Planning overseas trips with little ones: tips & packing guide

They say when you become parents, “you can kiss your travel days goodbye.” As an avid lover of travelling and wandering the world, I was deadset on proving this old saying wrong. When my firstborn was just three and a half months old, our family of three took off on a round-the-world adventure. When my son came into the world, we did it again. From short stints to our Aussie neighbours to the other side of the globe, we have learned a few things along the way.

Don’t be afraid to travel with your little ones. Use the advice below to make the trip as smooth as possible so you can embrace the incredible time together.

Before the trip

Trip planning

I can’t tell you where to go on your travels, but take the time to search for kid-friendly activities in your destination. If you’re heading to a big city, think about how you’ll get around. If you’re taking public transport, consider using a baby carrier or a travel stroller. If you need to hire a car, add car seats with the booking or look for companies in the area that hire them out. They are usually much cheaper than the car hire companies.

Another option is to book accommodation in the heart of the city, allowing you to walk to most destinations. Search for accommodation with free cots added to the room if you don’t want to lug around a travel cot. Think about getting a two-room place if you want your little one to nap in a separate room. Also, a kitchenette is super helpful for making yummy meals for your kids. Many hotels and resorts also offer babysitting if you and your partner want a night out!

If you’re relying on wifi when travelling, download offline maps for the area you’re in. Save a few places you’d like to go and access directions whenever needed. Finding a playground is always the top priority when we arrive somewhere new!

Are you heading to the beach on your overseas holiday? Check out these 19 beach hacks!

Passports, visas, and more

One of the first things I did when my daughter was born was to apply for her passport. Depending on your country, this could take up to eight weeks to receive. Check to see how long it will take before booking your international flights. We have cut it close by a week – I promise you don’t want that added stress.

Also, check if you need a visa for the country you are heading to. You may need a transit travel visa for layovers in a country like the USA. Also, download photos of your passports and visas and carry paper copies. On arrival, you may be asked for the address of where you are staying, have this on hand for a smoother immigration process.

Are you planning a road trip on your travels? Enjoy a smooth ride with these tips.

Booking flights

Long-haul flights can be intimidating for new parents, but I promise you, they don’t have to be scary. Book your longest flights at night for the best chance of your little ones sleeping the most. Sometimes these flights are plenty past bedtime, but the thrill of flying keeps them awake.

If you’re travelling across the globe with two back-to-back long flights, consider staying overnight in the connecting city. We did this via Kuala Lumpur by booking a family room at a pod hostel near the airport. We slept a few hours, stretched our legs, loaded up on more snacks and arrived back in New Zealand from London with zero jet lag!

Also, try to book the bassinet seat if you are travelling with an infant. These little floating baby cots attach to the bulkhead and give your arms a rest. They are not allowed to at take-off and landing, or if the plane hits turbulence which can disturb their sleep, but they are typically a massive help with babies!

Want to know what to bring on the plane ride? Head here for a carry-on packing list!

Before the flight

Give yourself plenty of extra time

Adding an extra person, especially a small one, means everything will take a little longer. Head to the airport earlier. Give yourself more wiggle time. Nappy changes happen (don’t forget your change mat!), spills happen, tantrums happen, and lines can be extra long, prepare for it all. Less stress always equals a better trip.

One bonus we found when travelling as a family of four across the US and Europe is that most security guards will let you cut the massive security queue and send you to a fast lane. Try looking a little frazzled upon entering the line and cross your fingers that they let you through!

Get the wiggles out

Before embarking on the plane, let your little ones run around. Most international airports have a designated kids zone to do just that. Check before you head to the airport, or just ask when you arrive.

If you have at least two adults, another great tip is to let one stand in line to check bags while the other walks around with the kids until it’s your turn at the counter. Let one adult board the plane and set up the seats, kids' toys, etc. while the other stays back with the kids waiting until the final call to board to reduce time in the seat.

Packing guide

When travelling with kids, it’s easy to overpack. It’s almost impossible not to, but I promise the fewer bags, the less stress.

• Try to stick to two checked bags (one per adult) sharing the space with your kids.
• Use bag organisers to organise everyone’s clothing.
• The Multitasker Nappy Backpack is the perfect carry-on, pack it with backup clothing, snacks and toys.
• Always pack a jumper and waterproofs for each member of the family regardless if you are heading somewhere balmy.
• Most airlines allow you to check three free items for kids, typically a pram, car seat and travel cot. In some cases, you can sub in a hiking baby carrier if you plan to bring one.
• If you’re seeing family or friends in another country, consider asking them if you could borrow items like this or hire them for a low price to save you the hassle.
• And don’t fret, if you leave something at home, you can always find it abroad.

It is doable to travel with all these items. Make sure to hire a car big enough for all the extra stuff and at the airport, grab the trolley on the way in!

Final takeaways

Patience is key.

Reminding yourself that it will all be ok is helpful.

Accepting and expecting you won’t get much sleep on the long hauls will make it easier.

Travel days might be challenging, but you will survive them.

The memories you create exploring new countries with your family will last a lifetime.

Embrace them, enjoy them and relax, you’re on holiday after all.

We hope that you enjoyed reading this blog article. Special thanks to Viktoria @viktoriawanders for writing her wonderful guide and to her husband Ryan for the photos. OiOi is a family run Australian business who have built a strong reputation over 25 years for designing Australia's best nappy bags and pram accessories. Follow us on Instagram @oioi_global for daily inspiration or subscribe to our newsletter for beautiful fortnightly emails.

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The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, should not be construed as medical advice and it is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author's employer, organisation, committee or other group or individual.