11 tried and true tips to survive travel with a baby

If an international vacation is calling your name, you’ll want to do some careful planning before you head out. Learn about some of the paperwork requirements and get prepped for the plane with these tips for traveling overseas with your baby.

For that first flight together, pull out all the stops — from exciting new toys, to snacks they love. Feeding during takeoff and landing is the great way to keep your little one comfortable and help with any ear pain. We’ve put together a full list of activities you can try in flight with your baby or older kids.

What will you do on vacation when your baby goes to sleep? It’s no fun to tiptoe around them in the dark while they snooze — so you’ll want to consider renting a vacation home with your own private space. We’ve rounded up a list of the top amenities to look for in your next vacation home so you know where to start the search.

Traveling with an infant comes with a lot of stuff, and it can be easy to overpack. Make a packing list in advance, figure out which suitcases you’ll bring, and try to choose an airline that lets you check a free bag (or explore airline credit cards with baggage perks). Explore our family packing tips — or find helpful advice on what to bring in your carry on bag.

Check with your baby’s doctor before you travel to see if there are any extra vaccines or considerations for your trip before heading out. Be sure your baby is staying hydrated as you go about the day, use SPF or a sun shade, pack a first aid kit, and wash their hands and yours often.

Try to keep your regular nap times and bedtimes close to what they are at home, but know that it’s okay if things aren’t perfect. Naps on the go and pushed bedtimes are de rigueur for family travel. Plan excursions and activities to try between naps to maximize awake time. Bringing familiar items from home — whether it’s books, a water cup, or favorite pajamas — can help your baby settle in.

Are grandma or grandpa coming along? Sometimes, it can help if you invite extended family when it's your first time traveling with the baby. They might even be willing to babysit while you take a little time to yourself.

Even if you’re a big foodie, this might not be the time to try out a fancy, Michelin-star restaurant. Choosing more casual fare at food halls, breweries, and cafes — or going out to lunch instead of dinner — can help you feel more comfortable when you have a baby on board. Check out these foodie cities perfect for families if you’re looking for a trip with great eats along the way.

When you’re traveling with a baby, a meltdown is likely to happen at some point. It’s almost always a result of hunger, tiredness, or overstimulation. If you can figure out the cause, then you might be able to stop it in its tracks, though it can be hard to switch channels once a meltdown starts. Sometimes picking up your baby and taking a little walk can provide the needed distraction. No matter what happens, know that there are other parents nearby who have been in exactly the same situation many times over.

Most of all, have a great time. Since babies tend to go with the flow and are often happy hanging out in the carrier or stroller, be sure to do some special things you love — whether it’s going on a coffee crawl, shopping, or having a family picnic in the park.