Traveling With Baby Daddy: Should Your Girl Be Allowed?

Traveling with a baby can be challenging, and it's even more complicated when the baby's father is doing it alone. While some people may raise their eyebrows at the idea of a father traveling solo with his child, it's essential to recognize that parenting is not solely a mother's responsibility. Fathers are equally capable of caring for their children and should be encouraged to do so.

When it comes to the practical aspects of traveling with an infant, there are a few key considerations. Firstly, it's crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary documents, such as proof of relationship with the child and any required travel consents. Secondly, packing the right items is essential, including diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and entertainment for the baby. Finally, it's important to be prepared for challenges like ear pain during takeoff and landing and to adjust the baby's schedule accordingly.

Preparing for the practicalities and logistics of travelling with a baby

Travelling with a baby can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and planning, it can be a breeze. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the practicalities and logistics of travelling with a baby:

Before You Go:

First things first, make sure you have a valid passport for your baby, especially if you're travelling internationally. It's also a good idea to attach ID tags with your contact information to your baby's bags and gear, and consider investing in GPS luggage trackers. Take out travel insurance that includes medical coverage for your trip and ensure your baby is covered by the policy. If your destination requires proof of vaccination, have your baby's medical records on hand.

Packing:

Now, let's talk about what to pack. It's important to bring enough nappies, wipes, and formula or breast milk to last the entire trip, plus some extras in case of delays. Pack comfortable and weather-appropriate clothes for your baby, as well as a soft, lightweight blanket or swaddle. Don't forget their favourite comforting items, such as a dummy or comforter. Bring a portable baby monitor if your baby will be sleeping in a separate room. A portable white noise machine can also be helpful if your baby is used to sleeping with white noise.

For yourself, pack a change of clothes in case of any spit-up incidents, and don't forget the snacks!

Transportation:

When it comes to transportation, there are a few options. If you're travelling by car, make sure you have a properly installed car seat and take breaks every two to three hours for diaper changes, feeding, and stretching your legs.

If you're travelling by plane, check with your airline about any age restrictions and their policies on bringing strollers, car seats, and other baby gear on board. You'll also need to screen all your baby's accessories, so factor in extra time for security checks. Most airlines allow you to bring diaper bags, breast pumps, and car seats on board in addition to your carry-on luggage.

Accommodation:

When booking accommodation, look for family-friendly options that offer amenities such as cribs, high chairs, and child-proofed rooms. If your accommodation doesn't provide a cot, pack a portable travel cot for your baby.

On the Journey:

To keep your baby entertained during the journey, bring their favourite toys and books, as well as a few new ones to keep them engaged. A tablet loaded with baby-friendly apps, videos, or cartoons can also be a lifesaver on long flights or waits.

Health and Safety:

Prioritising health and safety is crucial when travelling with a baby. Consult with your paediatrician before your trip to ensure your baby is in good health and up to date with vaccinations. Pack any necessary medications and a well-stocked first aid kit. Ensure the sleeping environment at your accommodation is safe for your baby and bring a portable crib or play yard if needed.

When it comes to food and water, opt for safe and hygienic options. If you're formula feeding, use pre-packaged formula or bring enough sterilised water and formula powder. Be cautious about giving your baby unfamiliar foods and always prioritise safe and well-cooked options.

By following these tips and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for both you and your baby.

Dealing with the reactions of strangers when travelling alone with a baby

Travelling alone with a baby can be daunting, and even scary, but it is possible and can be fun! It is likely that you will be stared at and asked a lot of questions by strangers, and you may even receive negative reactions from some people. However, many people will be impressed, and most will be very happy to help.

