new born travel document

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

• Trying to Conceive
• Signs & Symptoms
• Pregnancy Tests
• Fertility Testing
• Fertility Treatment
• Weeks & Trimesters
• Staying Healthy
• Preparing for Baby
• Complications & Concerns
• Pregnancy Loss
• Breastfeeding
• School-Aged Kids
• Raising Kids
• Personal Stories
• Everyday Wellness
• Safety & First Aid
• Immunizations
• Food & Nutrition
• Active Play
• Pregnancy Products
• Nursery & Sleep Products
• Nursing & Feeding Products
• Clothing & Accessories
• Toys & Gifts
• Ovulation Calculator
• Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
• How to Talk About Postpartum Depression
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board

Does My Infant Need a Passport?

Tetra Images / Getty

• Infant Passport Requirements
• How to Apply

What to Bring With You

What comes next.

If you're planning an international trip with your infant soon, you may be wondering if your infant will need a passport to travel and what other rules and regulations you need to be aware of. Here's what you need to know about traveling internationally with a baby, including if you need an infant passport, what rules apply to travel with a newborn or infant, and how you can prepare.

Do Infants Need a Passport to Travel?

The short answer is yes.If you will be traveling internationally between countries, your infant will most likely need a passport in order to leave your home country and re-enter it. There are some exceptions to the general travel rule, however, such as traveling from the U.S. to Canada.

Minors under the age of 16 traveling from the U.S. into Canada are not required to have an official passport and only need their birth certificate as an official document to enter and exit the country.

If you are planning to travel to most places outside of your home country with an infant or any child under the age of 16, however, you will need to plan to obtain a passport for everyone you are traveling with before you go—including your child.

How to Apply for an Infant Passport

You will need to apply for your infant's passport in-person; parents and caregivers cannot apply for an infant passport over the phone, via mail, or online at this time. As an adult, you may have the option to apply for a new or renewed passport via mail or in some states online for yourself, but for infants, you will still have to visit an acceptance facility in your area.

You can search the U.S. Department of State's Travel website to find a passport acceptance facility near you. In many situations, your local post office may also be able to perform passport processing, although you will want to verify that before you go.

Some passport processing facilities will also require that you make an appointment ahead of time to apply for a passport, so be sure to check the rules and schedule an appointment if your facility requires it. And, lastly, if you need your infant's passport very quickly, you will have to visit an expedited passport processing facility and be prepared to pay an additional fee (around $60) to get the expedited passport.

The main application for an infant passport is Form DS-11.

As of March 2020, Forms DS-11, DS-3053, and DS-5525 are expired, but according to the U.S. Department of State, parents may continue to use these forms to apply for passports for children under 16 years of age. The DOS will post updated versions of the form online when available.

Form DS-11 has to be completed in person for all first-time passport applicants, including minors and infants. You can print out a copy of the PDF version of the form on the U.S. Department of State's Travel website or use the online form generator to fill it out in your computer browser as well, then print it out.

If you choose to pre-fill the form, however, you should not sign the application until you are in the office in-person applying for the passport. The form is two pages long and fairly straightforward to fill out with your personal information.

If you plan on traveling frequently with your baby, when you apply for the passport, you can mark the checkbox "Large Book (Non-Standard)" at the top of the form to request a larger passport with more pages.

Before your appointment to get your infant a passport, assemble everything you need to bring. The last thing you want to do is wait in line with your baby to get a passport only to have to do it all over again because of a missing document. Here's what you need to bring with you:

• Your baby's official birth certificate : You will need the official birth certificate and, as a safeguard, you may want to bring along a digital back-up and a photocopy of the original as well.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship : If you are traveling fairly soon after your baby's birth, you may not have your infant's official birth certificate yet. In that case, you can try calling the local county clerk's office to see if it is possible to expedite the process or if they have any recommendations for a verified form you can get instead. If your child does not have a U.S. birth certificate, the forms of Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth or a Certificate of Citizenship are also allowed to be used. In some situations, there are different documents that can be used as proof of citizenship, including family or religious records, such as doctor forms, baptism announcements, or even personal registers. You can also use a prior U.S. passport, even if expired, as proof of U.S. citizenship.
• Your baby's social security number : Again, if your baby doesn't have a Social Security number yet, which can take weeks after birth as well, you can still apply for a passport according to the U.S. Department of State by providing a signed and dated statement that says, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: (Child's full name) has never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.”
• All legal parents : If one of the legal parents is unable to apply in-person for the passport, that parent will be required to fill out an absentee form Form DS-3053, if applicable. If you are the only legal guardian of your child, you will also need to bring documentation proving that fact, such as a birth certificate with only your name on it, or a court order granting sole guardianship. In addition to being physically present, both legal guardians must also bring their own form of proof of identification and citizenship, such as an in-state, valid driver's license, a valid or expired, undamaged, U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship, a Government employee ID, military ID, current foreign passport, or Matricula Consular. In some cases, if neither parent is available to appear with the infant, a third-party may be able to apply for the passport for the infant.
• A passport photo : There are very specific rules surrounding passport photos for infants. The U.S. Department website advises parents to either place the baby down a plain white sheet for the photo or line a car seat with a white sheet or blanket before taking the photo. The infant should be facing the camera and no one else can be in the photo. You should bring the photo, but don't staple it or attach it to the passport form application.
• Photocopies of everything : In addition to bringing the original proof of citizenship, you have to bring an 8 x 11, plain black and white photocopy of all documents , your own ID included, that you are providing. The photocopy stays with the application and while it is officially not required, if you don't provide it, it will delay the passport processing. If you don't bring a photocopy, you will also need a secondary proof of U.S. citizenship. No photocopy can be double-sided.

After you pay your passport fees (the cost is around $115 for normal processing), you will receive the infant's official passport in the mail. Seven to 10 days after you've completed the application, you can track the status of your child's passport application online or by calling.

Once you have your passport for your infant and yourself, you can see the world together! Your little one's passport is only good for five years, so you will need to be sure to update it or apply for a new one after that.

A Word From Verywell

If you will be traveling with an infant out of the country, your baby will most likely need their own passport in order to be granted entry to and exit from a new country. All infant passports have to be applied for in-person, so be sure to plan accordingly before your travel dates. We know that traveling with an infant, especially for the first time and to a foreign place, can be stressful for a lot of parents.

With a little extra preparation to ensure your baby has their passport, you can help make the travel process as smooth as possible—and help your little one get that first stamp on their passport.

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs. Frequently asked questions: children under 16 .

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs. Canada international travel information .

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs. Get my passport fast .

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs. DS-11 U.S. passport application .

By Chaunie Brusie, RN, BSN Chaunie Brusie is a registered nurse with experience in long-term, critical care, and obstetrical and pediatric nursing.

• About the Blogger
• About the Globetrotters
• Community Groups
• Privacy Policy
• PR & Media Inquiries
• Guest Opportunities
• Giveaways & Offers

• Best Destinations
• Explore My City
• Australia & Oceania
• Middle East
• Pregnancy Travel
• Baby Travel
• Toddler Travel
• Tween & Teen Travel
• Theme Park Travel
• Travel Health
• Travel Photography
• Flying with Kids
• Beach Vacation
• Camping, Hiking & Outdoor Adventures
• Travel Toys
• Baby Travel Gear
• Toddler Travel Gear
• Outdoor Gear
• Airline Reviews
• Accommodation Reviews
• Attraction Reviews
• Book Reviews
• Travel Gifts
• Packing Lists
• Expat Life Blog
• Expat Money Matters
• Global Parenting Interviews
• Expat Entrepreneurs
• Family Life in Abu Dhabi
• Booking Tools

Ultimate Baby Travel Checklist {+ printable packing guide}

Essential items not to forget traveling with a baby

Ready for your first big family adventure with your baby? Undoubtedly some wonderful memories to be made but the packing alone can be a daunting prospect before you’ve even left the house. Babies really do come with a lot of STUFF!

We talked about the most essentials items for baby travel in some detail before , but in this bumper guide, we’re going to dig into the nitty-gritty details of every item you need to think about packing with a baby, along with the WHY – or WHY NOT!

For some more specific travel checklists make sure you also check out:

• Essential gear you will need camping with a baby
• Hiking with a baby essentials
• Baby at the beach – essential gear and safety tips
• Essentials you’ll need for a road trip with a baby
• Taking off on your first flight with a baby

There’s no one right solution – your ‘nice to have item’ could be another tots absolute essential so base it on your families needs and adapt our suggested packing checklist to make it your own; but most importantly try and avoid the overpack!!

This post is part of our packing list series & also our best baby travel advice series – packed full of useful tips for first time family travellers

What to include in your baby travel checklist

• Documents and Paperwork Before You Go
• Feeding Gear
• On the Move
• Bath and Bedtime
• Pool & Beach
• Baby Travel Toys
• Camping, Hiking & Outdoors

Before you go… More baby travel advice

NB – Many baby items are called all different things around the world! We know most of our readers are from the US so try and use the American name but we will slip in some of our Aussie and British expressions for baby gear too!! We’ve included some handy links to Amazon and some of our preferred baby gear suppliers, if you make a purchase we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

We suggest you work slowly through our printable checklist, cross out anything you definitely won’t need and use the spare lines to add anything vital to you.

It looks like a dauntingly long list but once you cross out anything unnecessary for the type of travel you’ll be undertaking it’s not too bad – but try to avoid too many unnecessary or ‘just in case’ extras. Remember people have babies all over the world!! You will almost certainly be covered if anything vital is forgotten.

We’ll ask you to subscribe to our newsletter too, but don’t worry we won’t bombard you. You can unsubscribe at any time if you just want the checklist 

Baby Travel Checklist: Documents and Paperwork Before You Go

Crossing any international borders with your baby there are plenty of considerations:

• Passport – Yes, even those adorably squidgy faces need a photo passport to travel overseas. Make sure you organise this well in advance of your proposed travel date. Consider whether you need a family passport holder to keep all your docs together now you’ve got several of you travelling in a group.
• Permission to fly letter – Crucial if one parent is flying without the other parent – married or not – you will want something that documents you are allowed JUST IN CASE.
• Insurance – Never leave home without it! Covering delays and cancellations, accidental breakages, theft, baggage loss, and so much more, travel insurance is more critical than ever for family travellers. We use and recommend World Nomads for international travel .
• Visa – Some countries will require a Visa for your to visit for every person, even infants. Check if you can apply in advance or is it a visa on arrival. We always take a few spare passport photos in case they’re needed for these sorts of things.
• Airline tickets – Even if your infant will be travelling as a lap baby and sharing your seat, they still need to be ticketed for every flight. If you booked the flight before your child was born you’ll need to update the airline with your babies full details (including passport number if you’re flying internationally).

How soon can you fly with a baby? We cover flying with your baby in much more detail in this guide .

• Emergency Contact Details – Always have the important numbers you might need on your journey and at your destination near to hand. This includes hospitals/nearest doctor, insurance hotline, ambulance number. Over in our subscriber’s area , you can get your hands on our first aid travel checklist which includes a cutout card for placing all your emergency contact details, super handy to keep in your travel wallet alongside your passports, and a spare elsewhere in case passports are stolen.

Baby Travel Checklist – Feeding Gear

Feeding your baby away from home can be one of the more challenging areas of travelling with a baby, especially if you’ve hit the weaning stage and finding yourself in a juggling act between boobs, bottles and bringing along your own pureed food.

For more advice on feeding your infant on the move, you may also want to check out our detailed guides to breastfeeding on the move and bottle feeding away from home .

This feeding checklist list is pretty extensive – but oh so important! Make it less intimidating by crossing out any items not relevant to your baby’s age or feeding stage. Feeding items to consider packing for a baby:

Nursing Cover – Possibly one of our all-time favourite pieces of travel kit! Useful not only to give you and your baby some privacy while you feed, but a nursing cover can also be a super-versatile blackout or stroller cover, picnic blanket. We take a detailed look at the best types of nursing covers for travel here .

Portable Breast Pump – Whether you’re a regular pumper at home or not, there can be some great benefits to pumping while you travel, be it occasions you’ll find it difficult to feed on the move (just picture an epic hangry meltdown in the middle of a busy arrivals hall), or to keep up your milk supply while your baby is adjusting time zones. Find our guide to the best portable breast pumps for different types of travel here .

Bottle Warmer – Got a little one that only likes their milk when it’s at a certain temperature? A portable bottle warmer is great not only for bottle feeds but quickly heating baby meals too that you may have refrigerated for your journey. We take a much more in-depth look at what portable bottle warmers can do over here .

Muslin Burp Cloths – Oh so many uses! A bit like our nursing covers, these simple cloths have come EVERYWHERE with us for years, helpful for feeding times and sleeping or providing additional shade. A good pack of small and large muslin clothes is a travel baby essential.

Bottles – If your baby is bottle-fed in any way you will need a reasonable number of bottles with you with their favourite nibs. “Reasonable” is really down to circumstances and how often you’ll be able to wash and sterilise between feeds – we discuss it more in our travelling with a bottle-fed baby guide .

Bottle Cooler – Travelling with pre-pumped baby milk or cows milk? Then an insulated bottle chiller bag is essential for keeping your precious cargo chilled at the right temperature and ready for use. We talk in a lot more detail over here on how to transport breastmilk and the best milk cooler . Make sure this is easy to access and open for inspection if you pass through airport customs control.

