Summer holidays are almost upon us and if you're planning your trip as a new parent, the prospect of getting on a plane with a baby can be very daunting.
There are so many questions to be answered and lots of different airlines operate under different rules.
Luckily, Tots to Travel have created a brilliantly helpful guide to help relieve some of the stresses and answer some of the most frequently asked questions for travelling abroad with a baby.
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First things first, what age can you take a baby on a plane?
There are no standard regulations about the minimum age a baby can fly although age restrictions do vary between airlines. It ranges from a minimum of 2 days old to 2 weeks old.
Some doctors will encourage you to wait until baby is at least six weeks old – babies are still developing their immune systems before this time and need time to adjust to their new surroundings, so it can be unwise to fly.
Here's a handy infographic that should help make it a little clearer with regards to airline rules, but always check with your flight provider before booking just in case.
What documents does a baby need to travel abroad?
Just like you, babies of all ages will need their own passport. Be sure to apply for baby’s passport well in advance of your holiday, especially in peak season when demand for passports can be high.
If you’re travelling to a visa destination, remember that your baby will need the relevant visa too.
Document checklist:
- Airline tickets
- Visas
- Accommodation details
- Car hire docs
- European Health Insurance card
- Family contacts/important contacts
- ID & money cards
- Travel cheques/currency
- Medication prescriptions
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What can I take on a plane for my baby?
There are some restrictions for baby equipment, for example, you will not be permitted to have more than 100ml of liquids such as baby cream or lotion.
If you do take some, it needs to be placed in a clear bag to carry through security with all other liquids you may have and must not be more than 100ml. However, there are no restrictions for baby food and milk. You may be asked to taste the liquid as you go through security.
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Note: Most airlines will place pushchairs in the hold rather than in hand luggage (depending on how big they are), here’s a list to help:
What essentials should I pack for air travel with an infant?
Hand Luggage:
- Backpack/Rusksack rather than changing bag
- Wet wipes
- Anti-bacterial wipes
- Sterilised dummies
- Toys from home & maybe a new one
- Spare change of clothes for you & baby
- Baby spoon & bibs
- Muslins
- Baby sheets/blankets from home
- Nappies
- Nappy sacks
- Wash bag
- Enough food for the journey
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Hold Luggage:
- Milk formula
- Bibs
- Bottles/teats
- Sleep suits
- Cooler clothing for baby
- Warm clothes for baby (night time)
- Basic first aid kit
- Baby rash creams
- Medicines
- Baby wash
- Towels
- Plug adapters
- Documents
For more top tips on travelling with a baby, you can check out the full guide on Tots to Travel website.
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