Travelling with Kids: Your Fun, Fuss-Free Guide
Heading off on a family adventure? Travelling with little ones can be full of magical memories – but let’s be honest, the planning and packing can feel a bit overwhelming. We’ve put together some handy tips and a comprehensive checklist to help make your trip smoother (and a lot more fun!). 🏖️☀️
Before You Go: Planning Ahead
Research your destination: Does your accommodation provide a cot, high chair, or other baby-friendly gear? Think about how you’ll get around too – will you need car seats or airport transfers?
Book smart: When booking flights, don’t forget the extras. Request a bassinet if needed, look for seats with extra legroom, and pre-order kids’ meals. Check your airline’s baggage policy and what baby gear you can bring.
Get your documents sorted: Make sure everyone’s passports are up to date (including baby’s – with at least 6 months’ validity). Don’t forget visas and any required immunisation records.
Getting There: In-Flight Tips
Arrive early: Give yourself extra time to get through the airport stress-free. Take advantage of priority boarding – it gives you a few bonus minutes to settle in before the crowd.
Ears and altitude: Offer a bottle or breastfeed during takeoff and landing to ease pressure on their ears. A pacifier or sippy cup can also help.
Keep boredom at bay: New toys or books they haven’t seen before can work wonders – try magnetic books, sticker books, or even a stack of post-it notes for endless sticking fun. Load up your device with baby-friendly apps or videos for those moments a toy just won't do.
Snacks, snacks, snacks: Pack food you know they love – and plenty of it! Snacks can be both fuel and entertainment.
Once You Arrive: Making the Most of the Holiday
Stick (loosely) to routine: Keeping to familiar nap and mealtimes can help your little one adjust. But travel rarely goes perfectly to plan, so go with the flow where you can.
Baby-proof your space: Once you get to your accommodation, do a quick scan of the room. Move anything hazardous out of reach so you can relax and enjoy your time away.
Stay cool and sun-safe: Keep fluids up and protect sensitive skin with sunscreen, sunhats, and breezy clothing – especially in tropical destinations.
Your Ultimate Packing Checklist (with links to products we love!)
Important Documents:
- Passports and visas
- Luggage ID tags (don’t forget to label strollers and baby gear too)
- Travel insurance
Carry-On Essentials:
- Nappies and wipes (pack more than you think you’ll need)
- Disposable change mats - super handy for when you're on the go
- Spare clothes for baby and you
- Swaddle or blanket
- Pacifier and a favourite cuddly toy
- Snacks and meals
- Bottles and formula (if needed)
- Baby-safe hand sanitiser - we love this one from Paume
- Toys and books
- Tablet with headphones
- Baby carrier for hands-free travel
- For older toddlers, consider the Jetkids Bedbox by Stokke – a ride-on suitcase that converts into an inflight bed!
Baby Gear & Equipment:
- A compact travel stroller (like the YOYO) that fits in overhead lockers is a game-changer
- Travel cot if your accommodation doesn’t provide one – bonus as it doubles as a play space!
- For bigger kids, the Stokke Cloud Sleeper inflatable bed is a great option
- White noise machine - we love the Yogasleep Hushh
- Stroller fan for warm climates
- Insect nets for cot and pram
- Car seat – different countries have different rules, so it's very important to research ahead. We recommend the Maxi-Cosi Nomad for its light weight and compact size (suitable from approx. 15 months to 4 years)
- Portable blackout blinds for the room, or even a stroller shade to help with daytime naps
Clothing & Accessories:
- Weather-appropriate clothes, including wet bags for damp items
- Sleep sacks (bring one your child is used to, and adjust for warmer/cooler climates)
- Sun protection – sun hats, sunglasses, and lightweight layers
Feeding:
- Bottles or sippy cups
- Enough formula or food for the trip (plus some spares)
- Bibs, burp cloths, and baby-safe detergent
Changing, Hygiene & Health:
- Nappies and wipes (pack for a few days, then restock locally)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Baby-safe medication, thermometer, and first aid basics
- Travel-sized toiletries and nappy cream
Once you’ve nailed your list, save a copy for next time. A notes app on your phone works perfectly!
Bon voyage and happy travels with your mini adventurers! ❤️
