travelling with baby america

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• Special assistance

Traveling with children

Traveling with children and infants.

We are committed to caring for people on life’s journey and want you and your children to have a safe and positive travel experience. To allow enough time for check-in, arrive early and be sure to have any required travel documents. You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18.

• Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate.
• Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed.

You can travel with a breast pump and small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk in addition to your carry-on or personal item. These items don’t have to be checked and are allowed even when you’re not traveling with a child. Also, most airports have nursing rooms and stations available for your convenience.

If you’re a family traveling with children under 15, we want to help make sure you’re seated together on your flight. Here are some tips for when you book:

• Be sure to book everyone in the same reservation.
• The farther in advance you book, the better. (Seats become limited closer to the day of travel.)
• On the seat map, choose seats for your entire family or skip seats for that flight.
• It’s better to skip seats than to choose just a few seats or seats scattered throughout the cabin. Our gate agents can try to reseat you but getting seats together the day of travel is difficult.

If you skip seats

If you’re unable to choose seats, don’t want to pay for seats, or chose a Basic Economy fare, our system will detect that you’re a family traveling. The system will search for seats together automatically before the day of departure. We’ll try our best to keep you together, but if seats are limited, we’ll assign seats so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult.

Children and adults traveling in separate reservations

If you and your children are traveling together but have separate reservations, call Reservations so we can note it in each reservation.

Contact Reservations

Children 2 or older are required to have their own seat, a ticketed adult fare. Children under 5 can’t travel alone under any circumstances.

If you don't choose seats in Main Cabin or Basic Economy, we’ll assign seats a few days after you buy your tickets so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult they’re traveling with.

We welcome infants as young as 2 days old, but infants under 7 days old must have a doctor's letter stating that they are medically cleared to travel.

Keep in mind:

• Only 1 infant may be seated in the lap of each ticketed accompanying adult and the infant must be included in the reservation.
• Additional infants under 2 years old must be ticketed and occupy an infant safety seat or in a separate aircraft seat.
• The infant must be under 2 years of age for the duration of the trip. If they turn 2 during a trip, they will need their own seat for the remainder of the trip.

Adding an infant to your trip

If you’re traveling within the U.S., including Puerto Rico, you can add an infant to your trip when you book on aa.com, or later once it is ticketed. You only need to contact Reservations if you’re traveling with an infant who is under 7 days old; or if you’re traveling outside of the U.S. (taxes and a percentage of the adult fare may apply on international trips).

Book a new trip

• Book your trip on aa.com
• Enter your information on the ‘Passenger details’ page
• Select ‘add infant in lap’

Book a trip

Update an existing trip

• Find your trip on aa.com
• Scroll to the ‘Passengers’ section

Find your trip

Call Reservations if:

• You’re traveling with an infant who is less than 7 days old
• You’re not traveling within the U.S., and Puerto Rico

Reserved seat

If your infant will travel in their own seat, you must buy a ticket. The infant must either travel in a safety seat approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or be able to sit upright in their seat without assistance and have their seatbelt securely fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is on.

Bassinets and changing tables

• Changing tables are available in the lavatories of all wide-body aircraft.
• Bassinets are available on a first come, first serve basis at the gate for travel only on 777-200, 777-300 and 787 aircraft.*
• Bassinets are not available in First / Business cabins.

*Infants using bassinets must be younger than 2 years old and weigh no more than 20lbs (9kg)

Acceptable safety seats

Most safety seats that are approved for use in motor vehicles are acceptable for use in aircraft. The seat must have a solid back and seat, restraint straps installed to securely hold the child and a label indicating approval for use on an aircraft.

The label may include:

• These notes: 'This child restraint system conforms to all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards' and 'this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircrafts' or 'this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.'
• Approval of a foreign government or a label showing that the seat was manufactured under the standards of the United Nations.
• The safety seat can't be used in an exit row or in the rows on either side of an exit row; window seats are preferred.
• Install the seat in the direction appropriate for the size of the child and according to the instructions on the label.
• The child must remain in the safety seat with the harness fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is on.
• To carry on a safety seat, you must have bought a seat for the child, or a seat must be available next to you. If an unoccupied, adjoining seat is not available, the gate agent will check the safety seat to your final destination.

Review seat dimensions before your trip.

Safety seats are not allowed in First or Business on select planes due to the seat angles.

Airbus 321T

• Boeing 777-200
• Boeing 777-300
• Boeing 787-800
• Boeing 787-900
• Any device without an approval label
• Booster seats with no approval label or shoulder harness
• Vest and/or harness-type devices, except Aviation Child Safety Devices (ACSD) showing the FAA aircraft approval label
• Belt extensions that attach to the parent or the parent's restraint
• Any device that positions a child on the lap or chest of an adult

Carry-on and checked bags

If you’re flying internationally with an infant on your lap, we’ll issue the infant a ticket. You may check 1 bag for the infant at the same rate as the adult’s first checked bag.

• Each ticketed customer is allowed 1 stroller and 1 car seat to be checked free of charge
• Strollers over 20 lbs / 9 kgs must be checked at the ticket counter
• All other strollers should be checked at the gate before boarding
• If you have a stroller and a car seat only 1 can be checked at the gate
• Breast pumps and a small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk don’t count as your carry-on or personal item
• Play pens, wagons, cribs and 'pack and play' count as regular bags
• If any of these exceed carry-on limits they’ll be checked and incur regular fees

International documents

Children or infants traveling outside the U.S. are required to have the same documentation as an adult. If anyone under 18 is traveling internationally without both parents, they may be required to present a Letter of Consent.

International travel

Traveling during pregnancy

If your due date is within 4 weeks of your flight, you must provide a doctor’s certificate stating that you’ve been recently examined and you’re fit to fly.

Special assistance throughout your trip

For domestic flights under 5 hours, you won’t be permitted to travel within 7 days (before and after) your delivery date. If you need to travel within this time frame:

• Approval from your physician and a special assistance coordinator is required.
• Your physician will be required to fill out a passenger medical form before your flight. A special assistance coordinator will send the form directly to your physician.

Clearance from a special assistance coordinator is required for international travel or travel over water:

• Within 4 weeks of your due date (travel also requires a physician's note stating that you’ve been examined within the past 48 hours and you’re fit to fly)
• 7 days before or after your delivery (travel also requires a passenger medical form to be completed by your physician)

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

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15 Best Places To Travel With a Baby in the US

Written by:

Barbara mighdoll.

Traveling with an infant can be challenging, but it’s well worth it. Even if they don’t remember the trips years from now, you will. You’ll remember the smiling, the bonding, and every special moment you shared. My husband and I have continued traveling since we’ve had kids, so both Willow and Caden have been avid travelers since they were infants. 

Though I don’t think you should shy away from international travel with infants , I know there are a lot of factors to consider when taking a vacation. Often, something U.S.-based makes more sense. To help you choose the perfect destination, I’ve compiled a list of the best places to travel in the United States with a baby. 

Here’s my list:

15 Best Places To Travel With an Infant in the US 

San diego, california .

San Diego is a great choice for U.S. travel with a baby. The city offers so much for families with babies and the mild weather is perfect for a sensitive newborn. Some of our favorite baby-friendly things to do in San Diego include walking stroller-friendly trails at Cabrillo National Monument , getting sun at the La Jolla Cove , exploring the San Diego Botanic Garden , and shopping at the Westfield UTC Shopping Center . (The mall has private nursing areas, family restrooms, and a family lounge.) 

Of course, you can’t go to San Diego without visiting the San Diego Zoo ! However, it’s also a lot of fun to visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park with a baby if you’re not up for all the walking.   

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is our hometown, so it’s not a place we “visit.” However, we’ve brought up 2 babies here, and we think it’s a great destination for a baby. Storytime at local libraries, baby yoga at Jane Austin Yoga , the Ferry Building Farmer's Market, stroller walks along Crissy Beach, and outdoor fun at one of San Francisco's many public parks are just some of our favorite things to do. 

Consider also doing a night away in Napa while you're at it, it's surprisingly baby friendly. I even have a full list of things to do as a family .

We also think San Francisco is perfect for families with infants because it’s a relatively small city with only a 7-square-mile radius. That means you can get to everything pretty quickly no matter where you’re staying in the city! (We recommend the Hyatt Regency or the Hotel Fairmont Heritage Place because they have big rooms, great locations, and babysitting services.) 

Savannah, Georgia 

Savannah, the right time of year, is great for babies. (I’d avoid the peaks of summer when it’s very hot and humid.) Take the stroller along the river, enjoy a trolley tour, explore street art in the Starland District , take a riverboat cruise , or spend time at Tybee Island beach with your infant. These things are all stimulating for baby while being enjoyable for mom and dad too. 

For accommodations, we usually recommend staying in more homey places when traveling with an infant. The extra amenities of a rental house like full kitchens and separate bedrooms are really helpful when caring for a baby on vacation. Luckily, Savannah has lots of baby-friendly Airbnbs. If you go the hotel route, consider finding one with similar benefits. 

Orlando, Florida

Of course, Disney World is in Orlando, and I’ll say it is a fun place to visit, even with a baby. However, I know many people wouldn’t want to deal with the hassle if they don’t have a toddler or older child to fully appreciate the experience. Orlando has plenty of other infant-friendly things to do! 

We love Lake Eola Park’s walking paths, swans, and fountain light shows, and we’re always sure to stop by the Orlando Aquarium and the Leu Gardens . Plus, if you want an easy vacation, Orlando is full of all-inclusive family-friendly resorts. 

Aspen, Colorado

If you’re looking for a middle-America option, Aspen is a great spot for infants. First of all, Aspen is pretty small and designed with visitors in mind. That means you can stroller walk almost anywhere, which makes navigating to restaurants, shopping areas, and excursions much less of a hassle. 

Though baby won’t be skiing with you, there are plenty of ways for an infant to enjoy the scenery. You can go on scenic enclosed ski lift rides , take a horse-drawn sleigh , or go snowshoeing with your infant in their baby carrier. Before you go, just consider the challenges of dressing your baby for the weather and keeping them hydrated with the altitude changes. 

Omaha, Nebraska 

This may not have been on your list, but if you live in the midwest and are looking for a road trip , Omaha offers more than you think in terms of a little family getaway. Since Omaha is right in the middle of the country, it’s roadtrip-able from almost anywhere, which is a pro if you’re worried about flying with an infant. (Though you shouldn’t be, here’s my post on flying with a baby.) 

Omaha’s premier attraction is The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , which often goes toe-to-toe with the San Diego Zoo as “the best zoo in the world.” The zoo is massive and it’s not really even feasible to visit all in one day, but it’s extremely stroller-friendly and the wide paths and large facility mean that even on busy zoo days, it’s not that crowded. Also, if you’re worried about volatile Midwest weather, you’ll be happy to hear that many of the exhibits are indoors, including the rainforest, “Desert Dome,” swamplands, butterfly enclosure, and aquarium. 

Other things to do in Omaha with an infant include walking Lauritzen Gardens , Joslyn Castle , Zorinsky Lake , and RiverFront Park .      

Best Beaches to Travel to With an Infant in the US

Stinson beach, san francisco, california  .

In my humble opinion, as a San Francisco resident, Stinson Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in California. The wide beach and soft, white sand are perfect for lounging and playing with an infant. It’s also a great sport for a picnic or walk, with plenty of stroller-friendly trails nearby. The beach also has good parking, a snack bar, and restrooms, which are all helpful when you have a baby in tow!

Kiawah Island, South Carolina 

Kiawah Island is known mostly for the golf resort, but it’s actually a great spot for family beach-goers too. Aside from regular beach activities, Kiawah Island has great biking opportunities, walkable shopping districts, family pools, and, as I mentioned, golf. You may even spot some sea turtles! 

Waikīkī Beach, Honolulu, Hawaii

We’ve gone to Oahu , with our baby and toddler, and it was the best experience! We stayed in North Shore and loved it, but if you are looking for a beach that is more centrally located to many different types of attractions, Waikīkī Beach is a great spot. Aside from beautiful views, a wide beach, and great swimming, Waikīkī Beach has public restrooms, beach showers, and plenty of food stands to make the day trip easier! 

Best Outdoor Destinations to Travel to With an Infant in the US

Acadia national park, maine .

If you like to camp or do lots of hiking, Acadia National Park is a perfect destination. It’s one of the smaller national parks and there are lots of towns around it, so it’s easy to explore and there are plenty of amenities nearby. For good hiking, try Ocean Path, Thunder Hole, or Jordan Pond Loop. Whether you camp or get an Airbnb, I think visiting Acadia National Parks with a baby is a great way to bond with your little one! 

Lake Tahoe, California

We have a vacation home in Lake Tahoe , and that’s because it’s one of the best family destinations in the U.S.! Plus, it’s an easy road trip for us in San Francisco. (Here are my tips for road trips with a baby .) You’ll love that it offers plenty to do without the hustle and bustle of a busy city… and the weather is always right for a family vacation with plenty of summer and winter recreation options. 

Some of our favorite things to do include walking the East Shore Trail , hiking Glacier Point Trail , hiking in D.L. Bliss State Park , swimming at the pools, and playing in the sand at Sand Harbor . There is so much to do! 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina 

Here’s another east coast option for those of you closer to the Carolinas. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is kid-friendly and has lots of scenic drives, stroller-friendly hikes, wildlife viewing opportunities, biking trails, and fishing spots. All of these activities can be infant-friendly with a stroller or baby carrier . 

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a beautiful area to explore outdoors with your baby. Really, it offers many of the other outdoor exploration opportunities as other places I’ve mentioned in this section—there are even swimming spots here in the desert! Beyond the swimming holes, there are numerous hiking spots, beautiful drives, parks, and a cultural downtown area that are all enjoyable with an infant.   

Best Resorts to Travel to With an Infant in the US

Aulani, a disney resort, oahu, hawaii .

You’re probably familiar with the big U.S. Disney theme parks in California and Florida, but Hawaii has a Disney resort too. Aulani is a favorite for family travelers who want a Disney experience that’s a little more relaxed. You get a nearly all-inclusive vacation package to stay in Aulani and experience all the magic, meaning you don’t have to drive and walk all around the island to find things to do. 

Right there on the resort, you have accommodations, dining, and activities. Some things you can do with an infant include beaches, pools, character experiences, walking tours, shopping, luaus, splash pads, gardens, wildlife encounters, canoeing, and family yoga.

Aulani also has plenty of room size options, so if you want 2 bedrooms to separate you and your infant, they can accommodate that. You can even rent a villa for a more homey option. All rooms come with complimentary pack ‘n plays as well, which is a plus if you want one less thing to pack.   

Loews Chicago Hotel in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is another perfect destination for city life exploration with an infant. No matter where you are in the city, there is plenty to do. However, what will really elevate the experience with your new baby is staying at the Loews Chicago Hotel , which is one of the most baby-friendly hotels in the country. 

All rooms have options for a mini-fridge, bottle sanitizing supplies, full-sized cribs, baby tubs, and nightlights. You’ll also receive complimentary baby lotion, wipes, shampoo, body wash, and conditioner from Hello Bello. If all that wasn’t enough, they also partner with Little Spoon, so you can order fresh, organic baby food via room service with your own meals. All these added amenities make it a great resort for parents with babies! 

Location is everything when traveling with an infant. 

If you’re ready to take that first trip with your baby, don’t let anyone talk you out of it. I’ve loved every second of traveling with both of my kids when they were babies ( here is a round up of my favorite vacations with them ), and I’m glad I didn’t let other people or my first-time mom fears talk me out of our experiences. Hopefully, one of these destinations will work for you and your baby. Let the planning begin! 

For more family travel tips and tricks, head to the blog . I’ve got lots of advice and more destination recommendations. Soon, you’ll have conquered your first trip and be ready to take on the next!

I live in San Francisco with my husband, Jason, toddler, Caden, one year old baby, Willow, and Bernese Mountain Dog, Bear. I previously held multiple VP of Marketing roles at tech startups before deciding to take the leap to build New Modern Mom full time in an effort to find fulfillment and flexibility in my life. I also was a fitness instructor in an earlier life. I created this space to curate the best products and real advice on pregnancy, motherhood, cooking, travel and more to make doing it all for ambitious moms like me a whole lot easier.

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Traveling With a Baby in the US – All You Need to Know

Of all of the places in the world to travel, the US might be my favorite. I’m biased as an American, but there’s so much diversity here in terms of landscape, people, and food, you can find almost anything to suit your desires. As a new mom, I’ve loved traveling the USA with my baby, especially since there are so many baby-friendly things to do here.

Traveling with a baby comes with its own unique set of challenges, and knowing some of the important differences in the US and ways to prepare is key to having a safe and enjoyable trip. Here’s everything to know about traveling in the USA with a baby.

Table of Contents

Navigating US airports with a baby

One thing you’ll notice when traveling in the USA is that airports don’t usually have a dedicated line for families with young children. It’s one of my biggest sources of shame when traveling in a US airport since so many other countries do! However, they do have family bathrooms, which can be a real lifesaver when you need a private space for diaper changes and feedings.

To breeze through the airport experience:

• Arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time to check in, pass through security, and get to your gate. Babies have a way of making everything take longer than you expect.
• Gate-check stroller and car seat. You can bring your stroller and car seat all the way to the gate, where they’ll be tagged and stowed under the plane. This is a convenient way to have them available until you board. You can also check a car seat to hold luggage for free. Just be sure to bring a car seat travel bag in order to keep the straps and buckles intact.
• Security screening. The US tends to screen more than any other country I’ve traveled through. Let the agent know before you go through that you have liquids over the 3oz/100ml limit. You’re allowed to bring baby food, formula, and milk over the limit, but it will probably be subject to extra screening. They are not allowed to put anything into the liquid but may perform a vapor test or put it through an extra machine. Be prepared to fold up your stroller and send it through the X-ray machine as well. Keep in mind that you’ll need to carry your baby through the metal detector, even if it means waking them up from their stroller nap to do so.
• Family bathrooms. Take advantage of the family bathrooms. They provide a private, clean space for diaper changes and feedings.

Traveling around the US with a baby: crafting the perfect itinerary

Now, let’s talk about planning your itinerary, which is crucial when you have a little one in tow. Here are some tips to help you create a well-balanced schedule.

• Flexibility is key. Babies have their own schedules, and you need to be ready to adapt. Plan activities around their nap times and feedings and you’ll all be happier. Some babies are totally fine sleeping in a car seat, and others need dark rooms. You know your baby best.
• Shorter stays. Instead of rushing through multiple destinations, consider spending more time in fewer places. This allows for a slower pace and more in-depth exploration.
• Rest days. Incorporate rest days into your itinerary. Use this time to relax, explore your accommodation, and recharge for the next adventure.
• Research family-friendly activities. Look for attractions that are well-suited for babies. Museums, parks, and gentle hikes are often great options.
• Stay central. Choose accommodations that are central to the activities you plan to do. This minimizes travel time and makes it easier to return to your lodging for breaks.
• Car rentals. The US is HUGE and in most places, you’ll need a car to get around. There are a few key US cities that are well connected with public transportation, but outside of those, almost everyone drives. This means you’ll need to bring (or rent) a car seat. I’ll mention some destinations below where you don’t need a car in case you’d prefer not to drive.

10 of the Best Places to Travel with a Baby in the USA

San diego, california.

Known for its perfect weather and stunning beaches, San Diego is a fantastic destination for families with babies. Explore Balboa Park, take a stroll in La Jolla Cove, or visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. This was one of the first trips we took my son on and is one of the most family-friendly cities in California!

Don’t miss our detailed guide to a 10-day California road trip!

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a laid-back, artsy vibe and a range of family-friendly activities. Don’t miss a visit to the Biltmore Estate and the family-friendly trails of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you visit in the fall, the foliage can be gorgeous.

Seattle, Washington

A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, I love Seattle as a jumping-off point for a Washington road trip with so many beautiful National Parks. You’ve got a great mix of mountains, rainforests, and lakes to choose from.

Check out our guide to the best hotels in Seattle.

Charleston, South Carolina

Steeped in history and charm, Charleston provides a relaxed atmosphere for families. Explore the cobblestone streets of the historic district and spend a day at the renowned Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. If your baby is anything like mine, the sand at the beach will be one of their favorite things!

Sedona, Arizona

Red rock landscapes, hiking trails, and spiritual vibes await you in Sedona. I love that it’s such a great place to just rent a vacation home and relax at any time of year. Opt for baby-friendly hikes like the Bell Rock Pathway or relax at the Sedona Community Pool.

Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is an excellent choice for families. Take your little one to Millennium Park, Navy Pier, or the Lincoln Park Zoo, where they can meet animals from all over the world. Keep in mind it can get COLD in the winter, so consider this for the spring or summer.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

An iconic destination for nature lovers, Yellowstone is perfect for introducing your baby to the great outdoors. Drive around the park and keep an eye out for bison, geysers, and accessible walkways. One of the best things about the US national park system is that they always have trails that are paved and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Washington, D.C.

Our nation’s capital can be fun for both parents and little guys. Explore the National Mall, visit the Smithsonian museums (which are free!), and don’t forget to snap a family photo with the cherry blossoms if you happen to be visiting in the early spring. If you’re intimidated about driving while visiting the US, D.C. has a great metro system.

New York City, New York

Believe it or not, the Big Apple can be baby-friendly! Take leisurely strolls in Central Park, visit the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, and enjoy a family ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty. New York is another city where you don’t have to drive.

Utah’s National Parks

We did a Utah road trip with my baby when he was about 8 months old and between the hiking backpack carrier and planning during low season, it was an easy, enjoyable trip that we could just do on the fly. Zion National Park had just received a blanket of fresh snow, and it was nothing short of magical.

Picking the right accommodation when traveling with a baby in the US

Hotels in the US can vary in price and amenities. If you’re traveling in the summertime, prices will be the highest as that’s when everyone else is traveling, too. If you can manage the off-season, booking will be easier, and prices will be lower.

Although hotel rooms are great if you want access to a refrigerator or kitchen, vacation home rentals can be a great idea.

When using a platform like Airbnb, you have the option to search only for places that have cribs. You can do the same on most major hotel booking platforms as well. Most major hotel chains have cribs, and there are resorts all over the US, particularly in Hawaii or Orlando, that are specifically designed for families.

Where to stock up on baby essentials in the USA

When traveling with a baby in the USA, thankfully it’s easy to find baby items .

Major cities have a plethora of options, such as Walmart, Target, and local grocery stores. You’ll find diapers, baby food, formula, and just about anything you could need or think of at these big box stores. If you forget anything at all, you can find toys, strollers , baby carriers , playpens, bottle warmers , and travel cribs at these stores. Rental services like Babyquip can also be great, which allows you to rent directly from local parents wherever you are in the US. It’s like the Airbnb of baby gear!

Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS are also great for baby needs and over-the-counter medications. Although grocery stores usually also have diapers and baby food, they don’t always have formula.

You may notice that baby formula and diapers in the US cost more than at home, depending on where you’re from. Consider bringing formula from home to avoid the high costs here.

Check out our guide to what to pack when traveling with kids.

Staying safe and healthy

The United States may be a land of adventure, but it’s also home to an expensive healthcare system. To ensure a safe and healthy trip, get travel insurance.

Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers your family, including your baby. It’s a safety net just in case.

If you do need to visit the doctor while you’re here, your best bet is to look up urgent care facilities. You can also go to any hospital’s emergency room.

In the USA, dial 911 in case of an emergency. You’ll be able to use Google Maps to identify any hospitals or pediatricians if needed.

Make sure your baby’s vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling. Also, consult your pediatrician for any additional recommendations, and bring along any medications your baby might need. Pharmaceuticals, like our medical system, are most likely more expensive here than they are in your home country.

Keep in mind that theft can be a problem in some bigger cities in the US. I recommend leaving nothing of value in your rental car and always locking the door to your accommodation. Don’t walk around at night in big cities, unless you’re in a walkable city like New York, and be aware of wildlife while driving.

Final thoughts about traveling around the US with a baby

Traveling with a baby in the US is an experience that is truly one of a kind. There’s no other country where the arctic tundra of Alaska, tropical beaches of Hawaii , and skyscrapers of New York are all under one country code.

While it comes with its share of challenges in a country this vast, a well-prepared adventure can be smooth and rewarding. So, pack your bags, and explore this diverse and beautiful country with your little one. I will always cherish the photos and memories of our trips around the US with my little guy, and the best part is, it’s all only just beginning!

Author Bio: Kristin Addis is the founder of Parenthood Adventures , a resource for adventurous parents who still want to travel the world with their little ones. She’s been a travel expert for over a decade, leading adventure trips and spending several years as a nomad. Now, she’s showing her baby the world.

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Need to Know: Flying American Airlines with a baby or toddler

Will you be flying American Airlines with a baby or toddler? As part of my “Need to Know” airlines series for parents flying with infants and young children, here are some important points to be aware of (and be prepared for) if you will be flying American Airlines with an infant or very young child.

As always, if you have general questions about flying with babies and young children, head to my Flying with a Baby or Toddler Advice Index page.

And make sure you’ve downloaded Take-Along Travels with Baby: Hundreds of Tips to Help DURING Travel with Your Baby Toddler, and Preschooler to your phone for easy reference in the moments you need it most!

Topics I cover in this post:

• Flying with a lap infant (or toddler under 2 years on your lap)
• Baggage policies for infants, toddlers, and baby gear
• Passengers with breast milk and pumps
• Important note on strollers and American Airlines
• Using car seats on American flights
• Using airline bassinets on American flights
• More help for travel logistics
• Great gear for flying with babies and toddlers
• More airline-specific advice

But first — be sure to pin this to your Pinterest travel board for future reference and to help others!

This post may contain affiliate links, which help fund this independent website at no cost to you.

Flying American Airlines with a Baby on Your Lap (Lap Infant)

American Airlines allows infants from 2 days old up until the day before their 2nd birthday to fly on their parent’s lap.

Babies fly free on domestic flights including routes to Puerto Rico, and are generally charged a percentage of the adult’s fare for international flights (see my Tips to Help Keep Your Lap Child Safer in Flight here ).

When making your reservation online at AA.com , the Passenger Details page will have a box to check to “add infant in lap.” If you need to add your baby to an existing reservation, you should see the same option in your reservation under “passenger Details.

Any time your child is flying for free or at a reduced child fare, make sure you’re prepared with age-verifying I.D. for her (see Do infants and babies need I.D. for domestic flights? for more details).

Note: If your child turns 2 years before the return flight, he’ll need a paid seat for the return journey.

When do you need to contact American Airlines before flying with a lap infant?

• If your baby will be less than 7 days old, you must contact the airline in advance and have a doctor’s letter confirming they are clear to travel.
• If you’re flying internationally, you’ll need to contact reservations directly about your lap child to assess (and pay!) any additional taxes or fees that your lap child may incur.

The American Airlines phone number for reservations is: 1 (800) 433-7300.

American Airlines baggage policy for infants and children:

Do you have to pay extra to check baby gear or bring a diaper bag onboard.

This section addresses the possible scenarios you might face, whether flying with a lap child or child in his own seat, with breast milk and pumps, and more.

1. Passengers with babies and toddlers under 2 years:

American Airlines allows one free checked (or gate-checked) stroller, one free checked (or gate checked) car seat, and one complimentary carry-on diaper bag for each child under 2 years traveling without his own seat (see details about flying with a lap infant for more ).

Note: American Airlines will only let you gate-check your choice of a travel stroller OR a car seat — but not both. If you need to travel with both a car seat and stroller, and you don’t plan to use your child’s car seat on the plane, you’ll have to decide which to check in at the ticket counter. And be sure to see the important note on strollers and American Airlines below .

See my recommended Best Car Seat Travel Bags and Carriers for help protecting your child’s car seat. And don’t miss How to Travel with a Car Seat (without Losing Your Mind) for help with all facets of traveling with car seats (and without).

Also, for help packing your diaper bag / carry-on, see What to Pack in Your Baby Travel Kit for Carry On . And if you’re wondering what liquids (baby food, formula, etc.) you can bring onboard beyond the 311 rules, see Tips for Bringing Excess Liquids on Flights with Babies and Toddlers.

2. Passengers with infants and toddlers flying in their own seats (paid):

Infants and children flying American in their own paid seats are entitled to the same baggage allowance as their parents. They are also entitled to the same stroller and car seat allowances of lap infants as described above.

3. Passengers flying with breast milk and pumps:

For breastfeeding moms and travelers with breast milk, American Airlines will not count a small soft-sided cooler, stored breast milk, or breast pump toward your carry-on bag or personal item limit.

4. Flying with baby gear not mentioned above?

Other baby gear, such as Pack ‘n Plays, play pens, baby and toddler travel beds, portable bassinets, and wagons, will each count as one checked bag — with the exception of any item folding compactly enough to pass for one seated passenger’s carry-on item.

HOT TIP: If you’d like to rent baby gear at your destination, head to my Worldwide Directory of Baby Gear Rentals .

BACK TO TOP All content ©Shelly Rivoli / TravelswithBaby.com / Content continues below.

Heads up! American Airlines does not accept all strollers at the gate .

First, there is one stand-out difference from other airlines you should be aware of before heading to the airport. American Airlines will not accept strollers weighing 20 lbs. or more at the gates of its flights.

Why? While the main issue driving this policy are the many bulky and often expensive jogging and all-terrain strollers parents hope to hand-off at the gate rather than dismantle and check through the airport baggage system.

However, you should be aware that many standard, full-feature baby strollers also weigh in over this limit. If your stroller from home is over the limit, here’s what you can do:

If you need a stroller to help you get through the airport and (or want to use it during a layover):

Make sure you bring a travel-friendly, collapsible stroller weighing less than 20 lbs. to ensure you can check it at the gate ( see my recommended lightweight travel strollers here ).

Alternatively, you might be able to turn your child’s car seat into a stroller at the airport with help from some recommendations in the Best Car Seat Travel Bags and Carriers page .

If you check your 20 lbs.+ stroller at the check-in counter:

Be sure to bring a protective stroller bag that fits your model ( stroller travel bag recommendations here ) and allow time for dismantling & packing it before checking in at the counter.

Tip:  If you want a rugged stroller at your destination, but don’t need it en route, you may very likely be able to rent that BOB stroller, Mountain Buggy, or Phil & Ted tandem at your destination. Check the Worldwide Directory of Baby Gear Rentals for local baby gear rental companies.

American Airlines Bassinets (or Cots)

You *might* be able to get an airplane bassinet for your baby if you’ll be flying long haul on one of American’s 777-200, 777-300, or 787 aircraft (but not in Business or First Class).

However, they do not officially take reservations for bassinets and say they’re only available on a first come, first served basis — for infants weighing less than 20 lbs and under 2 years — at the gate of the flight.

If you’re flying American Airlines with a baby and hope to have a bassinet on your flight, I recommend calling to see if they’re offered on your flight and make sure you’ll be in a seating position where you’d actually be able to use it.

Then, of course, BE THE FIRST ONE TO YOUR GATE! 😀 You’ll find more help in Five Things You Should Know Before Flying with an Airplane Bassinet.

Car Seat Rules and Requirements for American Airlines

If you’d like to use your child’s car seat on American Airlines flights, your child must have his or her own airplane seat reservation. Only car seats with a rigid back and built-in safety harness are accepted for use in the cabin (no backless or belt-positioning safety boosters).

Also, make sure your car seat has a label showing it’s either:

• FAA-approved for use in aircraft, OR
• Was manufactured under the standards of the United Nations.

You’ll also want to make sure your car seat will FIT in the airplane seat (of course)! Remember that just because a child safety seat is approved for air travel it doesn’t mean it will actually fit in an airplane seat. Most American Airlines economy seats measure 17.3″ wide (and up).

For help finding cabin-friendly car seats, check out the Best Car Seats for Travel . You  might also consider these Car Seat Alternatives for Travel , including the CARES flight safety harness for kids flying in their own airplane seats ( see my full review of CARES here ).

–> And don’t miss the ultimate guide for How to Travel with a Car Seat (without Losing Your Mind) , and one of my most popular posts here: Seven Easy Ways to Get Your Car Seat Through the Airport.

Have your choice of airlines?

Use the Airlines Comparison Chart in  Travels with Baby: The Ultimate Guide…   to compare the family-friendly perks, amenities, and available infant/child discounts between more than 40 airlines.

For more help planning air travel with young children,  see chapters 15 – 18 in  Travels with Baby: The Ultimate Guide… , and see more online   Flying with Babies and Toddlers tips here .

I’ve linked additional posts you may find helpful here.

More Help for Travel Logistics and Planning:

• Flying with a Baby or Toddler Advice Index (Start here!)
• How to Travel with a Car Seat (Without Losing Your Mind)
• How to Plan Your Best Vacation with Baby
• Seven Easy Ways to Get Your Car Seat to the Gate
• Five Things You Should Know Before Flying with a Car Seat
• Worldwide Directory of Baby Gear Rentals
• Five screen-free favorites to keep kids entertained during long flights

Great Gear for Flying with Babies and Toddlers

• CARES airplane safety harness review
• The Best Lightweight Strollers for Travel
• Car Seat Travel Bags and Carriers
• Travel Cribs and Toddler Sleeping Solutions
• Car Seat Alternatives for Travel

More Airline-Specific Advice for Flying with Babies and Toddlers:

• Aer Lingus with a Baby or Toddler
• Alaska Airlines with a Baby or Toddler
• American Airlines with a Baby or Toddler
• China Airlines with a Baby or Toddler
• Gulf Air with a Baby or Toddler
• Ryanair with a Baby or Toddler
• Southwest Airlines with a Baby or To ddler
• Virgin Atlantic with a Baby or Toddler

Where will you travel next? Stop by our sister site and get inspired!

Ten things you should know before taking kids to a broadway show, the 411 on grapevine with kids, six great mexico family vacation destinations, the 411 on quebec city with kids.

Safe journeys,

Shelly Rivoli, author of the award-winning   Travels with Baby  guidebooks

Twitter       Facebook       Travels with Baby on Facebook       Pinterest

Curious about this content? See my editorial content disclosure. NOTE TO READERS: An earlier version of this post was first published on March 16 of 2018. It continues to be updated and revised.

Award-winning travel writer and photographer, mom of 3, and great admirer of anyone willing to cook her dinner.

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10 Best Places to Travel in the US with a Baby or Toddler

Last Updated on Mar 10, 2024

Having spent plenty of time moving and traveling around the US with my family right from when my two boys were babies, I know how stressful planning a vacation with your little ones can be, especially if you don’t know where to go. 

So to help make that decision a little bit easier, I created this post to shortlist some of the best places to travel with a baby or toddler in the US. I’ve covered many different destinations all over the country so you can easily find something to suit the interests and needs of the whole family. 

Obviously, when you plan on traveling with kids in the US you might need to either bring your car seat or rent it , because apart from NYC you will have to drive around.

1. Utah – Anywhere

Utah is honestly designed for families with many kids , as Utahns have many kids, and it’s one of the most welcoming places in the US.

Not only are there plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City , but Utah’s dramatic landscape and many accessible national parks make it a great place to travel with a baby or toddler. 

You can easily go skiing in the winter or visit ice castles , basing yourself in Salt Lake City or Park City.

The best way to explore the state is by embarking on an epic road trip with your family stopping at Bryce Canyon, Zion, Canyonlands, and Arches National Park, all of which have easy paved walking trails suitable for strollers . 

Make sure not to miss the Dinosaur National Monument on your way which is sure to be a highlight for your little ones!  

2. Sedona, AZ

If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination in the US that has a little bit of everything including history, culture, and outdoors , Sedona, Arizona might be exactly what you’re looking for. 

There are plenty of unique day trips from Sedona that will allow you to experience something new every day but some of my picks for anyone with a toddler or baby would be the Verde Canyon Railroad , Red Rock Jeep Adventure , Slide Rock State Park and you certainly can’t miss the best family favorite; Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo .

Back in town, your kids will love the Wild West feel so make sure to eat a meal at Cowboy Club and take a trip to Blazin’ M Ranch for the full experience.

3. San Diego, CA

The world-famous San Diego Zoo , Zoo Safari Park , and Birch Aquarium are reasons alone to visit San Diego with your family, but the city has so much more to offer you and your youngsters. 

Sesame Place is another big hit with toddlers and this Sesame Street-themed water park is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. 

But if you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, make sure to add La Jolla Beach to your San Diego itinerary for a nice day out for the whole family. 

4. New York City

Surprised? Many people don’t think New York City can be kid-friendly, but it’s a lovely place to explore with little ones because there’s just so much to do!

From strolls around Central Park, visiting multiple exhibits for kids, window shopping at Fao Schwarz, to even seeing the skyscrapers won’t disappoint.

You can take the kids to a Broadway show and eat food from literally any world cuisine. Plus, there are plenty of incredible family hotels for you to choose from.  

5. Outer Banks, NC

Seaside vacations are another classic family favorite for all ages , and the Outer Banks in North Carolina are no exception. 

Aside from spending many hours playing with sand and bathing in the ocean, the area boasts several great family-friendly attractions such as the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island , H2OBX Water Park , Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge , and the fun playgrounds in  Elizabethan Gardens.

You can even take a dolphin tour or find beautiful wild horses at Carova Beach if you have a 4×4 and are up for a family adventure!

6. Charleston, SC

Full of history and culture with great weather and an easy-to-navigate center , Charleston is another great place to vacation with your baby or toddler if you are looking for somewhere a little more laid back while still having plenty to do. 

The Charleston Museum should be at the top of your list. Aside from the megalodon jawbone on display in the Natural History Gallery, the Kidstory exhibit is always a hit as youngsters can get hands-on with an art project while learning about the city’s history. The Museum also provides great family programs specifically for toddlers!

If you’re looking for more toddler and baby-friendly attractions, make sure to check out the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry , the North Charleston Fire Museum , and the Dock Street Theatre. 

7. White Mountains, New Hampshire 

With its quaint towns, picturesque viewpoints, and plenty of things to do , the White Mountains is the perfect getaway for anyone who likes a good amount of time in nature mixed with plenty of relaxation in a cozy holiday home. 

The great thing about the White Mountains is that there are multiple scenic drives like the Kancamagus Highway which boasts countless viewpoints that allow you to simply step out of the car and admire your surroundings with minimal effort.  

Don’t miss a trip to the top of Mount Washington via car or cog railway , visit the bears at Clark’s Trading Post , and the chance to eat at Polly’s Pancake Parlor for the best family trip possible! 

8. Legoland

I think that Legoland is the best theme park for kids in Florida (yes, it’s more fun than Disney due to zero lines or having to constantly check the app to book your spot in lines) . There are actually 3 locations in the US ( California , Florida, and New York) so you can visit whichever one is most convenient for you. 

Legoland is much quieter than Disney making for a more relaxed trip for the whole family. With short wait times and a smaller space, little ones are less likely to be overwhelmed, and as parents, you won’t have to stress about making it to reservations on time, it’s a win-win in my book! 

Plus, I’ve found that most kids will love Legoland, even if they haven’t started playing with Legos themselves yet . 

9. Glacier National Park, MT

For any outdoorsy families looking for an easy getaway with a huge payoff , the beautiful Glacier National Park is one of the best things to do in Montana with little ones. 

There are plenty of easy hikes in Glacier National Park with extremely rewarding views and some walks that you can even do with your stroller . Plus, the Going-to-the-Sun Road which crosses directly through the middle of the park offers stunning viewpoints right on the side of the road . Expect to see super clear blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and more. 

Before you begin your trip, make sure to pick up a Junior Ranger Packet and National Park Passport Book at the visitor center. During your visit, you can collect stamps and fill out questions about what you see. The Junior Ranger Packet can be returned at the end and your kids will become official “Junior Rangers” earning a wooden badge for their efforts. 

10. Oahu, Hawaii

Last but not least, Oahu is the most family-friendly island in Hawaii , boasting a huge range of activities both in the city and out in nature. 

Topping the list of things to do with kids is probably the Kualoa Ranch . This popular movie set is complete with lifesize dinosaur bones and countless adventure tours for all ages. Travel to a secret island, explore the jungle , or join a boat tour to see all the different sites of this magical place. 

Back in town, eat the best Shave Ice , try the flight simulators at Pearl Harbor , see the Sea Life Park and Honolulu Zoo , attend an authentic Hawaiian Luau , or visit the Polynesian Cultural Center to give your kids a little culture. 

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Anna Karsten is a travel blogger, journalist and psoriasis advocate. She has been traveling the world for the last 15 years - visiting over 100 countries and living on 5 continents. Anna has been featured in The New York Times, The Daily Mail, Forbes and more.

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Flying With a Baby? Here’s What to Know Before You Go

How old should a baby be to fly, read this next, what do children need to fly, tips for flying with an infant.