Formula & Dispenser – Although we say you can get baby supplies anywhere in the world, we do know babies can be fussy and formula is one we always take with us if we can fit enough in our case for the duration of a trip. We find having a small formula dispenser in our travel bag already divided into portions one of our handiest pieces of baby travel gear.

Sterilising solution – For keeping your bottles clean on the move, consider these portable cold water bottle sterilising tablets or if space permits and you have the facilities at your destination, a portable microwave steriliser is one bulky item you won’t regret packing.

Portable High Chair – Weigh up whether it’s necessary or will you have adequate access to a high chair for mealtimes? This really depends on the type of travel you’ll be undertaking and the available facilities at your destination. Portable high chairs can be something that clamps onto the table, additions you add to a chair or a portable seat that sits on the ground. We take a much more detailed look at the right sort of high chair for your baby over here .

Washable Bibs – Either easy sponge clean or quick drying neoprene are ideal for traveling with a weaning baby.

Finger Food – Once your baby is upright and weaning, having a selection of quick grab snacks to stave off any munchies is essential (and this will be essential for many travelling years to come!). For the under 1’s, try yoghurt drops , cereal puffs , teether rusks .

We have a detailed guide here to our suggested healthy travel snacks .

Food pouches – We have found these pre-made pouches of pureed baby food are one of the easiest meal solutions when we are away from home without our baby food blender. For younger babies, we still spooned it into a bowl (or use one of these handy dispensing spoons ) while older infants can hold the packet on their own.

Platic bowl and spoon – This can be location dependent, but we always found it helpful to throw in our own bowl and spoon set for our infants. Even if they were joining in with a family meal out, you can give them their own portion in a bowl, you’ll just need to be sure you have the facilities to clean.

Sippy cup – Extra water on top of their milk feed is especially important in the heat ( you can see more of our tops for taking babies to hot climates here ).

Wet wipes/water wipes – Cleaning little fingers before mealtimes, wiping surfaces, faces, you name it we all know that these are one of the number one items in any parents arsenal, near or far from home!! Have an easy to grab purse pack of wipes with you always, as well as supplies you might keep in your diaper bag .

Washing brush and liquid – Think bottles, plastic containers, feeding spoons. No matter what stage you’re at this is probably one of those overlooked items you’ll be super thankful for us suggesting! Just pour a small amount of dishwashing liquid into a carry bottle to last the number of days you’re away and something to actually clean with – we love these travel kits including a drying rack .

Baby Travel Checklist – Baby Gear On the Move

So how do you get about with your baby away from home? You may find many of your everyday pieces of baby transportation gear will perfectly suffice for the most part or depending on your type of travel you may find yourself needing to invest in some specific travel items.

We’ll talk through all the different items we’ve found useful, and where investing in something specifically for travel may pay off:

Baby Carrier – 100% this has to come in at number 1. Whether you’re a regular baby wearer or not, this is the most useful thing a travelling parent can bring with them. Being hands-free at times is a must and this keeps baby with you close and secure.

We’ll continue to harp on about this and insist you keep using one well into the toddler years and they no longer fit! Go with something like a Boba Baby Wrap when they’re a newborn (practice the technique for wraps though before you leave home and can still follow YouTube instructions !), graduating into a structured baby carrier that can be forward or rear-facing as your infant grows.

Collapsible Stroller – You may or may not need a separate travel stroller depending on what you use day-to-day. We have owned an obscene number of strollers over the years, trying to find ‘ the right one ‘ categorically, there is no one! Your needs change from newborns to multiple children to different location needs which differ from what you want near home – I know at home your stroller can be like your mini moving home! On the move, you’ve gotta get sleek.

We’d suggest if you use a larger pram or bassinet style stroller at home, you’ll want something lighter that comes in one piece (after 6 months or once sitting upright) for travel. The best types of lightweight collapsible strollers fold up so small you can even take them all the way onto an airplane with you. We compare all the leading brands of ultra-compact travel strollers here .

If you have twins or children close in age, a lightweight and portable double stroller is a must. We compare all our favourite double strollers for travel over here , or if you’re heading on camping and outdoor adventures you may be better off with a larger but more robust double jogging stroller .

Stroller organiser – Even when we’re travelling we love keeping organised! These stroller organisers are super handy for keeping everything from sippy cups to maps in an easy to grab spot. We also take a Mummy Hook everywhere we go – ideal for hanging bags and shopping (Just be mindful if you are using a lighter travel stroller, it may not be capable of holding the same capacity off the handlebar as your everyday stroller).

Car Seat – whatever mode of transport you’re taking, almost certainly you’ll need a seat for transporting your baby safely. If you’ll need your car seat for both the car and on a plane, we recommend you check out our comprehensive guide to car seats and which brands are actually allowed on board, along with their conditions of use.

Travel system – A great all-in-one solution when your baby is still very young and in an infant car seat/capsule, you can easily switch from car to stroller to plane if using an all-in-one system. We’ve had varied success with these over the years; they don’t last your baby for long, especially if you’d prefer a collapsible stroller once they’re out of their capsule.

The market leader in a convertible car seat-cum-stroller all in one is Doona , but it is a little pricey. In other models, you can mix and match any car seat with a stroller base (two pieces) and as they grow out of their car seat, it converts to a proper stroller seat you can insert instead. Not our preference for baby travel, we prefer the lighter weight collapsible stroller, but many swear by buying complete travel systems.

Car seat/infant capsule cover – Will you be travelling somewhere ultra sunny or somewhere very cold? To keep baby’s temperature regulated when you’re travelling with an infant in their seat, you may need additional sun protection or a cosy toe cover. We look at both hot and cold weather capsule covers for infants over here .

Car Seat Travel Bag – If you’re taking any sort of car seat with you and won’t be using it on the plane, then it will need checking into the hold. We highly recommend preventing damage to your car seat (nothing like sorting that out at 3am with a screaming baby when we first moved to the UAE) then protect it with a proper car seat travel bag . We love the Hello Jolie – reviewed in detail here – for a sturdy wheeled option making getting around the airport with your bulky gear a cinch.

Stroller Cover – Ditto if you’re checking your stroller in the hold of a plane it’s imperative to keep it protected – some of these devices cost more than my first car! If your stroller doesn’t come with its own travel bag then invest in one of these generic brands – the more you pay the longer they’ll last.

Suitcase with Seat – A fairly new invention for travelling parents, if you are checking your infant’s car seat and stroller but still need to get from A to B, consider these super handy suitcase seats from Mountian Buggy , suitable for larger infants.

Car Seat Trolley – The alternative if you will be taking your car seat onto the plane, consider getting a small trolley to tow your car seat , they are surprisingly heavy and difficult to manoeuvre without some help! This is where you can see you need your baby in a carrier rather than a stroller when getting about with all this baby gear!

Baby Travel Checklist – Changing, Bath and Bedtime

We have a much more detailed guide over here to helping kids sleep on planes , plus that all-important guidance on how to conquer jet lag which will expand on many of the suggested items below.

Keeping as close as you can to your babies normal schedule of nap times, bathing and sleep will help all of you to adjust when you are on vacation – but go easy on yourselves, too; if bedtime is an hour or two late, does it really matter?

You can adjust to your new normal but there are aspects of your routine you may want to keep the same as we know babies thrive on routine and knowing what comes next. Not every item in this section is essential but may help your baby with those routine parts of their day around getting changed, bathing and sleeping away from home.

Diapers – Although we’ve not mentioned it anywhere else so far, should go without saying that diapers or nappies are a baby travel essential! Cloth of disposable up to you, but if you’re using cloth just think about what facilities you’ll have on your journey for watching.

Diaper Bag – Should go without saying, you’ll need something to carry everything on this list! Although backpack baby diaper bags are pretty much the norm these days, we highly recommend when travelling with all this kit you have something you can carry hands-free. If your everyday diaper bag doesn’t meet this criterion, consider a separate travel bag. We run you through all our favourite travel diaper bag designs over here .

Changing Kit – We like to have a small easy-to-grab kit that can be separated from the main diaper bag. We keep this in the pocket in front of us on the plane, or under our stroller on days out, so much easier than dragging your whole bag to a bathroom. Keep your small kit well-stocked before every outing with hand sanitiser , disposable diaper bags , wipes and diaper paste for running repairs!

Portable Bath Tub – Maybe not essential for every type of trip. Always check what’s available at your destination before packing a portable tub as even the smallest of portable tubs can still be quite bulky. We look at different ways to wash bubs on the go and portable bathtub styles over here.

Baby toiletries – You’ll likely prefer your own sensitive skin baby soaps and shampoos over using hotel supplied freebies. Bring with you small containers of everything you need. We also throw in some basics like cotton wool, nail clippers, extra diaper paste/Sudocrem and baby panadol.

Swaddle – We double up using the large muslin clothes for our travels for feeding and sleeping times, they can be used for pretty much anything you want! If your baby is swaddled at home, definitely don’t be afraid to continue swaddling away from home too, even in hot climates we’ve always continued to use breathable cotton swaddles.

Sleeping Bag – Likewise if your baby sleeps best in their sleeping bag, this is one of those bulkier items to make space for in your case. If you are travelling to a different climate from home, check the tog rating, you may want an 0.5 tog sleeping bag in a hotter climate, or something thicker and quilted like this in a cold climate.

Portable Cot – A super bulky but essential item. Again, we always check whether this is something we can get at our destination rather than bringing our own. Only when we’re making multi-stop trips and sleeping in many locations do we bring our own for surety. The type of portable baby cot you use depends on how small your tot is. Under 6 months there are some cute sleeping tents , older infants you’ll want a complete baby travel cot that will stay with them through their toddler years; avoid the bulky pack ‘n play style cots unless it’s their play space too.

Cot sheets – If these won’t be provided at your destination or you’re using your own portable cot, best to BYO crib sheets .

Favourite cuddly – Maybe not your most prized teddy from home but a toy that they’re familiar with that will assist them in feeling familiar at bedtime and getting to sleep.

Pacifier – And if your baby needs a pacifier or dummy to soothe themselves off to sleep, of course, this is essential to bring their favourite! Plus spares! There’s no guarantee on finding their favourite brand at your destination if things go horribly wrong!!

Blackout curtain – Research before you go what the sleeping arrangements are. However, bringing a portable blackout curtain can be one of those bulky extras you simply won’t regret! Some babies simply won’t nod off and get the sleep cues unless it’s dark – and jet lag is simply no help to this!

Portable Monitor – We’re not suggesting being miles away from your bub; But you may want baby resting in another room while you finish out your day and to give you that extra peace of mind when noises and location are different for you all. If you’re not using a device through your mobile phone, try one of these portable baby monitor units .

Baby Travel Checklist – Clothing

If there’s one area you may well want to overpack it’s baby clothes! No matter how many outfits you think you’ll go through on a trip you can be sure your infant will go through more.

Consider how long you will be away for and whether you will need to use washing facilities or laundry services while you’re away, or will you try and pack everything you need for your entire trip? It’s hard to suggest exactly what you’ll need as it vastly varies by climate so work through our list considering:

• Short sleeve babygros/onesies
• Long babygros/onesies
• Socks/booties
• Cardigan/jumper

We have more handy hints over here on keeping organised with laundry needs while you travel.

Baby Travel Checklist – Pool & Beach

Heading to the pool or beach on your family vacation there are several more baby items you’ll want to consider packing:

Swim Diapers – Designed to keep your infant from having number 2 accidents, these come in disposable swim diapers or re-usable swim diapers. Reusable swim diapers are much easier to re-use and keep clean on the go than their everyday diapers.

Bathing suit – Are you going for something cute or is sun protection paramount? As we mention in our baby sun protection article , babies should be kept completely shaded and no sunscreen until 6 months, so a cute swim diaper is likely all they need as you keep them shaded and protected. As they grow – babies should really use a rashguard, not a cute bathing suit, if they’re in the direct sun.

Rashguard – So rashguards are long-sleeved swim tops that babies and toddlers should really be wearing when out in the direct sun at the pool or beach for the first few years. They can, of course, still be cute and colourful but will provide your baby with SPF50+ protection all over their shoulders, arms and bodies. You can optionally add longer shorts and swim pants for boys and girls, or go for an all-over bodysuit.

Floaties/Swim vest – When your little ones are ready to start taking to the water on their own they will still need help with keeping afloat in the waves. As well as any novelty floating device they might be using (with adult supervision, of course), it’s best your infant has a wearable floatation device. We look at the different types of infant swim vest over here .

Sunscreen – Once you’re baby’s skin can handle it, SPF50+ sun cream is essential out in the sun. Babies can still have very sensitive skin so look for the organic sunscreens made especially for babies, not always cheap but definitely worth it – reef-safe a bonus.

Sun Hat – Clearly an essential for keeping heads protected, you can find our favourite infant sunhats that work well in water here .

Sunglasses – Love ’em or hate ’em? Your baby will soon let you know! Out in the bright sunlight do try a pair of baby sunglasses with head strap on your infant to protect their eyes but many babies totally reject the idea of wearing something on their face! Give it a go!

Beach Shade – If you’ll be out in the sun with your baby for any period of time during the middle of the day then a pop-up baby sunshade can be an excellent idea for protection against UV rays, especially if their skin is still too sensitive for sunscreen. This added layer of protection will give your bubs a protected area to play in the sane. We compare leading brands of baby pop up tents over here .

