Travelling with babies and toddlers
Travelling with small children isn't harder, it's different. Most of it comes down to less ambition in the itinerary and more foresight in the logistics.
What airlines require
Babies usually travel on your lap with a supplementary belt up to a certain age, without their own seat but notified at booking, as there's a limited quota per flight. Above that age they need their own seat. Every airline has its own terms: check when buying, not at the airport.
The pushchair
With most airlines you can check it at the gate at no cost, so you use it until the last moment and get it back on landing. Ask at check-in. Compact cabin-sized pushchairs are the most convenient option if you have one.
Pushchair or carrier, by destination
In cities with cobbles, hills or a metro without lifts, a baby carrier wins outright. In flat places with wide pavements, the pushchair. If unsure, the carrier is more versatile and takes less space.
Ears on the plane
Have the baby suck during take-off and landing: breast, bottle or dummy. It equalises pressure and prevents most crying. Have something ready for those two specific moments.
What to pack and what to buy there
Bring their usual food if they're eating, any medication, and more changes of clothes than you think. Buy nappies, wipes and water at the destination: carrying packs in your suitcase takes up an absurd amount of space.
Schedules rule
Keep nap and meal routines even if it means going back to the accommodation mid-afternoon. A small child off schedule turns any plan into a problem. One main activity a day and no more.
Destinations that work
Short journeys, accommodation with a kitchen and space, and one destination per trip. A quiet beach, a small walkable city, or a country house. Save multi-city itineraries for later.
Health and documents
Every minor needs their own identity document or passport from their first trip. Bring the vaccination record and the European Health Insurance Card for EU travel, and check your insurance explicitly includes them.
Keep reading
Browse every with kids destination, or go back to the board and filter by month.