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff.  WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , May 2019.  WhatToExpect.com, Should You Bring Your Child’s Car Seat on an Airplane? , August 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling While Breastfeeding , August 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Family Friendly Flying , November 2015.  American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying With Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019.   American Airlines, Traveling With Children .  Delta Air Lines, Infant Air Travel , 2021.  Federal Aviation Administration, Flying With Children , March 2021.  Transportation Security Administration, Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQ .  Transportation Security Administration, Identification .  Transportation Security Administration, Will Minors Need to Have a State ID to Fly Domestically? United Airlines, Traveling With Children , 2021.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Children – Child Traveling With One Parent or Someone Who Is Not a Parent or Legal Guardian or a Group , December 2019.

About What to Expect

Popular articles, tools & registry.

The Top 10 Best Baby-friendly Travel Destinations in the US

As you guys know, Kenny and I are had our first baby last year ! When I was pregnant, I kept busy researching the best destinations to travel with a baby . We love to travel, and while we were awaiting Harrison’s big debut into the world, we were anxious to see the world with our little one! And, to be honest, we didn’t know what to expect. We didn’t want to jump right in and start traveling abroad, so we figured it would be great to start with some easy US destinations close to home! But where are the best places to travel with an infant in the USA? And what places are the easiest for traveling with a baby? After gathering a ton of recommendations I’ve gotten from friends, fellow moms, and tons of research, as well as my own experience over the past year and a half traveling all over the world with our baby boy!

Here are my top Jetset-approved travel destinations in the USA for traveling with a baby (along with a few hotel and resort recommendations for each!).

Y’all know how much Kenny and I LOVE Hawaii ! Not only did we get married here , but we also spent our final babymoon here (and we can’t wait to make more memories with our little beach babe here in the years to come!). Hawaii is great for a trip with your baby because the islands are easy to navigate, they are safe and very clean, and Hawaii prides itself on being a family-friendly vacay destination! Many of the resorts have family-friendly rooms complete with cribs, bottle sterilizers, and so much more.

Where to Stay With a Baby in Hawaii

I would specifically recommend going to either the Big Island or Maui if you are traveling with an infant. On the Big Island, my top recommendation is Four Seasons Hualalai  (Kenny and I have stayed here in the past and it is  dreamy !!). Here, you can request anything and everything to make your stay more comfortable, from a crib, playpen, diapers, wipes, a white noise machine, a bottle warmer, “little swimmers” diapers for the beach/pool, a nursing pillow, and a high chair! This is an incredible convenience because it means less packing/stressing for you when traveling with a baby!

In Maui, I would recommend Four Seasons Maui , Westin Maui , or Sheraton Maui . Similar to the Hualalai property, Four Seasons Maui offers tons of amenities for families ( check out a full list here !). 

Matching family outfits by Kenny Flowers . Photo by @bebanones

Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina

The Montage Palmetto Bluff blew me away in terms of being an ideal destination with my family. If you’re looking for a quintessential experience of the American South, a five-star resort surrounded by scenic lowcountry and so much wildlife, there’s no better place. There’s something about this classic Southern escape that instantly relaxes you. The charming hospitality and next-level service. The history, the emphasis on lowcountry culture, and the stunning South Carolina nature. Or the fact that they’ve thought of everything when it comes to creating the perfect lowcountry experience for their guests (and families of all ages!!!) . There’s s’mores in the courtyard every night, and kids everywhere having the time of their life. They even have a partnership with Uppababy which allows you to rent Uppababy equipment on property so you don’t have to pack a thing! Huge win for traveling with a baby!

30A, Seaside, Florida

Photo Courtesy of @sarahnicolemeduna

It’s no secret that 30A, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It’s also the  ideal family vacation. From action-packed beach days to movie nights under the stars, a Seaside getaway is just what the doctor ordered. The beaches are stunning, and will be the perfect backdrop to your vacation with baby!

Where to stay around Seaside, Florida

Look into Alys Beach or Watercolor.

With a convenient beach entrance only a few steps away, this 2 bedroom is a great choice in Alys Beach.

Or try this adorable home in a gated community with an un-crowded beach .

Photo Courtesy of VRBO

I highly recommend renting a VRBO in Seaside! There are  hundreds of cute beach houses that will make your stay super comfortable, especially if you are traveling with other friends or family. This beach house has free bikes and a private pool with enough room for 9 guests, while this condo is reasonably priced (only $471/night!) and is right on the water. If you are traveling with the whole fam for a reunion or family vacation, check out this incredible home where the beach is your backyard! 

Photo Courtesy of WaterColor Inn & Resort

If VRBOs aren’t your style, grab a room at The WaterColor Inn & Resort (rated #1 on Trip Advisor as the most kid-friendly hotel in 30A!). Hey, maybe you could wear your Watercolors Swim and matching Kenny Flowers / Kiddy Flowers at the WaterColor Inn?! 😉

Charleston, South Carolina

In Charleston, you’ll see babies and kids everywhere!!!  From roaming around the breweries, to living their best life at the beach, Charleston is extremely baby-and-kid-friendly.

There are so many things to do in Charleston, South Carolina with kids. The downtown streets are easy to navigate with a stroller and there are plenty of parks and open spaces. Make sure you walk Rainbow Row to see all the charming houses. From there, make a stop at the Battery… then head out to the aquarium (one of the best!) or one of Charleston’s best beaches .

Where to Stay With a Baby in Charleston

In my opinion, the best places to stay in Charleston with your baby are Wild Dunes Resort or Hotel Bennett . You can book Wild Dunes Resort and stay at the hotel or at one of their VRBO’s as it is a vacation rental located in Isle of Palms (known for its beaches, eateries, and sea turtles!!). If you are looking for a downtown hotel that is very walkable, go for Hotel Bennett. You won’t be disappointed!

and check out the best restaurants with a baby in Charleston here

San Diego, California

San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches and near-perfect weather all year, making it a fabulous beach destination for families.

As an added bonus, San Diego is home to Lego Land , which is a must-see for the kids! I would also recommend that you go to the award-winning San Diego Zoo (one of the best zoos in the world, and my personal favorite!), Sea World , or venture around Balboa Park with your little one in tow.

Where to Stay With a Baby in San Diego

If you are looking for a luxury hotel, look no further than Hotel Del Coronado . This historic hotel is set on one of the best beaches in California, and one of my favorites.

San Diego Mission Bay Resort also offers great amenities for both parents and infants. 

Looking for a VRBO in San Diego? There are hundreds of great options! Personally, I lean toward a neighborhood called La Jolla (this is where my grandparents live and where I have spent the most time!). If you’re looking for a VRBO there, I would recommend this sophisticated beach-front sanctuary or this luxury condo in the heart of the village. For those of you who are looking for a house instead of a condo, this three-bedroom home in La Jolla sleeps six!

On a budget? Snag this two-bedroom right on the water (only $183/night!!).

Orlando, Florida

Photo Courtesy of @darylanndenner

For many, it’s the happiest place on earth. It’s the place where dreams come true and kids are able to live out their princess and superhero dreams in real life. It’s Disney World!! Orlando is a no-brainer when it comes to bringing the kids. Disney World will probably be one of their core memories from their childhood. And if you are looking for a solid mix between a beach vacation and Disney, consider a Disney Cruise!

Where to Stay With a Baby in Orlando

Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort at Walt Disney World Resort

There are several places to stay right at Disney World from Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge to the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel (near EPCOT). But I have to say, I think my top pick would be the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort ! Here, you get the best of both worlds – you get the luxury of the Four Seasons while staying right on the Walt Disney World property!

Sonoma, California

Sonoma isn’t just for bachelorette parties and girls’ trips! The towns surrounding Sonoma are extremely inviting, super relaxing, and many of the restaurants, although luxurious, are family-friendly. Plus, let’s face it, chances are you have been waiting a year (or more) to drink wine again. Why not enjoy California’s best wineries with your baby in tow?!

Where to Stay With a Baby in Sonoma

Photo Courtesy of Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

Fairmont is a brand that features family-friendly hotels and resorts all over the world. The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is no exception. Here, you will enjoy spacious rooms and all of the family-friendly activities your heart desires!

My top recommendation if you are looking for a bed and breakfast in Sonoma is Beltane Ranch . Beltane Ranch offers stand-alone cottages that will allow you the space and privacy you are craving. Each cottage is complete with a kitchenette, so you can cook your meals easily without having to head into town!

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is a wonderful place to bring your kiddo! The city has a zoo, a children’s train, and even a hands-on sensory exhibit called The DoSeum that was made just for kids. Plus, the riverwalk is an easy-to-navigate area that is perfect for a walk with baby in your UppaBaby stroller !

Where to Stay With a Baby in San Antonio

Photo Courtesy of Trip Advisor

The top two places that I would recommend staying with a baby in San Antonio are Hotel Emma and JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa . Hotel Emma is a five-star luxury hotel complete with cribs and baby products for infants, plus a swanky hotel bar for mom and dad! The JW Marriott in San Antonio has over 1,000 rooms with different layouts, so you can choose whatever works best for you. They have a pool just for young kids, and they also offer shaded cabanas with fridges to help keep bottles cool!

Chicago, Illinois

Perhaps you are craving the busyness of New York City or Washington D.C., but you can’t quite wrap your head around what it would be like to shlep the stroller down the subway stairs – Chicago is for you! Chicago is a cleaner city than both NYC and D.C., and it is also a bit safer overall. The city is fairly compact and easy to navigate, plus, you won’t find the sky-high prices that you would experience in Manhattan. Plus, many of the streets and sidewalks in Chicago are designed with strollers in mind, making it easy to navigate the city. And a lot of the museums provide special stroller tours. 

Where to Stay With a Baby in Chicago

Warwick Allerton – Chicago was rated the #1 hotel for families in Chicago by hotels.com. This property offers  free cribs and playpens for infants, babysitting services (for a surcharge), and daily housekeeping to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. 21c Hotel Museum Chicago also offers free cribs/beds for babies, and for mom and dad, they have a luxurious spa onsite. 

Aspen, Colorado

If a snow weekend with your little snow bunny is what you’re feeling this winter, look no further than Aspen .

Where to stay in Aspen with a baby

This Auberge hotel is such a gem! It’s been the heart of Aspen since 1889 and has a luxury-meets-wild-west vibe. It’s perfectly located and ultra-cozy for your little snow baby. Think: super comfy, spacious rooms with to-die-for bathtubs. I loved the history, charm, and friendliness of this place. It’s easily the best hotel in Aspen, but it doesn’t act snooty at all. 

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WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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American Airlines Flying With Kids Information

Posted on Last updated: May 15, 2024

All the American Airlines flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Flying when pregnant
• Flying with a newborn baby, and baby or toddler under two
• Flying with older children
• Kids’ baggage allowance
• Car seat policy
• Other child restraint device policies
• Pushchair/stroller policy
• Bassinet policy
• Baby and child meals
• Inflight entertainment for children
• Other family services provided

AD/Affiliate link . This article may contain affiliate links. Please read more in our disclosure policy here. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

AMERICAN AIRLINES FLYING WHEN PREGNANT

Table of Contents - Click to jump to a section

If your due date is within 4 weeks of your flight, you must provide a doctor’s certificate stating that you’ve been recently examined and you’re fit to fly.

Domestic travel

For domestic flights under 5 hours, you won’t be permitted to travel within 7 days (before and after) your delivery date. If you need to travel within this time frame:

• Approval from your physician and a special assistance coordinator is required.
• Your physician will be required to fill out a passenger medical form before your flight. A special assistance coordinator will send the form directly to your physician.

International or travel over water

Clearance from a special assistance coordinator is required for international travel or travel over water:

• Within 4 weeks of your due date (travel also requires a physician’s note stating that you’ve been examined within the past 48 hours and you’re fit to fly)
• 7 days before or after your delivery (travel also requires a passenger medical form to be completed by your physician) See what other travel documents are required here.

AMERICAN AIRLINES NEWBORN POLICY

American Airline accept newborn infants as young as 2 days old. However, if you’re traveling with an infant less than 7 days old, your physician will be required to fill out a passenger medical form before your flight. A special assistance coordinator will send the form directly to your physician. Infants must be accompanied by a person 16 years or older or by the infant’s parent (any age) in the same cabin.

FLYING WITH BABY POLICY (INFANTS UNDER 2 YEARS OLD)

You may be required to present proof of age (such as a birth certificate) for any children under the age of 18.

• Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate.
• Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed.

Lap infants and infants with their own seat.

Seating options for infants:.

• Held by an adult (baby is known as a lap infant ): A parent or any person 16 years or older may hold the infant in their lap. The infant must be included in the reservation by calling American Airlines reservations. International taxes and percentage of adult fare may apply.
• In a reserved seat: If your infant will travel in their own seat, you must buy a ticket. The infant must either travel in a safety seat approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or be able to sit upright in their seat without assistance and have their seatbelt securely fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the ‘fasten seatbelt’ sign is on.

FLYING WITH CHILDREN AGED TWO AND OVER

Children 2 or older are required to have their own seat, a ticketed adult fare. Children under 5 can’t travel alone under any circumstances.

If you don’t choose seats in Main Cabin or Basic Economy, AA will assign seats a few days after you buy your tickets so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult they’re traveling with.

FLYING WITH OLDER CHILDREN ON AMERICAN AIRLINES

Children and adults traveling in separate reservations

If you and your children are traveling together but have separate reservations, call Reservations so American Airlines can note it in each reservation.

KIDS’ BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE ON AMERICAN AIRLINES

If you’re flying internationally with an infant on your lap, AA will issue the infant a ticket. You may check 1 bag for the infant at the same rate as the adult’s first checked bag.

Additional accessories

• Play pens, wagons, cribs and ‘pack and play’ count as regular bags
• If any of these exceed carry-on limits they’ll be checked and incur regular fees

AMERICAN AIRLINES CAR SEAT POLICY

Most safety seats that are approved for use in motor vehicles are acceptable for use in aircraft. The seat must have a solid back and seat, restraint straps installed to securely hold the child and a label indicating approval for use on an aircraft.

The label may include:

• These notes: ‘This child restraint system conforms to all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards’ and ‘this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircrafts’ or ‘this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.’ See image above.
• Approval of a foreign government or a label showing that the seat was manufactured under the standards of the United Nations. FAA-approved device like the  CARES FlySafe Harness.  (affiliate link) are approved.

Safety seat requirements

• The safety seat can’t be used in an exit row or in the rows on either side of an exit row; window seats are preferred.
• Install the seat in the direction appropriate for the size of the child and according to the instructions on the label.
• The child must remain in the safety seat with the harness fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the ‘fasten seatbelt’ sign is on.
• To carry on a safety seat, you must have bought a seat for the child, or a seat must be available next to you. If an unoccupied, adjoining seat is not available, the gate agent will check the safety seat to your final destination.

You can see the seat dimensions and measurement of the AA Planes .

Safety seats are not allowed in First or Business on select planes due to the seat angles.

Other Child Restraint Device Policies When Flying With Kids on American Airlines

Seats and restraint devices not approved for use :

• Any device without an approval label
• Booster seats with no approval label or shoulder harness
• Vest and/or harness-type devices, except Aviation Child Safety Devices (ACSD) showing the FAA aircraft approval label
• Belt extensions that attach to the parent or the parent’s restraint
• Any device that positions a child on the lap or chest of an adult

American Airlines Policy on sleep devices.

American Airlines do allow sleep extenders like Plane Pal, bed box, Flyaway etc as long as they don’t attach to aircraft seat or window, block an exit and meets carry on requirements. Further requirements can be seen on the screenshot below when I asked this question.

AMERICAN AIRLINES PUSHCHAIR/ STROLLER POLICY

• Each ticketed customer is allowed 1 stroller and 1 car seat to be checked free of charge
• Strollers over 20 lbs / 9 kgs must be checked at the ticket counter
• All other strollers should be checked at the gate before boarding
• If you have a stroller and a car seat only 1 can be checked at the gate

AMERICAN AIRLINES BASSINET POLICY

Does american airlines supply a bassinet/carrycot.

Yes, but not in First / Business cabins.

How do I reserve a bassinet/carrycot on American Airlines ?

Bassinets are available on a first come, first serve basis at the gate for travel only on 777-200, 777-300 and 787 aircraft.

When can I choose my seat on American Airlines when flying with kids?

When you book a flight, you’ll see the seat map after you choose your flights.

Also, you can go to “My trips/check-in” from the homepage and enter your name and record. From there, you can choose seats. If seats are unavailable, check back later or you can change seats when you check in.

What happens if I don’t reserve a bassinet/carrycot seat?

You might not be able to get one as bassinets are available on a first come, first serve basis.

What is the size/weight limit for American Airlines ‘ bassinets/carrycots?

Infants using bassinets must be younger than 2 years old and weigh no more than 20lbs (9kg) For more details and to compare other airlines bassinet policies see here

Can I use a car seat and a bassinet?

No, you will not be able to use a car seat and a bassinet. The bassinet is only an option for  lap babies  and not babies that have their own seat.

Is there anything else I need to know about the bassinet seat on American?

As with all airlines, you will be unable to stow any luggage in front of your seat during taxi, take off and landing. A good idea is to have a bum bag/fanny pack attached to you if you need to quickly gain access to anything during this time.

BABY AND CHILD MEALS ON AMERICAN AIRLINES

Food and drink service on board is limited and based on flight length and destination. You’re welcome to bring snacks and soft drinks to enjoy during your flight.

Does American Airlines provide baby food?

They provide Baby Meals which must be pre-requested- a selection of commercial baby food for children 2 and younger.

Do American Airlines provide child meals?

They provide Child’s Meals – foods that appeal to kids age 2-5.

AMERICAN AIRLINES INFLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT FOR CHILDREN

Free entertainment

On most flights, you can stream a library of movies, music, TV shows and more to your phone, tablet or laptop.

There is no need to buy Wi-Fi – all you need is the American Airlines app on your phone or tablet, so make sure you download this before your flight.

All entertainment is free to watch everywhere on Wi-Fi-equipped American Airlines flights.

OTHER FAMILY SERVICES PROVIDED

Changing tables are available in the lavatories of all wide-body aircraft.

Families traveling

If you’re unable to choose seats, don’t want to pay for seats, or chose a Basic Economy fare, American Airlines booking system will detect that you’re a family traveling.

The system will search for seats together automatically before the day of departure. They will try their best to keep you together, but if seats are limited, you will be assigned seats so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult.

If you and your children are traveling together but have separate reservations, call Reservations so they can sync the bookings.

INDIVIDUAL AIRLINE INFORMATION FOR FLYING WITH KIDS

Find out all the information about flying with kids on your airline. From car seats to strollers allowed in the airplane cabin , to lap infants to bassinets, luggage allowance, facilities on board and much much more.

Air Canada Flying With Kids Information

All the Air Canada flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Kids' baggage allowance
• EXEMPTIONS TO USE OF A Child Restraint Device
• In-flight entertainment for children.
• Sleep devices
• Current mask rules for children

Air France Flying With Kids Information

All the Air France flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Other child restraint policies
• Sleep devices and child ride-ons/leg rests permitted
• In-flight entertainment for children

Air New Zealand Flying With Kids Information

All the Air New Zealand flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Flying with a baby or toddler under two
• Air New Zealand pushchair/stroller policy
• Inflight entertainment for children.

Alaska Airlines Flying With Kids Information

All the Alaska Airlines flying with kids information in one place. Including:

British Airways Flying With Kids Information

All the British Airways flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Flying with a newborn baby, and baby or toddler under two.
• BA car seat policy
• BA pushchair/stroller policy
• BA bassinet policy
• Sleep devices and child ride-ons/ leg rests permitted
• Baby and child meals on British Airways
• British Airways in flight entertainment for children.
• Current mask rules for children on BA.

Cathay Pacific Flying With Kids Information

All the Cathay Pacific flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Cathay Pacific pushchair/stroller policy
• Are Sleep devices and child ride-ons/leg rests permitted

Delta Flying With Kids Information

All the Delta flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Are Sleep devices and leg rests permitted.