Water Carrier – Taking baby into the water, especially if your hands are full with other kids, you’ll want an easy way to keep bubs close. These can be wraps, ring slings or more structured carriers in waterproof material. Find our complete comparison guide for water carriers over here .

Beach Toys – Go light! You don’t need to invest in every plastic contraption under the sun when they’re only a baby. Some simple shape moulds and a bucket and a spade are really all a baby needs for some fun in the sand, possible some stacking cups they can use in the bath too. Bring a mesh bag to keep them in and keep sand away from everything else in your family beach bag . As they grow, we have more toddler beach toy ideas over here.

Paddle pool – It might feel counterintuitive to go to the beach and take a pool but this can be a great way to keep little one cool whilst safe away from larger waves. A great combination to help your baby beat the heat but join in with the family at the beach is to pop them with their toys in a small inflatable paddle pool under your pop-up tent = baby beach day sorted!

Hooded towel – Cute hooded towels for drying off and keeping warm by the pool or beach are a must for babies. Remember they are not nearly as well-equipped for regulating their body temperature so you want to change them as soon as they’re done in the water and out of soggy clothing.

We have more detailed guidance on taking your baby to the beach over here, plus a detailed family packing list for the beach .

Baby Travel Checklist – Baby Travel Toys

Babies, on the whole, need very few toys when you’re travelling – shock, I know!! It’s the area I’ve seen most first-time parents chronically overpack. Trust me, the stimulation of new environments and your company alone is normally enough for most babies.

Understandably on really long flights or car journeys, you’ll want a few tricks up your sleeve so make sure you check out our best baby toys for flying . We also have several guides for travel toys by age group, check out our favourites for:

• Best travel toys for 1-year-olds
• Best travel toys for 2-year olds
• Engaging toddler toys for the car

The common theme you’ll find amongst our baby travel toy recommendations is small, portable, limited sound, no small parts and no electronics. We’ve included a selection of idea here but do go check out the detailed list for each age group – we’ve been specialising in baby toys for years!!

Baby Travel Checklist – camping, hiking & outdoors

If you’re planning a hiking or camping adventure with your baby (yes, it can be done!) then you’ll need to think about some more specialised kit including:

A Structured Baby Carrier – more than just your everyday soft infant carrier, for a hiking adventure with an infant you’ll want a structured carrier specially designed to cover long distances and wearing over an extended period of time.

A toy teether – keep your tot from dropping items to the ground when in their carrier or camp chair, a small but super-handy piece of kit to add to your outdoor arsenal.

Bug repellent – Choose something kind to little babies skin and DEET Free to keep those nasty bugs, mosquitoes and gnats away, or opt for mosquito repellent patches .

Camp chair – great for feeding on the go, picnics to camping we always took a portable chair with us. We’re currently loving the Summer Pop ‘n Sit for something easy, or if you’d like an outdoorsy portable highchair to last into the toddler years, try the Baby Delight Go With Me , a superb longer-term investment. We compare more outdoor baby chair options here .

Chair for Feeding – an optional extra if you’re a feeding mama out on a hike, it can be much easier for both of you to have a comfortable chair to sit on , though weigh this up of course with all the other gear you’ll be carrying

Rain cover for baby carrier – A little rain should never stop you from continuing to enjoy the great outdoors with your baby, just come weather prepared. If you don’t have a fitted rain cover on your carrier then get your baby a good weather-proof cover .

Shoes – Even pre-walkers will benefit from coverings on their feet for outdoor adventures. Most proper toddler hiking shoes don’t fit until at least a size 4, so go with a soft booty .

We have much more detailed guidance for hiking with your baby over here, plus a super-detailed gear guide for baby camping .

Thanks for sticking with us this far! A monster guide but we hope you’ve picked up lots of handy hints. You may also want to check out:

• Our complete guide to travelling with a baby – All our best baby travel advice in one spot
• Perfect gifts for the travel-loving parents-to-be – Give new parents a gift they can really use with this handy gift ideas list (+ how to set up a baby registry to get all the useful stuff you actually NEED!)
• Family guide to stress-free packing – How exactly we set up ready for a big overseas trip with little kids.
• Preparing your home before you travel – Don’t forget these important things that need taking care of around your home before a big vacation

Helpful? Bookmark this page or save it to Pinterest for later

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. You can read our full disclosure policy here.

© Our Globetrotters | Feature Images CanvaPro

Like it? Share it!

2 thoughts on “ Ultimate Baby Travel Checklist {+ printable packing guide} ”

I have tried downloading the Pirntable packing list fot baby 5 times now and it keeps on taking me to the subscribe page. Then I put in my details and I just get the “Thank you for subscribing” message and nothing else happens.

Hi Sonet – sorry to here this is happening, it’s possible the welcome email is going to your junk with the login. I will get this emailed to you now.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Travel Planning Center
• Ticket Changes & Refunds
• Airline Partners
• Check-in & Security
• Delta Sky Club®
• Airport Maps & Locations
• Flight Deals
• Flight Schedules
• Destinations
• Onboard Experience
• Delta Cruises
• Delta Vacations
• Delta Car Rentals
• Delta Stays
• Onboard Wi-Fi
• Delta Trip Protection
• How to Earn Miles
• How to Use Miles
• Buy or Transfer Miles
• Travel with Miles
• SkyMiles Partners & Offers
• SkyMiles Award Deals
• SkyMiles Credit Cards
• SkyMiles Airline Partners
• SkyMiles Program Overview​
• How to Get Medallion Status​
• Benefits at Each Tier
• News & Updates
• Help Center
• Travel Planning FAQs
• Certificates & eCredits
• Accessible Travel Services
• Child & Infant Travel
• Special Circumstances
• SkyMiles Help

Infant Air Travel

We’re here to take you and your family wherever you need to go.  Infants or children under 2 years of age can travel on the lap of an adult for free (within the United States) or at a reduced fare (for international travel). You also may purchase a ticket and use the child’s own seat on the aircraft as long as it meets the FAA-approved child safety seat specifications or use a CARES harness. Our step-by-step guide explains how to easily add a lap-held infant (Infant-in-Arms) to your ticket yourself.

Due to FAA safety requirements, 1 adult passenger may only carry 1 lap-held infant. If an adult passenger is traveling with 2 infants, a seat must be purchased for the additional infant. Infants occupying a seat on domestic flights require a ticket and pay the applicable fare.

Pregnant Passengers

Child & infant age restrictions, infant-in-arms or child in safety seat, you will need to purchase a ticket for your child if you:.

• Have a child that is 2 years old or older
• Have a child that turns 2 during the trip
• Prefer the child sit in a seat with an FAA-approved child safety seat
• Already have a child that will be sitting in your lap, regardless of age
• Want your child to earn miles for their SkyMiles account
• Will be traveling between countries, regardless of whether or not the child occupies a seat

Child Safety Seat Guidelines

If you decide to use a child safety seat aboard the airplane and purchase a ticket for your child, there are a few restrictions and guidelines you'll need to follow.

The window seat is the preferred location for an approved child safety seat (child restraint system or car seat). Other locations may be acceptable provided the seat is not installed between other passengers and the aisle. An accompanying adult must sit next to the child. More than one car seat may be in use in the same row and section of seats. Per FAA regulations, children under 2 years of age are not allowed to sit in a seat equipped with an airbag seat belt.

When using a child safety seat, don’t select seats in the following areas: 

• Aisle seats
• Emergency exit rows
• Bulkhead seats when the safety seat is a combination car seat and stroller
• Flatbed seats in the Delta One ™ area of the following aircraft: Airbus A330-200 or A330-300 aircraft *

* Child Safety Seats are not permitted in this area since the airbag seat belt cannot be deactivated .

An adult (18 years or older) may hold an infant (Infant-in-Arms) or place the infant in a FAA-approved child restraint in their seat during takeoff and landing. Booster-type car seats are not permitted for use during taxi, takeoff and landing.

Delta flight attendants will check with accompanying adults to ensure that children are properly secured in their safety seats and in the aircraft seat. The accompanying adult, however, has the following responsibilities when using a child restraint during takeoff and landing:

• Ensure that the child restraint seat meets FAA guidelines , Go to footer note
• Ensure that the child restraint seat functions properly and is free of obvious defects
• Secure the child according to the manufacturer's instructions
• Ensure the child does not exceed the restraint's weight limit
• Ensure the child restraint is secured to the aircraft seat using the aircraft seat's safety belt

All child safety seats or restraints include labeling that indicates their compliance with safety requirements. Restraints that meet the qualifications and labeling are approved for use on Delta flights.

Restraints manufactured within the U.S. after 2/25/85 with the following labels:

• Conforms to all applicable federal motor vehicle standards
• Is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft

Restraints manufactured within the U.S. between 1/1/81 and 2/25/85 with the following label:

Restraints manufactured outside the U.S. with the following labels:

• Has the approval of a foreign government
• Was manufactured under standards of the United Nations

Restraints that are not permitted:

• Booster seats, even if they bear labels indicating they meet U.S., UN or foreign government standards
• Vest and harness-type child restraint devices other than the FAA approved CARES restraint device

Bassinets or SkyCots

For some of our smallest passengers on some international flights, we offer onboard baby bassinets. They’re ideal for babies weighing up to 20 lbs. (9 kg) and up to 26 inches (66 cm) long.

• Onboard bassinets, also known as SkyCots, are available free of charge for passengers in select seats on equipped aircraft for some international flights
• SkyCots can be requested by contacting Reservations before arriving at the airport and then speaking with the gate agent at the boarding gate, but cannot be guaranteed due to a limit of two SkyCots per aircraft and weight restrictions
• Please note that all infants must be held during takeoff, landing and whenever the seat belt light is on

Additional Infant Travel Information

For children under the age of two, we recommend you purchase a seat on the aircraft and use an approved child safety seat. Here are some other helpful tips for traveling with your infant or toddler:

Breastfeeding

Delta fully supports a woman’s right to breastfeed on board Delta and Delta Connection aircraft and in Delta facilities. Breast pumps are allowed on board. At the airport and if you prefer, many airports do offer private lactation rooms or spaces. Ask a Delta associate if you need assistance locating one at an airport.

Booking Your Trip

When traveling with an infant or toddler, you may find it helpful to allow a little extra time between flights to take rest or bathroom breaks along the way. Our Airport maps can help you plan your layovers before you even reach the airport.

International Flights

If your travel destination requires a passport and/or travel visas, you will need a passport for your child, and possibly extra documentation. To review required documentation in each country you’re visiting or stopping over in, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Special Requirements for Children .

Infant Baggage

Review our Infant & Children's Items guidelines for specific details on carry-on items, including child restraint seats, strollers and diaper bags. During security check in, the TSA will usually make a special provision for items like medications, breast milk and baby formula. Check out the Traveling with Kids section of the TSA website for information and helpful videos about travel with infants and carry-on baggage restrictions.

• Investor Relations
• Business Travel
• Travel Agents
• Comment/Complaint
• Browser Compatibility
• Accessibility
• Booking Information
• Customer Commitment
• Tarmac Delay Plan
• Sustainability
• Contract of Carriage
• Cookies, Privacy & Security
• Human Trafficking Statement (PDF)

Flying With a Baby? Here’s What to Know Before You Go

Medical review policy, latest update:, how old should a baby be to fly, read this next, what do children need to fly, tips for flying with an infant.

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff.  WhatToExpect.com, Do Babies Need Passports? , May 2019.  WhatToExpect.com, Should You Bring Your Child’s Car Seat on an Airplane? , August 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling While Breastfeeding , August 2020. American Academy of Pediatrics, Family Friendly Flying , November 2015.  American Academy of Pediatrics, Flying With Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019.   American Airlines, Traveling With Children .  Delta Air Lines, Infant Air Travel , 2021.  Federal Aviation Administration, Flying With Children , March 2021.  Transportation Security Administration, Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQ .  Transportation Security Administration, Identification .  Transportation Security Administration, Will Minors Need to Have a State ID to Fly Domestically? United Airlines, Traveling With Children , 2021.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Children – Child Traveling With One Parent or Someone Who Is Not a Parent or Legal Guardian or a Group , December 2019.

Trending On What to Expect

How to keep your house clean and healthy for your baby and your family, spacing your kids: the pros & cons of every age gap, ⚠️ you can't see this cool content because you have ad block enabled., how to make — and keep — a family budget, different types of parenting styles, how to earn money as a stay-at-home mom.

Enable JavaScript

Please enable JavaScript to fully experience this site. How to enable JavaScript

• Special assistance

Traveling with children

Traveling with children and infants.

We are committed to caring for people on life’s journey and want you and your children to have a safe and positive travel experience. To allow enough time for check-in, arrive early and be sure to have any required travel documents. You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18.

• Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate.
• Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed.

You can travel with a breast pump and small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk in addition to your carry-on or personal item. These items don’t have to be checked and are allowed even when you’re not traveling with a child. Also, most airports have nursing rooms and stations available for your convenience.

If you’re a family traveling with children under 15, we want to help make sure you’re seated together on your flight. Here are some tips for when you book:

• Be sure to book everyone in the same reservation.
• The farther in advance you book, the better. (Seats become limited closer to the day of travel.)
• On the seat map, choose seats for your entire family or skip seats for that flight.
• It’s better to skip seats than to choose just a few seats or seats scattered throughout the cabin. Our gate agents can try to reseat you but getting seats together the day of travel is difficult.

