’re booked, you’re packed, now you need these tips to make the trip as smooth as possible for everyone.
- Plan for breaks and downtime. Travelling can be tiring for anyone, especially for a baby. Make sure to plan for breaks and downtime throughout your trip to allow your baby to rest and recharge. This can also help prevent meltdowns and keep everyone in a better mood.
- Stick to your baby’s routine. While it may be tempting to let your baby stay up late or skip naps or take extra ones at convenient times, it is important to stick to their regular routine as much as possible. This will help them feel more comfortable and prevent any disruptions to their sleep schedule.
- Be prepared for delays and unexpected situations. Travelling can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for delays and unexpected situations. This may involve packing extra bottles of milk, snacks, nappies, and entertainment for your baby, as well as having a backup plan in case of flight or transportation delays.
- Take care of yourself! Remember to eat, hydrate, and get as much rest as you can when you can!
Get a family travel insurance quote today!
Get in touch with us for a quote or call us on 01892 833338. We offer a 24/7 multilingual helpline and carefully tailored policies to suit the unique needs of you and your family!