Emirates Flying With Kids Information

All the Emirates flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Emirates Car seat policy

Etihad Airways Flying With Kids Information

All the Etihad Airways flying with kids information in one place. Including:

JetBlue Flying With Kids Information

All the JetBlue flying with kids information in one place. Including:

Qantas Flying With Kids Information

All the Qantas flying with kids information in one place. Including:

Singapore Airlines Flying With Kids Information

All the Singapore Airlines flying with kids information in one place. Including:

Southwest Airlines Flying With Kids Information

All the Southwest Airlines flying with kids information in one place. Including:

Virgin Atlantic Flying With Kids Information

All the Virgin Atlantic flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Virgin Atlantic pushchair/stroller policy

Virgin Australia Flying With Kids Information

All the Virgin Australia flying with kids information in one place. Including:

• Virgin Australia pushchair/stroller policy

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10 Baby-Friendly Vacations That Everyone in the Family Can Enjoy

These baby-friendly vacations are fun for the whole family..

Yes, vacations with babies can be challenging. You’re dealing with complicated schedules, a ridiculous amount of baby travel gear , surprise blowouts, and borderline exhaustion. But finding baby-friendly vacations is so with worth it because there’s nothing better than seeing your baby experience a new place for the first time. And hitting major milestones like smiling, sitting up, or crawling while on vacation with your baby makes for a memory you’ll always treasure.

What Do All the Best Baby-Friendly Vacations Have in Common?

Flexibility is key for baby-friendly vacations, both for you and your baby. Just as your days at home may be slow and steady, so too should vacations with babies. This may be a change from your previous style of travel, but forcing a go-go-go agenda on a tiny tot will just end in tears for everyone.

Instead of trying to check off a to-do list of monuments and museums , baby travel means finding ways to lean into the nap time and downtime your baby needs (and maybe you’ll get to relax, too!). Expect fussiness, feeding or changing in unexpected places, and getting over your embarrassment about singing or dancing in public fairly quickly to entertain your little one.

But guess what: Fun vacations with babies are entirely possible. Babies are along for the ride most of the time, at least before they start to crawl and walk. Now is the time to pick them up, plop them in a new place, and watch them explore with wide-eyed wonder.

TODDLER TIME: 10 Toddler-Friendly Vacations That Are Just as Much Fun for Parents

The Best Places to Travel with a Baby

Wondering where to take your baby on vacation? These baby-friendly ideas and destinations will give you the flexibility you need alongside the joy of exploring someplace new with your family’s newest addition. You might even get to relax a little on vacation yourself!

1. All-Inclusive Resorts

When you think of all-inclusive resorts you might be picturing wild adults-only couples resorts or cookie-cutter properties whose primarily (and maybe only) selling point is the fact that everything’s included in the up-front price. If so, it’s time to think again.

FUN FOR ALL: 9 Family-Friendly Hotels with Kids Clubs That Are Way Beyond the Ordinary

These days, the best family resorts come with delicious food , kids-stay-free deals, and over-the-top kids clubs that even cater to babies and toddlers with certified babysitters. In fact, many family-friendly all-inclusive resorts have policies and amenities that make it easy for everyone to relax and have a good time. That means access to meals any time of day, baby bottle service, family pool hours, and separate areas just for families traveling with little ones.

Don’t have a passport for your baby? You might be surprised to learn that there are a lot of baby-friendly all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. , too!

2. U.S. National Parks

It’s not impossible to travel internationally with a baby, but vacations with babies are certainly easier if you stick to domestic travel. And it just so happens that the America’s national parks have a lot to offer outdoorsy families traveling with a newborn. National parks have miles of well-maintained front country and backcountry trails for all levels of hikers, and it’s relatively easy to time your hikes with naps and get moving.

LODGE LIFE: 12 Best National Park Lodges in the U.S.

Strap your bay into a sturdy carrier like the Ergobaby 360 Omni Breeze (supports up to 45 pounds), which takes the weight off your shoulders;, or if they’re big enough, go for a baby backpack like the Osprey Poco Plus (supports up to 48 pounds). While you can certainly hike up high peaks, consider this your permission slip to enjoy a slow, meandering walk alongside riverbeds or through gentle forests, with plenty of spots to stop for feeding or to play.

3. Walkable Cities

Big cities can be full of energy, but when you’re vacationing with a baby it might be too much energy. Instead, focus on visiting walkable, accessible cities with plenty of green space that give you the option to sightsee at stroller level . 

GO FOR A RIDE: 8 Best Baby Bike Seats and Trailers

Explore a small city like Savannah, Georgia , where you can stroll through a historic district draped in Spanish moss and sugar in the air. Or head to Portsmouth, New Hampshire , whose charming downtown has loads of shops and restaurants and is often closed to cars on special occasions, allowing you to taste your way through some of the freshest lobster and clams New England has to offer. And sprawling Stanley Park in Vancouver, Canada , is worth the visit alone, mixing urban and coastal landscapes in one baby-friendly vacation spot.

4. Rural Areas

One of the most baby-friendly activities you can do is head to farm, brewery, or cidery. And with plenty of open space, you can hang out and relax when you (or baby) needs a break. Where you’ll want to visit will depend on the season: Go flower picking in the spring, berry picking in the summer, or apple picking in the fall. 

TAKE A HIKE: 7 Best Baby Carriers for Traveling the World with Little Ones

Visiting the countryside is an especially great baby-friendly vacation when you have kids of different ages in tow. Many farms offer family-friendly activities like a petting zoo, farm life demonstrations, or hands-on crafts appropriate for little ones, depending on your baby’s age.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and visit different parts of the country. For example, Billings Farm in Woodstock, Vermont , is a good year-round choice for an introduction to country living. In Steamboat Springs, Colorado , you can try your hand at ranching at Saddleback Ranch .

5. Road Trips

If your baby instantly falls asleep in the car, a family road trip may be a good vacation to start with. Whether you rent a car (many car rental companies will let you add on a car seat) or hit the road in your own vehicle , you’ll be able to fit more baby gear in your car than on a plane and still explore new destinations.

MUSIC TO THEIR EARS: 10 Best Headphones for Traveling Babies, Kids, and Tweens

As a New England resident I may be biased, but to me nothing beats a road trip across the northeast to see the New England fall foliage . Start in Boston and drive straight up Route 93 to the White Mountains of New Hampshire for stunning, easy hikes and picnic spots. Then, go up and over the state border into Vermont for quintessential covered bridges, fresh cider donuts, and more on your baby-friendly r oad trip .

6. Beach Vacations

Bring your baby on a family beach vacation and you can leave the white noise machine at home. You and your baby can nap to the rhythmic sounds of the ocean and get some sensory play among tide pools and in the sand. Just make sure you bring a beach tent or shade cover as babies can’t regulate their temperature as well as adults can. 

MADE FOR LITTLE ONES: 14 Toddler-Friendly Theme Parks That Are Fun for All Ages

The most important thing to remember: It’s always worth putting on your suit and getting into the water to hear those baby giggles, even if it’s the last thing you want to do. Try family-friendly beach destinations like Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, Cannon Beach in Oregon, or Key West in Florida.

7. Family Cruises

If you want to get some serious sightseeing in with a little one, a family cruise may be the perfect solution. Not only will you have access to a 24/7 concierge, play spaces, and unlimited food and drink, you also only have to unpack your bags once. Some kid-friendly cruise lines even offer kids sail free deals that let young children cruise at no cost.

NO HIDDEN FEES: 7 Best All-Inclusive Cruise Lines in the World

Family cruises make great baby-friendly vacations if you have multiple kids or families looking to get away because there’s something for everyone. For example, all of the Disney cruise ships on Disney Cruise Line  are loaded with immersive experiences and entertainment, while many other cruise lines offer everything from cruise ship water parks to themed cruises to roller coasters at sea .

8. Vacation Rentals

Embrace the slower pace of vacations with babies and rent a villa or condo in a place you’ve always wanted to visit. The further you travel, the more relaxing it will be to stay awhile. Many short-term rental homes come packed with baby gear already, like high chairs and pack-n-plays, so it’s one less item to pack. Look for resort-style spots with kitchens, pools, and (most importantly) laundry included.

Choose a destination that gives you lots of room to explore for a week or two, like Hilton Head in South Carolina. Its miles of bike trails are perfectly stroller-friendly, and no matter where you stay the beach isn’t too far away. If you’re game to try an international flight, smaller European vacation spots like Florence, Italy ; Porto, Portugal ; and Aix-en-Provence, France , give you a chance to feel like a local.

9. Visiting Family

Built-in babysitters? Yes, please! Don’t overlook traveling to visit family or friends as a family vacation idea when you have a baby, especially around holidays and long weekends . You may already be fielding texts and calls from family members eager to meet your little one. Take them up on it and make a trip out of it (and the free babysitting services).

AVOID THE GLARE: Sunglasses for Babies and Kids: The Best Brands and Styles

If you have family nearby, it’s a great way to practice lugging gear and figuring out your systems before embarking on a larger trip to popular family vacation spots , too. When a baby is involved, even a 30-minute trip counts as traveling!

10. Staycations with Babies

This may come as no surprise, but staycations are among the most baby-friendly vacations you can take. And if you really make an effort to turn your time vacationing at home into something beyond your ordinary routine, it can be just as much fun (and a whole lot easier) than going somewhere new.

Playing tourist in your own town gives you the home court advantage. From finding accessible walkways or squeezing strollers through restaurant doors, traveling with a baby means you’ll be navigating a whole different set of challenges than before your little bundle of joy came along—so the more familiar the environment the easier it will be to relax.

Even if your vacation with baby doesn’t go to plan, take it easy on yourself. You’re getting out and doing something, despite midnight wake ups, constant feeding, and tricky scheduling. And the look of delight and wonder on your baby’s face as you show them the world will melt your heart again and again no matter what. Chances are you’ll be booking your next baby-friendly vacation ASAP!

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Meeting characters on Disney Cruise Line can literally ‘make’ your kid’s vacation—here are 5 ways to get the most out of your experience

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The 10 Best Places in America to Travel with a Baby or Toddler

• The 10 Best Places in America to Travel with a Baby or Toddler HIDE 1. New York City, New York 2. Phoenix, Arizona 3. Orlando, Florida 4. Charleston, South Carolina 5. Ventura County, California 6. Sedona, Arizona 7. San Diego, California 8. Houston, Texas 9. Atlanta, Georgia 10. Wilmington, North Carolina

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Traveling with your baby or toddler can be a meaningful journey. Your little one, along with you, can enjoy a lot of firsts and make new memories. That said, the importance of finding a baby- or toddler-friendly place cannot be overstated! 

Finding a US destination that is child-friendly—and suitable for the grown-ups, too—can be daunting for parents! The very thought of it can send parents canceling the entire plan, and for good reason.

The preparations can be overwhelming at times, especially for first-time parents. Some of the stress comes from the constant diaper changes and food preparation. And it’s not only about kid-friendly restaurants with high chairs either!

With some facilities in the United States (and in many other countries, for that matter) not exactly baby-friendly, the adventure trip can easily turn into an ordeal for you or your entire family. But we believe there’s a perfect place out there for you and your little bundle of joy, whether you’re up for a relaxing break or feeling a little more adventurous!

Ranking Methodology

In collating our list of the best places to travel with babies and toddlers, we considered these factor points:

• Child safety comes first. Always! Creating and maintaining a safe environment should be every parent’s foremost concern when traveling with their little ones. A trip to any place in the US entails checking for the dos and don’ts. Is the place known for its superior security systems? Is there security everywhere so that you can approach a police officer, security personnel, or a person of authority when the need arises?
• The place must provide an educational exploration for your child. Are the particular destinations designed to welcome the entire family and make it a visit to remember for the little one? Will it not be too distracting for your baby, who may be asleep most of the time and unable to explore as much just yet?
• Kids must enjoy the place as much as they learn from everything it offers. Under your watchful eye, your toddler should be able to explore freely, even with restrictions and within limits. Give your little one a chance to satisfy their curiosity in the safest way possible.
• The place should be friendly to parents, too. A facility that allows you to carry your essentials everywhere and offer designated areas for breastfeeding or changing diapers is a must-visit for every parent!

Are you ready to set your plans in motion? Our list of the ten best places in America to travel with a baby or toddler specifies the cities and their many must-go places:

1. New York City, New York

Central Park | Statue of Liberty | Broadway | Top of the Rock | Empire State Building | Brooklyn Bridge

Central Park

New York City is one of the perfect places to take your baby or toddler. The city offers a balance between nature and the concrete jungle. Time Square and the Upper East Side give you a better feel of the city and shopping. Visiting parks like Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great addition to your travel itinerary. Central Park offers a sprawling 843-acre of greenery and open spaces for your toddler to play around. You can even catch a carriage ride to tour around the park.

Plus, getting around is easy. You can walk anywhere and take your baby using a baby carrier or a lightweight stroller. There are different modes of transportation available, including taking the subway and hop-on-hop-off buses, which are stroller-friendly. There are also accommodations along with the Midtown that are near tourist attractions. There are baby-friendly hotels where you can request a crib so your baby can get a good rest after a long day.

Aside from popular sites like Broadway and the Statue of Liberty, NYC offers picturesque views for you and your little one. You can check the view of the famous New York City skyline through viewing decks from the Top of the Rock. The Empire State Building is a top choice for this activity as well. Taking the stroller across the Brooklyn Bridge is also a great way to observe the city skyline while getting some much-needed fresh air.

Protocols may be currently in place for visitors exploring the bridge where crowds usually build up, but overall, NYC offers fun activities while giving your toddler a chance to enjoy open urban spaces.

2. Phoenix, Arizona

The Phoenix Zoo | Old Town Scottsdale | McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park | Hole in the Rock

Phoenix Zoo

Whether you want to enjoy the winter or summer break, Phoenix, Arizona, is a great travel destination to bring your toddler. To enjoy the beautiful scenery of Phoenix, you can plan a hike or a stroll to some of its attractions. The Hole in the Rock is a popular spot for toddlers. You can reach the top through a short hike and enjoy a good vantage point of Phoenix’s mountain ranges. 

You and your toddler can also go on longer hikes through different trails. The Papago Park offers different trail options that are easy for trekking, even with a stroller. The Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden are toddler favorites! Check out different desert plants and follow the Discovery Loop Trail at the Desert Botanical Garden. Aside from housing different animals, you can also cool off at the Phoenix Zoo’s splash pads. Both attractions limit their crowds, so book your tickets in advance!

Another destination worth checking is Old Town Scottsdale . The whole area has a wild west aesthetic, so you’ll feel like a cowboy going through the different restaurants and gift shops. Ride the miniature trains and go on the carousel with your little ones at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Aside from the rides, your kid can enjoy playing at the park’s themed playgrounds. In terms of transportation , Phoenix is an easy place to get around. You can commute through their metro rails and buses or opt for a car rental since some areas may be far to reach. 

3. Orlando, Florida

Crayola Experience | Disney World Resort | Orlando Museum of Art | Madame Tussauds

Disney World Resort

Orlando can be a fantastic place to visit, even for babies and toddlers! You don’t have to worry about your safety since most establishments follow the prescribed health standards. You can bring your toddler’s imagination to work at the Crayola Experience . The attraction features over 20 interactive activities, so your kid will have plenty of fun. Other museum choices include the Orlando Museum of Art and Madame Tussauds.

Orlando is home to many theme parks such as LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, and Magic Kingdom Park. One of the most popular ones is the Disney World Resort . Dubbed as “the happiest place on earth,” your kid will surely enjoy meeting Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Disney Princesses. They can enjoy different child-friendly rides and interactive studios. Best of all, most Orlando attractions offer free entry for 3-year-olds and younger. There are also a lot of baby care centers and diaper-changing stations placed in strategic locations within the parks. 

While in Orlando, you can also enjoy the outdoors by visiting Gatorland , where your kid can play in different splash areas. They can also get a chance to interact closely with different animals, including llamas and alligators. After a day of exploring the animal world, relax in some of Orlando’s world-class resorts. Enjoy a laid-back time with your toddler at the Sheraton Resort or Lake Buena Vista Resort and Spa. 

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Sullivan’s Island | Kiawah Island | Fort Sumter | Maritime Museum | South Carolina Aquarium

Sullivan’s Island

You and your toddler can get in touch with history while enjoying the popular spots in Charleston, South Carolina. The town generally has nice weather and convenient transportation, making it ideal for visiting families. Experience a carriage ride around Charleston and visit several historical blocks and landmarks. The ride is safe for babies and toddlers. Plus, you’ll get to know more about the town’s history through a local tour guide.  

Charleston is a beautiful place that is close to the beach. The town is surrounded by beautiful beaches, such as Sullivan’s Island and Kiawah Island, which offer different activities like kayaking and fishing. Soak up some sun for you and your baby and enjoy the fresh, salty air. You can also have your lunch or snack by the shore through different restaurants. The public beaches are clean and even have their own changing facilities. 

Your kid will also enjoy riding a ferry to Fort Sumter. While there, you can get in touch with important historical events through the Maritime Museum. You can also visit the South Carolina Aquarium and let your kid explore the underwater world. It houses different aquatic animals like turtles and sharks. You’ll surely enjoy their dive shows as well. Do note that the peak seasons for Charleston are during Spring and Fall, so it’s recommended to book your reservations ahead of time. 

5. Ventura County, California

Ventura Harbor Village | Channel Islands National Park | Downtown Venture | Ventura Pier

Ventura Harbor Village

Do you or your kids love the outdoors and the beach? Ventura County offers just that and more fun activities for the entire family. This place is located along the pacific coast so you’ll surely have a lot of harbor and beach views. For starters, you can visit the Ventura Harbor Village and enjoy an amazing view of parked boats. Your toddler will surely enjoy riding a pedal boat or even jet ski. The activities are safe and regulated by port authorities. Everyone’s asked to wear masks, and the equipment is regularly sanitized.

Another great attraction in Ventura is the Channel Islands National Park. Choose from the park’s five islands and enjoy the boat ride along the way. You can observe different marine animals through whale and dolphin-watching tours. The islands offer various activities like kayaking and snorkeling . You and your baby can get a bit of sunshine while having a picnic or going on a hike. The islands are equipped with baby-friendly facilities, so changing diapers won’t be a problem.

On the other hand, Downtown Venture offers a more relaxed vibe. Stroll through the area’s antique shops and art galleries. Take beautiful snapshots of your toddlers in front of different art installations and wall paintings. There are numerous cafes and restaurants for you to try! While exploring downtown, you can also check out the Ventura Pier. It offers a sand playground that your kid will surely love. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen ; you’re going to need a lot of it while in Ventura!

6. Sedona, Arizona

Slide Rock State Park | Boynton Canyon Trail | Red Rock State Park | Verde Canyon Railroad | Eagle’s Nest Loop | Cathedral Rock

Slide Rock State Park

Sedona is an ideal travel destination for families with babies or toddlers. Spend your summer hiking along Sedona’s trails or parks and enjoy the stunning view of the area. Enjoy hiking along kid-friendly trails in West Fork or Slide Rock State Park . West Fork is generally safe since it offers a flat trail. Crowds may build up fast, so it’s best to go there early. Aside from hiking trails, Slide Rock also has swimming areas and orchards. 

The Boynton Canyon Trail and Red Rock State Park offer great hiking options that are safe for kids. Get a closer look at iconic spots, such as the Eagle’s Nest Loop and Cathedral rock along the way. One way to have a complete look at Sedona is through their Pink Jeep Tours. You and your kid can sit back riding a 4×4 while enjoying the view of popular sites. See the red rocks up close by riding a train on the Verde Canyon Railroad . Both rides are safe for babies and toddlers and are great family activities.

If your kid is fond of animals, you might want to book a ticket to the Out of Africa Wildlife Park in advance. Here, you’ll get to see different animals like zebras, lions, and giraffes. Be entertained with their safari shows with tigers and giant snakes. Aside from the outdoors, Sedona also offers different indoor attractions like the Exposures International Gallery and Sedona Heritage Museum. You can also shop through Uptown Sedona or buy toys at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village. 

7. San Diego, California

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve | Knott’s Berry Farm | SeaWorld San Diego | Belmont Park | La Jolla Cove

Belmont Park

Whether you’re looking for a place with hiking trails, beaches, or theme parks, San Diego offers a mix of activities for you and your little one. If you’re up for some hiking, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers a great view of the ocean while descending a cliff. Sounds scary? Don’t worry; the reserve has a Discovery Trail option that’s easy and perfect for children. You can even bring along a stroller so your baby can get some fresh pine-scented air!

San Diego has a lot of theme park options. SeaWorld San Diego offers thrilling rides, and animal shows that your kids will surely enjoy. You can even book a Penguin Encounter Tour and get an up-close look at these cute creatures. You can also visit some San Diego-grown theme parks like Knott’s Berry Farm , which is known as America’s first theme park, or the Belmont Park . Knott’s has plenty of kid-friendly ride options, while Belmont offers a great beachfront view enjoying their contemporary rides. While inside the attractions, it’s best to wear a face mask and follow social distancing. 

