Traveling with a newborn: the essentials
Traveling with a newborn is entirely possible, as long as you adapt your preparation to their specific needs.
The gear that makes everything easier
- A lightweight travel crib, for a safe sleep space wherever you stay
- A baby carrier, more practical than a stroller in tight spaces or on public transport
- A dedicated travel toiletry and care kit, always ready to go
By plane
Book a bassinet seat early if the flight allows it, and have something ready to feed the baby during takeoff and landing to ease ear pressure.
By car
Plan a break roughly every 2 hours, a baby should never stay more than 2 consecutive hours in a car seat without a break, for both comfort and breathing safety.
Documents not to forget
A newborn needs their own passport or ID document to travel, even flying on a parent's lap. Also bring the health record and, for some destinations, a medical certificate confirming there's no contraindication to travel.
Flying, in practice
- Book a bassinet seat if the flight is over 4-5 hours, subject to availability and the baby's maximum weight
- Some airlines advise against flying before day 7 of life; check the exact policy before booking
- Cabin pressure can be uncomfortable on the ears, feeding during takeoff and landing helps equalize it
To prepare calmly for the first trips, Kickoala lets you add all the travel gear suited to a newborn to your registry.