If you skip seats

If you’re unable to choose seats, don’t want to pay for seats, or chose a Basic Economy fare, our system will detect that you’re a family traveling. The system will search for seats together automatically before the day of departure. We’ll try our best to keep you together, but if seats are limited, we’ll assign seats so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult.

Children and adults traveling in separate reservations

If you and your children are traveling together but have separate reservations, call Reservations so we can note it in each reservation.

Contact Reservations

Children 2 or older are required to have their own seat, a ticketed adult fare. Children under 5 can’t travel alone under any circumstances.

If you don't choose seats in Main Cabin or Basic Economy, we’ll assign seats a few days after you buy your tickets so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult they’re traveling with.

We welcome infants as young as 2 days old, but infants under 7 days old must have a doctor's letter stating that they are medically cleared to travel.

Keep in mind:

• Only 1 infant may be seated in the lap of each ticketed accompanying adult and the infant must be included in the reservation.
• Additional infants under 2 years old must be ticketed and occupy an infant safety seat or in a separate aircraft seat.
• The infant must be under 2 years of age for the duration of the trip. If they turn 2 during a trip, they will need their own seat for the remainder of the trip.

Adding an infant to your trip

If you’re traveling within the U.S., including Puerto Rico, you can add an infant to your trip when you book on aa.com, or later once it is ticketed. You only need to contact Reservations if you’re traveling with an infant who is under 7 days old; or if you’re traveling outside of the U.S. (taxes and a percentage of the adult fare may apply on international trips).

Book a new trip

• Book your trip on aa.com
• Enter your information on the ‘Passenger details’ page
• Select ‘add infant in lap’

Book a trip

Update an existing trip

• Find your trip on aa.com
• Scroll to the ‘Passengers’ section

Find your trip

Call Reservations if:

• You’re traveling with an infant who is less than 7 days old
• You’re not traveling within the U.S., and Puerto Rico

Reserved seat

If your infant will travel in their own seat, you must buy a ticket. The infant must either travel in a safety seat approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or be able to sit upright in their seat without assistance and have their seatbelt securely fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is on.

Bassinets and changing tables

• Changing tables are available in the lavatories of all wide-body aircraft.
• Bassinets are available on a first come, first serve basis at the gate for travel only on 777-200, 777-300 and 787 aircraft.*
• Bassinets are not available in First / Business cabins.

*Infants using bassinets must be younger than 2 years old and weigh no more than 20lbs (9kg)

Acceptable safety seats

Most safety seats that are approved for use in motor vehicles are acceptable for use in aircraft. The seat must have a solid back and seat, restraint straps installed to securely hold the child and a label indicating approval for use on an aircraft.

The label may include:

• These notes: 'This child restraint system conforms to all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards' and 'this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircrafts' or 'this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.'
• Approval of a foreign government or a label showing that the seat was manufactured under the standards of the United Nations.
• The safety seat can't be used in an exit row or in the rows on either side of an exit row; window seats are preferred.
• Install the seat in the direction appropriate for the size of the child and according to the instructions on the label.
• The child must remain in the safety seat with the harness fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is on.
• To carry on a safety seat, you must have bought a seat for the child, or a seat must be available next to you. If an unoccupied, adjoining seat is not available, the gate agent will check the safety seat to your final destination.

Review seat dimensions before your trip.

Safety seats are not allowed in First or Business on select planes due to the seat angles.

Airbus 321T

• Boeing 777-200
• Boeing 777-300
• Boeing 787-800
• Boeing 787-900
• Any device without an approval label
• Booster seats with no approval label or shoulder harness
• Vest and/or harness-type devices, except Aviation Child Safety Devices (ACSD) showing the FAA aircraft approval label
• Belt extensions that attach to the parent or the parent's restraint
• Any device that positions a child on the lap or chest of an adult

Carry-on and checked bags

If you’re flying internationally with an infant on your lap, we’ll issue the infant a ticket. You may check 1 bag for the infant at the same rate as the adult’s first checked bag.

• Each ticketed customer is allowed 1 stroller and 1 car seat to be checked free of charge
• Strollers over 20 lbs / 9 kgs must be checked at the ticket counter
• All other strollers should be checked at the gate before boarding
• If you have a stroller and a car seat only 1 can be checked at the gate
• Breast pumps and a small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk don’t count as your carry-on or personal item
• Play pens, wagons, cribs and 'pack and play' count as regular bags
• If any of these exceed carry-on limits they’ll be checked and incur regular fees

International documents

Children or infants traveling outside the U.S. are required to have the same documentation as an adult. If anyone under 18 is traveling internationally without both parents, they may be required to present a Letter of Consent.

International travel

Traveling during pregnancy

If your due date is within 4 weeks of your flight, you must provide a doctor’s certificate stating that you’ve been recently examined and you’re fit to fly.

Special assistance throughout your trip

For domestic flights under 5 hours, you won’t be permitted to travel within 7 days (before and after) your delivery date. If you need to travel within this time frame:

• Approval from your physician and a special assistance coordinator is required.
• Your physician will be required to fill out a passenger medical form before your flight. A special assistance coordinator will send the form directly to your physician.

Clearance from a special assistance coordinator is required for international travel or travel over water:

• Within 4 weeks of your due date (travel also requires a physician's note stating that you’ve been examined within the past 48 hours and you’re fit to fly)
• 7 days before or after your delivery (travel also requires a passenger medical form to be completed by your physician)

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

Situation in Haiti April 5, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents, get a passport.

Renew or Replace a Passport

Get My Passport Fast

Prepare to Apply

Passport Help

Legal Matters

Share this page:

Apply for your First Adult Passport

Apply for a Child Under 16

Apply as a 16 or 17 Year Old

Get My Application Status

Get a Passport Card

Respond to a Letter or Email

Apply Outside the United States

Selecting your Gender Marker

Crossing the U.S.-Mexico Border by Land

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply with their child, you will need to show us more documents.
• You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82.
• Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. 

Steps to Apply

1. fill out form ds-11 and print it.

Use our Form Filler tool  to fill out your child's form on a desktop or laptop computer and then print it. If you are experiencing technical issues with the Form Filler, download a PDF . 

Tips to complete your child's form :

• Do not sign your child's form until asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee. 
• You can apply for a passport book , a passport card , or both documents.
• You may ask for a larger passport book with more visa pages, at no extra cost, by checking the 'large book' box at the top of the DS-11.

2. Get Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (and a photocopy)

Your evidence must be an original or certified, physical copy. A certified copy is any document that has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority. You must submit one of the following documents for your child:

• Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
• Lists applicant's full name, date of birth, and place of birth
• Lists the parent(s)' full names
• Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
• Has the registrar's signature
• Has the seal or stamp of the city, county, or state which issued it
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Please note you must also provide a document, such as a birth certificate, that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. 

If you cannot submit one of these documents, go to our  Citizenship Evidence page  for more information.

Paper only : You cannot submit digital evidence of U.S. citizenship such as a mobile or electronic birth certificate. You must submit physical evidence of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of the document. 

Returning your child's document : We will return your child's document in a separate mailing up to 8 weeks after you receive the new passport.

Tips for making a photocopy :

• Black and white (no color)
• Use 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper
• Use a single side of the paper

If you do not submit a photocopy, you must submit a second, certified copy of your citizenship evidence. We will keep this copy for our records.

3. Show Your Relationship to Your Child

You must submit a document lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Examples include:

• U.S. birth certificate (also evidence of U.S. citizenship)
• Foreign birth certificate
• Adoption decree
• Divorce or custody decree
• A court order

Some documents, like a U.S. birth certificate, show  both  U.S. citizenship and parental relationship. These documents must be originals or certified copies (not photocopies).

You and your child may have different last names, as long as the document showing your relationship to your child lists your full name.

If your name is different than the one on the document showing your relationship to your child, submit proof of your legal name change.

4. Get a Photo ID (and a photocopy)

Both parents or guardians must bring a physical, photo ID and a photocopy of it. If your photo ID is from a different state than the state in which you are applying, bring a second photo ID. 

You must show at least  one  of these photo IDs:

• Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card 
• In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Certificate of Citizenship 
• Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
• U.S. military or military dependent ID
• Current (valid) foreign passport
• Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
• Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
• In-state, fully-valid learner's permit with photo
• In-state, fully-valid non-driver ID with photo
• Temporary driver's license with photo

If you do not have one of these photo IDs, go to our  Identification page  for more information.

5. Show More Documents (if both parents or guardians cannot apply)

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to show more documents.

Important : Submit  Form DS-3053  and other notarized statements within three months of signing them.

6. Provide a Photo

You must provide one photo with your child's application. Go to our  Passport Photo page  for photo requirements and to see examples of photos. 

• Do not attach or staple your child's photo to the form. The acceptance agent or passport employee will review the photo and staple it to your form.
• Some  passport acceptance facilities
• A company which offers photo services
• Home. Ask your friend or family member to take your child's photo. 

7. Calculate Fees

When applying using Form DS-11, you will pay two separate fees - an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee. You will pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee to the facility which takes your application. 

• Add $60 to your application fee if you want  expedited service .
• Add $19.53 to your application fee if you want us to ship your completed passport in 1-2 days after we issue it.  

Child Applicants :

For more information on how to pay and a full list of fees, go to our  Passport Fees  page.

*How to fill out your check and pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State. Please note you must pay a separate execution (acceptance) fee. 

Families may write one check or money order to the U.S. Department of State if they are applying at the same time. The check or money order must include the name and date of birth of each applicant.

8. Find Location to Apply

In the United States:

• Traveling in more than 3 weeks?  Go to a  passport acceptance facility  such as a post office, library, or local government office. Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment. 
• Traveling in less than 3 weeks?   Make an appointment  to apply at a passport agency or center.

In another country:

• Contact your  U.S. embassy or consulate .

9. Track Your Application Status

You can  subscribe to email updates  about your application status, and  learn more about each status update .

It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your child's application status is “In Process.” 

Frequently Asked Questions

How will you send my child's passport and supporting documents.

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

• New passport book
• New passport card
• Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your citizenship documents, call us at  1-877-487-2778 .

Can I pay for faster delivery and return shipping?

Yes. You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:

• Delivering application to us : Pay for Priority Mail Express for faster shipping. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
• Returning the passport to you : Pay $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery. This means you will receive your passport   1-2 days after we send it. Include this fee with your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State. Do not submit a return envelope to us with postage pre-paid. 

You may receive your passport and supporting documents in separate mailings. If you are renewing a passport card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. We do not use 1-2 day delivery services if you only applied for a passport card.

What countries require Form DS-3053 "Statement of Consent" to be notarized at an embassy or consulate?

In certain countries, a DS-3053 must be notarized at a  U.S. embassy or consulate  and cannot be notarized by a local notary public. Currently, these countries include:

Special Passport Fairs

Find a Special Passport Fair  near you!

We're holding special passport fairs all across the United States to help you get your passport more easily. New events are added to our site every week.

Most events are for first-time applicants and children, (who use Form DS-11). If you can use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail at your convenience!

Processing Times

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel.  Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

• It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it. 
• Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

How to Apply for your Child's Passport

Watch this video to learn how to apply in person for your child's U.S. passport!

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

6 Documents You Need to Travel With an Infant (Internationally)

When planning to travel by land, sea, or air with your little one, you’ll need to be prepared with the correct documents in hand to prevent avoidable heartbreaks or delays. We started traveling with our son when he was 3 months old and I know that I wanted to be overprepared — Detailed explanations and exceptions will follow (below), but here is a quick list of the 6 documents that you may need to travel with an infant internationally:

• Birth certificate
• Boarding Pass
• Vaccination record
• Physician’s note
• Notarized parental consent letter

*The following information applies to infants who are US citizens.

What Documents Does a Baby Need to Travel Internationally?

Your baby (aged 0-2) may need up to 6 important documents to fly internationally, depending on your airline, destination, and the circumstances of your travels (such as whether or not it’s a land border, whether you’re flying or driving, or whether you’re traveling alone or with the other parent present — these kinds of details are important).

Please carefully review the table below to find out which documents you’ll need to travel with your infant.

Does a Baby Need a Passport to Travel Internationally?

An infant (aged 0-2), just like anyone else, needs to show a passport to travel internationally — The exception being that minors (aged 0-15) traveling between the US and Canadian border or the US and Mexican border, by LAND or SEA , can cross with just their birth certificates (this is not applicable to flying) [ Source ; Source ]. Everyone, including infants and minors, need a passport to travel internationally by air .

It’s better to be on the safe side and get your baby’s passport as soon as possible if you’re planning on traveling internationally with them. To get your baby a passport, follow the State Department Travel guidelines .

At What Age Can a Baby Travel Internationally?

Although there is no age at which babies are officially prevented from traveling internationally, infants less than 48 hours old are advised by the WHO to avoid air travel, and advise parents to wait until the infant is at least 7 days old. Still, many parents will wait until 2-3 months, due to concerns such as lack of routine infant vaccines and passport requirements.

Many airlines have policies requiring that babies less than 7 days old carry a physician’s note with them, clearing them for air travel.