Going to the beach is always a good idea. The La Jolla Cove is a great option to visit for a quick dip and a bit of a stroll along the parkway. Your toddler can safely enjoy swimming at the Children’s Pool, a small area protected by a sea breaker. The area also features some dining and shopping options that the whole family can enjoy. In terms of transportation, renting an SUV or van may be a great option to go around San Diego. It’s best to book one beforehand and research the different parking options near popular attractions.  

8. Houston, Texas

Hermann Park | Japanese Garden | McGovern Lake | Houston Downtown Aquarium | Space Center Houston

Hermann Park

Houston, Texas, is one of the best child-friendly places in the country. It offers a mix of outdoor and indoor attractions that are guaranteed to give your little one an awesome experience. If you want to take a stroll and enjoy some green space, Hermann Park is a great option for you. This park offers a lot of walking spaces for you and your baby. You can take the stroller with you and go around the park’s different lovely spots like the Japanese Garden and McGovern Lake.

For animal-loving toddlers, Houston has plenty of attractions! The Houston Zoo is a famous destination for kids, enabling them to explore the exhibits and have fun at their water play park. With over 4,000 exotic animals, get a chance to have a close encounter with some of them like sea lions, sloths, and orangutans. On the other hand, the Houston Downtown Aquarium will give your toddler a chance to observe different aquatic animals through their wall-to-wall aquarium. Aside from their exhibits, your family can also enjoy a meal while observing scuba divers doing fish-feeding.

You can visit several museums and indoor play spaces around Houston to enjoy indoor activities. The Space Center Houston is a great attraction to visit, especially if your toddler’s curious about rockets and outer space. The center houses plenty of space artifacts like moon rocks and interactive exhibits that will surely fuel your toddler’s astronaut dreams. Several new health and wellness protocols have been implemented to keep guests safe while exploring indoor attractions.

9. Atlanta, Georgia

Children’s Museum of Atlanta | Georgia Aquarium | SeaVentures | Plaza Fiesta | Farmer’s Market

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Planning a vacation to Atlanta, Georgia, offers a selection of exciting activities for the whole family, even for your toddler. Going to different museums, such as the Southern Museum and Center for Puppetry Arts, exposes your kids to new things. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta does that, plus more! Your child can get creative by joining art activities like finger painting and dance sessions. Most of the attractions have limited admissions for your safety, so it’s best to book your tickets ahead of time. 

Aside from the Children’s Museum, the Georgia Aquarium is a popular attraction in Atlanta. Prepare to be amazed by the marine wildlife like whales and sharks. You can also enjoy interactive activities such as petting a stingray and a live sea lion show. You and your toddler can visit the Zoo Atlanta for more animal interactions. The establishment houses different animals like pandas, elephants, and gorillas. The Adventure Cubs program introduces your little one to different animal habitats. 

While you’re in Atlanta, you can also enroll your toddler at SeaVentures for some free swimming lessons. Through their Baby Splash Class, your toddler will get a chance to get comfortable and be confident swimming in pools. The Buford Highway offers a lot of spots like the Plaza Fiesta and Farmers Market for a fun stroll. Go shopping and try out different snacks through an array of food shops . Your kid will surely enjoy an ice cream or two while playing at the arcade.

10. Wilmington, North Carolina

Fort Fischer Recreational Area | Masonboro Island | Carolina Beach State Park | Museum of the Bizarre | Wilmington Railroad Museum

Wilmington Railroad Museum

Looking for a destination to spend the summer vacation? Wilmington offers a lot of under-the-sun activities for you and your toddlers. Be sure to pack a lot of swimming clothes for the entire family. The Fort Fischer Recreational Area is a great place for you and your baby to soak up on the gentle waves and get plenty of sunshine. The area is complete with changing facilities and restrooms, so changing your baby’s diapers won’t be a problem. Be sure to check the weather first before visiting as there may be heat advisories from time to time.

Another destination worth checking is Masonboro Island. You can join its kid-friendly tours where you can explore the different ecosystems present on the island. The tour guides are very accommodating and great with kids. You can easily spend hours picking shells or building sandcastles at the shoreline. Additionally, the Carolina Beach State Park is a great destination for outdoor activities. Your toddler will surely enjoy exploring all the greenery while hiking around the park’s trail. With the help of a Park Ranger, explore and learn more about the native Venus Flytraps growing in the area.

Aside from the fun water activities, you can also explore different museums, such as the Museum of the Bizarre. Your kid will have fun exploring the different curiosities and seeing some magic. The Wilmington Railroad Museum should be part of your itinerary if your child is into trains. Observe different train displays and models while checking the life-size boxcars. Visiting museums is ideal, especially since most establishments can accommodate strollers. You’ll have to take note of the healthy safety precautions set like proper sanitation and wearing of masks. 

Here’s a Tricky Must-do For Your Trip: Packing and Renting Baby Essentials

Attention, first-time travelers: nothing will ever prepare you for your first trip. Choosing the destination is only the start. You’ll have to book your flights, arrange your accommodation, and pack your essentials. Expect many unexpected detours and “I wish we had brought the..” moments. But that’s part of traveling with a baby. 

Some parents may be unsure about what to pack . Overpacking is often a problem, so creating a list long before your scheduled trip makes sense. Start with the essentials such as diapers, baby wipes, and changing pads. Store breast milk or formula safely and bring along bibs and baby bottles. Pack your baby’s favorite toys and blanket, too.

If you’re planning on enjoying water activities, a sun hat and a kid-friendly sunscreen for some sun protection are recommended. Bring extras but be mindful of your storage space.

Some accessories such as baby car seats and strollers are important to bring along with you. Using a stroller is great for carrying your baby, especially for long walks. But truth be told, these essential baby items are bulky and can be challenging to carry, especially when air travel is involved.

To save you the inconvenience and high costs of bringing too many things, look for rental options in your chosen destination. It’s important to check if these items have met safety standards and aren’t missing any parts when renting. Only rent from reliable shops or your hotel for recommendations.

For parents, traveling with their baby and toddler can be intimidating. You want a good time for your little one and perhaps the entire family and yourself AND give your baby or toddler undivided attention at the same time.

Go ahead and choose your destination, pack the right essentials, and make important arrangements like renting a car seat or stroller. Importantly, consult with your pediatrician for clearance, especially during your baby’s first plane ride. Make that itinerary work in some of the country’s most baby-friendly places!

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Non-U.S. citizen children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents, such as a passport or visa to enter the U.S.

Additionally, if the child is traveling alone, with only one of their custodial parents, or with a guardian to the U.S., they should have:

• Each country has its own rules for the specific documents it requires for a child to be allowed to leave their home country without both of their custodial parents or with a guardian. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country the child is a citizen of to find out what specific documents the country requires to allow the child to leave their country.
• The letter should say: "I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• A parent who frequently crosses the border by land with a minor should always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.
• A parent with sole custody of the child they are traveling with should carry a copy of the custody document.

If your child is traveling alone by air, the airline may require you to submit an unaccompanied minor form and pay a fee for unaccompanied minor service. This service provides an airline employee escort for your child at the airport and on board the plane. In addition, you and the person picking your child up at their destination may also need to provide the airline with identification and contact information.

Contact your airline before your child’s trip to find out:

• What age requirements the airline has for their unaccompanied minor service
• If you can book a ticket with a connecting flight
• What documents and fees are required

U.S. citizen children traveling outside the U.S.

Children traveling to most other countries are required to have a U.S. passport. 

Learn how to get a passport for a minor under 18.

Depending on the country, the child may also need a visa and other travel documents. Search for the country the child will be visiting to find out what documentation that country requires.

Providing parental consent when a child travels without both custodial parents

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If your child is traveling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they may need a letter of consent from the other custodial parent. 

• The letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent (if the child is traveling with one custodial parent) or signed by both parents (if the child is traveling with a guardian or alone) should say: "I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."

Additionally, if a minor is traveling abroad alone:

• Contact the embassy or consulate of the country your child will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

U.S. citizen children traveling to Canada or Mexico

Traveling by air.

All U.S. citizen children who are traveling by air to Canada or Mexico must have a U.S. passport or Trusted Traveler Program card. 

Traveling by land or sea

• U.S. passport, or
• An original or a copy of their birth certificate, or
• A Certificate of Naturalization, or 
• A Consular Report of Birth Abroad 
• Age 16 or over: show a U.S. passport or Trusted Traveler Program card

Parental consent documentation for travel to Canada and Mexico

A child traveling with only one custodial parent or a guardian or who is traveling alone may need to present a written letter of consent at the border. 

LAST UPDATED: June 28, 2024

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Traveling with Children

All passengers are required to undergo screening. However, TSA has developed modified screening procedures for children who appear to be 12 years old and younger. TSA officers will consult parents or the traveling guardian about the child’s screening.

TSA standard screening procedures apply for children 13 years and older. Carry-on property of all passengers, regardless of age, must be screened. All passengers who alarm will undergo additional screening.

Children with Medical Conditions, Disabilities, or Mobility Aids

Inform the TSA officer if the child has a disability, medical condition or medical device.

Let the TSA officer know if your child is able to walk through the metal detector or needs to be carried through the metal detector by a parent/guardian. You may carry your child through the WTMD. The TSA officer will not remove your child from their mobility aid, wheelchair or scooter.

Request Assistance

TSA Cares provides information to passengers with disabilities, medical conditions and those that need additional assistance to better prepare for the security screening process. Call  TSA Cares 72 hours prior  to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint. You may also call to request assistance at the checkpoint.

Liquid Formula, Breast Milk, Toddler Drinks, and Baby/Toddler food (to include puree pouches)

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) are considered medically necessary liquids. This also applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, such as ice packs, freezer packs and gel packs (regardless of presence of breast milk). Your child or infant does not need to be present or traveling with you to bring breast milk, formula and/or related supplies.

Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in excess of 3.4 ounces. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from your other belongings. TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items.

It’s helpful to the officers when formula and breast milk are in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches. Liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners, and you may be asked to open them (if feasible) for alternate screening such as Explosive Trace Detection and Vapor Analysis for the presence of liquid explosives. Screening will never include placing anything into the medically necessary liquid.

TSA X-ray machines are not harmful to food or medicines. However, if you do not want the formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) to be X-rayed or opened, please inform the TSA officer. Additional steps will be taken to resolve alarms. You or the traveling guardian will undergo additional screening procedures, to include Advanced Imaging Technology screening and additional/enhanced screening of other carry-on property.

Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) – regardless of the presence of breast milk – are also allowed in carry-ons, along with liquid-filled teethers. If these items are partially frozen or slushy, they are subject to the same screening as described above.

Passengers requiring special accommodations or concerned about the security screening process at the airport may request assistance by contacting  TSA Cares  or by phone at (855) 787-2227.

Screening of Children’s Items

• Place all carry-on baggage such as children's toys, bags and blankets on the X-ray belt for screening.
• Strollers, umbrella-strollers, baby carriers, car and booster seats and backpacks must be screened by X-ray.
• Place items in the stroller pockets or baskets, in a carry-on bag or on the X-ray belt for screening.
• Equipment that does not fit through the X-ray machine will undergo a visual/physical inspection by TSA officers.

Screening Technology

Walk-Through Metal Detector

Children able to walk through the metal detector without assistance may do so separately from their parent or guardian. If they alarm, children are allowed multiple passes through screening technologies and may undergo other procedures to resolve the alarm to reduce the need for a pat-down. Infants and small children may be carried through the metal detector. Should the alarm sound, additional screening is required.

Advanced Imaging Technology

If your child is able to remain standing in the required position for 5 seconds, he or she may be screened through the advanced imaging technology. If a child 12 and under goes through the machine and alarms, they have an opportunity to go through again or the TSA officer may use other procedures to resolve the alarm to reduce the need for a pat-down.

You may not be screened by this technology when carrying an infant or child.

Screening your Child

• Children 12 and under can leave their shoes, light jackets and headwear on during screening. For AIT screening, light jackets must be removed and placed on the X-ray belt.
• Children will not be separated from their parent/guardian.
• Remove infants and children from strollers and car seats and carry them in arms through the walk-through metal detector.
• Infants may be carried in a sling/carrier (to include lap baby) through the walk-through metal detector or when being screened in a wheelchair, but may be subject to additional screening
• Modified screening procedures are in place to reduce the likelihood of a pat-down.

• Ask the Expert /

Travel Experts Answer All Your Questions About Traveling with a Baby

This advice from a flight attendant and a pediatric physical therapist will keep your trip with baby moving smoothly., by kara mulder and kailee noland pt, dpt.

Welcome to Ask the Expert, a series in which real experts answer questions from real Babylist parents. For this installment, we asked Babylist parents to submit all their questions about traveling with a baby or toddler (no small task no matter how far you’re going). Here to give expert advice on all things travel are Kara Mulder, a flight attendant for 14+ years and the voice behind Flight Attendant Life , and Kailee Noland, a pediatric physical therapist and the owner of The Movement Mama .

Traveling with a little one can be such a rewarding experience full of family bonding—at the same time, it can also be such an exhausting experience. Whether you’re flying, road tripping or taking another form of transportation, there’s a lot to think about with a baby or toddler in tow. From how much time they can spend in their car seat to keeping a fussy kiddo placated on a cross-country or even an international flight, here’s advice from two travel experts to keep your trip moving smoothly.

In This Article

Flying with a baby or toddler, road trips and car seat comfort for babies and toddlers.

Taking to the skies? With over 14 years of experience as a flight attendant, Kara Mulder answers all your questions.

How old should a baby be before air travel?

Airlines generally suggest that a baby should be at least two weeks old before flying, but a physician can provide a more personalized answer. Some airlines may require a doctor’s letter for newborns under two weeks old. Many parents and pediatricians recommend waiting until baby is around six weeks old and has started their vaccinations to better handle potential germ exposure.

How important is getting my baby his own seat? Is it dangerous if I just have him in my lap on a flight?

Although airlines allow children under two to sit on a parent’s lap during the flight, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) states that purchasing a seat for your baby and using an approved child safety seat is the safer option.

When booking flights, consider your child’s age, the duration of the flight, the type of aircraft and whether you’re traveling alone. This will help you make an informed decision regarding purchasing a separate seat for your toddler. Air travel can be exhausting, and providing your child with their own seat can offer invaluable peace of mind.

One final recommendation is to understand the aircraft configuration anytime you travel with infants or toddlers. If possible, reserve a bulkhead row (the row with no seats in front of it, usually at the front of economy/coach class) with the attachable bassinet . If you have any questions about how to reserve the best seats on an aircraft when traveling with young children, airline customer service representatives can assist you.

How many baby items (and which ones) can you take through security and check at the plane gate?

The TSA allows parents to bring baby essentials such as bottles (including breast milk and formula), baby food (including puree pouches) and medication through security, even if they’re over 3.4 fluid ounces—and they don’t need to be in a quart-sized bag with the rest of your liquids, they just need to be in your carry-on.

To keep breast milk, formula and baby food cool, freeze some juice and use it as an ice pack. Frozen liquids are allowed in your carry-on luggage, and once they’re done keeping things cool, they can double as a snack for you or your little one. Note: when traveling with frozen juices, remove the containers before security screening and communicate to TSA that the contents are frozen. And they have to be completely frozen; if there’s any partial melting or liquid at the bottom, they have to meet the regulation for 3.4 fluid ounces.

As far as other baby items, diaper bags, strollers and car seats are also allowed, and many airlines allow travelers to check strollers and car seats at the gate for free .

For international travel, each country has its own rules regarding what items are allowed through airport security. So depending on where you depart, be sure to look at customs, security and border guidelines. For example, in other countries, you won’t be able to bring frozen liquids. However, items for your baby fall under medical exemption and are allowed to travel in reasonable quantities.

Should I check the car seat before security if I’m not using it on the airplane? Or is it best to check at the gate? Is there a cost for checking car seats and strollers?

Most airlines allow you to check a car seat and stroller for free, either at the ticket counter or at the gate. If you’re not using the car seat on the plane, I would suggest gate-checking. That way, you can use your car seat or stroller right up until you board the plane, making managing a baby and luggage easier—just hand it over at the boarding gate. (Editor’s note: If your baby still fits within their infant car seat’s height and weight limits, those are much easier to travel with than heavy, bulky convertible car seats. Check out our roundup of top rated infant car seats to find some travel-friendly options for babies under 1 year old.)

Gate-checking also minimizes the risk of damage by reducing some of the handling associated with checked luggage. Just remember to ask for a gate-check tag at the boarding gate.

What are some tips to keep a baby or toddler entertained on a flight?

There are several strategies to keep a little one entertained during a flight. First, consider bringing some new, small toys or books that your child hasn’t seen before—novelty can be a powerful distraction. Baby’s favorite comfort item, whether it’s a blanket, stuffed animal or pacifier, can also be incredibly useful during your trip.

While some parents prefer to limit screen time, a flight can be considered a “special occasion.” A digital tablet loaded with some toddler-friendly apps or shows can be a lifesaver.

For long-haul flights, international trips or ones lasting more than six hours, consider taking your baby for a short walk around the cabin when the seatbelt sign is off. Feel free to greet the flight attendants, but be aware, your baby might become their favorite passenger!

How can I pop baby’s ears during/after a flight?

Changes in air pressure can cause discomfort to a baby, but there are strategies to help. Consider breastfeeding or offering a bottle during takeoff and landing, as the swallowing action helps clear your baby’s ears. A pacifier can also stimulate swallowing and provide the same benefit.

For toddlers, a drink from a sippy cup or a small snack might do the trick. Chewing and swallowing can help adjust their ear pressure.

If you’re nervous about your baby’s ear health for an upcoming trip, it’s always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician before the flight for additional recommendations.

Where is the best place to breastfeed on the plane?

Where to breastfeed on a plane will largely depend on your comfort level and the type of aircraft. On wide-bodied aircraft with two aisles, some lavatories are larger and might offer more privacy. However, you’re more than welcome to breastfeed at your seat with a nursing cover.

Additionally, breastfeeding can help clear baby’s ears, so nursing during takeoff or landing may help alleviate any discomfort your baby might experience due to air pressure changes.

Where can I use a breast pump while flying? Is it rude to pump in the bathroom on a plane? And how/where can I clean all the bottles and pump parts, especially on long-haul flights?

You are absolutely allowed to use a breast pump while flying. Some parents feel more comfortable pumping in their seat with a nursing cover, while others prefer the privacy of the lavatory. Larger lavatories on wide-bodied aircrafts may offer a more comfortable space.

Cleaning pump parts can be challenging on a plane, as limited bottled water is stocked onboard. Using potable water from lavatory sinks or galley faucets is not recommended. Ideally, bring enough parts to last the flight without needing to clean anything. However, for lengthy flights or if packing additional items isn’t feasible on your trip, consider cleaning breast pump parts with bottled water and disinfectant wipes. As a flight attendant, I’d encourage you to ask the working crew for bottled water if needed. The crew is there to help.

No matter how you travel or how long it takes, it’s important to know how traveling impacts your little one’s body and behavior. Pediatric physical therapist Kailee Noland answers all your questions about keeping kiddo safe and happy during the long haul.

What is the longest a baby should be in a car seat on a road trip without getting out?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies (12 months old and younger) should only spend two to three hours in a car seat at a time, including on long road trips. This is because of how babies are positioned in a car seat, which can cause physical strain and restricted breathing after more than a couple of hours. It’s a statistic that many parents aren’t aware of and one that we definitely need to spread the word on, so be sure to send this article to a friend! (Editor’s note: Even though baby should only be in their car seat for two to three hours at a time, you can still make sure those couple of hours are nice and comfy. Check out our picks for the best car seats to see the absolute comfiest.)

Taking breaks during travel allows baby to stretch and move, plus it reduces the risk of plagiocephaly (or flat head syndrome). Remember, too, that car seats aren’t recommended as safe sleep devices. So while it may be tempting, when you reach your destination or a pit stop, please get baby up and out, even if it means having to wake them from their sweet slumber.

It’s not forever, though. Most experts agree that once a baby has the upright head and neck control to sit independently, you can begin driving longer stretches. While I know the two-hour rule may seem restricting, this is a great excuse to hunker down and stay home in those first few months to adjust, as your life has now changed, and family and friends can begin to make the effort to come to you!

