Traveling With A Newborn: Uk Travel Tips For New Parents

Travelling with a newborn can be daunting, but it's safe to do so by car, plane, train, bus or other mass transit. In the UK, there are no standard regulations for how old a baby must be to travel, but most airlines will insist that your baby is at least two weeks old. If your baby is younger than this, some airlines may ask for a fit-to-fly letter from your doctor. If you gave birth by caesarean section, you may need to wait until after your six-week postnatal check-up before flying.

If you're travelling abroad, your baby will need a passport. In the UK, a child passport is valid for five years and it should take three weeks to get one, or one week if you use the fast-track service. You'll need two suitable passport photos of your child, as well as their full birth or adoption certificate, proof of British nationality, and any information regarding court orders.

If you're travelling by car, it's recommended that you use a car seat that has a five-point restraint system or harness and that faces to the rear. For longer car journeys of an hour or more, it's best to wait until your baby is three months or older.

If you're travelling by plane, it's recommended that you wait until your baby's immune system is better developed. This could be as soon as one month for full-term infants, but most doctors recommend waiting until your baby is two to six months old.

Travel by plane

Most airlines will allow babies to travel once they are two weeks old, but some will permit travel from as early as one week. If your baby is less than two weeks old, you may need a fit-to-fly letter from your doctor. If your baby was premature, you will need to count from their due date, not their birth date. If you gave birth by caesarean section, you may need to wait until after your six-week postnatal check-up.

Babies under two months old are too young to take anti-malarial medicine and those under six months cannot be vaccinated against yellow fever, so check with your GP if you are travelling to a country where vaccinations are needed.

If you are travelling internationally, your baby will need their own passport. It is also worth noting that some airlines require babies to have their own seat and car seat, so check with your airline before you book.

If you are breastfeeding, staying hydrated is essential. If you are pumping, pump extra and keep it on hand.

Take enough food, milk, or formula for the journey and the time it may take to clear customs at your destination. Airlines do not usually provide meals for infants.

To minimise pain in your baby's ears, feed them or give them a pacifier during take-off and landing.

Make sure your baby's vaccines are up to date and ask your GP if they need any additional vaccines depending on your destination.

Be sun-safe and protect your baby from harmful sun exposure. Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 and at least a four-star UVA protection rating. Use a wide-brimmed sun hat and sunglasses with the CE mark and British Standard Mark. Keep babies under six months old out of the sun completely and those over six months out of the midday sun between 11 am and 3 pm.

Offer your baby regular fluids to prevent dehydration. If you are breastfeeding, your baby will not need additional fluids. If you are formula-feeding or weaning your baby, offer them cool boiled water.

What to pack

• Birth certificate or passport
• Doctor's note (if applicable)
• Enough clothes for the whole journey, including two spare outfits
• A spare top for the parent, in case of spills
• Familiar toys, such as a teddy bear or stacking cups
• A travel cot or bassinet (you may be able to book one of these in advance)
• A car seat or AmSafe Child Restraint System (if purchasing a seat for your baby)
• Enough nappies (one per hour of the flight is recommended)
• First aid kit, including paracetamol suspension, ibuprofen suspension, barrier cream, a thermometer, and rehydration sachets
• Baby formula (if applicable)
• Breast pump (if applicable)
• Self-sterilising baby bottles (if applicable)

Travel by car

There are no real restrictions on travelling by car with a newborn, but it's a good idea to wait until your baby's immune system is fully developed, which is usually around 2-3 months. For shorter car journeys, such as local trips to the doctor or errands around town, it's safe to travel with a newborn from birth, provided they have no complicated medical issues.

When travelling by car with a newborn, it's important to take regular breaks for feeding, changing, and cuddling. It's also crucial to use an approved car seat that is manufactured for the baby's age and size. In the UK, the only time a child is allowed to ride without a car seat is in a taxi, minicab, minibus, coach, or van, in emergency situations, and when there is no room for another car seat.

To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, maintain a comfortable temperature in the car and pack essentials like diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and blankets. Plan for breaks to give everyone some rest and remember to keep your baby's neck supported with a rear-facing car seat or a soft carrier.

If you're taking a long-distance trip, it's advisable to wait until your baby is at at least 2-3 months old, as their immune system will be more mature, and they will have longer periods of happy wakefulness, making the journey easier.

