Baby Travel Essentials for International Flights: A Stress-Free Guide

Traveling with little ones doesn’t have to mean giving up comfort and organisation. Having the right gear makes a huge difference, and for us, a spacious nappy backpack for international travel has been a lifesaver – keeping nappies, wipes, snacks and even toys neatly packed for every flight and transit. With everything in its place, the focus shifts back to the joy of travelling together.

They say when you become parents, “you can kiss your travel days goodbye.” As an avid lover of travelling and wandering the world, I was deadset on proving this old saying wrong. When my firstborn was just three and a half months old, our family of three took off on a round-the-world adventure. When my son came into the world, we did it again. From short stints to our Aussie neighbours to the other side of the globe, we have learned a few things along the way.

Don’t be afraid to travel with your little ones. Use the advice below to make the trip as smooth as possible so you can embrace the incredible time together.

Before the Trip: Planning International Travel With a Baby

Trip Planning and Choosing Baby-Friendly Destinations

I can’t tell you where to go on your travels, but take the time to search for kid-friendly activities in your destination. If you’re heading to a big city, think about how you’ll get around. If you’re taking public transport, consider using a baby carrier or a travel stroller. If you need to hire a car, add car seats with the booking or look for companies in the area that hire them out. They are usually much cheaper than the car hire companies.

Another option is to book accommodation in the heart of the city, allowing you to walk to most destinations. Search for accommodation with free cots added to the room if you don’t want to lug around a travel cot. Think about getting a two-room place if you want your little one to nap in a separate room. Also, a kitchenette is super helpful for making yummy meals for your kids. Many hotels and resorts also offer babysitting if you and your partner want a night out!

If you’re relying on wifi when travelling, download offline maps for the area you’re in. Save a few places you’d like to go and access directions whenever needed. Finding a playground is always the top priority when we arrive somewhere new!

Are you heading to the beach on your overseas holiday? Explore these family beach travel hacks for overseas holidays!

Passports, Visas and Travel Documents for Babies

One of the first things I did when my daughter was born was to apply for her passport. Depending on your country, this could take up to eight weeks to receive. Check to see how long it will take before booking your international flights. We have cut it close by a week – I promise you don’t want that added stress.

Also, check if you need a visa for the country you are heading to. You may need a transit travel visa for layovers in a country like the USA. Also, download photos of your passports and visas and carry paper copies. On arrival, you may be asked for the address of where you are staying, have this on hand for a smoother immigration process.

Are you planning a road trip on your travels? Read these family road trip travel tips.

Booking International Flights With a Baby

Long-haul flights can be intimidating for new parents, but I promise you, they don’t have to be scary. Book your longest flights at night for the best chance of your little ones sleeping the most. Sometimes these flights are plenty past bedtime, but the thrill of flying keeps them awake.

If you’re travelling across the globe with two back-to-back long flights, consider staying overnight in the connecting city. We did this via Kuala Lumpur by booking a family room at a pod hostel near the airport. We slept a few hours, stretched our legs, loaded up on more snacks and arrived back in New Zealand from London with zero jet lag!

Also, try to book the bassinet seat if you are travelling with an infant. These little floating baby cots attach to the bulkhead and give your arms a rest. They are not allowed to at take-off and landing, or if the plane hits turbulence which can disturb their sleep, but they are typically a massive help with babies!

Want to know what to bring on the plane ride? Head here for a carry-on packing list for flying with a baby!

Before the Flight: Airport and Boarding Tips With a Baby

Give Yourself Extra Time at the Airport

Adding an extra person, especially a small one, means everything will take a little longer. Head to the airport earlier. Give yourself more wiggle time. Nappy changes happen (don’t forget your change mat!), spills happen, tantrums happen, and lines can be extra long, prepare for it all. Less stress always equals a better trip.

One bonus we found when travelling as a family of four across the US and Europe is that most security guards will let you cut the massive security queue and send you to a fast lane. Try looking a little frazzled upon entering the line and cross your fingers that they let you through!

Let Kids Burn Energy Before Boarding

Before embarking on the plane, let your little ones run around. Most international airports have a designated kids zone to do just that. Check before you head to the airport, or just ask when you arrive.

If you have at least two adults, another great tip is to let one stand in line to check bags while the other walks around with the kids until it’s your turn at the counter. Let one adult board the plane and set up the seats, kids' toys, etc. while the other stays back with the kids waiting until the final call to board to reduce time in the seat.

Baby Packing Guide for International Flights

When travelling with kids, it’s easy to overpack. It’s almost impossible not to, but I promise the fewer bags, the less stress.

• Try to stick to two checked bags (one per adult) sharing the space with your kids.
• Use packing organisers for baby travel to organise everyone’s clothing.
• The Multitasker Nappy Backpack carry-on for international flights is the perfect carry-on, pack it with backup clothing, snacks and toys.
• Always pack a jumper and waterproofs for each member of the family regardless if you are heading somewhere balmy.
• Most airlines allow you to check three free items for kids, typically a pram, car seat and travel cot. In some cases, you can sub in a hiking baby carrier if you plan to bring one.
• If you’re seeing family or friends in another country, consider asking them if you could borrow items like this or hire them for a low price to save you the hassle.
• And don’t fret, if you leave something at home, you can always find it abroad.

It is doable to travel with all these items. Make sure to hire a car big enough for all the extra stuff and at the airport, grab the trolley on the way in!

Final Takeaways for Flying Internationally With a Baby

Patience is key.

Reminding yourself that it will all be ok is helpful.

Accepting and expecting you won’t get much sleep on the long hauls will make it easier.

Travel days might be challenging, but you will survive them.

The memories you create exploring new countries with your family will last a lifetime.

Embrace them, enjoy them and relax, you’re on holiday after all.

Frequently Asked Questions: International Flights With a Baby

What are the essential baby travel items for international flights?

For international flights with a baby, essentials include nappies, wipes, spare clothing, snacks, comfort items, toys and a well-organised carry-on such as a nappy backpack to keep everything easily accessible during flights and transit.

When should I apply for a baby’s passport before international travel?

It is recommended to apply for your baby’s passport as early as possible, as processing times can take up to eight weeks depending on your country. Always check passport timelines before booking international flights.

Is it better to book night flights when travelling internationally with a baby?

Yes, booking night flights can increase the chances of your baby sleeping for longer periods, which can make long-haul international flights more manageable for parents.

Can you request a bassinet seat on international flights with a baby?

Many airlines offer bassinet seats for infants on international flights. These attach to the bulkhead and provide extra comfort, though they cannot be used during take-off, landing or turbulence.

How can parents reduce stress at the airport when flying with a baby?

Arriving early, allowing extra time for changes and delays, letting babies move around before boarding and sharing tasks between adults can help reduce stress at the airport.

This article is based on personal travel experience and general travel planning tips. Always check airline and government requirements before travelling internationally with a baby.