For those with older children, travelling abroad on a plane doesn’t pose too many problems but parents with a newborn baby or toddler will find holiday travel to and from the airport with their little one a real challenge. In this article we’ll provide you with some top tips for airport safety and comfort when travelling with a baby or toddler this summer plus a few products that will make your time at the airport as stress-free as possible.

Packing for your baby and toddler

In a recent survey, over 20% of parents stated that packing was the most stressful aspect of holiday travel and more than 60% were worried that travelling with a baby or toddler will mean they exceed their luggage allowance. If this sounds familiar then here are a few ideas to help.

Babies need a lot of kit and the majority of airlines won’t allow your infant their own luggage allowance if they’ve not been booked into a seat. Before you fly, check with your airline about infant baggage allowance so you’re not caught out when you check in. Some airlines will offer an extra 10kg of luggage if you’re travelling with an infant.

Try to only pack the baby essentials you’ll need for the airport and the flight i.e. nappies, formula, baby food, wipes etc. and pack them into one carry-on bag. You should be able to buy everything you need at your destination so don’t weigh yourself down with these items.

Recommended products

HippyChick Healthy Back Bag

The Healthy Bag has enough storage for all your baby essentials while on the move but is small enough as carry-on luggage for the flight. The bag also has a compact fold-away changing mat.

Bibi Disposable Feeding Bottles

These disposable feeding bottles are lightweight and compact providing a pre-sterilised solution for feeding your baby while travelling. Have these bottles with you on the flight and store your baby’s usual bottle with your suitcases.

Baby and toddler at the airport

With all the hustle and bustle of a busy airport it’s no wonder that nearly 40% of parents find it the most stressful part of holiday travel. Masses of people and hours to kill while waiting for your flight isn’t a scenario anyone wants to be in but it’s even worse with kids in tow. These tips and products may help ease the stress for you.

Give yourself plenty of time for checking in because having kids will make the process longer than you think. Take advantage of online check-in services now provided by many airlines especially if you’ve got an early flight.

Pack enough snacks and food for your baby or toddler to eat while at the airport and for the flight itself. Remember that liquids on a plane are limited to 100ml and need to be carried in a clear bag although baby milk, baby formula and baby food are all exempt. There is a ‘reasonable amount’ rule to baby formula, food and milk so don’t over pack however you should have enough to cover you for any possible flight delays.

One of the big worries with a toddler is that they’ll wander off without your knowledge and in a busy airport they can disappear from your sight in a second. Firstly, dress you kids in bright colours so they’ll be more easily spotted and attach ID bands and locator devices for added safety.

Recommended products

Safetots ID wristband

These single use wristbands are perfect for one-off trips as they’re lightweight and easily packable in your hand luggage. Your mobile number can be written onto the band which will make claiming your child easier should airport authorities find them on their own.

Stay Close Distance Monitor

The stay close monitor is great for toddlers aged 2 to 5 years because it acts as an audible alarm should your child stray from a designated safe area.