• Be prepared for attention: People will probably stare and ask you a lot of questions. This is normal, and most people mean well.
• Ignore negative comments: If someone is making comments because you decided to take your baby travelling, ignore them and carry on with your life.
• Be patient: Your baby may cry or make a fuss, and you may receive strange looks from other people. This is normal, and it is okay.
• Ask for help: Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Many people will be happy to assist you.
• Know your rights: Know your rights as a traveller with a baby. For example, if the airline's website says that you can take your foldable stroller on board, don't let the ground staff tell you that it's not allowed.
• Be flexible: Things may not always go according to plan when travelling with a baby. Be prepared to adapt to unexpected situations.
• Take breaks: Travelling with a baby can be tiring. Allow yourself to take breaks and don't try to do too much.
• Stay calm: If your baby is crying or fussing, stay calm and try to soothe them. Don't worry too much about what other people think.
• Be organised: Have all your important documents, food for the baby, and extra diapers with you. This will make your journey easier and less stressful.
• Be considerate: If your baby is disturbing other passengers, try to calm them down or move to a quieter area.

What documents you need when travelling with a baby

When travelling with a baby, you will need to ensure you have the correct documentation to make your journey as smooth as possible. Here is a list of the necessary documents to take with you when travelling with an infant:

Birth Certificate

The baby's birth certificate is the most acceptable form of ID when travelling within your country of residence. It proves the baby's age and parentage, so be sure that both parents' names are on the certificate, including the mother's maiden name. If you are travelling with an adopted baby, it is important to also have the child's adoption papers, which verify that the parent is the legal guardian of the baby.

Parent's Letter of Consent

If you are travelling without the baby's other parent or legal guardian, it is recommended to have a letter of consent from the other parent, stating that you have permission to travel with the baby. This is not always necessary, but it is important to consult with your airline to see if this step is required for your journey.

Passport

If you are travelling internationally, a birth certificate will not be sufficient, and your baby will need a valid passport. This is required by many countries, and no person, regardless of age, will be allowed on an international flight without one. It is also worth noting that some airlines will require a passport for a baby on domestic flights too. To obtain a passport, you will need to bring a completed application form, passport photo, and the required verification documents to the passport office. Both parents or guardians must sign the application form, and there is usually a fee to pay.

Child Travel Consent Form

A Child Travel Consent form provides proof that a baby has permission to travel without both legal guardians present. This is not always legally required, but it is highly recommended. Without it, your baby may not be allowed to travel in or out of the country. The form should include the child's contact information, both parents' contact information, the child's travel arrangement, and the child's destination. Having the form witnessed or notarised will decrease the chance of travel authorities questioning its validity.

Proof of Relationship

In addition to a passport and travel consent letter, it is recommended to carry proof of your relationship to the baby. This could be a birth certificate, court order, or adoption decree. This verifies the Child Travel Consent form. If you are a separated parent, you should carry guardianship forms and a copy of your custody arrangements. If the other parent is deceased, you should present a copy of their death certificate.

Medical Release Form

Some airlines will require a medical release form or a physician's note if your baby is under a certain age, usually 7-14 days old. This is to ensure that the baby is cleared to fly.

How to keep a baby entertained when travelling

Travelling with a baby can be a challenging task, but with some preparation, it can be made much easier. Here are some tips to keep a baby entertained while travelling:

Timing is key

Try to plan your departure time right after the baby wakes up and has had a nap, a meal, and a fresh diaper change. This will ensure they start the journey in a good mood and with plenty of energy. It is also recommended to break up the journey with regular stops every 2-3 hours to allow the baby to move around, get some fresh air, and have a diaper change.

Create a travel bag of toys

Pack a small bag with a variety of open-ended toys that can be used in different ways and require creativity to play with, such as blocks, colourful scarves, stacking cups, small cars, rubber animals, or a baby ball with sensory scarves inside. You can also include everyday items that babies find entertaining, like hats or cups. Don't give the baby too many options at once, as this can overwhelm them and cause them to lose interest. Instead, rotate the toys to keep them engaged.

Snack time

Food can be a great distraction and a way to buy some extra time during travel. Bring a variety of healthy snacks that the baby enjoys, such as puffs, crackers, fruit, pouches, and milk. For older babies who have started solids, consider bringing a snack sorter or interactive snack containers to make snack time more engaging and entertaining.

