6 Tips To Prepare for International Travel With A Baby

Written By alexandria oldenburg

Traveling with a baby, especially on your own, can seem daunting. From passports and packing to navigating airports, the thought of flying with an infant can be overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve been there.

Over the past year, my son and I have traveled extensively, including long-haul flights from Dallas to Melbourne and even New Zealand. The good news? With the right preparation, traveling with a baby can be manageable—and even enjoyable!

In this guide, I’ll share actionable tips to help you prepare for your journey with your little one. If you’re planning on embarking on an international adventure, these steps will set you up for success.

1. Get Your Baby’s Passport Early

If you’re traveling internationally, securing your baby’s passport is a top priority. Every U.S. citizen, including infants, must have a passport to leave the country.

STEPS TO GET YOUR BABY’S PASSPORT:

  • APPLY EARLY: Start the process at least 6-8 weeks before your trip. If you’re in a rush, expedited services are available for an additional fee.

  • PREPARE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: Visit travel.state.gov for an up-to-date checklist of what you’ll need, including a certified birth certificate and parental ID.

  • SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT: Both parents must appear at the application appointment unless one provides a notarized consent. Plan ahead to ensure both parents will be available.

  • TAKE A COMPLIANT PASSPORT PHOTO: For babies, under six months, you can take the photo yourself using a white background or visit a professional service like CVS for help.

    • Pro-tip: At CVS, I laid my son on a white poster board for the perfect shot. The staff guided me through the process, and ensured that the photo met passport requirements.

2. Check Visa Requirements for Your Destination

  • Before booking your flight, verify if your destination requires a visa for you or your baby. Some countries mandate visas for all travelers, including infants.

  • Apply Early: Visa processing times can vary, so don’t leave this to the last minute.

  • Print Copies: Always carry a printed copy of your visa approval. I learned this lesson when my son’s visa didn’t show up in the airline’s system. Having documentation on hand saved us a major headache.

3. Book the Best Flights for Traveling with a Baby

Choosing the right flight can make or break your travel experience with an infant. Here’s how to optimize your booking:

• Domestic vs. International Policies: Babies under two years old often fly free domestically if they sit on your lap. Internationally, you’ll usually pay 10% of the adult ticket price. Call the airline to confirm their infant travel policies and to add your baby to your ticket.

• Consider First Class or Premium Seats: If your budget allows, the extra legroom and comfort are worth it on long-haul flights. (unfortunately we aren’t so lucky!)

• Request a Bassinet: Many airlines offer bassinets for long international flights, but these must be reserved ahead of time and are only available in specific seats (typically bulkhead rows). Call the airline to secure one early.

4. Master Packing for Your Baby’s Flight

Packing for a baby might feel like a challenge, but with a strategic plan, you can avoid overpacking while still covering all your bases.

Carry-On Essentials for Flying with a Baby:

• Diapers, wipes, and burp cloths (pack extras for unexpected delays).

• Two spare outfits for your baby (and one for yourself, in case of spills, or major blow-outs).

• Baby food, formula, or breast milk (pack more than you think you’ll need).

• A lightweight blanket, pacifiers, toys, and a portable sound machine for soothing during the flight.

• A baby carrier for hands-free travel through the airport.

Pro Tip: Use an open tote bag, with an organizer insert, for quick access to essentials. It’s easier to manage solo travel without fumbling with a backpack or zippers.

5. Decide on Car Seats and Strollers

Navigating car seats and strollers can be tricky when flying with a baby. Here’s how to simplify the process:

• Car Seats: If your destination requires one, decide whether to bring yours or rent one locally. Many airlines allow you to check a car seat for free.

• Strollers: Lightweight travel strollers are a lifesaver in airports. Most airlines let you gate-check them for convenience. If you prefer hands-free navigation, skip the stroller and rely on a baby carrier instead.

6. Timing is Everything

Planning ahead is the secret to stress-free travel with a baby. From booking your flights to packing your bags, giving yourself extra time to prepare will make all the difference.

• Arrive Early: Airports can be unpredictable. Arriving early ensures you have enough time to get through security and address any unexpected issues (babies come with a lot of them!).

• Plan for Layovers: If your flight includes layovers, make sure they’re long enough to accommodate diaper changes, feeding sessions, and potential delays.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with a baby may seem challenging, but with the right preparation, it’s entirely doable—and even rewarding. Start by organizing essential documents, packing strategically, and booking flights that suit your needs.

In the next post, I’ll share tips for navigating airports and surviving long-haul flights with a baby.

Stay tuned for more advice, and don’t forget to bookmark this guide for your next adventure!

alexandria oldenburg
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