Traveling with a baby might seem stressful—perhaps you’ve heard horror stories from other parents. But trust us, it can be an incredible bonding experience for your family. As parents who’ve traveled extensively with our three kids since they were newborns, we’re here to say it’s worth every minute. From flying at 3 months old to overseas trips at 7 weeks, we’ve done it all. If you’re feeling nervous about traveling with your little one, don’t worry. Here are the best places to travel with an infant and tips to make it a breeze!
- Why Travel with an Infant?
- Top Baby-Friendly Beach Destinations
- Best City Escapes for Families with Infants
- Nature-Focused Destinations
- All-Inclusive Resorts Catering to Families with Infants
- Use Maternity Leave For Dream Destinations
- Essential Tips for Traveling with an Infant
- Health and Safety
- Budget-Friendly Options for Infant Travel
- Practice Makes Perfect with Baby Travel
Why Travel with an Infant?
You’ve probably come across stories about the challenges of traveling with a baby—poopsies, jet lag, tantrums—sure, it happens. But there’s another side to the story. Infant travel can be very rewarding. Here’s why:
Bonding Experiences
- Uninterrupted family time away from daily distractions
- Create lasting memories through shared adventures
- Strengthen your family’s bond with new experiences
Developmental Benefits
- Stimulate your baby’s senses with new environments
- Encourage adaptability and flexibility (we’ve seen this since day one, but it’s a skill that builds as your baby grows)
- Boost cognitive development with diverse stimuli (the same way adults need a break from staring at the same four walls)
Creating Important Memories
- Capture adorable (and maybe not-so-adorable) photos
- Experience first-time moments you’ll treasure forever
- Start family traditions early
Personal Growth for Parents
- Develop patience and flexibility in new situations. If you thought you were patient before, well, babies put that to the test
- Sharpen problem-solving skills (like diaper blowouts on planes!)
- Gain confidence as a parent through unique challenges
Practical Reasons
- Babies are easier to travel with than toddlers (no chasing a runaway toddler around!)
- Infants are portable—no walking required
- Lap babies often fly for free
While it’s not always easy, the benefits of traveling with an infant far outweigh the challenges.
Top Baby-Friendly Beach Destinations
Beaches are perfect for traveling with an infant. The relaxed vibe and family-friendly resorts make for a low-stress vacation. Here are some of the best places to travel with an infant if you’re craving a beach escape:
Oahu, Hawaii
- Relaxation meets adventure
- Consistently warm weather with minimal rainfall
- Family-friendly hotels
Hotels in Oahu that cater to Babies and Families
Miami Beach, Florida
- Family-friendly resorts with baby amenities
- Quieter beaches in North Miami
- Parks and museums for little ones
Hotels in Miami that cater to Babies and Families
Barcelona, Spain
- Perfect mix of culture and beach relaxation
- Walkable areas and playgrounds
- Kid-friendly restaurants open late
Hotels in Barcelona that cater to Babies and Families
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
- Calm, clear beaches ideal for babies
- Variety of family friendly restaurants and shops
- Laid-back atmosphere
Hotels in Grand Cayman that cater to Babies and Families
Best City Escapes for Families with Infants
If you’re more of the urban adventurer type, these cities offer baby-friendly experiences and amenities, making them some of the best places to travel with an infant:
Portland, Oregon
- Nature meets city life
- Stroller friendly parks and trails (can personally recommend the Nature Playground at Westmoreland Park)
- Foodie paradise for parents (because donuts aren’t just for kids!)
Hotels in Portland that cater to Babies and Families
Tokyo, Japan
- Baby-friendly amenities in one of the safest cities
- Warm, welcoming culture where locals are always willing to help (we once had a total stranger follow us to the train station just to shield our baby from the rain using his umbrella).