In many cases, you will need time in order to complete the paperwork for your baby’s passport anyway, and will have to wait for it to be processed — unless you are planning on traveling with your baby’s birth certificate only (by land or sea between the US and Mexico or Canada).

Additionally, the CDC lists many, many health considerations that parents should be aware of when traveling with an infant internationally (including preventing food and water illnesses, and making sure to buy family health insurance).

Because of these concerns, it may be more appropriate for you to wait until your infant is at least 2-3 months old before traveling with them. Of course, talk to your doctor to find out the best course of action.

The Mayo Clinic states that air travel is appropriate for most healthy, full-term babies but that parents should be aware of certain issues and make the proper preparations before taking your baby on a plane. These include:

• Hygiene — Your baby’s immune system is not yet fully formed and they will not have their first round of routine vaccinations until 2 months of age. We can make sure to practice good hygiene during our travels, such as wearing a mask and wiping down the seat armrests and tray table.
• Ear pressure — The changing pressure in an airplane may upset your baby so having a pacifier or something for your child to suck on is important.
• Safety seat — it’s recommended that your child be in a safety seat (which isn’t always in our plans for a lap infant flying for free)

Documents Needed for Child Traveling Alone with One Parent

If you’re traveling alone with your baby internationally and your partner also shares custody of your child, make sure to bring a notarized and signed consent letter with you. Because of international parental kidnapping cases, there are some protections in place that require one parent to present a letter or a Minor Travel Consent Form in order to take a child abroad on their own.

This is actually for your best interest — your partner also needs a consent letter to take your child abroad without you present — and this is a good thing, despite being a bit of a pain.

Download the travel consent form linked above or write a letter and have your partner sign it. Visit a local notary and then have this letter ready to present in case an airport worker or immigration officer happens to ask you for it.

If your partner refuses to sign a consent letter or form, you will most likely need to get a court order issued.

Can a Child Enter the US with a Birth Certificate?

A child (aged 0-15) can enter the US with a birth certificate (and no passport) only if:

• They are traveling by land or sea (not flying)
• They are entering from Mexico or Canada
• They are a US citizen

In all other cases, a child entering the US will need a passport.

The Documents I Carry With Me For My One-Year-Old Baby (Internationally)

I hope the table above helps to answer your questions regarding your infant and the documents they’ll need to travel! We have been traveling with our 13-month-old son for almost a year and have taken multiple international flights with him.

We always travel with: his passport, his birth certificate, and his vaccination record (with all of his up-to-date routine childhood vaccines). Additionally, we make sure to have a boarding pass/ticket for him. Sometimes, this means calling the airline ahead of time and making sure that his name is included on my ticket as a lap infant.

Because he’s older than 7 days, we’ve never needed a physician’s note. And because I’ve never flown with him solo between countries (only domestically in Spain), we have not needed a notarized parental consent letter so far. If I travel alone with him internationally in the future, I will be sure to bring a parental consent letter or form signed by my husband.

Brittany is a Wayfaring Human who loves to adventure with her husband and son. When she's not having adventures, she's taking pictures of them and writing about them.

Recent Posts

DIY Medical Kit for Traveling with Littles: Doctor-Approved!

We had literally just stepped foot in the door of our Airbnb in Scotland, after more than ten hours of travel, when our then 15-month-old son started to run a fever. Not long after, my husband felt a...

5 Unexpected Ways TRAVEL Changes When You Have Kids

So this was us traveling before we had a baby — we actually met while traveling in Ecuador. And visited and worked in many countries together, including the Philippines, which is where we are in...

12 tips on how to travel internationally with a baby

Traveling with an infant is already an adventure -- and traveling abroad with one is an even bigger feat to tackle.

Knowing the rules, researching and prepping ahead of time and packing the right things can make (or break) your first international trip with a baby. If you're in the know, you can take advantage of all the options afforded to traveling families, from bassinets on the plane and security shortcuts to special infant fares and other perks.

Covering everything from booking and documents to travel insurance and even jet lag, this guide provides everything you need to prepare for an international trip with your baby.

Want more travel news and advice from TPG? Sign up for our daily newsletter .

Get your baby's passport

Before you get too far into planning a trip abroad, you'll need to get your baby's first passport .

While you're at it, make sure everyone else in the family has a valid passport, too. Remember, U.S. passports for children under 16 expire after five years, not 10 years like adult passports. Also, make sure everyone's passport isn't nearing expiration. Many countries require three or six months of validity to enter, which effectively means that child passports are really only valid for 4 1/2 years, which go quickly.

When getting a passport for your baby , here are the main steps to follow:

• Get their birth certificate.
• Find out where to apply.
• Make an appointment. You'll need to go in person and bring your baby with you.
• Take their passport photo. It can be difficult to get a photo of your baby. Rules for photos state that the child/baby should be looking directly at the camera with a natural smile or neutral look. If you can manage to get the baby's eyes to stay open, that's typically enough for their first passport photo. The background should be white and the size 2 by 2 inches with no filters. Within that size, your baby/child's head needs to be 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head. If you're struggling to get everything just right, the ItsEasy App can help you crop and size your photo to the correct dimensions.
• Gather the paperwork. Fill out Form DS-11 and take your baby's birth certificate plus photocopies of each document. Bring a couple of photos, a valid ID for each parent, a photocopy of parental IDs and the fee (you can pay by check). Fees are currently $100 for the passport and $35 for processing.
• Attend the appointment in person with both parents present . If only one parent can go, fill out and bring parental consent form DS-3053 plus a copy.

Get your baby Global Entry

If you already have Global Entry , you won't be able to use the service as a family if your little ones don't have it. So, get a start on your baby's application. Or, if this is something your whole family wants to do, apply simultaneously, making expiration dates and renewals easier to complete for everyone at the same time.

Do note that with TSA PreCheck , kids 12 and under won't need to have their own number to accompany parents through these special security lanes -- but that's not true for Global Entry, which you use to return to the U.S.

Check with your doctor

Check with your pediatrician to see when your baby can start flying.

To give you an idea, TPG talked to Dr. Jenny Yu , medical director at Healthline , to find out when it's typically safe for babies to travel. "While babies typically develop their immune system around 1 month, most pediatricians would recommend waiting until 3 to 6 months for travel," she said. For premature babies, it might be a little longer.

Also, with international travel, it's important to factor in any additional vaccines they might need, especially if you're traveling to emerging countries. Start by checking with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for recommendations on which vaccines both adults and babies should get, then talk with your pediatrician to see what is best for your family, baby and travel situation.

Other important questions to ask your doctor should be if your baby can wear sunblock or mosquito repellent and how to keep your baby and your whole family safe from tropical or waterborne diseases, COVID-19 and any other possible infections, which can depend highly on your destination.

Pick the right destination

Whether it's a far-flung visit to Asia, a trip to visit family in Europe, a Caribbean escape or an African safari, you can travel anywhere with a baby as long as you and your family feel comfortable doing so. Choose a destination that makes you feel joy, not anxiety or stress at the thought of getting there and enjoying it with your baby.

Consider things like the activities you want to do, and if the destination is a place that feels welcoming for families. Also think about logistics, like the language barrier, climate and local transportation, when deciding if that particular destination is right for your family.

Book tickets

Depending on how old your baby is, you have some options when flying abroad with them. Here are a few to consider:

• Lap infant: If your baby is under 2 years old, they don't need their own seat. They can instead sit on the lap of a ticketed adult. For international travel, some airlines charge 10% to 30% of the adult ticket price or just the taxes and fees for a lap infant, and some airlines don't charge anything at all. This table shows the costs by airline to buy your baby a lap ticket. Make sure to check on luggage policies when traveling with a lap infant. Most airlines allow for a stroller and car seat checked free of charge. You may also be able to check or carry on additional baggage, too, but more on that later.
• Bassinet for lap infant: Many airlines have bassinet options, especially aboard larger aircraft that fly internationally. See if you can select this option while booking or call the airline for more information on securing a bassinet. Bassinets are usually free, but given to those who request them first. Ask for one right after booking to ensure you'll be assigned a seat with one when available. In most cases, bassinet weight limits max out at 20 to 24 pounds, so they're best for smaller babies and newborns.
• Extra seat with car seat or restraint for babies 2 years and up: If your baby is older than 2 years, you must pay for their seat. Many airlines have discounted tickets for children. If the child weighs more than 44 pounds, they won't need any additional restraint system within their own seat. If they weigh less than 44 pounds, see the information on a certified child restraint or car seat below.
• Additional seat with car seat or restraint for babies under 2: If your baby is less than 2 years old, you can still book them their own seat. In fact, the Federal Aviation Administration suggests that children under 44 pounds wear an FAA-approved harness (such as the CARES harness ) or certified child restraint to help keep them safe during turbulence, takeoff and landing. Make sure to check your car seat to see if there is an FAA-approved sticker on it.

It's worth noting that car seat, bassinet and harness options and policies vary wildly by airline and class of service. For more information on these policies by airline, read this article on 23 airline car seat and bassinet policies around the world .

Note that when booking seats for your family on an international flight, there are areas where kids and babies are not allowed to sit, like exit rows. Malaysia Airlines doesn't allow babies in its first-class cabins on A380 and 747 aircraft. Some international airlines such as AirAsia, Scoot and IndiGo also have kid-free and quiet zones where families with babies and children under a certain age (usually 10 or 12) aren't allowed to sit.

Additionally, if your baby is closer to 2 years old, you might want to compare the price of a lap ticket to the price of getting them their own seat. Sometimes, the price difference may not be that much, and it could make the flight more comfortable for the entire family.

Organize documents, including visas and COVID-19 forms

Passports aren't the only documents you'll need for international travel these days. Check to see if you and your baby need a visa to enter whatever country you're visiting. If you're traveling without your partner, look into completing a Child Consent Form.

Have proof of vaccines, complete any health forms and entry forms and take those COVID-19 tests if required to enter the country. Be clear on if your baby or children need to wear masks during the flight and plan accordingly. While babies 2 and up need to wear masks on board U.S. airlines, international airlines have different rules. For example, Iberia only requires children 6 and up to wear masks. Presently, British Airways has made masking up for all passengers a "personal choice" when not required by international law. We expect these rules to continue to rapidly evolve.

It's worth checking what documents you need for the trip when booking and again before traveling to ensure that you have everything you need as rules and regulations frequently change, especially in this era of pandemic travel .

Understand luggage rules

Different airlines have varying rules for how much luggage you can take when traveling abroad, especially when traveling with lap infants or children/babies occupying their own seats. Most airlines allow you to check a stroller and/or car seat. Many also offer additional checked luggage, as well as a carry-on bag or item for the baby.

For example, British Airways allows both lap infants and children ages 2 and up to have a carry-on item and a checked bag in most cases, giving parents a little flexibility when bringing along all those key items babies need . Cathay Pacific allows lap infants two additional bags at 10 kilograms each when flying between most destinations.

If you aren't clear on the luggage rules, call the airline before traveling to confirm so you won't get stuck with any surprises or have to pay additional fees.

Know the rules for breast milk and formula

Thanks to the Friendly Airports for Mothers Improvement Act, all large- and medium-size airports in the U.S. now provide lockable, non-bathroom places to pump or nurse babies in every terminal and at least one men's and one women's restroom with changing tables in each terminal. This may not be the case abroad, so if you're concerned, research your destination airport to see what options are provided when it comes to these services.

You shouldn't have any issues flying with breast milk or formula on your outbound trip from the U.S. , as regular Transportation Security Administration liquid regulations don't apply to these special liquids. According to the TSA , "reasonable quantities" of these liquids are allowed, but you must take them out during screening for the security officer to test.

You can look up rules to see what's allowed when returning from your destination. For example, the United Kingdom allows breast milk past security in containers up to 2,000 milliliters. You can also take formula, milk and bottled water for the baby, but the baby must be present. In the European Union , you can take breast milk and formula through security and when flying as long as your baby is traveling with you.

Your airline may also provide clarity on these types of rules. Cathay Pacific, for example, states that breastfeeding is allowed during all phases of the flight, using an electric pump is allowed once electric devices can be switched on and travelers can even bring along suitably packed dry ice to refrigerate expressed milk, assuming it's declared during check-in.

According to some airlines, if you're taking a large breast pump along, this may count as a medical device and not be part of your carry-on allowance, but these regulations often aren't very clear. Contact your airline for more information and print out the rules in case you have any issues during security screening or boarding.

If you're traveling from a very obscure destination within an emerging country and you can't find answers about bringing breast milk, it may be best to have a Plan B in place, such as bringing along enough formula in powder form to last you for the flight or planning to pump or breastfeed in flight.

Should you want to ship your breast milk abroad, options are available for you depending on your destination, such as Maven Milk and Milk Stork .

Book accommodations

When booking accommodations in your destination abroad, take things into account like baby necessities, baby-friendly items, the option to do laundry and the availability to heat, cool and store milk and formula. Choosing a vacation rental instead of a hotel may be the right idea if you need more space, a kitchen and laundry facilities.

If your baby is eating solid foods, make sure there are restaurants or supermarkets nearby where you can get exactly what you need. Doing a little pre-trip research can help you feel confident and comfortable when traveling with your baby regardless of which hotel or home rental you choose to stay in.

Pack strategically

Packing with a baby can seem precarious, but it doesn't have to be. Just make sure you have enough of everything you need to get through the flight, plus a bit extra in case of delays or cancellations. For an exact list of everything you need to pack, see this article on how to pack -- and prepare -- for travel with a baby .

