Traveling with a Baby: Pediatrician-Approved Tips for Stress-Free Trips
Should You Travel with a Baby?
It’s totally normal to feel nervous about taking your baby on their first trip, especially if they’re just a few months old. The good news? Traveling with a baby is often easier than traveling with a toddler! They eat, sleep, and snuggle… and repeat.
But there are some important things to keep in mind to keep your baby safe, comfortable, and calm on the go.
When Is It Safe to Travel with a Baby?
In general, I recommend waiting until your baby is at least 8 weeks old before flying or taking long road trips. Here’s why:
Their immune systems are still developing, and public spaces like airports or rest stops can expose them to viruses.
Newborns are harder to monitor if they get sick while you're away from your pediatrician.
The younger the baby, the harder it is to bounce back from disrupted feeding or sleep routines.
If you must travel earlier (for family or medical reasons), talk to your pediatrician. We can help you plan ahead safely.
Travel Essentials for Baby (and You)
Here’s a pediatrician-approved packing list that covers the basics:
In your diaper bag or carry-on:
Diapers + wipes (more than you think you'll need!)
Extra clothes for baby and you
Swaddle or light blanket
Pacifiers (bring extras)
Bottles, breast milk, or formula
Burp cloths + hand sanitizer
Infant Tylenol (just in case — check with your pediatrician first!)
Baby carrier or wrap for hands-free snuggles
For longer trips:
Portable sound machine
Lightweight stroller or car seat
Nursing cover or bottle cooler
Baby’s health insurance info + pediatrician contact
Pro tip: Pack like you're planning for a blowout, a spit-up, and a meltdown, and you’ll be golden.
Tips for Flying with a Baby
Flying doesn’t have to be scary. Here’s what I tell Curitas parents:
Feed during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure.
Baby-wear through security to keep your hands free.
Ask for early boarding. It gives you extra time to settle in.
Don’t stress if your baby cries. It happens, and most people are more understanding than you think.
If you're breastfeeding, nurse as usual — yes, even on the plane!
If you’re bringing pumped milk or formula, TSA rules allow it — no need to limit liquids.
Road Tripping with a Baby
Driving can be a great option, but it helps to plan for more breaks than usual:
Stop every 1.5 to 2 hours to feed, change, and stretch
Keep your baby’s car seat rear-facing and snug
Use a car mirror so you can see them from the front seat
Pack a small cooler with pumped milk or formula if needed
Make one adult the designated baby monitor while the other drives
Never leave your baby sleeping in the car seat outside the car. Car seats are for travel only, not prolonged naps.
What to Ask Your Pediatrician Before You Go
If you’re traveling with a baby, especially by plane, ask your pediatrician:
“Is my baby up to date on newborn checkups?”
“What medications or emergency supplies should I bring?”
“What symptoms should I watch for while we’re away?”
“Can I contact you if something comes up on the trip?”
Traveling with a baby might sound intimidating, but it’s totally doable with the right prep and mindset. Whether you're flying to see family or road-tripping to the beach, plan ahead, pack smart, and give yourself grace. Babies are more adaptable than we think — and you’ve got this!
Curitas Members Get Peace of Mind — Anytime
Need help prepping for baby’s first trip? Curitas Pediatrics offers personalized, concierge-style guidance so you’re never left Googling in the airport. If you’re a Curitas member, you can message me any time, even while you’re away!
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Follow @CuritasPediatrics on Instagram for pediatrician-approved advice in your feed — plus more from the Ask Dr. Alex series!