If longer travel is unavoidable, here are some tips:

• Plan for your trip to take twice as long as normal. With all the stops and time allowing babe to stretch out, it’s wise to just plan this into the schedule.
• Do some gas station tummy time .
• Babywear while you take a quick walk around a park on your route. If you’re nearing the two hour limit, just check the next town en route and google “[Town Name] Park” or “[Town Name] Trail”; you’ll likely find a lovely spot for some fresh air and stretching your legs.
• When the adults need to stop to eat, be sure to take baby out of the carseat. You could babywear here, too.
• Have one parent sit in the back with baby to monitor temperature, breathing and overall comfort level. If this isn’t possible, use a travel-safe mirror or car camera to check on babe.

Keep in mind: If your child is premature or has any other medical conditions, always consult your pediatrician regarding their specific travel recommendations.

At what age is it okay to use a tablet for long trips?

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , screen time should be limited by age as follows:

• Prior to 18 months old, the only screen time should be video phone calls, which provide an active and involved experience for your child.
• Between 18 and 24 months, it’s recommended to only provide educational programming for less than one hour per day that you view with your child.
• Between two and five years old, limits are capped at one hour per day and three hours per weekend day.

These guidelines were created not only to protect your child from potentially harmful content, but also to promote optimal brain and body development. All that to say, my recommendation for independent tablet use in the car would be no sooner than two years of age. I also invite you to consider utilizing a device that isn’t actively connected to the internet or data during usage to prevent your child from accidentally stumbling onto something they shouldn’t.

For our family, we’ve always had fun utilizing a portable DVD player and headrest mount with DVDs we own or check out from the library. This ensures we’re able to control exactly what’s being viewed and the toddler/child isn’t in control of the buttons, causing potential driving distractions.

Of course, we all understand needing to entertain them in the car so you’re not stuck with a screaming toddler, but try the ideas mentioned here before resorting to screen time. Some of our favorites include:

• Activity books and sticker books
• Listening to music
• Listening to children’s stories on audiobook or podcast
• Pop-its or other car-safe toys

We also personally find that if our children have too much screen time on road trips, particularly near nap or bedtime, the blue light their eyes are taking in may reduce their sleep quality and make it difficult to get to sleep. You might consider investing in some child-sized blue light blockers to assist with combatting this issue.

How can I keep my toddler entertained in his car seat without using technological devices? Car rides often become screaming sessions!

Trust me. Been there. And it’s no fun. While I can’t guarantee a tantrum-free trip (because toddlers love to move , after all), I can give you lots of ideas that have helped make traveling with toddlers as smooth as possible!

Here are some of our favorite travel solutions:

• A portable audio player like the Yoto Mini
• Storytime podcasts
• Coloring books + Clickup markers (no more missing lids or lids that are choking hazards)
• Water painting books + reusable brushes you can fill with water
• Bubbles + the car vent
• Foam activity boards
• Playing “I spy”
• Suction spinning toys
• Car-safe non-projectile books (soft-cover only)
• Car-safe toys

Keep in mind: All items offered in the car shouldn’t be considered projectiles. This means the item should be lightweight and soft, so that in the case you got into a collision, it wouldn’t cause harm if thrown around the vehicle.

My toddler is good for about two hours of driving in a day (plus naptime), but then he screams at the very sight of his carseat, and it doesn’t really get better. I know this is normal, but when will things get better? Our family lives seven hours away, and it’s very hard to get there!

This is so tough—but our children have an innate desire to move! Think about how much we adjust in our car seats. Because of the restraints of child car seats, they’re often unable to wiggle and readjust as we are, leading them to feeling uncomfortable and fussy!

To help minimize the fuss:

• First, ensure that your kiddo’s car seat is installed properly for their weight and height and it’s at an appropriate incline angle. This eliminates whether or not significant discomfort might be what’s bothering them.
• We love to do playground pit stops to get out some energy. Often we’ll pack some snacks or grab food at a drive-through and instead of stopping at a gas station each time, we google “[Next Town] Playground” or use the Playground Buddy app . If it’s bad weather, consider exploring a nearby department store or wandering a grocery store for road trip snacks. If there’s more than one adult, you could also try having one adult take the child to the playground while the other packs the car. This already starts your little one off on a positive note with some of their movement needs fulfilled.
• Novelty is key. I often try to pack most of the activities I listed above in our travel caddy. I try to only offer one activity at a time and use “first, then” statements, like “First we’re going to color, and then we can watch a show.” Break up your screen time so you always have something fun and enticing to offer. Give them something to look forward to—maybe a special snack they get to have at your next stop.
• Consider breaking up your trip into two parts. We’ve enjoyed staying halfway in AirBnBs to make our trips more enjoyable for everyone!
• Some families also like to leave close to bedtime or very early in the morning to get a few “sleepy” hours for the kiddos in the car. Always be sure you’re not driving when you are too tired, though.
• Try playing a game of “I Spy,” but make it simpler by encouraging them to tell you when they see animals on the side of the road (we love to look for cows in the Midwest) or something that you know they might see often, like big trucks or billboards. Encourage them to look for shapes in the clouds or find things that are a certain color along your trip!
• Finally, know that it’ll improve with time! But it’s completely normal for your mover and shaker to not want to be confined to a seat for hours on end. And soon you will be at your destination and having fun!

How do you make a baby more comfortable in a car seat, especially for babies that find it hard to self-soothe in order to sleep in the car?

First, know that it’s completely normal for separation anxiety to increase in the car. While you can easily see them in the mirror, they may not be able to understand at a very young age that you’re right there with them. As mentioned previously, consider having one caregiver sit in the back next to them to ease their little minds.

And as always, make sure your car seat is installed properly for your baby’s age and size so they’re as comfortable as possible.

Something to note with car seats, too, is that traditional infant seats create a C-curve to the spine, which can be particularly uncomfortable for babies with reflux or for prolonged time spent in the car seat. Consider transitioning to a convertible car seat for improved comfort—just be sure the seat’s harness and weight limits accommodate your baby’s size safely!

Making the car environment as soothing as possible can help a lot, too. Maybe this means turning on white noise or their favorite lullabies. Try using a pacifier clip to prevent them losing their means of orally soothing.

Be sure to also offer stretch breaks at minimum every two hours to improve their physical comfort in the seat.

Be mindful of their body temperature and check to ensure they’re not too hot or too cold.

There are also many car-safe toys that you can offer if they’re at the age where they’re able to manipulate toys!

I hope these tips have been helpful and given you some ideas to try out on your next trip!

Kara Mulder

Flight attendant.

Kara Mulder, the aviation pro behind Flight Attendant Life , parlayed curiosity and an affinity for travel into careers as a private jet flight attendant and writer. Now based in Sydney, Australia, she’s crafting her debut memoir that draws from her rich life experiences. More about Kara and her work can be found at KJWattsAuthor.com .

Kailee Noland

Pediatric physical therapist, pt, dpt.

Dr. Kailee Noland, PT, DPT is a pediatric physical therapist and mama of two (soon to be three). She is a self-proclaimed baby & toddler enthusiast and is passionate about helping families incorporate developmental play into everyday routines and rhythms. She has also helped countless families feel empowered to choose the right shoes for their children. You can find support and encouragement in all things motherhood and motor milestones within The Movement Mama community.

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The 5 best airlines that make flying with babies and kids a whole lot easier

Baby-friendly meals, guaranteed family seating, nut-free flights … These carriers can make air travel with little ones way less of a headache.

How we chose the best airlines for families

• Best domestic airline for amenities: JetBlue
• Best domestic airline for on-time performance: Delta
• Best budget airline: Southwest
• Best European airline: Lufthansa
• Best international airline: Emirates

Factors to consider when choosing an airline for your family

Seeing new things, having new experiences, visiting relatives, jumping from freezing temperatures to sunny beaches in an afternoon … There are plenty of great reasons to fly with kids . But for anyone who says "getting there is half the fun," I'm guessing they haven't been to an airport with a toddler.  

Even as a professional travel writer and mom of "big" kids, I still stress about finding seats together, getting delayed, and having something to eat on the flight. That's why knowing what airlines are truly family-friendly, and, let's face it, just friendly in general, is important. 

At the very least, you want an airline that's going to guarantee your 4-year-old isn't sitting with strangers while you're stuck in a middle seat in the back of the plane. In the best-case scenario, though, there are a host of airlines that go out of their way to make flying comfortable and actually fun – not just for the littlest members of your traveling party, but for the grownups, too. 

"Pretty much any airline is able to accommodate families," says David Slotnick Opens a new window , the senior aviation business reporter at The Points Guy and dad to a 1-year-old son. "Most of them will let you preboard, if you ask, so that you can have time to stow your bags and get everyone settled into your seats, and most will let you gate-check a stroller, so that you can pick it back up as soon as you step off of the plane." But, he cautions, there are things that some do better than others, like free checked bags and guaranteed seat assignments, that really make a difference when flying with kids.

As a travel writer with more than 20 years of experience, I've circled the world and reported on everything from Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World to safari lodges in Africa. I've flown with my son both alone and with my husband hundreds of times to dozens of locations (last stop, Spain, next stop, Japan). And I can tell you we've had great experiences – the whole family upgraded to lay-flat business class seats returning home from London on United – and terrible flights – Air France canceling our flight home from Paris and rescheduling us 18 hours later. And I've learned some valuable lessons along the way.

In addition to this personal experience, I utilized the BabyCenter Community to see what airlines have come through for families flying with their little ones in tow and spoke to nearly a dozen travel-savvy parents who among them have logged more miles in the sky than many travel professionals. From these conversations, I was able to learn what parents prioritize when looking for an airline. 

Based on this combined research, all of the airlines below:

Offer pre-boarding for families with young children so you're not fighting to cram your bags into an overhead bin while simultaneously installing a car seat. 

Ensure families sit together – to say this is a hot-button topic would be an understatement; the Department of Transportation (DOT) even created an  Airline Family Seating Dashboard Opens a new window  to track airline policies. 

Offer a range of amenities – including the ability to warm up bottles and borrow baby gear, like strollers, in the airport.  

For additional insight into flying with babies and kids , I spoke to the following family travel experts: 

David Slotnick, Opens a new window the senior aviation business reporter at The Points Guy website and dad to 1-year-old son. 

Alexis Bowen, co-founder of Elsewhere Opens a new window by Lonely Planet, a travel site connecting local experts and travelers, and a mom to a baby girl.

Best domestic airline for amenities: JetBlue Opens a new window

As far as general carriers in the United States go, JetBlue comes out on top for several reasons. First, there's the variety of free in-flight entertainment options to keep the kids entertained, including free WiFi, live TV, and movies at every seat, not to mention copious free snack options that include cookies, chips, and an addictive snack mix. Plus, JetBlue has the largest legroom in coach, which helps with everything from letting kids stretch to giving you room to  maneuver your car seat into place.

JetBlue also guarantees families sit together no matter how much you paid for your tickets, which is (almost) priceless. All of its planes have changing tables — a win for when you need to change a diaper mid-flight . Finally, families who know how to work their points will appreciate how easy it is to pool and redeem rewards.

Heads up: JetBlue recently raised their domestic checked bag fees: Your first checked bag will now cost $35 if you commit online more than 24 hours in advance, and $45 within less than 24 hours' notice. (International baggage is free.) JetBlue does not charge to check your car seat.

Parents say: "JetBlue let my husband board early with our seat harness, diaper bag, and carry-ons so he could get our row set up before I walked my toddler on board with our regular boarding group. This was game-changing since I could give my 2-year-old a final diaper change before the long flight without missing our chance to get our things onto the plane before everyone else."

Buy tickets Opens a new window

Best domestic airline for on-time performance: delta opens a new window.

Many parents I spoke to raved about Delta's service, so it wasn't a surprise that Delta was the top-rated domestic airline on Bounce's 2023 Airline Index Opens a new window . Delta had the highest percentage of on-time arrivals (82%), one of the lowest cancellation rates at 2%, and also the lowest level of passenger complaints at just 2.66 per 100 customers. (For comparison, Frontier had 10 times that number of complaints.). 

Delta was also named the Most Reliable Airline in the U.S. by AirAdvisor Opens a new window . In other words, if you want to get your family to your destination without delays, Delta is your airline. 

Another top-selling point that many parents shared with me was Delta's peanut allergen policy. With advance notice, Delta will refrain from serving peanuts on your flight Opens a new window .

Heads up: There are limited snack options on short domestic flights. 

Parents say: "Delta is hands down our favorite airline to fly as a family … My daughter's first flight was around a year old, and I was flying solo with her. The flight attendants brought her special kids' snacks, the pilot gave her Delta wings, and they truly went above and beyond to help me get her to the changing station in the bathroom, clean up snacks, you name it … [Delta is] just generally a very family-positive airline. They allow families to board first if desired. They easily check any luggage or strollers at the gate — and we've never had an item go missing or be delayed in any way! We've [now] gone on 10-plus flights with our 4-year-old, and the times we've experienced delays (weather-related only), we were kept informed and felt like we were in really good hands." 

Best budget airline:  Southwest Opens a new window

First, let's start with the transparent pricing on Southwest, which usually beats other major carriers on the same route. There's no laundry list of extras, in large part because checked bags – two per person – are completely free. That means you can check your suitcase instead of dragging a carry-on, a stroller, your child, a car seat, and luggage onto a plane. 

And while Southwest isn't included in the DOT list of airlines that guarantee family seating, they do have some safety nets in place to work with their unique no-pre-assigned-seating policy. You can, of course, pay to be in the early bird group to board the plane first. However, if you have kids under 6, take advantage of the family boarding Opens a new window , which happens after the A group and before the B group, meaning you'll be among the first people on the plane and can usually choose seats together. 

Heads up: If your child is older than 6, but under 14, Southwest promises it will "reasonably endeavor to seat a child next to one accompanying passenger." If you want your entire family to sit together and you have a larger party, you might want to pay for early boarding.

Parents say: "I like the boarding process, and I like that they have family boarding up until age 6. It's so nice to have the extra time to get to the seats. And we usually install the extra airplane seat belts, so we like having the extra time for that too." 

Buy tickets Opens a new window  

Best european airline: lufthansa opens a new window.

Europe's biggest carrier ranks high for its comfortable seats and extensive in-flight entertainment system. The airline keeps the comfort going for families with special check-in areas in Frankfurt and Munich and the extensive Kinderland play area in Munich. 

With the thought that well-fed kids are happy kids, Lufthansa offers in-air children's menus taste-tested by a panel of junior chefs. Expect dishes like "pretzel face," "tortoise muffins," "Lu's favorite lasagna," and "sausage mummies." Meals for babies – such as baby food, mini sausages, and soups – are also available on board Lufthansa flights.  

Heads up: Lufthansa mostly flies to European destinations, so you can't really use them to travel around North America.

Parents say: "Lufthansa made it very easy to travel with kids. We boarded early and settled quickly. They offer children's meals ([which you] must request in advance) that are served prior to main cabin meals. This gave me time to both attend to them and also allow me to eat my meal in peace. An overall wonderful experience." 

Best international airline: Emirates Opens a new window

For kids, flying Emirates is a little bit like attending a  birthday party in the sky: There are goodie bags, stuffed animals, toys, and even special snacks. If you're flying with a baby , you'll receive a kit with a reusable changing mat, diaper cream, cleansing wipes, a bib, a plush toy that attaches to the seatback, and a special collectible blanket. Bigger kids get fanny packs and backpacks filled with games and activities. 

Kids' meals include favorites like pasta and chicken tenders served on special colorful trays, and there are snack boxes filled with cookies and fruit snacks for mid-flight munchies. Emirates even has special kid-sized headphones to watch the collection of Disney movies and other in-flight entertainment. 

Parents will be happy to know that families always board first, and at the Dubai hub, there's a special family check-in desk as well as complimentary strollers to navigate the airport. 

Heads up: Emirates doesn't operate domestic flights, so you can only use this option for international travel , and the airline is often one of the priciest options when comparing fares, although you do get what you pay for.

Parents say: " I chose to fly Emirates through Dubai as I knew their economy class section was roomier and more comfortable than most airlines and that their entertainment system would keep my son engaged throughout much of the long flight. The service on board and at the Dubai lounge were excellent – truly helpful to this single mom!"

If you're deciding between a few different carriers for a trip, keep the following in mind to help you make your choice.

Price. Let's face it, paying for a family to fly is pricey. So finding an airline with well-priced seats, as well as perks, is definitely important for a budget-friendly vacation . 

On-time performance. You do not want any delays, if you can help it, when traveling with kids. (I say this as a mom who was stuck for 11 hours in Newark Airport with a 6-year-old waiting for a replacement plane on an airline that only had one scheduled flight per day out of New Jersey). While weather can't be helped, choosing an airline with a noted performance record can get you off the ground sooner. 

Kid-friendliness. Does the airline have kids' meals? How about entertainment? Do they offer any additional toys or perks for little ones to make the trip more memorable?

Seating policies for babies. Are there lap infant policies that let you hold your baby under 2 for free? And do they offer bassinets for infants? "When flying long-haul, booking a bassinet is a lifesaver," Bowen says. "Prioritize airlines where bassinets can be booked in advance, as this will drastically change your experience."

Checked bags. "One thing I always keep in mind is the cost of checking bags," says Slotnick. "I used to travel with carry-on only, but with car seats, clothes, diaper bags, strollers, and more, that's much harder these days. So I try to stick with airlines that, for me, have the best checked bag options."

Was this article helpful?

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

Bounce. 2023. The 2023 Airline Index. https://usebounce.com/blog/2023-airline-index Opens a new window [Accessed March 2024]

U.S. Department of Transportation. 2023. Airline Family Seating Dashboard. https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/airline-family-seating-dashboard Opens a new window [Accessed March 2024]

Family Travel Association. 2023. US Family Travel Survey 2023. https://familytravel.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/FTA-Survey2023-Report.pdf Opens a new window   [Accessed March 2024]

Air Advisor, Most Reliable Airlines in the US Opens a new window   [Accessed March 2024]

David Slotnick, Opens a new window Senior Aviation Business Reporter, The Points Guy.

Alexis Bowen, Co-founder, Elsewhere Opens a new window by Lonely Planet.

U.S. Department of Transportation. 2023. Air Travel Consumer Reports for 2023. https://www.transportation.gov/resources/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/air-travel-consumer-reports-2023 Opens a new window [Accessed March 2024]

Melissa Klurman is a veteran writer, editor, and travel expert and is the winner of a Lowell Thomas Gold Award for excellence in travel writing. She has more than 25 years of journalism experience in both print and digital platforms. A New Jersey native, ice cream addict, and lifelong Bruce Springsteen fan, Klurman lives in Montclair, New Jersey, with her husband, son, and rescue dog.

Where to go next

The Ultimate Travel with Baby and/or Toddler Guide

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Just because you had a baby, does not mean that the adventure has to stop!

Sure traveling with a baby looks a little different from what traveling prior did.

Of course, traveling with a baby is more challenging than it was before.

But travel with baby love can still be incredibly fun and majorly rewarding!

If you are wondering how to travel with a baby and you are after some tips and information on where to travel with a baby; then you have come to the right place! 

In our enormous, truly comprehensive guide we share all of our first-hand knowledge of how to make your baby vacations easy. 

We will also give you some helpful insight into what the best holiday destinations for babies are.

But first! 

Might I suggest that you quickly sign up for our ‘Wanderlust Storytellers Family Tribe’ newsletter?  

In this MASSIVE Travel with Baby Guide, you will Find:

The top 10 reasons to travel with baby.

If you are wondering why you should take on the challenge of going traveling with an infant or maybe you want to go traveling with a toddler; don’t worry as we are here to show you why it can be so incredibly and completely rewarding!

1. You have the time off

Parental leave is the perfect time to travel. In most countries, mums will get paid maternal leave and in some ‘lucky’ countries even dads can get some paid paternal leave.  

You have the time off, so why not use it wisely?

2. Because up until the age of 2, they fly for free (well nearly) 

Travel as often as you can before your child turns 2!  

Most airlines allow babies/kids up to 2 years old to fly for free  (you only have to pay a small amount to cover the tax)!  

We are trying to squeeze in as many destinations as we can to make the most of this incredible money-saving factor!

3. Babies under the age of two get free entrance to attractions and events

Speaking of free; let’s add on the benefit of savings costs at attractions and events as babies are never charged entrance fees.

4. No errands to run, no lists, no dishes to do…

People say it is challenging to travel with a baby … I say it is challenging to be at home.  I prefer to be somewhere, where there are no ‘jobs’.  