For extra-long flights, try to have everything to help your baby comfortably nap on hand, like a lovey, blanket, pacifier and more. Have changes of clothes on hand for the whole family in case of a messy situation, and enough layers for a plane that may be hot or chilly. A baby carrier can be key, too.

When packing for a trip abroad, the most important items to remember are everyone's passport, visa and key documents, plus anything essential that you know you can't get in another country. Babies live all over the world, so you can easily get items like diapers, wipes, formula and more anywhere. However, you may not find the exact brand you want, or if you're going somewhere rural or far-flung, like on a safari in Africa, you may want to bring enough for your entire trip.

For example, Enfamil, a popular baby formula brand, is found all over Europe and even in the Caribbean and Latin America. However, it may not be available in Africa or Asia, so do your homework.

If you're traveling with items that need to plug in to charge, like a breast pump, baby monitor or nightlight, bring converters if necessary. You can always rent baby items abroad, too, rather than lugging everything along with you. It's possible to preorder diapers and wipes in many destinations, as well.

Strongly consider travel insurance

Things happen. While getting the flu abroad may not be a big deal for an adult, a sick baby can be scary and stressful, especially if you're in a foreign country. Having travel insurance that covers accidents and emergencies -- and COVID-19, too -- can set your mind at ease and save the day if something happens.

Before travel, note where the nearest hospital or health care facilities are, as well as any international hospitals where staff may be more likely to speak English. Know exactly how to use your insurance, like what numbers to call or what to do if a situation arises. Check if any of your credit cards have travel insurance that may cover you and your family if things go awry.

Plan for jet lag

Jet lag stinks. Jet lag with a baby might be even worse. There are things you can do to make jet lag a little less stressful, though, especially when traveling abroad to very different time zones.

First, give yourselves a few days to adjust, planning big events later in the trip. Limit your baby's naps when possible. If your baby takes a five-hour nap, they definitely won't be sleeping through the night.

Shift mealtimes, naptimes and bedtimes to the new time zone as quickly as possible, getting daylight during the day and darkness at night, so internal clocks begin to adjust for the whole family. If the time zone difference is small, you may want to keep your baby on the original time zone to minimize disruption, especially for a shorter trip.

For more tips on combating jet lag with a baby in tow, read this guide on surviving jet lag with your baby .

Bottom line

Planning and taking an international trip with a baby can be simple and create memories for a lifetime if you prepare just right. With a little bit of extra research, you'll be armed with everything you need to know, do and bring to make your trip abroad smooth and hassle-free.

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Traveling with Children

All passengers are required to undergo screening. However, TSA has developed modified screening procedures for children who appear to be 12 years old and younger. TSA officers will consult parents or the traveling guardian about the child’s screening.

TSA standard screening procedures apply for children 13 years and older. Carry-on property of all passengers, regardless of age, must be screened. All passengers who alarm will undergo additional screening.

Children with Medical Conditions, Disabilities, or Mobility Aids

Inform the TSA officer if the child has a disability, medical condition or medical device.

Let the TSA officer know if your child is able to walk through the metal detector or needs to be carried through the metal detector by a parent/guardian. You may carry your child through the WTMD. The TSA officer will not remove your child from their mobility aid, wheelchair or scooter.

Request Assistance

TSA Cares provides information to passengers with disabilities, medical conditions and those that need additional assistance to better prepare for the security screening process. Call  TSA Cares 72 hours prior  to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint. You may also call to request assistance at the checkpoint.

Liquid Formula, Breast Milk, Toddler Drinks, and Baby/Toddler food (to include puree pouches)

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) are considered medically necessary liquids. This also applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, such as ice packs, freezer packs and gel packs (regardless of presence of breast milk). Your child or infant does not need to be present or traveling with you to bring breast milk, formula and/or related supplies.

Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in excess of 3.4 ounces. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from your other belongings. TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items.

It’s helpful to the officers when formula and breast milk are in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches. Liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners, and you may be asked to open them (if feasible) for alternate screening such as Explosive Trace Detection and Vapor Analysis for the presence of liquid explosives. Screening will never include placing anything into the medically necessary liquid.

TSA X-ray machines are not harmful to food or medicines. However, if you do not want the formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) to be X-rayed or opened, please inform the TSA officer. Additional steps will be taken to resolve alarms. You or the traveling guardian will undergo additional screening procedures, to include Advanced Imaging Technology screening and additional/enhanced screening of other carry-on property.

Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) – regardless of the presence of breast milk – are also allowed in carry-ons, along with liquid-filled teethers. If these items are partially frozen or slushy, they are subject to the same screening as described above.

Passengers requiring special accommodations or concerned about the security screening process at the airport may request assistance by contacting  TSA Cares  or by phone at (855) 787-2227.

Screening of Children’s Items

• Place all carry-on baggage such as children's toys, bags and blankets on the X-ray belt for screening.
• Strollers, umbrella-strollers, baby carriers, car and booster seats and backpacks must be screened by X-ray.
• Place items in the stroller pockets or baskets, in a carry-on bag or on the X-ray belt for screening.
• Equipment that does not fit through the X-ray machine will undergo a visual/physical inspection by TSA officers.

Screening Technology

Walk-Through Metal Detector

Children able to walk through the metal detector without assistance may do so separately from their parent or guardian. If they alarm, children are allowed multiple passes through screening technologies and may undergo other procedures to resolve the alarm to reduce the need for a pat-down. Infants and small children may be carried through the metal detector. Should the alarm sound, additional screening is required.

Advanced Imaging Technology

If your child is able to remain standing in the required position for 5 seconds, he or she may be screened through the advanced imaging technology. If a child 12 and under goes through the machine and alarms, they have an opportunity to go through again or the TSA officer may use other procedures to resolve the alarm to reduce the need for a pat-down.

You may not be screened by this technology when carrying an infant or child.

Screening your Child

• Children 12 and under can leave their shoes, light jackets and headwear on during screening. For AIT screening, light jackets must be removed and placed on the X-ray belt.
• Children will not be separated from their parent/guardian.
• Remove infants and children from strollers and car seats and carry them in arms through the walk-through metal detector.
• Infants may be carried in a sling/carrier (to include lap baby) through the walk-through metal detector or when being screened in a wheelchair, but may be subject to additional screening
• Modified screening procedures are in place to reduce the likelihood of a pat-down.

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

What ID and Documents Does My Child Need To Fly? [2024]

Chris Hassan

Social Media & Brand Manager

207 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 24 U.S. States Visited: 26

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3075 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Global Entry

International flight with only 1 parent present, age: newborn, age: 0 to 2 years old, age: 2 to 18 years old, minors traveling alone, 18-year-old “kids”, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Getting the family ready for a big vacation can be a lot of fun, but it can also come with a lot of stress. Even if it isn’t a big vacation, sometimes just the thought of putting your little ones on a plane can bring anxiety.

Making sure that all of your reservations have been made, seats have been assigned, and hotel rooms have been upgraded, all while attempting to keep the kids entertained and behaving properly can be exhausting. This is even before you leave the house.

Add in the fact that your child may or may not need some sort of identification to board a plane can be that extra confusion that a new parent just doesn’t need.

Well, we’re here to lay it all out clearly for you and let you know exactly what you need to fly with your kids!

As an adult over the age of 18, you need a valid government form of ID to board a plane in the U.S., according to the TSA .

If you’re flying internationally, you will need to show your passport or passport card. If you are taking a domestic flight, you will need to show your driver’s license or another form of government ID with your photo on it.

However, for children under the age of 18, that is a different story. Depending on where they are traveling to, and what age they are, they might not need an ID at all.

Since there is a lot of information out there, it can get a little confusing to understand it all. Here, we’ll break it all down for you so that the next time you board a flight with your little one in tow, you will know exactly what you will (and won’t) need.

International Flights

This one is very black and white. Regardless of your age, if you are flying to a different country, you will need to present your passport at check-in, the TSA security checkpoint, and when you arrive at your destination.

Even if your child is only a month old, they will need a passport to leave the country. Don’t have a passport yet for your little traveler? Don’t worry, we have a complete guide on how to get a U.S. passport for your baby .

If your destination requires a travel visa , your child will also need to apply for the visa. Since both of these things take time, it’s best to get these done as far in advance as possible.

If for some reason you need to take an international trip immediately after the birth of your child, it’s possible to get passports and visas expedited for an extra cost.

If you have Global Entry , that doesn’t mean that your child will automatically get it as well.

Unlike TSA PreCheck , which can extend to your children ages 17 and under, if you want to take your child through the Global Entry line they will need to go through the same process that you did.

Yes, that means paying the $100 application fee and even in some cases having your infant complete the interview process. Don’t worry, though, there are plenty of credit cards that reimburse the Global Entry fee .

Although this may seem like a hassle, having an official government photo ID of your child will come in handy for many circumstances down the road.

Bottom Line: If you are flying internationally, your child will need a passport (and maybe a visa), regardless of their age.

If you plan on traveling internationally with your child, and both parents will not be traveling together, you will need to provide some additional permission forms.

Depending on the airline and the country you will be flying to (and potentially back from), the requirements may be different.

The most important piece will be a notarized parental consent form signed by both parents and a copy of the non-traveling parent’s passport or valid identification .

If the child has a deceased parent, the living parent or guardian will need to sign the consent form and attach a copy of the late spouse’s death certificate.

The only exception is if the parent has proof of sole custody as you may be required to present a copy of your custody agreement signed by both parents.

Domestic Flights

Here is where things aren’t so black and white …

Sure, you could just travel with your child’s passport every time you board a flight, but depending on the situation, that probably isn’t necessary. And if there is 1 thing you should hope to never lose during a trip, it’s a passport. So why bring it if you don’t have to?

In most circumstances, children under the age of 18 will not need a photo ID to board a domestic flight if they are accompanied by an adult.

However, there are some circumstances where a photo ID or some official document may be needed for minors to board. Let’s break it down by age group and figure out what documentation your child will need (if anything) to fly.

This will vary by carrier, but most airlines will accept infants as young as 2 days old.

If you find yourself needing to board a plane with an infant less than 2 weeks old, you may be required by the airline to provide a note from your physician stating that the child is healthy enough to fly.

Since this can vary by airline, it’s best to contact your carrier before you travel.

For example, American Airlines requires that a “special assistance coordinator” send a form directly to the physician for them to fill out if the child is less than 7 days old.

Once you pass the 2-week-old window, the only age questions you will come across are whether or not your child has turned 2 years old yet. That is because children under the age of 2 can fly for free as a lap child  on domestic flights as long as they are flying with an adult.

While you won’t be required to show an ID for the child when passing through security, at check-in the airline may require that you prove that the child is under the age of 2 because, obviously, if they are not, the airline will want to charge you for their seat.

Unless your child already has a passport that can be used to prove their birth date, you may need to bring a copy of their birth certificate.

While some airlines are more lenient than others, it’s always best to come prepared. For example, Southwest Airlines is very strict as it always require a copy of the birth certificate or government-issued photo ID at check-in if you want your little one to fly as a lap child .

Hot Tip: If your child turns 2 years old during a trip (hello Disney birthday vacation!), you will be required to pay for a full-priced, round-trip ticket. This would be a good opportunity to book 2 one-way tickets to save a few dollars. 

Once your child turns 2 years old they will be required to pay the full airfare and no longer be allowed to fly as a lap child — cue the sad music.

This also means that they won’t be required to prove their age anymore, which means that you don’t have to worry about traveling with an additional ID for them.

Minors under the age of 18 will not need ID to pass through security, they only need a boarding pass to board the plane if they are accompanied by an adult.

Although it isn’t required, it may feel weird traveling without some sort of ID for your kids. So, regardless of where you are traveling to, we suggest having some sort of ID for them.

Sometimes that may mean a printed copy of their birth certificate or passport, or, at the very least, a photo of their passport on your cell phone.

Bottom Line: As long as a minor between the age of 2 and 18 is traveling with an adult they will not need a photo ID to board a plane. 

Here is another circumstance where the information can become a little murky. Since exact requirements may vary by airline, it’s best to contact your carrier directly if you plan on sending your child off on their own.

That being said, some basics seem to be standard across the industry.

Child Travel Consent Form

A child travel consent form is a form that provides proof that the child is authorized to travel alone.

This form will often be provided by the airline — for example, American Airlines refers to it as an Unaccompanied Minor Service Form  and needs it to be completed with the information about who is dropping off the child and who will be picking them up at the final destination.

If the child is traveling alone, they may also be required to have a consent letter signed by both parents.

If the child has a deceased parent, the living parent or guardian will need to sign the consent form and attach a copy of the late spouse’s death certificate. Note: This may only be required for international travel. 

Minors Traveling Alone: Ages 5 to 14

Children age 5 to 14 are not required to show an ID at the time of check-in, however, they are always encouraged to have some sort of ID on them during travel.

If your child already has a passport, at least send them with a copy of it in case of an emergency.

Minors Traveling Alone: Ages 15 to 17

Children ages 15 to 17 may be required to provide some sort of identification, including one of the following:

• Birth certificate
• Credit card
• Driver’s license
• Learners permit
• Library card
• Organization ID (athletics club, theater group, etc.)
• Passport card
• Proof of auto insurance in the passenger’s name
• Social Security card

Bottom Line: If your child will be traveling alone , it’s best to send them with some sort of ID, preferably something with their photo on it. 