General Tips for Travelling with a Newborn

• Always get approval from your doctor or pediatrician before travelling, especially if your baby is less than six months old or has any health conditions.
• Keep your baby's vaccines up to date and consult your healthcare provider about any additional vaccines needed for your destination.
• Protect your baby from the sun with appropriate clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Avoid sun exposure for babies under six months old and keep older babies out of the midday sun.
• Offer your baby regular fluids to prevent dehydration, especially in warm climates. Breastfed babies usually get enough fluids, but formula-fed or weaned babies may need extra water.
• Be mindful of food safety when travelling abroad. Avoid raw or undercooked foods, including shellfish, and ensure that cooked foods are thoroughly cooked and served fresh.
• Pack essential items like a car seat, travel cot, baby food, and a first aid kit. The first aid kit should include items like paracetamol suspension, ibuprofen suspension, barrier cream, a thermometer, and rehydration sachets.
• If formula feeding, familiarise yourself with safe formula preparation guidelines, especially when travelling abroad. Use boiled water to make formula, and check the sodium and sulphate levels in bottled water to ensure it's safe for your baby.
• Sterilise your baby's feeding equipment, especially when travelling to places with varying hygiene standards.
• Always carry essential travel documentation, including passports, health insurance cards, and, if applicable, a doctor's letter stating that your baby is fit to fly.

Travel by train

If you're planning to travel by train with your newborn, it's important to consult your paediatrician first. They will be able to advise you based on your baby's unique health needs and circumstances. Generally, it's recommended that babies avoid crowds if they are younger than three months old, as their immune systems are still developing. However, train travel is possible and can even be a great option for new families.

When travelling by train with a newborn, consider the following tips:

• Use a soft carrier to keep your baby close to you and allow for easy movement around the train.
• Research your train in advance to find out if there are any family-specific cars or facilities, such as changing tables or nursing areas.
• Store your luggage in the designated areas, but keep track of where you've stored items to avoid leaving anything behind when you disembark.
• Get on and off the train promptly by gathering all your items and being ready to exit as soon as the doors open.
• Choose a seat with extra legroom or a private compartment for more space and comfort.
• Pack all the essentials, including a fully stocked diaper bag, extra clothes, blankets, feeding supplies, and hand sanitiser.
• Be mindful of other passengers by minimising disruptions and respecting their space and comfort.

Remember to always prioritise your baby's safety and well-being, and don't hesitate to seek advice from healthcare professionals if you have any concerns.

Travel by boat

If you're an avid boater, you may be anxious about taking your newborn out on the water. However, many experienced boaters will tell you that having an infant on board is not as challenging as you might think. In fact, it's often easier than having an active toddler who has learned to crawl and run around! With a few extra safety precautions and the right gear, you can safely enjoy boating with your baby.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard's Office of Boating Safety, infants should not travel on a boat until they weigh at least 18 pounds and can wear a personal flotation device (PFD). This usually occurs when babies are between 4 and 11 months old. However, there is no reason why you can't have a newborn on a boat that is docked, anchored, or moving slowly (at no-wake zone speeds of 6 MPH), as long as they are wearing an infant life jacket designed for infants under 30 lbs. These life jackets have a built-in "heads-up" cushion with a loop handle and a strap that goes between the legs to keep the jacket from sliding up, ensuring the infant's head stays out of the water.

When boating with a newborn, it is crucial to follow essential safety measures. Never place your infant in a car seat or other non-floating device while cruising on a boat. Always ensure your baby is securely wearing an infant life jacket, even when the boat is docked or anchored. When boarding or disembarking, it is recommended to pass the baby to someone already on the boat while they are wearing the life jacket, or hold them tightly in your arms with someone assisting you.

Onboard the boat, it is safe to have your baby sit in an infant carrier or bouncer seat as long as the vessel is stable and not underway. Be sure to provide proper shading to protect your newborn's sensitive skin from the sun. Additionally, keep your baby well-hydrated and offer regular feeds to prevent dehydration.

Remember to familiarise yourself with the safety measures and fire exits of the boat, and always supervise your baby around open water, such as swimming pools or the sea.

Travel documentation

When travelling with a newborn, you will need to carry essential documentation with you. Here is a list of the documents you will need:

• Passport: If you are travelling abroad, your baby will need their own passport. In the UK, you can apply for your baby's first passport at the British Passport Office. It is recommended to apply for this well in advance, as it may take longer than adult passport renewals. Note that the passport photo will be valid for 5 years.
• Birth certificate: If the mother and baby have different surnames, you will need to carry a legal copy of the baby's birth certificate when travelling internationally without the baby's father.
• Doctor's note: If your baby is under 2 weeks old, some airlines may require a 'fit to fly' letter from your GP or midwife.
• Vaccination records: Keep your baby's vaccination records with you and ask your GP if any additional vaccines are needed based on your destination country.
• Travel insurance: It is recommended to get travel insurance when travelling with a newborn, especially for international travel, as it covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical emergencies.
• Parental consent: If you are divorced or have an adopted baby, you may need to produce legal documents such as adoption decrees or divorce decrees when applying for your baby's passport.
• Photo ID: Both parents will need to provide approved photo ID when applying for their baby's passport.

It is also essential to carry other important documents, such as your airline tickets or boarding passes, hotel reservations, and travel itineraries. Make sure to keep these documents secure and easily accessible during your travels.

Frequently asked questions