- Unique family experiences
Hotels in Tokyo that cater to Babies and Families
Austin, Texas
- Food Trucks (because dining is just easier at a food truck than a fancy restaurant)
- Laid-back vibe with baby-friendly outdoor dining
- Kid-friendly hotels and outdoor activities
Hotels in Austin that cater to Babies and Families
London, England
- Plenty of green spaces for strolls (the Diana Memorial Fountain is not to be missed)
- Kid-friendly museums and cultural experiences (never too young to introduce a kid to Harry Potter)
- Rich history and culture to absorb
Hotels in London that cater to Babies and Families
Nature-Focused Destinations
If you’re craving fresh air, these nature-focused spots are some of the best places to travel with an infant for low-stress outdoor adventures:
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado:
- Gorgeous views and stroller-friendly trails
- Options for RV rentals and campgrounds
Hotels and Campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park that cater to Babies and Families
Banff, Canada
- Stunning landscapes for baby-wearing hikes
- Plenty of wildlife to engage infants
Hotels in Banff that cater to Babies and Families
Yellowstone National Park, Montana:
- Stroller-friendly trails, including the Grand Prismatic Hot Springs
- Exciting wildlife sightings
Hotels in Yellowstone that cater to Babies and Families
Costa Rica
- Adventure combined with relaxation
- Rich biodiversity and sensory experiences for babies
- New experiences to encounter, but enough familiarity to feel comfortable
Hotels in Costa Rica that cater to Babies and Families
All-Inclusive Resorts Catering to Families with Infants
Once you discover the magic of baby-friendly all-inclusives, you’ll never want to go back. Total game-changer for families traveling with infants, and beyond. Why? These are the biggest benefits I’ve noticed:
- If your baby gets cranky at dinner, your hotel room is just steps away.
- Need a break from the sun? Your room is right there.
- No need to pack a bajillion snacks or figure out transportation.
- Planning becomes a breeze – just show up and enjoy!
Here are some of the best places to travel with an infant if you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience:
Cancun, Mexico
- Soft sand and clear blue water
- Baby-friendly amenities like cribs, high chairs, and bottle warmers
- Some resorts offer private pools, perfect for nap time
- Many flights to Cancun every day, which may make it a budget pick for some
Hotels in Cancun that cater to Babies and Families
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic:
- Leading the pack in Caribbean all-inclusive resorts
- Beautiful beaches and unique culture
- Many resorts offer babysitting services, giving parents some downtime
Hotels in Punta Cana that cater to Babies and Families
Mallorca, Spain
- A unique all-inclusive destination often overlooked
- Experience Spanish culture while enjoying resort conveniences
- Great option for families looking to explore beyond Mexico and the Caribbean
Hotels in Mallorca that cater to Babies and Families
Use Maternity Leave For Dream Destinations
The reason we went to Japan twice when our two youngest were born? It’s far away (from the U.S.) and requires several vacation days to make the long flight worth it. So we utilized our maternity and paternity time off. If this option is available to you, go for it! Take the dream trip while you have the time off work. Here are some swoon worthy baby-friendly destinations to get you started:
Rome, Italy
- Rich in history, culture, and delicious food
- Perfect for stroller walks through ancient streets
- Enjoy that well-deserved glass of wine now that baby’s here!
Hotels in Rome that cater to Babies and Families
Kyoto, Japan
- Best of both worlds: history and nature
- Explore temples, shrines, and castles
- Bonus tip: Tatami mats make great impromptu baby beds
Hotels in Kyoto that cater to Babies and Families
Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Ideal for art lovers
- Vibrant, energetic city with plenty of parks
- Breastfeeding-friendly culture
Hotels in Buenos Aires that cater to Babies and Families
Bali, Indonesia
- Worth the long journey
- Offers lush jungles, gorgeous beaches, and rice terraces
- Extremely baby and kid-friendly culture
Hotels in Bali that cater to Babies and Families
Essential Tips for Traveling with an Infant
Planning a trip with a baby requires a little extra thought, but these tips will help you have a smooth experience:
Pack Smart, Pack Light
You will have an overwhelming desire to pack up your entire house. Resist the urge. What’s important here is to be intentional. Overpacking can make traveling harder, but underpacking can lead to stress. Focus on the essentials: diapers, wipes, baby food, and a few favorite toys. Bring enough changes of clothes for unexpected messes, but avoid accounting for every scenario possible. And remember, babies exist everywhere, so you’ll always be able to purchase more.
