Travelling with Children: Tips from a Travel Expert & Mum
Whether you’re planning a toddler-friendly escape, your first holiday with a baby, or managing a mix of ages, these tips will help you travel smoothly – and create unforgettable family memories.
1. Involve Children in the Planning
If your children are old enough, let them choose between two activities or help pack their hand luggage. It builds excitement and a sense of independence.
For babies, it’s all about planning for them. Check airline policies for infant baggage, pushchair allowances, and on-board facilities before you book – I’m always happy to help guide you through these.
2. Flight Times & Preparation
Flight timing matters. Evening flights may be great value, but they can disrupt routines. That said, infants often sleep better during night flights – just prep for naps and feeds before boarding.
For all ages, carry-on essentials are key. For infants, pack nappies, wipes, spare clothes (for baby and you), pre-measured bottles or formula, and a comforter or dummy. A baby sling can be a game-changer in busy airports.
3. Family-Friendly Accommodation
Choose accommodation with your children’s needs in mind. For babies, request a cot, check for stair gates, and confirm availability of essentials like bottle warmers. Some hotels offer baby gear rental or weaning-friendly meals.
Larger families or older children may prefer interconnecting rooms or two-bedroom apartments. Teens especially appreciate a bit of space and privacy. I work with trusted partners to find family stays that tick every box.
4. Keep Your Days Flexible
Babies are unpredictable, so keep your itinerary light. Allow time for naps, feeds, nappy changes, and cuddles – sometimes a quiet morning by the pool is better than a packed schedule.
With older children, aim for one main activity a day. Anything extra is a bonus. And if your kids are like mine, knowing where to find the nearest ice cream is always essential!
5. Embrace the Unexpected
From missed naps to surprise delays, travelling with little ones comes with its moments. But those small mishaps are part of the story – and they’re often balanced out by the magic: first paddles in the sea, spontaneous dance parties, and wide-eyed wonder at new discoveries.
Patience goes a long way – and so does keeping your sense of humour.
6. Top Tips for Infant Travel
Travelling with a baby? These tips will help:
• Book a bassinet seat on long-haul flights.
• Feed during take-off and landing to ease ear pressure.
• Pack more nappies and clothes than you think you’ll need.
• Use a lightweight travel pram for easy folding at the gate.
• Bring a portable white noise machine for naps.
• Stick to familiar routines where possible – especially at bedtime.
7. Packing Essentials (Wipes Are Gold!)
Packing for a baby can feel like moving house. My advice? Keep it practical.
Bring key items: nappies, food, bottles, sterilising kit (if needed), and comforters. You’ll find most baby products in-resort, so no need to pack the entire kitchen sink. I can advise on what’s available locally so you can travel lighter and worry less.
8. Eating Out With Children
Dining out with children doesn’t have to be stressful. Feed babies before heading out or time your visit around naps. Most restaurants in family-friendly destinations are happy to warm bottles or food.
With toddlers and older kids, snacks are your best friend – they bridge the gap while waiting and prevent hangry meltdowns. If you prefer control over meals, self-catering options offer great flexibility, especially during weaning.
9. Sun Protection
When on holiday, protect children from the sun with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sun cream, applied 15–30 minutes before going out and reapplied every two hours or after swimming.
Dress them in lightweight, long-sleeved clothes and wide-brimmed hats to shield their skin. UV-protective swimwear is ideal, and try to keep them in the shade during peak sun hours (11 am to 3 pm).
Final Thoughts from Me
Travelling with children – especially babies – takes a little extra planning, but the memories you make will last a lifetime. Whether it’s a beach day, a baby’s first flight, or your teen spotting wildlife in the wild, these are the moments that matter.
As your dedicated travel expert (and fellow parent), I’m here to help you every step of the way – from choosing the perfect destination to ensuring your accommodation has a cot and kettle. Let’s make your next family trip smooth, simple, and truly special.