Even though your 18-year-old is legally an adult, they are still your little baby and you surely will want to have them prepared when they decide they want to go off on a trip with their friends. Spring Break, anyone?

Well, now that he or she has turned 18, they are legally required to have a valid, current U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID.

The identification must contain a clear photo, date of birth, gender, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature for travel to or from a U.S. territory. Expired documents will not be accepted.

The following is a list of acceptable forms of identification for boarding a U.S. domestic flight:

• Airline- or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)
• Border Crossing Card
• Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) card
• DHS “Trusted Traveler” cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• DHS-designated enhanced driver’s license
• Driver’s licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by a Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) that meet REAL ID requirements
• Foreign government-issued passport
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Native American Tribal Photo ID
• Permanent Resident Card
• Registered Traveler Card (that contains a name, date of birth, gender, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature)
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• U.S. Military ID
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Hot Tip: TSA ID requirements are subject to change, so if you have any concerns, it’s always best to check directly what you need on the TSA’s website . 

At the end of the day, the answer is pretty simple: It’s better to be safe than sorry! If you have an ID for your little one, bring it! You might not need it, but it’s better than being denied boarding.

But, to put it simply, if you are flying internationally , your child will need a passport and potentially a travel visa.

If you are flying domestically and your baby will be flying as a lap child , you may be asked for proof at check-in that they are indeed younger than 2 years old.

If your child is flying domestically on their own ticket (not as a lap child) they probably won’t need any sort of ID until they are 18 years old.

Now, grab your little traveler and start exploring this beautiful world! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my baby need a passport.

If your child will be flying out of the country, they will need a valid passport.

What kind of ID does a child need to fly?

Children under the age of 18 do not need an ID to fly on domestic flights inside of the U.S. as long as they are traveling with an adult.

What documents does a child need to travel without parents?

If a minor is traveling alone, they will need a signed parental consent form.

Do kids pay for flights?

Children under the age of 2 can fly as a lap child. On domestic flights there is no cost; on international flights, it can cost up to 10% of the adult’s ticket value.

Was this page helpful?

About Chris Hassan

Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

Home » Travel Tips

How to Travel with a Baby on a Flight: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Never flown with a baby or toddler before? Not really sure what you’re getting yourself into? Fear not—traveling with a baby doesn’t have to be impossible, and you don’t have to wait until your baby grows up before you can plan your next exciting cross-country or overseas adventure. All you need is some know-how, a sense of adventure, and of course, a handy baby travel checklist.

If you’re curious about family travel, travel packing, and getting around with your infant, we have all the best tips to help you pack, fly, and travel with your baby worry-free. 

You can also download a free printable of our baby packing list, so no matter where you’re headed on your next trip, you won’t leave out the door without any of these essential baby items packed and ready to go with you.

Table of Contents

When can you travel with a baby, does a baby need a passport to travel, baby packing list – toiletries, baby packing list – feeding, baby packing list – clothing, baby packing list – baby gear.

• Baby Packing List – Technology

Baby Packing List – Toys/Entertainment

Baby packing list – documents, baby packing list – must-have items for flying with a baby, free baby travel checklist pdf, next vacay makes travel easy and not just for babies.

Before you can make any plans to take off on your next flight, there’s something you’re going to need to know: how soon after birth can a baby travel? And the answer is sooner than you might think.

Right off the bat, most airlines don’t permit any infant under seven days (newborns) to travel, except in some cases where your baby’s physician provides permission. So, hold on to your baby travel checklist, because you likely won’t need it right away.

Outside of the newborn category, airlines will typically allow you to fly with a baby of any age. Keep in mind, though, babies’ immune systems generally take 2-3 months to mature , so factor this in when planning your next trip. 

You may want to wait a few months before taking your baby on their first journey through the skies!

The answer differs for domestic and international travel, and depending on which airline you fly with, you may need to bring other documents with you to verify your baby’s information.

Don’t worry, no matter what records your destination requires, our baby travel checklist will make sure you’re covered.

Domestic Travel

If you’re planning a getaway trip with your baby that doesn’t include a destination or a connecting flight outside of the US, then you won’t need a passport for your baby to travel. 

Some airlines, like American , do require proof of age (such as a birth certificate) for travelers under 18, so be sure to check with your airline before you fly out to see if you’ll need to present this documentation for your little one.

International Travel

Before you head out for that next international voyage, you’ll need to make sure you submit your baby’s passport application.

Federal requirements state that all children under 16 must have a passport to travel internationally. While prepping for your next foreign trip, make sure you submit your in-person application for your baby to get their passport as early as possible. 

Pro-Tip: If you’re planning an international vacation with your baby, it’s essential to apply for their passport early! The process can take 4-6 weeks via regular service, or with expedited, you can get it quicker in about 2-3 weeks.

Passports for minors are valid for five years, so they can accompany you on all your international adventures !

Must-Have Items for Traveling with Baby

Traveling can be stressful at the best of times, and adding a baby into the mix can seem daunting at first, especially as it’ll be one of their first extended trips away from home. 

But with a bit of planning, you can take most, if not all, of the stress out of flying with your baby and make some amazing first memories that your family will remember for years to come!

To that end, we’ve put together this comprehensive baby packing list of all the must-have items that are essential for traveling with a baby. 

Based on your family’s needs , you can customize this packing checklist to ensure you have everything you need to make this a happy trip for everyone in your family and especially for your baby!

Diapers and Swim Diapers

Diapers are essential for your little one, and having extras on hand is always a good idea for any messes you might have on the flight or during your trip. 

If you’re going the cloth diaper route, make sure you have enough to get you through the day and can leave the washing for at night when you return to your accommodations. 

Heading somewhere with a pool or planning a beach getaway? In that case, make sure you have swim diapers included on your baby travel checklist. A few conveniently reusable and disposable swim diapers will ensure your baby doesn’t miss out on any water-related fun!

Changing Pad/Mat 

Your baby will need a change of diaper, so don’t forget to bring a changing pad/mat you can easily fold up and store in your diaper bag to whip out wherever—at a restaurant, on your flight, in the park. 

You never know when messes will occur. Changing mats keep your baby’s exposed bum off unclean or harsh surfaces and are easy to wipe down after use. 

Wet wipes aren’t just for cleaning your baby’s bum, although you’ll definitely need them for that. 

They’re a multifunctional item you can use for cleaning sticky hands, wiping down dirty surfaces, and even a quick way to freshen up after a long flight.

That kind of multi-use makes them a staple on any baby travel checklist.

Diaper Cream

During your travels, your baby may develop a rash, which is never fun to deal with for you or your baby. Keeping a travel-size diaper cream on hand is a must so that you can avoid disaster by addressing any rashes or sore bums immediately.

Instead of using single-use plastics, a wet bag is a reusable, multi-functional item that you can use to store a variety of things, mostly your damp and dirty items like cloth diapers, dirty clothes, and wet swimsuits. 

In a wet bag, that damp and dirt won’t spread elsewhere, and you can keep messes contained.

Plastic Bags

The alternative to wet bags is plastic bags, which you can use to hold your babies dirty items or use as extra protection to prevent food, snacks, and liquids from spilling.

For babies that like them, pacifiers are a great way to keep them calm between feedings or even help lull them to sleep. But of course, they don’t always stay in babies’ mouths, so packing several is always a good idea as you’re bound to lose one here or there. 

Another option is to add a clip to your pacifier so it remains attached to your baby’s clothes even when it’s not in their mouth. That way, it never goes far.

Baby Shampoo/Soap

Your baby’s skin is generally more sensitive than your own, and if you don’t usually pack your own because your lodgings provide it, keep in mind they don’t typically supply baby brands. 

So, you’ll want to pack small travel bottles of your baby’s usual shampoo and soap for your trip.

Baby Sunscreen/Lotion

Even if you don’t use sunscreen/lotion, your baby will need it to keep their skin from feeling irritated or drying out. 

If you think sunburn is awful as an adult, you’re not even going to want to think about your baby with one. Do yourself and your little one a favor and triple-check you mark this off on your baby travel checklist.

Thermometer

Keeping a thermometer on hand is helpful during your trip as it’s not always easy to locate one when you need it. On the upside, they take up very little room!

For cuts, scrapes, or sore spots on your baby’s skin, a few bandaids packed away in your kit can help prevent irritation when it rubs against their clothes or other materials.

Medicines (Cold/Fever/Tummy)

Rather than getting caught without your baby’s medicine and having to rush out to the nearest pharmacy, make sure you pack your first aid kit with your baby’s preferred cold and tummy medication. 

Include items like nasal drops/sprays for congestion and infant Tylenol or other fever relief in case they catch a bug. 

As they say, it’s always better to be safe than to be covered in baby spit-up. Or something like that anyway.

Hand Sanitizer

When traveling, soap and water aren’t always available to clean up messes or kill germs, so be sure to include hand sanitizer on your list of needed items. 

Before packing, double-check it’s at least 60% alcohol so you can be sure it’ll do its job correctly—wiping out germs and keeping you and your loved ones happy and healthy!

Baby Blankets

Baby blankets are a must-have item on your baby packing list because you’ll find yourself using them for everything. A shade on your stroller to protect your baby from the sun, an extra layer to keep them warm on a chilly plane, a convenient spot to lay them down, or a handy spit-up rag. 

Just name the job, and a baby blanket will likely get it done. 

Baby Food/Formula (And a Little Extra)

If you’re packing baby formula, you can measure out the amount your baby will need for your trip beforehand—just be sure to measure out a little extra in case of accidents/emergencies/you name it—and pack it in a plastic bag. 

This will help you save on much-needed space. 

Baby Cereal

Depending on how much cereal factors into your baby’s diet at this point, you can also measure out how much you’ll need and pack it up in plastic bags or smaller containers to save on space.

Bibs/Burp Cloths

Babies are messy and perhaps never messier than when they’re eating, so you’ll want to include a few bibs and burp cloths on your baby travel checklist. Catching all that drool, food, and anything else they feel like spitting up will be infinitely easier.

Bottles/Sippy Cups

Pack only the number of bottles you’ll need in a day. Rather than stuffing your luggage full of bottles, if you’ve got your baby into a feeding rhythm, then you should be able to plan having enough bottles for the number of feeding times per day. 

You can also pack a sippy cup for water to keep your baby hydrated during your trip.

Bottle Brush

Bringing this item along can help speed up your bottle cleaning process after a long day of sightseeing and make sure you have enough clean ones to get through the next day.

Dishes/Utensils

Baby spoons, forks, bowls. Your baby may have already ventured into the land of semi-solid foods. In that case, you don’t want to forget to pack up their familiar dishes, so even if they’re dining in a completely foreign country, they haven’t completely left normalcy behind.

Breast Pump

If you’re still breastfeeding and traveling with your baby, you likely won’t need to bring this item as you’ll be together throughout the trip, but if not, you can bring along a portable or hands-free breast pump. It’s also useful if you need a break or won’t always have the opportunity to breastfeed in the middle of traveling.

Storage Bottles/Breast Milk Storage Bags

Bringing along the pump? If so, you’ll need storage bottles or bags—the latter will likely give you more room—to properly store your milk and make sure it keeps until you’re ready to use it.

Nursing Cover

Nursing covers are perfect for giving you a bit of privacy when breastfeeding while out and about. Simply find a quiet corner to settle down, pull it over your shoulders, and you can take a quick time-out before continuing with your travel schedule.

Babies will get dirty no matter what. Take your eyes away for a second, and you’ll see some new spot or mess when you look around again. So, you’ll want to pack extra clothes—at least two outfits per day to account for any accidents your baby might have while you’re out exploring or even at your accommodations.

Onesies are a cute and simple style choice for your baby, as they don’t ride up and help keep your baby’s diaper firmly on. They’re also easy to put on and take off when they get messy and come in various styles for different weathers, from summer to winter and everything in between.

The result is a lightweight and convenient option for your baby travel checklist!

You’ll want to keep an extra T-shirt stuffed in your baby bag when you’re out and about for the day in case you need a quick change of clothes.

Pants/Shorts/Skirts

The same goes for pants. Diaper leaks and spilled food make an extra pair of bottoms for your baby a necessity.

Based on your destination, you can decide whether this will be a simple long-sleeved onesie to keep your little one warm or something a little cooler to keep their temperature down in hotter weather.

Even if you’re not big on hats, you’ll want to pack one to keep your baby shaded and protect their sensitive parts, like their eyes and ears, from the hot, glaring sun.

Shoes may have a hard time staying on, but socks will keep your baby’s feet shielded from the elements as you’re making your way around.

Shoes or Booties

If your baby manages to keep them on, shoes and booties will keep their feet protected from any rough terrain.

Bathing Suit

We mentioned wet diapers earlier, and if you’re planning on traveling somewhere with a pool or the ocean nearby, then don’t forget to pack your baby a bathing suit so they can dip those little toes in the water and work on that doggy paddle.

Jacket/Warm Layers

It’s never a bad idea to pack a few warm layers. Even if you’re not traveling somewhere in the dead of winter, you don’t want to be caught off guard at how chilly the plane is or how cold your destination gets at night. 

Having a sweater or jacket for your baby will ensure they don’t catch a cold on their trip and stay nice and toasty, even when it’s nippy out.