Choosing baby-friendly accommodations
Look for accommodations that provide amenities like cribs, high chairs, and fridges for infants. Opt for places with kitchenettes so you can easily prepare bottles or snacks. Many family-friendly hotels and resorts often have play areas and babysitting services.
Managing flights and transportation with an infant
Book flights during your baby’s usual nap time, if possible, and consider a window seat for more privacy. The best time to feed your little one is during takeoff and landing, to help with ear discomfort. If your baby has moved on to solid foods, snacks are always an easy win in a pinch. And as for the airport, take the stroller with you and gate check. It’ll come in handy as you navigate the airport.
Don’t Panic About routines while on vacation
Most conventional advice will tell you to stick closely to your routine. In our experience, that only leads to unnecessary stress for all. Babies can sense when mom or dad are tense. Traveling does not typically lend itself to strict schedules. And babies are highly adaptable if you give them the chance. I’m not recommending you write off your routine altogether, but if you are 10 minutes late for your feeding because you are boarding your flight, your baby will survive just fine.
Health and Safety
- Vaccinations: Consult with your pediatrician on any recommended vaccinations for your destination. Some vaccines require the infant be a certain age, and your pediatrician can offer you the best advice for these situations.
- Pediatrician Check-Up: Schedule a check-up before your trip to get sign off that your baby is in good health for travel. This is especially important for newborns and younger babies who are more susceptible to illness.
- Healthcare Facilities: Do some research and choose a destination with good healthcare facilities in case of medical emergencies.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers unexpected medical expenses or illnesses that may prevent you from traveling. Infants tend to get sick more often, so travel insurance can be a good investment.
- Research Urgent Care: Look for nearby urgent care centers in your destination city in the case of minor illnesses. We’ve not experienced this often, but is has happened for us a few times, and we were glad for the research we did upfront.
- Pack Essentials: Pack any infant medications you may need. We usually bring the top hits: baby tylenol and hydrocortisone. Consult with your pediatrician before you leave on which medications can be given at your baby’s age and proper doses. That way if the need should arise, it’s not a scramble in the moment.
- Sun Protection: Protect your infant’s skin from the sun by using infant sunscreen. We love Thinkbaby sunscreenfor its mineral based ingredients. However, if your baby is under 6 months, your pediatrician may recommend sun protection in the form of hats, rashguards, and shade.
Budget-Friendly Options for Infant Travel
Sometimes you want to get away, but without the high price tag. Completely fair–babies are expensive as is! Here are some ways to keep the costs down:
- Staycations: By exploring your local area, you can dip your toes into traveling with an infant. Choose somewhere close to home, and that’ll ease some of the stress. We did a staycation in Chicago and it was a blast! You end up exploring places that are essentially in your backyard and you never make it to.
- Off-season travel to popular destinations: Choosing off peak times will allow you to book your airfare and accommodations at lower prices. Also, smaller crowds will make it easier to navigate with your stroller and enjoy a slower pace.
- Utilizing credit card points and travel rewards: It’s like earning free money that you can spend on flights, hotels, or car rentals. Sign up for a new card and let the points roll in–even just for everyday purchases or bonus points. Save up your points and once you’re ready, splurge on a family trip using your points. It’s one of our favorite ways to save money because it’s so easy.
Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve
A head to head battle for two of our favorite family credit cards
Practice Makes Perfect with Baby Travel
Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, traveling with a baby in tow can feel overwhelming, and you may wonder if it’s worth it. It is. I promise you, it is. If you were to do a cost/benefit analysis here, you’d almost certainly find the benefits outweigh the costs. And with so many amazing baby-friendly destinations, you can pick the one you are most comfortable with.
Remember, the key to successful infant travel is preparation and flexibility. So pack those diapers, bring an extra change of clothes for the plane, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. It might not always be glamorous, but the memories you’ll create will last a lifetime. Don’t forget your camera!
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