Your guide to travelling with a baby in tow
From flying to long car journeys, travelling with little ones isn’t easy, but these tips can help
So you’re planning a trip away with a baby in tow? Travelling with little ones is no easy feat so here’s our essential checklist to follow to help the journey go as smooth as possible.
1. Before you set off
Don't make the mistake of thinking you’re going away in the UK so the travel won’t be too much of an issue. If you get caught in lengthy traffic jams, you’re going to wish you had been prepared.
Don’t forget to sort your baby a passport if you’re planning to go abroad. The process of getting a passport can take up to six weeks so get on it in plenty of time.
When flying, pre-booking a bassinet (cot) will guarantee 'bulkhead seats' (located behind the partition separators), which usually have more leg room. Choosing these seats are a good idea even if your baby is too big for the bassinet (around 8 months) as it normally gives a small area in which to move around more and play.
It’s a good idea to get your little one familiar with eating baby food from the jar before you go as there may be occasions when this is the easiest way.
2. Essential luggage
Airport security is very high these days so you want to take as little hand luggage as you can get away with. But you will need a selection of the below:
Snacks
Drinks
Nappies
Wipes
Remember that all liquids need to be in clear containers of 100ml or less and don’t be surprised if security staff ask you to taste your liquids.
It’s also important to remember that your baby’s creams county as liquids so these also need to be in a clear bag for airport security to see.
It’s not easy now to take bulky items like travel cots on a plane, airlines are getting stricter and may expect you to include in your baggage allowance, so do check with your airline before you travel.
The key is to be organised and plan well in advance to ensure you have everything you need with you to help make the journey and holiday as relaxed as possible.