Traveling with a Baby: Yes, You Can (And Here's How)

Travel doesn’t stop when you have a baby—it just changes shape. A little slower, a little softer. But no less rich.

With the right mindset and some smart planning, it’s absolutely possible to travel well (and joyfully) with a baby under two.

Here’s what you need to know.

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First: Shift Your Expectations, Not Your Standards

You’re not giving up a good trip—you’re just approaching it differently.

Don’t try to do everything. Instead, focus on what matters most: quality over quantity, meaningful over packed. Long lunches over marathon sightseeing. Afternoon naps over late-night cocktails (although you might still get those too, room service and a balcony go a long way).

Traveling with a baby requires flexibility and patience, yes—but it also brings a beautiful kind of presence. You slow down. You notice more. And that’s a gift, not a compromise.

Plan for Comfort, Not Complication

Some parts of the world are simply easier with an infant—and that’s okay. When we plan trips for clients with babies, we look at logistics first:

• Direct flights when possible (with smart layovers if not)

• Walkable cities with stroller-friendly infrastructure

• Properties that make things easier—think baby gear on request, kitchenettes, laundry, and staff who are used to families

You don’t need to stay at a “family resort.” You just need thoughtful hospitality.

Gear: What to Bring, What to Leave

You don’t need to bring everything. You really don’t. Here’s what most families I work with end up packing:

• Lightweight travel stroller (or rent one at your destination)

• Soft carrier for cobblestone streets, airports, and naps on the go

• Compact white noise machine or sound app

• Favorite blanket or comfort item

• Diapers for a day or two, then buy locally

• Formula or baby food if needed (but again, most things are widely available)

Bonus tip: If you’re traveling somewhere with great concierge service, we can arrange delivery of diapers, wipes, or other essentials before you arrive. No suitcase overload required.

Flight Tips: You’ve Got This

• Book bulkhead seats or a bassinet row if available

• Feed during takeoff and landing to ease ear pressure

• Pack a change of clothes for baby and you

• Divide your carry-on: one bag for in-flight essentials (diapers, bottles, snacks), one for backup

Yes, there might be some crying. That’s okay. People are generally more understanding than you think. And once you're on the ground, things tend to feel much easier.

Daily Routine While Traveling

Babies are surprisingly adaptable—but having a general rhythm helps. Here’s what works for many of my clients:

• One main activity or outing per day

• Meals spaced around nap windows

• Built-in downtime at your hotel or rental

• Early dinners or room service with a view

And always: prioritize you too. The trip doesn’t need to be all about baby. You’re allowed to enjoy a beautiful meal, a massage, a quiet museum moment. Let’s make sure that’s built in from the start.

Yes, You Can Travel Internationally with a Baby

Just a few things to remember:

• You’ll need a passport for your child (yes, even for newborns)

• Some countries require child-specific entry documents

• A few airlines offer infant discounts or lap-seat booking options

• Don’t forget to check local medical care access—I can help with that

For longer flights, premium economy or business class is often worth the splurge. Not for the champagne (though that’s nice), but for the space. Especially on overnight flights.

Let Me Take Care of the Details

Here’s the real secret to traveling with a baby: you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

I work with hotels that actually want families, guides who can accommodate flexible timing, and suppliers who know how to source cribs, car seats, and last-minute medicine runs. I’ll build the itinerary around your baby’s needs and your travel style.

You get a trip that’s enriching, memorable, and tailored to the way your family moves through the world.

Want to plan a first trip with your baby?I’ll help you choose the right destination, the right pace, and the right support. Because travel doesn’t have to wait.

Let’s get started.