Travel Stroller

It’s doubtful you’re going to carry your baby for the entirety of your trip. Consequently, a travel stroller for infants is a must on your baby travel checklist, and one that folds up into a compact size so you can easily transport it is even better. 

Trust us. Your arms and your baby will thank you.

Baby Carrier/Sling

Odds are your baby is going to want to be held during your trip, and of course, you’re going to want to hold them! 

A baby carrier will help you keep your hands free while still keeping your baby close and giving them a better view of the sights to see on your trip.

If you’re traveling with a partner, be sure to get a baby carrier or sling that’s comfortable for both of you to wear so you can switch up who holds the baby.

Portable High Chair/Baby Seat

Traveling, your baby will likely be eating at all kinds of places, and not all of them might offer the high chairs or boosters you need for your baby to sit comfortably. In that case, a portable high chair you can attach to your table or a baby seat will ensure you and your baby can enjoy your meals together.

Going on a road trip? Then your baby’s preferred car seat is likely already strapped in. And if you’re flying, you can use your car seat on the plane and at your destination to safely strap in your child and prepare them for the road ahead.

Travel Crib

A portable travel crib is convenient for several reasons, number one, of course, being sleeping, but another being that with the addition of a few toys, it can also act as a playpen for your baby. 

It’s also easy to set up and take down if you happen to need more space and want to put it away when not in use.

Portable Mat/Playpen

A portable mat can help keep your baby entertained on days you stay in or if you’re laying out somewhere like the park, by giving them lots of fun things to pull, spin, and stuff in their mouth, as babies do.

Once your baby starts crawling, you’ll likely have your hands full trying to keep them in one room, let alone one place, so in that case, an enclosed playpen might be the answer. All the same fun as a mat, but with the added benefit of keeping your sanity intact.

Portable Bathtub

Sure, you can try bathing your baby in the sink, but in some places, the sink just isn’t going to cut it. 

Having a portable bathtub on hand means you can bypass this worry and quickly and easily pop this out to bathe your baby no matter the size or state of the sink at your lodging.

The diaper bag is any and every parent’s best friend. If your best friend comes with pockets and compartments galore and one of those compartments is insulated.

When shopping for your new best friend, make sure you look for a diaper bag that has enough space to fit your baby’s everyday items and yours, so you can pack it with the daily necessities from your baby travel checklist and more. This way, you don’t have to worry about hauling around multiple bags while out and about!

Baby Packing List – Technology 

Noise-canceling headphones.

Planes are loud. 

Between the engine noise, cabin announcements, and other passengers and kids flying, the din can sometimes be overwhelming. Bringing along a pair of noise-canceling headphones can help give your baby a quiet oasis among all the noise. 

And if you can play some favorite songs, lullabies, or white noise to help them wind down while you’re at it, all the better!

White Noise Machine

Speaking of white noise, if you use this machine at home or will be staying somewhere with distinctly different background noises than your baby is used to, you’ll want to bring a white noise machine to block out those sounds and help your baby get a peaceful rest.

Baby Monitor/Tablet

Just like at home, you’ll want to bring your baby monitor/tablet to keep tabs on your baby when you’re not in the room and keep yourself up-to-date on what your little one’s getting up to.

We’ve all been in this situation, just settling into our seats when we realize we forgot our phone charger at home. At least in this mobile age, it’s not hard to find a charger at your destination, but you might not find it so easy to find a charger that works for your monitor, headphones, etc. 

So, make sure to check off all your cords and chargers on your baby travel checklist before you finish packing.

Adapter (International Travel)

This only applies to international travel, but you won’t want to forget that most countries use a different outlet to the US, which means the wall plugs won’t fit most of your items. If that’s the case, it makes investing in an adapter crucial, so you can still charge and use your electronics overseas!

Teething Toys

Is your baby currently biting and drooling their way to some shiny new teeth? If so, be sure to add teething toys to your bag and check them off your packing list. 

They’ll provide much-needed relief both for your baby and you while their gummy smile gets a bit more toothy.

Stuffed Animals

Familiar toys are a comfort. 

Your baby will appreciate having a buddy along on the journey with them, whether to cuddle close during sleep or in the stroller while they take in the sights and sounds of a new place. Baby isn’t in Kansas anymore (unless your next trip involves Dorothy’s hometown).

Books/Coloring Books

Stories your baby loves and coloring books are a great way to lull them to sleep or keep them entertained in transit.

Passport (International Travel)

If you’re traveling internationally, don’t forget to pack your baby’s passport along with your own, so you have no problems breezing through airport security.

Birth Certificate or Immunization Records (If Required)

If you’re traveling domestically, you can check with the airline before your departure date whether they require you to provide proof of your baby’s age. You can usually do so in the form of their birth certificate or immunization records. 

If it’s not required to fly, you can leave these documents at home. 

While the other sections are a handy guide to making sure you’re all packed for your destination, this mini version of our baby travel checklist will ensure you don’t forget anything for your baby’s first flight (or their second, or their third, or … you get the idea).

If your baby is flying in your lap, try packing the essentials for you and your baby in one diaper bag you can fit in the seat in front of you or overhead, as most airlines don’t provide extra space for lap babies. 

But, if your baby has their own seat, you can utilize the extra space to pack their necessities separately! 

Here are our must-haves for keeping you and your baby comfortable (and sane) while you’re in the sky:

• Passport ( international travel ) or birth certificate ( domestic travel )
• Changing mat
• Hand sanitizer
• Baby blanket
• Nursing cover
• Baby food/formula
• (onesie or extra top & bottom layer)
• Jacket/warm layers
• Socks 
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Toys/stuffed animals

Afraid you’re going to forget something off our baby packing list?

Don’t worry. After coming this far, we’d never leave you hanging like that. 

You can find a simplified version of our baby travel checklist below. Download this convenient PDF, and you won’t have to worry about forgetting anything for your baby on your next trip. (You might still forget your phone charger, though.)

Grab Your Baby Travel Checklist

Now that you know how to pack for your baby, your next trip will be a breeze. The only thing left for you now is to find your next dream vacation.

Well, we can take care of that for you, too. Just like you want to take the guesswork out of traveling with a baby, you can also take the guesswork out of where to get a killer flight deal.

Signing up with Next Vacay brings all of the best deals to your inbox so you can view them at a glance, check out deals that interest you, and easily book your next trip. The best part—other than having it all done for you, of course—is that you can save hundreds of dollars on flights, whether your next trip takes you to Disney World in Orlando or to the Eiffel Tower in France. 

(That also means you can easily book another seat for your baby and make the trip more comfortable for you both!)

Signing up for our free trial takes less than five minutes and is so easy your baby could do it … though maybe hold off on leaving them in charge of your family travel plans. At least until after their first flight.

It’s time to stop hesitating. Get your baby ready for take-off … with Next Vacay .

Related Posts

Do you want to install app?

Add a shortcut to your home screen: Share button at the bottom of the browser. Scroll left (if needed) to find the Add to Home Screen button.

Traveling with Kids

More joy. less oy..

Our crew of award-winningly nice humans (many of them parents and grandparents themselves) and an inflight experience that feels like home help make getting from Point A to Point B as smooth and effortless as L-M-N-O-P. Plus, our new carry-on bag guarantee on domestic (U.S.) flights makes schlepping your stuff less stressful.

Don't fly by the seat of your pants.

Select your seats now in Manage Trips . Seat selection is free for Blue, Blue Plus, Blue Extra and Mint fares—or for a fee for Blue Basic fares.

Keeping families close with our enhanced Family Seating process

Want to sit by your kids when you fly? Of course you do – and we’ve got you! We’ve now automated the family seating process, and it auto-seats any children ages 13 and under with an accompanying adult as early as booking time, if seats are available.

Know before you go

Important forms you need for travel, lap infants.

• There’s no charge for lap infants (taxes may be due outside the U.S.) but you will be asked for proof of age.
• Proof of age examples include a birth certificate, passport or immunization record. 
• Blue Basic fares do not allow a carry-on.
• Learn more about traveling with infants and lap infants  including bag allowances, guidelines for safety seats and more. 

Strollers and car seats

• Strollers and car seats do not count toward your carry-on or checked bag allowance. You may check them through when you arrive at the airport or gate-check them at the jetbridge. 
• A car seat is not required for an infant or child in their own seat, as long as they can sit upright unassisted. You may use your FAA-approved safety seat on board, as long as you’ve purchased a seat for your child.

Carry-on bags

• A personal item that fits under the seat in front of you is still permitted.
• In addition, Blue Basic fares do not include free advance seat selection, so if you’re traveling with kids and want to be sure to sit together, we recommend booking another fare.
• Blue, Blue Plus and Blue Extra all include free advance seat selection, as well as a carry-on bag.
• Breast pumps are considered an assistive device and do not count as a carry-on bag. 

TrueBlue Kids

• There is no age minimum to sign up for a TrueBlue account and earn points toward award travel on JetBlue.

KID-FRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT Make time fly.

JetBlue has personal TVs with free live TV and movies at every seat, including at least one family-friendly movie on all flights longer than two hours. Plus, select flights offer a range of popular programming for kids

Don't forget your personal (wired) earphones—but if you do, we sell them onboard.

See this month’s movies

Toting your own devices?  

We offer power outlets at every seat on select aircraft, with more rolling out soon. Many of our terminals offer ‘juice bars’ and other spots to recharge your electronics.  

WI-FI & CONNECTIVITY Nonstop connection.

Our free high-speed wi-fi for everyone (on every plane) makes it easy to stay in touch with loved ones (or a child traveling alone), share pics and special moments, and take care of any last-minute details of your trip—even at 35,000 feet.

FREE SNACKS + DRINKS Go nuts with nut-free snacks.

All of our free brand-name snacks are nut-free—and with sweet and savory options, we’ve got something for even the pickiest little flyer. Grab as many as you like when they come down the aisle, and help yourself to the JetBlue Pantry on select flights.

On select flights, you can purchase peanut-free EatUp® snack boxes, cheese plates and fresh fare from the EatUp® Café menu.  On longer flights, you can purchase a selection of peanut-free EatUp® snack boxes, cheese plates and fresh fare from the EatUp® Café menu.  Stay hydrated with free brand-name drinks, including bottled water and juices, and full cans of your favorite carbonated beverages. (And while we do serve cookies, we do not serve milk on board.) 

Mamava® Lactation Pods

Located at several JetBlue terminals, including New York (JFK), Boston & Fort Lauderdale.

MORE LEGROOM This little piggy went YAY! YAY! YAY!

Having the most legroom in coach¹ makes traveling with a lap infant or nursing child—or just getting that car seat in place—less of a wrestling match. (And speaking of wrestling, at least one lavatory on every JetBlue plane is equipped with a diaper-changing table, so there's no need to attempt it at your seat.)  We always want to make sure that the family that travels together sits together, so our Blue, Blue Plus and Blue Extra fares let you choose your seats in advance without an extra charge. Please note that Blue Basic fares are subject to a fee for seat selection more than 24 hours before your flight (and also do not permit a carry-on bag) and may not be the best value for those traveling with kids.

Want to spread out even more?

When you purchase an Even More® Space   seat you get up to 7” more legroom (all the better to build a fort or inflight racetrack), early boarding and priority security, an expedited lane to the security checkpoint (in select airports). Some Even More Space seats are located toward the front of the plane, which allows for faster and easier boarding and deplaning.  And, if you purchased a Blue Basic fare (which doesn’t allow a carry-on), by combining it with an Even More Space seat, you’ll get to bring a carry-on and take advantage of early boarding.

BEFORE YOUR FLIGHT Less lines. (Less whines.)

Trueblue loyalty program you’re never too young to earn free flights..

You and your kids can earn points toward award travel. With Points Pooling, families (and friends) can combine their points to get to award travel faster. Just log into your TrueBlue account to get started. 

UNACCOMPANIED MINORS Solo flights.

Booking a Blue Basic fare for an unaccompanied minor? They’ll still get to bring both a carry-on bag and a personal item on board.

FAMILY TRAVEL & TRIP PLANNING DO tell the kids.

Planning your next family vacation is child’s play with extra savings, perks, convenience and 24/7 support. Plus, qualifying spend with JetBlue Vacations and Paisly earn TrueBlue points—and count toward Mosaic status and Perks You Pick™.

Cars, stays & more

Group trip planning, kidding around at jfk’s t5 the mother of all airline terminals..

Was this page helpful?

Don’t stop kidding around. 

Make the most of your kids' points..

With Points Pooling, up to 7 family members and friends can combine TrueBlue points to earn award travel faster.

Now arriving: JetBlue swag.

Prepare for takeoff with toys, games and apparel for junior jetters—and cool stuff for JetBlue fans of all ages.

Traveling with a pet?

Get the 411 on flying with your furry, four-legged family members. They can even earn TrueBlue points.

• Based on avg. fleet-wide seat pitch of U.S. airlines.

Get To Know Us

• Our Company
• Partner Airlines
• Travel Agents
• Sponsorships
• Web Accessibility
• Contract of Carriage
• Canada Accessibility Plan
• Tarmac Delay Plan
• Customer Service Plan
• Human Trafficking
• Optional Services and Fees

JetBlue In Action

• JetBlue for Good
• Sustainability
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Stay Connected

• Download the JetBlue mobile app