I prefer to be somewhere where my husband is there to help me with bubs.  

In a lot of ways traveling with a baby is easier than being at home!

5. Babies can go anywhere

You can take a baby anywhere! We typically have our little Avie in a baby carrier on holidays.  

Why? Because she sleeps so much better in it!  And secondly, because it means that she can go wherever we can go.

6. Babies sleep a lot!

I know it might feel challenging to get your baby to sleep, but babies really do sleep a lot!

 Most of them sleep an average of 15 hours a day, which means that you will have plenty of time to explore in peace.

7. Babies help you meet people

Babies are great ice breakers! You will meet so many new people.  

We especially enjoy meeting the locals through our baby, which allows us to learn more about what parenting a baby looks like in their culture (you can truly learn so much about how they mother and father their children).

8. Babies are easier to entertain than a toddler

Let’s face it, you can entertain a baby with such simple everyday objects.  

Try dangling your keys in front of his/her face, and give them some of the water cups on the plane to smash together.  

You don’t need to pack a lot of toys and almost anything in the vicinity will work as entertainment.  

This will change! It is so much harder to keep our little toddler out of mischief!

9. Babies won’t be able to run away and get lost in the crowd

It is so easy to keep your baby safe.

 In comparison, a toddler will most likely be more stubborn and want to go their own way.  

If you don’t watch them like a hawk, it can be so easy for them to wander off and get lost in the crowds.  

Let’s face it, babies are easy!

10. Because it will give you some lovely quality family time to bond

Holiday time is a great time to slow down and find time for each other.

It is a great time to deepen and strengthen relations and the perfect time to build truly strong bonds.  

A holiday is a perfect way to start the journey of a new family!

____________

10 Tips to Make Flying with a Baby or Toddler Easier

This page is for you if you are wondering how to fly with a baby.  Here we will outline some answers to commonly asked questions as well as provide tips for flying with a baby. 

We discuss all things from how to survive your flight with your baby, to what to take with you.

Whilst we are busy compiling this section, please head over to our blog post about what to expect when flying with an infant.

Decide whether you need to take a car seat on the plane.  You can read more about the benefits (and negatives) of flying with a car seat here . 

If you have already decided that you wish to fly with a car seat, you can find our list of recommended FAA-approved car seats in our best travel car seat guide here.

>>  Read more tips for travel and flying with a baby

How to Cope with Jet Lag in Babies & Toddlers

Jet lag! I’m still waiting for a magic cure for jet lag to be invented, as I swear that it gets worse as we get older! 

Never mind the fact that you will be dealing with your own jet lag and then somehow you also have to deal with jet lag and a baby that isn’t sleeping properly – talk about a challenge!

Jet lag is not fun! 

And unfortunately, there isn’t much more you can do than simply survive it. 

We have written up a great in-depth article on Jet Lag in Babies & Toddlers , but for those of you after a super quick summary, please stay on this page.

Below you will find our top jet lag tips for babies as well as some great toddler jet lag solutions (if there even is such a thing as a solution!)

1. Jet Lag Recovery Time

They say jet lag is worse when you fly east! 

Our baby is so much more unsettled when we fly from Europe to Australia than vice versa. 

So make sure to build in one slow and low-key day to deal with jet lag when you are flying west and have at least 3 days set aside as low-key days if you are flying east. 

Don’t plan much on those days, and have easy outings that don’t take you too far from your holiday accommodation.

2.  Be Mentally Prepared

Prepare yourself for a challenge. 

It will be hard for a while, and you will be tired, but you will need to get up when the baby gets up and sometimes that means that your day will start at 3 am. 

I think if you know it is coming and you know it will be hard, you will deal with it so much better when it happens.

3.  Just go with the Flow

Allow your child to adjust naturally, or at least as naturally as possible.  Just like we manage to adjust on our own, so will they; it just takes time. 

If you try to force them into what you think is best for them, you will most likely have a pretty cranky baby or toddler on your hands. 

I say, let them sleep when they are tired and let them play when they are awake. 

Soon enough things will be back to normal, I promise.

4. Keep the Lights Low

When your baby wakes up at some ridiculous time at night, keep the lights and stimulation low. 

Allow them to play for an hour or two and then see if you can pop them back to sleep.

5. Keep up the Normal Night Time Routine

Even though you are traveling, it is important to stick to any routine you might have, whether it is a bath, dinner, reading a book before bed, or something else. 

These little ques will help your baby understand that it is now time for a nighttime sleep rather than just a nap.

6. Attempting Jet Lag Prevention

If you are a control freak, you can try to prepare your baby for the new time zone with some baby jet lag sleep training. 

Essentially what you do a few weeks before your trip is to slowly start adjusting your baby’s sleep time to be closer to the sleep time in the country you will be visiting.

I really think it is a waste of time because my baby’s sleep always gets jumbled up on the flight over anyways, but some parents swear by this method.

Best Gear to Take on Your Vacation with Baby

Wondering what items are the essentials for your baby’s vacation?  Here is a list of our top baby travel essentials that we never leave home without!

Taking the right gear and equipment on your baby’s holiday will go a long way in making life easier instead of harder.  

It is important to invest in ‘travel-friendly’ baby items if you wish to make life simple.

Find Below Links to our Comprehensive Best Baby Gear Buyers Guides:

Not only do these guides contain the top 10 items currently on the market, but they also discuss what features and specifications to look out for to ensure that the item will be perfect for traveling with. 

If your holiday involves plane travel, we highly recommend that you check out our best travel car seat guide to see some highly recommended FAA-approved car seats.

If you grab a car seat for plane travel, you will also need the best travel car seat cart as well.

We always travel with a backpack travel diaper bag as we find that they are the most comfortable both at the airport as well as for day excursions.

You might want to think about taking along your own baby travel crib. Many of the hotel cribs are either grubby, too small, or simply unsafe. 

We also find that we often pre-request a crib only to arrive and find out that they already borrowed out all of their baby cots (which happens with boutique hotels a lot).

Click here to read through our guide to help you find the right baby travel crib that is age-appropriate for your baby.

Even though you can easily find a baby high chair in most restaurants in Australia, we found that it can be rare to find them in restaurants in a lot of Asian and European countries.

If your baby is eating solids, you might like to check out our guide to help you find the best travel high chair for your baby’s age.

If you are heading on a beach vacation with your baby, we also have two fabulous guides for you.

We never travel without our own baby sun tent . That way we know that our baby always has shade, plus you get the added benefit of having a private space for your baby to sleep in. 

Now that you’ve decided to take your baby on a beach vacation, don’t forget to bring along the most important item – baby beach shoes!

Having a pair of water shoes or swim shoes for your little one is essential.

Not only will they protect their feet from hot sand and other hazards like sharp shells and slippery rocks, but they’ll also help your baby have more fun playing in the sand and surf.

When shopping for baby beach shoes, look for pairs with flexible uppers, non-skid soles, and adjustable straps that will keep them securely on your baby’s feet.

Browse our list of the top baby and toddler beach shoes here.

And don’t forget to take along some beach essentials for baby as well.

Top 5 Baby-Friendly Holidays

While adults may find any new travel destination quite thrilling, sightseers with their young ones should visit places that are specifically kids-convenient and unquestionably safe as well.

Due to the many sensitive considerations involved in choosing baby-friendly holidays, many family travelers might find it challenging to make a decision.

As a result, this short article briefly explores a few excellent baby-friendly vacations and insights for excursions that are perfect for babies and toddlers.

Continue reading to discover the top 5 best places to go with a baby and/or toddler and get some insightful tips for great family getaways. 

If you are after a bigger list, check out our post on 27 of the best places to visit with a baby .

1. San Diego – United States

I don’t think San Diego’s presence on the list of best places to travel with a baby will surprise anyone!

If your greatest worry has something to do with your kids’ overall safety, then San Diego would be the most obvious choice for a baby/toddler travel destination.

The meticulously planned and outstandingly clean city offers a perfectly healthy environment for adventurous youngsters.

On top of this unmatched kids-friendly attribute, the whole place has level streets that render stroller and prams movements extremely simple and fun.

For great children-centered attractions, Balboa Park makes for a compelling must-see for all curious toddlers and babies.

San Diego Zoo showcases unbeatably spectacular species such as pandas and koalas, countless natural and man-made marvels as well as various other sights and features that your little one will enjoy.

 Be aware that temporary baby-care services might prove rather rare or uncharacteristically expensive within this top-tier American city.

2. Bali – Indonesia

An Indonesian metropolis of no mean repute in terms of extraordinary sights and sounds for both adult trippers and fun-loving kids, Bali is an inspiring getaway choice for parents/guardians traveling with their little ones.

This very popular tourist destination provides surprisingly affordable babysitting services as well as plenty of baby-friendly resorts.

As such, it’s an ideal choice for families that have kids in tow.

For example, the ready availability of cheap baby-care temporary packages means that parents/guardians can leave toddlers behind while visiting far-flung sites that might be somehow unsafe or inconvenient for their babies.  

Again, the area contains numerous parks and zoos that promise fun-hungry toddlers all the animal-related adventures and natural thrills they typically crave.

Bali truly will give you the best vacation with a baby and is one of the cheapest destinations for those who are on a tight budget.

• Helpful Post: The Best Resorts in Bali for Families!

3. London – United Kingdom

Just like Bali, London is another destination that offers some of the best vacations with a baby. 

It is a city that offers remarkably safe and has plenty of adventure-filled activities for babies and toddlers.

You will find a large variety of attractions such as renowned museums, zoos, and many more.

Moreover, London’s olden thoroughfares, roads, and key streets are aptly designed so that prams and strollers will easily navigate the even grounds.

Due to the city’s mixed-income classes, remarkably cheap babysitting services are readily available for visiting parents who want to hire part-time baby-care packages.

4. Rome – Italy

For trippers touring the world’s most beautiful cities, all roads should literally lead to Rome – one of the oldest metropolises.

A wonderful symbol of civilization’s origins, Rome promises immense beauty and incalculable fun that will stir the bubbling curiosity of even the grumpiest of infants.

With fairly flat roads and streets, navigation around this ancient European town is easy.

Like all the other tourist spots highlighted in this write-up, this inspiring city doesn’t lack exciting attractions.

For example, any adventurous little souls may take a short break for a gelato and a Roman pizza, have a detour to Naples, or embark on a highly educational Vatican exploration. 

Rome isn’t just the best place to travel with baby, but I reckon it is also one of the best cities to travel to for anyone!

See more tips on how to travel to Italy with a baby .

5. Chicago – United States

Another top choice of the many baby-friendly holiday destinations is found in Illinois – home to countless global marvels – Chicago is an indubitably exciting sightseeing spot for babies and toddlers.

Since most infants like admiring various animal species, the local Lincoln Park Zoo will be a top must-see for your little lovely darling.

In addition to this worldwide attraction, your little one may also enjoy a variety of children-centric performances offered at the globally acclaimed Emerald City Theater.

Looking for more toddler-friendly countries to visit , make sure to read our complete list of worldwide destinations and best places in Europe with toddlers .

Traveling with Baby Checklist

Wondering what to pack for your baby. Here are some videos to get you started.

And a video on how to pack your diaper bag for the flight:

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12 tips on how to travel internationally with a baby

Traveling with an infant is already an adventure -- and traveling abroad with one is an even bigger feat to tackle.

Knowing the rules, researching and prepping ahead of time and packing the right things can make (or break) your first international trip with a baby. If you're in the know, you can take advantage of all the options afforded to traveling families, from bassinets on the plane and security shortcuts to special infant fares and other perks.

Covering everything from booking and documents to travel insurance and even jet lag, this guide provides everything you need to prepare for an international trip with your baby.

Want more travel news and advice from TPG? Sign up for our daily newsletter .

Get your baby's passport

Before you get too far into planning a trip abroad, you'll need to get your baby's first passport .

While you're at it, make sure everyone else in the family has a valid passport, too. Remember, U.S. passports for children under 16 expire after five years, not 10 years like adult passports. Also, make sure everyone's passport isn't nearing expiration. Many countries require three or six months of validity to enter, which effectively means that child passports are really only valid for 4 1/2 years, which go quickly.

When getting a passport for your baby , here are the main steps to follow:

• Get their birth certificate.
• Find out where to apply.
• Make an appointment. You'll need to go in person and bring your baby with you.
• Take their passport photo. It can be difficult to get a photo of your baby. Rules for photos state that the child/baby should be looking directly at the camera with a natural smile or neutral look. If you can manage to get the baby's eyes to stay open, that's typically enough for their first passport photo. The background should be white and the size 2 by 2 inches with no filters. Within that size, your baby/child's head needs to be 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head. If you're struggling to get everything just right, the ItsEasy App can help you crop and size your photo to the correct dimensions.
• Gather the paperwork. Fill out Form DS-11 and take your baby's birth certificate plus photocopies of each document. Bring a couple of photos, a valid ID for each parent, a photocopy of parental IDs and the fee (you can pay by check). Fees are currently $100 for the passport and $35 for processing.
• Attend the appointment in person with both parents present . If only one parent can go, fill out and bring parental consent form DS-3053 plus a copy.

Get your baby Global Entry

If you already have Global Entry , you won't be able to use the service as a family if your little ones don't have it. So, get a start on your baby's application. Or, if this is something your whole family wants to do, apply simultaneously, making expiration dates and renewals easier to complete for everyone at the same time.

Do note that with TSA PreCheck , kids 12 and under won't need to have their own number to accompany parents through these special security lanes -- but that's not true for Global Entry, which you use to return to the U.S.

Check with your doctor

Check with your pediatrician to see when your baby can start flying.

To give you an idea, TPG talked to Dr. Jenny Yu , medical director at Healthline , to find out when it's typically safe for babies to travel. "While babies typically develop their immune system around 1 month, most pediatricians would recommend waiting until 3 to 6 months for travel," she said. For premature babies, it might be a little longer.

Also, with international travel, it's important to factor in any additional vaccines they might need, especially if you're traveling to emerging countries. Start by checking with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for recommendations on which vaccines both adults and babies should get, then talk with your pediatrician to see what is best for your family, baby and travel situation.

Other important questions to ask your doctor should be if your baby can wear sunblock or mosquito repellent and how to keep your baby and your whole family safe from tropical or waterborne diseases, COVID-19 and any other possible infections, which can depend highly on your destination.

Pick the right destination

Whether it's a far-flung visit to Asia, a trip to visit family in Europe, a Caribbean escape or an African safari, you can travel anywhere with a baby as long as you and your family feel comfortable doing so. Choose a destination that makes you feel joy, not anxiety or stress at the thought of getting there and enjoying it with your baby.

Consider things like the activities you want to do, and if the destination is a place that feels welcoming for families. Also think about logistics, like the language barrier, climate and local transportation, when deciding if that particular destination is right for your family.

Book tickets

Depending on how old your baby is, you have some options when flying abroad with them. Here are a few to consider:

• Lap infant: If your baby is under 2 years old, they don't need their own seat. They can instead sit on the lap of a ticketed adult. For international travel, some airlines charge 10% to 30% of the adult ticket price or just the taxes and fees for a lap infant, and some airlines don't charge anything at all. This table shows the costs by airline to buy your baby a lap ticket. Make sure to check on luggage policies when traveling with a lap infant. Most airlines allow for a stroller and car seat checked free of charge. You may also be able to check or carry on additional baggage, too, but more on that later.
• Bassinet for lap infant: Many airlines have bassinet options, especially aboard larger aircraft that fly internationally. See if you can select this option while booking or call the airline for more information on securing a bassinet. Bassinets are usually free, but given to those who request them first. Ask for one right after booking to ensure you'll be assigned a seat with one when available. In most cases, bassinet weight limits max out at 20 to 24 pounds, so they're best for smaller babies and newborns.
• Extra seat with car seat or restraint for babies 2 years and up: If your baby is older than 2 years, you must pay for their seat. Many airlines have discounted tickets for children. If the child weighs more than 44 pounds, they won't need any additional restraint system within their own seat. If they weigh less than 44 pounds, see the information on a certified child restraint or car seat below.
• Additional seat with car seat or restraint for babies under 2: If your baby is less than 2 years old, you can still book them their own seat. In fact, the Federal Aviation Administration suggests that children under 44 pounds wear an FAA-approved harness (such as the CARES harness ) or certified child restraint to help keep them safe during turbulence, takeoff and landing. Make sure to check your car seat to see if there is an FAA-approved sticker on it.

It's worth noting that car seat, bassinet and harness options and policies vary wildly by airline and class of service. For more information on these policies by airline, read this article on 23 airline car seat and bassinet policies around the world .

Note that when booking seats for your family on an international flight, there are areas where kids and babies are not allowed to sit, like exit rows. Malaysia Airlines doesn't allow babies in its first-class cabins on A380 and 747 aircraft. Some international airlines such as AirAsia, Scoot and IndiGo also have kid-free and quiet zones where families with babies and children under a certain age (usually 10 or 12) aren't allowed to sit.

Additionally, if your baby is closer to 2 years old, you might want to compare the price of a lap ticket to the price of getting them their own seat. Sometimes, the price difference may not be that much, and it could make the flight more comfortable for the entire family.

Organize documents, including visas and COVID-19 forms

Passports aren't the only documents you'll need for international travel these days. Check to see if you and your baby need a visa to enter whatever country you're visiting. If you're traveling without your partner, look into completing a Child Consent Form.

Have proof of vaccines, complete any health forms and entry forms and take those COVID-19 tests if required to enter the country. Be clear on if your baby or children need to wear masks during the flight and plan accordingly. While babies 2 and up need to wear masks on board U.S. airlines, international airlines have different rules. For example, Iberia only requires children 6 and up to wear masks. Presently, British Airways has made masking up for all passengers a "personal choice" when not required by international law. We expect these rules to continue to rapidly evolve.

It's worth checking what documents you need for the trip when booking and again before traveling to ensure that you have everything you need as rules and regulations frequently change, especially in this era of pandemic travel .

Understand luggage rules

Different airlines have varying rules for how much luggage you can take when traveling abroad, especially when traveling with lap infants or children/babies occupying their own seats. Most airlines allow you to check a stroller and/or car seat. Many also offer additional checked luggage, as well as a carry-on bag or item for the baby.

For example, British Airways allows both lap infants and children ages 2 and up to have a carry-on item and a checked bag in most cases, giving parents a little flexibility when bringing along all those key items babies need . Cathay Pacific allows lap infants two additional bags at 10 kilograms each when flying between most destinations.

If you aren't clear on the luggage rules, call the airline before traveling to confirm so you won't get stuck with any surprises or have to pay additional fees.

Know the rules for breast milk and formula

Thanks to the Friendly Airports for Mothers Improvement Act, all large- and medium-size airports in the U.S. now provide lockable, non-bathroom places to pump or nurse babies in every terminal and at least one men's and one women's restroom with changing tables in each terminal. This may not be the case abroad, so if you're concerned, research your destination airport to see what options are provided when it comes to these services.

You shouldn't have any issues flying with breast milk or formula on your outbound trip from the U.S. , as regular Transportation Security Administration liquid regulations don't apply to these special liquids. According to the TSA , "reasonable quantities" of these liquids are allowed, but you must take them out during screening for the security officer to test.

You can look up rules to see what's allowed when returning from your destination. For example, the United Kingdom allows breast milk past security in containers up to 2,000 milliliters. You can also take formula, milk and bottled water for the baby, but the baby must be present. In the European Union , you can take breast milk and formula through security and when flying as long as your baby is traveling with you.

Your airline may also provide clarity on these types of rules. Cathay Pacific, for example, states that breastfeeding is allowed during all phases of the flight, using an electric pump is allowed once electric devices can be switched on and travelers can even bring along suitably packed dry ice to refrigerate expressed milk, assuming it's declared during check-in.

According to some airlines, if you're taking a large breast pump along, this may count as a medical device and not be part of your carry-on allowance, but these regulations often aren't very clear. Contact your airline for more information and print out the rules in case you have any issues during security screening or boarding.

If you're traveling from a very obscure destination within an emerging country and you can't find answers about bringing breast milk, it may be best to have a Plan B in place, such as bringing along enough formula in powder form to last you for the flight or planning to pump or breastfeed in flight.

Should you want to ship your breast milk abroad, options are available for you depending on your destination, such as Maven Milk and Milk Stork .