Music and singing

Babies love music and singing! Create a road trip playlist of songs that will make your baby smile or sleepy, and let them hold your phone like a boombox. You can also bring a simple travel sound machine or use a music streaming or video app on a tablet or phone.

Interactive time

If possible, have one parent sit in the backseat with the baby to keep them company and engaged. Play with them, make silly faces, and interact with the toys together. This will help the baby feel comforted and entertained during the journey.

Screen time

While it is recommended to limit screen time for babies, especially under 18 months, portable devices like tablets or phones can be a lifesaver during travel. Pre-download some educational apps, read-along stories, puzzles, or kid-friendly movies and shows. Just make sure to also pack charging cords and portable chargers to avoid running out of battery.

By following these tips and adapting them to your baby's preferences and needs, you can make travel time more enjoyable and engaging for both you and your little one.

The benefits of travelling with a baby

Travelling with a baby can be a stressful experience, but it also has many benefits. Here are some reasons why taking your baby on your travels can be a positive experience:

Learning to Compromise as a Family

When travelling with a baby, it's important to find ways to keep everyone happy. This may involve making compromises and accommodating the baby's needs, such as ensuring they get enough play time during the trip. For example, instead of spending all day visiting a famous landmark, you might spend a little less time there and a little more time at a baby-friendly playground nearby.

Building Confidence as Parents

Taking your baby on their first plane ride or to a new country can be intimidating. However, navigating new and unusual circumstances as parents and learning to adapt to keep your baby happy, healthy and developing can help build your confidence as parents. This confidence can then carry over into your normal lives back home.

Sharing New Experiences as a Family

Travelling with a baby allows you to share new experiences and create lasting memories as a family. While your baby may not remember the trip, they can look back on photos and see a happy family who loves sharing new experiences together.

Developing Your Family Identity

Travelling with a baby doesn't mean you have to change who you are or give up the things you love. You can continue to pursue your passions and interests, and your baby will grow up exposed to a variety of experiences and environments.

Learning to be Flexible

Travel can be stressful, and even more so when you have a little one in tow. Things don't always go according to plan, and this can cause extra stress when you have a baby to worry about. However, travelling as a family can help you learn to be more flexible and effectively deal with stress.

Quality Family Time

Travelling with a baby allows you to enjoy quality time together as a family, without the distractions of daily life such as errands, to-do lists and household chores.

Infant Brain Development

Exposing your baby to new sights, sounds and smells through travel can stimulate their brain development. Babies are constantly learning and absorbing new things, and travelling to new places can provide them with a wealth of new experiences and stimuli.

Introducing Flexibility to Your Baby's Routines

While having a consistent routine is important for babies, it's also beneficial to introduce some variety. Travelling provides an opportunity to do this, as your baby will need to adapt to new sleeping arrangements, environments and schedules. This can help them become more flexible and less dependent on specific conditions or routines.

Cheaper Travel

Most airlines don't require you to purchase a seat for infants under 2 years old, making travelling with a baby a more affordable option. Additionally, you won't have to pay for additional meals, beds or entrance fees for your baby.

Easier to Handle Tantrums

While babies can be challenging, their outbursts are usually for understandable reasons such as hunger or exhaustion. They are also more portable, as you can carry them in a front pack or hiking backpack. Toddlers, on the other hand, may have temper tantrums due to things like not being allowed to push the elevator button, and they are more difficult to carry for long periods.

Jump-Starting Language Skills

According to a 2014 study, exposing babies to "rich, varied" environments can promote early language skills. Travelling to new places and exposing your baby to different languages, cultures and people can provide this type of stimulating environment and help jump-start their language development.

Teaching Them to Adapt

Travelling with a baby can help shape them into adaptable little travellers. They will learn to sleep in different environments, deal with changes in routine, and handle the challenges of being on the move. These skills will benefit them not only during the trip but also in their everyday lives.

Frequently asked questions