Book accommodations

When booking accommodations in your destination abroad, take things into account like baby necessities, baby-friendly items, the option to do laundry and the availability to heat, cool and store milk and formula. Choosing a vacation rental instead of a hotel may be the right idea if you need more space, a kitchen and laundry facilities.

If your baby is eating solid foods, make sure there are restaurants or supermarkets nearby where you can get exactly what you need. Doing a little pre-trip research can help you feel confident and comfortable when traveling with your baby regardless of which hotel or home rental you choose to stay in.

Pack strategically

Packing with a baby can seem precarious, but it doesn't have to be. Just make sure you have enough of everything you need to get through the flight, plus a bit extra in case of delays or cancellations. For an exact list of everything you need to pack, see this article on how to pack -- and prepare -- for travel with a baby .

For extra-long flights, try to have everything to help your baby comfortably nap on hand, like a lovey, blanket, pacifier and more. Have changes of clothes on hand for the whole family in case of a messy situation, and enough layers for a plane that may be hot or chilly. A baby carrier can be key, too.

When packing for a trip abroad, the most important items to remember are everyone's passport, visa and key documents, plus anything essential that you know you can't get in another country. Babies live all over the world, so you can easily get items like diapers, wipes, formula and more anywhere. However, you may not find the exact brand you want, or if you're going somewhere rural or far-flung, like on a safari in Africa, you may want to bring enough for your entire trip.

For example, Enfamil, a popular baby formula brand, is found all over Europe and even in the Caribbean and Latin America. However, it may not be available in Africa or Asia, so do your homework.

If you're traveling with items that need to plug in to charge, like a breast pump, baby monitor or nightlight, bring converters if necessary. You can always rent baby items abroad, too, rather than lugging everything along with you. It's possible to preorder diapers and wipes in many destinations, as well.

Strongly consider travel insurance

Things happen. While getting the flu abroad may not be a big deal for an adult, a sick baby can be scary and stressful, especially if you're in a foreign country. Having travel insurance that covers accidents and emergencies -- and COVID-19, too -- can set your mind at ease and save the day if something happens.

Before travel, note where the nearest hospital or health care facilities are, as well as any international hospitals where staff may be more likely to speak English. Know exactly how to use your insurance, like what numbers to call or what to do if a situation arises. Check if any of your credit cards have travel insurance that may cover you and your family if things go awry.

Plan for jet lag

Jet lag stinks. Jet lag with a baby might be even worse. There are things you can do to make jet lag a little less stressful, though, especially when traveling abroad to very different time zones.

First, give yourselves a few days to adjust, planning big events later in the trip. Limit your baby's naps when possible. If your baby takes a five-hour nap, they definitely won't be sleeping through the night.

Shift mealtimes, naptimes and bedtimes to the new time zone as quickly as possible, getting daylight during the day and darkness at night, so internal clocks begin to adjust for the whole family. If the time zone difference is small, you may want to keep your baby on the original time zone to minimize disruption, especially for a shorter trip.

For more tips on combating jet lag with a baby in tow, read this guide on surviving jet lag with your baby .

Bottom line

Planning and taking an international trip with a baby can be simple and create memories for a lifetime if you prepare just right. With a little bit of extra research, you'll be armed with everything you need to know, do and bring to make your trip abroad smooth and hassle-free.

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Lebanon Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 31, 2024, lebanon - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to raise the Travel Advisory to Level 4: Do Not Travel, due to rising tensions between Hizballah and Israel.

Do Not Travel to Lebanon due to rising tensions between Hizballah and Israel . If you are in Lebanon, be prepared to shelter in place should the situation deteriorate. The U.S. Embassy strongly encourages U.S. citizens who are already in Southern Lebanon, near the borders with Syria, and/or in refugee settlements to depart.

Do Not Travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict . Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary : Country Summary: U.S. citizens already in Lebanon should be aware of the risks of remaining in the country and review their personal security plans.

U.S. citizens in Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut serious enough to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice.

Since October 8, Hizballah has conducted attacks against Israel that have escalated in recent weeks, culminating in a July 27 rocket attack on Majdal Shams, a town in the Golan Heights, which killed 12 children. This strike has increased the risk of further escalation between Hizballah and Israel.

The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated.

Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations.

Unexploded landmines and explosive remnants of war are a hazard along the border with Syria. Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked off with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions.

U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as these have the potential to turn violent quickly and with little notice. Protesters have blocked major roads, including thoroughfares between downtown Beirut and the area where the U.S. Embassy is located, and between Beirut and Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Lebanon.

If you decide to travel to Lebanon:

• Visit our website for information on   Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with kidnappers/hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped, or taken hostage.
• Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
• Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Lebanon.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Southern Lebanon – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There  (See map below)

The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid southern Lebanon and to depart if you are there; that is, all parts south of the city of Saida, to include inland areas, as illustrated in the map below. Cross-border rocket, missile, and artillery fire continues to impact southern Lebanon on a daily basis and has caused a significant number of fatalities and injuries.

Border with Syria – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There

The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanon-Syria border and to depart if you are there. This area has seen clashes between Lebanese security forces and Syrian-based violent extremist groups. The U.S. Department of State also warns U.S. citizens of the risk of traveling on flights that fly over Syria, which include some flights to and from Beirut.

Refugee Settlements – Level 4: Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There

The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to refugee settlements in Lebanon and depart if you are there. These settlements are prone to outbreaks of violence including shootings and explosions.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Around 10,000 US hotel workers strike over Labor Day weekend as contract talks break down

NEW YORK — Some 10,000 U.S. hotel workers began a multi-day strike in several cities on Sunday after contract talks with hotel operators Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, and Hyatt Hotels stalled, the Unite Here union said.

Unite Here, which represents workers in hotels, casinos, and airports across the United States and Canada, said thousands of workers at 24 hotels are on strike in some major travel destinations including San Francisco and San Diego in California, Hawaii's capital city Honolulu, Boston, Seattle, and Greenwich, Connecticut, with workers from additional cities ready to join the walkout as the Labor Day holiday weekend continues.

The strike is taking place with the industry facing a 9% increase in Labor Day weekend domestic travel compared to last year, according to AAA booking data.

"Strikes have also been authorized and could begin at any time" in Baltimore, New Haven, Oakland, and Providence, the union said in a statement, as hotel workers and operators struggle to agree on wages and on reversing pandemic-era job cuts.

Hotel workers are being stretched thin, according to the union, with management frequently assigning three staff members to do the job of four. This leads to undue stress and a focus on speed over service.

"Since COVID, they’re expecting us to give five-star service with three-star staff,” the union said, quoting a staff member at Marriott’s Palace Hotel in San Francisco.

Hotel housekeepers in Baltimore are fighting to bring wages up to $20 per hour from their current $16.20. In Boston, where housekeepers make $28 per hour, the union is seeking a $10 per hour raise by the end of four years.

Hilton and Hyatt said they remain committed to negotiating a fair agreement with the union.

Hyatt has contingency plans in place to minimize the impact on hotel operations related to potential strike activity, Michael D'Angelo, head of labor relations at the luxury hotel chain said in a statement.

Marriott did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The strike comes as 40,000 Unite Here hotel workers across 20 cities face expiring contracts this year. Negotiations for new four-year contracts have been taking place since May, and about 15,000 of those workers have authorized strikes in 12 markets.

"We won't accept a 'new normal' where hotel companies profit by cutting their offerings to guests and abandoning their commitments to workers," Unite Here President Gwen Mills said, demanding a better deal.

The union has urged travelers to cancel their hotel stays if the workers are on strike, and to demand penalty-free refunds.

Unite Here workers in 2023 won record contracts in Los Angeles following rolling strikes, and in Detroit after a 47-day strike.

Debt Free Family

Essential Travel Guidelines for Baby Boomers: 8 Rules to Follow for a Smooth Journey

Posted: September 2, 2024 | Last updated: September 2, 2024

Explore 8 essential travel tips tailored for Baby Boomers. From planning and packing to staying healthy and connected, these practical guidelines will help you navigate the globe with confidence, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

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Money blog: Oasis resale U-turn as official reseller lowers fee amid criticism

The Money blog is your place for consumer and personal finance news and tips. Today's posts include Twickets lowering fees for Oasis tickets, the extension of the Household Support Fund and O2 Priority axing free Greggs. Listen to a Daily podcast on the Oasis ticket troubles as you scroll.

Monday 2 September 2024 20:11, UK

• Oasis resale U-turn as Twickets lowers fee after criticism
• Millions to get cost of living payments this winter as scheme extended
• O2 Priority customers fume as Greggs perk scaled back
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

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Twickets has announced it is lowering its charges after some Oasis fans had to pay more than £100 in extra fees to buy official resale tickets.

The site is where the band themselves is directing people to buy second-hand tickets for face value - having warned people against unofficial third party sellers like StubHub and Viagogo.

One person branded the extra fees "ridiculous" (see more in 10.10 post), after many people had already been left disappointed at the weekend when Ticketmaster's dynamic pricing pushed tickets up by three times the original advertised fee.

Twickets said earlier that it typically charged a fee of 10-15% of the face value of the tickets.

But it has since said it will lower the charge due to "exceptional demand" from Oasis fans - taking ownership of an issue in a way fans will hope others follow. 

Richard Davies, Twickets founder, told the Money blog: "Due to the exceptional demand for the Oasis tour in 2025, Twickets have taken the decision to lower our booking fee to 10% and a 1% transactional fee (to cover bank charges) for all buyers of their tickets on our platform. In addition we have introduced a fee cap of £25 per ticket for these shows. Sellers of tickets already sell free of any Twickets charge.

"This ensures that Twickets remains hugely competitive against the secondary market, including sites such as Viagogo, Gigsberg and StubHub.

"Not only do these platforms inflate ticket prices way beyond their original face value but they also charge excessive booking fees, usually in the region of 30-40%. Twickets by comparison charges an average fee of around 12.5%"

The fee cap, which the Money blog understands is being implemented today, will apply to anyone who has already bought resale tickets through the site.

Mr Davies said Twickets was a "fan first" resale site and a "safe and affordable place" for people to trade unwanted tickets.

"The face value of a ticket is the total amount it was first purchased for, including any booking fee. Twickets does not set the face value price, that is determined by the event and the original ticketing company. The price listed on our platform is set by the seller, however no one is permitted to sell above the face-value on Twickets, and every ticket is checked before listing that it complies with this policy," he said.

Meanwhile, hundreds of people have complained to the regulator about how Oasis tickets were advertised ahead of going on sale. 

The Advertising Standards Authority said it had received 450 complaints about Ticketmaster adverts for the gigs.

Some  expressed their anger on social media , as tickets worth £148 were being sold for £355 on the site within hours of release, due to the "dynamic pricing" systems.

A spokesperson from ASA said the complainants argue that the adverts made "misleading claims about availability and pricing".

They added: "We're carefully assessing these complaints and, as such, can't comment any further at this time.

"To emphasise, we are not currently investigating these ads."

Ticketmaster said it does not set prices and its website says this is down to the "event organiser" who "has priced these tickets according to their market value".

Despite traditionally being an affordable staple of British cuisine, the average price for a portion of fish and chips has risen by more than 50% in the past five years to nearly £10, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Sonny and Shane "the codfather" Lee told Sky News of the challenges that owning J-Henry's Fish and Chip Shop brings and why prices have skyrocketed. 

"Potatoes, fish, utilities, cooking oil - so many things [are going up]," he said. 

Shane also said that he is used to one thing at a time increasing in price, but the outlook today sees multiple costs going up all at once.  

"Potatoes [were] priced right up to about £25 a bag - the previous year it was about £10 a bag," Sonny said, noting a bad harvest last year. 

He said the business had tried hake as a cheaper fish option, but that consumers continued to prefer the more traditional, but expensive, cod and haddock. 

"It's hard and we can we can absorb the cost to a certain extent, but some of it has to be passed on," Shane added. 

After a long Saturday for millions of Oasis fans in online queues, the culture secretary says surge pricing - which pushed the price of some tickets up by three times their original advertised value to nearly £400 - will be part of the government's review of the ticket market. 

On today's episode of the Daily podcast, host Niall Paterson speaks to secondary ticketing site Viagogo. While it wasn’t part of dynamic pricing, it has offered resale tickets for thousands of pounds since Saturday. 

Matt Drew from the company accepts the industry needs a full review, while Adam Webb, from the campaign group FanFair Alliance, explains the changes it would like to see.

We've covered the fallout of the Oasis sale extensively in the Money blog today - see the culture secretary's comments on the "utterly depressing" inflated pricing in our post at 6.37am, and Twickets, the official Oasis resale site, slammed by angry fans for its "ridiculous" added fees at 10.10am.

The growing backlash culminated in action from Twickets - the company said it would lower its charges after some fans had to pay more than £100 in extra fees for resale tickets (see post at 15.47).

Tap here to follow the Daily podcast - 20 minutes on the biggest stories every day

Last week we reported that employers will have to offer flexible working hours - including a four-day week - to all workers under new government plans.

To receive their full pay, employees would still have to work their full hours but compressed into a shorter working week - something some workplaces already do.

Currently, employees can request flexible hours as soon as they start at a company but employers are not legally obliged to agree.

The Labour government now wants to make it so employers have to offer flexible hours from day one, except where it is "not reasonably feasible".

You can read more of the details in this report by our politics team:

But what does the public think about this? We asked our followers on LinkedIn to give their thoughts in an unofficial poll.

It revealed that the overwhelming majority of people support the idea to compress the normal week's hours into fewer days - some 83% of followers said they'd choose this option over a standard five-day week.

But despite the poll showing a clear preference for a compressed week, our followers appeared divided in the comments.

"There's going to be a huge brain-drain as people move away from companies who refuse to adapt with the times and implement a 4 working week. This will be a HUGE carrot for many orgs," said Paul Burrows, principal software solutions manager at Reality Capture.

Louise McCudden, head of external affairs at MSI Reproductive Choices, said she wasn't surprised at the amount of people choosing longer hours over fewer days as "a lot of people" are working extra hours on a regular basis anyway.

But illustrator and administrative professional Leslie McGregor noted the plan wouldn't be possible in "quite a few industries and quite a few roles, especially jobs that are customer centric and require 'round the clock service' and are heavily reliant upon people in trades, maintenance, supply and transport". 

"Very wishful thinking," she said.

Paul Williamson had a similar view. He said: "I'd love to know how any customer first service business is going to manage this."

We reported earlier that anyone with O2 Priority will have their free weekly Greggs treats replaced by £1 monthly Greggs treats - see 6.21am post.

But did you know there are loads of other ways to get food from the nation's most popular takeaway for free or at a discount?

Downloading the Greggs app is a good place to start - as the bakery lists freebies, discounts and special offers there regularly. 

New users also get rewards just for signing up, so it's worth checking out. 

And there's a digital loyalty card which you can add virtual "stamps" to with each purchase to unlock discounts or other freebies.  

Vodafone rewards

Seriously begrudged Virgin Media O2 customers may want to consider switching providers. 

The Vodafone Rewards app, VeryMe, sometimes gives away free Greggs coffees, sausage rolls, sweet treats and more to customers.

Monzo bank account holders can grab a sausage roll (regular or vegan), regular sized hot drink, doughnut or muffin every week. 

Birthday cake

Again, you'll need the Greggs award app for this one - which will allow you to claim one free cupcake, cream cake or doughnut for your birthday each year.

Octopus customers

Octopus Energy customers with smart meters can claim one free drink each week, in-store from Greggs (or Caffè Nero).

The Greggs freebie must be a regular size hot drink.

Make new friends

If you're outgoing (and hungry), it may be worth befriending a Greggs staff member.

The staff discount at Greggs is 50% on own-produced goods and 25% off branded products. 

If you aren't already aware, Iceland offers four Greggs sausage rolls in a multi-pack for £3. 

That means, if you're happy to bake it yourself, you'll only be paying 74p per sausage roll. 

Millions of Britons could receive extra cash to help with the cost of living this winter after the government extended the Household Support Fund.

A £421m pot will be given to local councils in England to distribute, while £79m will go to the devolved administrations.

The fund will now be available until April 2025 having been due to run out this autumn.

Councils decide how to dish out their share of the fund but it's often via cash grants or vouchers.

Many councils also use the cash to work with local charities and community groups to provide residents with key appliances, school uniforms, cookery classes and items to improve energy efficiency in the home.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: "The £22bn blackhole inherited from the previous governments means we have to take tough decisions to fix the foundations of our economy.

"But extending the Household Support Fund is the right thing to do - provide targeted support for those who need it most as we head into the winter months."

The government has been criticised for withdrawing universal winter fuel payments for pensioners of up to £300 this winter - with people now needing to be in receipt of certain means-tested benefits to qualify.

People should contact their local council for details on how to apply for the Household Support Fund - they can find their council  here .

Lloyds Bank app appears to have gone down for many, with users unable to see their transactions. 

Down Detector, which monitors site outages, has seen more than 600 reports this morning.

It appears to be affecting online banking as well as the app.

There have been some suggestions the apparent issue could be due to an update.

Another disgruntled user said: "Absolutely disgusting!! I have an important payment to make and my banking is down. There was no warning given prior to this? Is it a regular maintenance? Impossible to get hold of someone to find out."

A Lloyds Bank spokesperson told Sky News: "We know some of our customers are having issues viewing their recent transactions and our app may be running slower than usual.

"We're sorry about this and we're working to have everything back to normal soon."

We had anger of unofficial resale prices, then Ticketmaster's dynamic pricing - and now fees on the official resale website are causing consternation among Oasis fans.

The band has encouraged anyone wanting resale tickets to buy them at face value from Ticketmaster or Twickets - after some appeared for £6,000 or more on other sites.

"Tickets appearing on other secondary ticketing sites are either counterfeit or will be cancelled by the promoters," Oasis said.

With that in mind, fans flocked to buy resale tickets from the sites mentioned above - only to find further fees are being added on. 

Mainly Oasis, a fan page, shared one image showing a Twickets fee for two tickets as high as £138.74. 

"Selling the in demand tickets completely goes against the whole point of their company too… never mind adding a ridiculous fee on top of that," the page shared. 

Fan Brad Mains shared a photo showing two tickets priced at £337.50 each (face value of around £150, but increased due to dynamic pricing on Saturday) - supplemented by a £101.24 Twickets fee. 

That left him with a grand total of £776.24 to pay for two tickets.

"Actually ridiculous this," he  said on X .

"Ticketmaster inflated price then sold for 'face value' on Twickets with a £100 fee. 2 x £150 face value tickets for £776, [this] should be illegal," he added. 

Twickets typically charges between 10-15% of the ticket value as its own fee. 

We have approached the company for comment.

Separately, the government is now looking at the practice of dynamic pricing - and we've had a response to that from the Competition and Markets Authority this morning.

It said: "We want fans to get a fair deal when they go to buy tickets on the secondary market and have already taken action against major resale websites to ensure consumer law is being followed properly. 

"But we think more protections are needed for consumers here, so it is positive that the government wants to address this. We now look forward to working with them to get the best outcomes for fans and fair-playing businesses."

Consumer protection law does not ban dynamic pricing and it is a widely used practice. However, the law also states that businesses should not mislead consumers about the price they must pay for a product, either by providing false or deceptive information or by leaving out important information or providing it too late.

By James Sillars , business reporter

It's a false start to the end of the summer holidays in the City.

While London is mostly back at work, trading is fairly subdued due to the US Labor (that's labour, as in work) Day holiday.

US markets will not open again until Tuesday.

There's little direction across Europe with the FTSE 100 trading nine points down at 8,365.

Leading the gainers was Rightmove - up 24%. The property search website is the subject of a possible cash and shares takeover offer by Australian rival REA.

The company is a division of Rupert Murdoch's News Corp.

One other point to note is the continuing fluctuation in oil prices.

Brent crude is 0.7% down at the start of the week at $76.

Dragging the cost lower is further evidence of weaker demand in China.

Australia's REA Group is considering a takeover of Rightmove, in a deal which could be worth about £4.36bn.

REA Group said in a statement this morning there are "clear similarities" between the companies, which have "highly aligned cultural values".

Rightmove is the UK's largest online property portal, while REA is Australia's largest property website. 

It employs more than 2,800 people and is majority-owned by Rupert Murdoch's News Corp,.

REA Group said: "REA sees a transformational opportunity to apply its globally leading capabilities and expertise to enhance customer and consumer value across the combined portfolio, and to create a global and diversified digital property company, with number one positions in Australia and the UK.

"There can be no certainty that an offer will be made, nor as to the terms on which any offer may be made."

Rightmove has been approached for comment.

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