Travelling with a baby, especially one under six months, can feel like an adventure for any parent. Whether you are heading upcountry to visit family, taking your first flight together, or planning a quick weekend getaway, the thought of managing feeds, sleep, diapers, and comfort on the move can be overwhelming.
But experts say that with the right planning and preparation, travelling with an infant can be smooth, memorable, and even enjoyable.
Dr Varsha Vekaria-Hirani, Consultant Pediatrician.
Photo credit: Pool
Consultant Paediatrician Dr Varsha Vekaria-Hirani has walked this journey with many parents. She shares practical, reassuring advice to help parents understand what to expect and how to ensure their babies stay safe, healthy, and comfortable throughout the journey.
According to Dr Vekaria-Hirani, a well-packed baby bag is the heart of stress-free travel.
While it may be tempting to carry everything, she explains that parents only need a selection of essential items to be fully prepared.
“Start with a comfortable baby carrier,” she says. “It makes movement easier, especially when flying.” She also advises parents to carry enough diapers, wipes, diaper cream, baby formula, a warm blanket, feeding bottles, disposal bags, and a generous change of clothes. Travel can be unpredictable, and having extras on hand keeps you ready for spills, messes, or unexpected delays.”
Entertainment items such as toys, rattles, and soft books, she says, also help keep your little one engaged.
She notes that parents should not forget to prepare a travel health kit with the guidance of their pediatrician.
“This kit may include fever medication, saline drops, a thermometer, and any other essentials based on the baby’s needs.”
Before hitting the road or the skies, it is important to check in with your paediatrician.
“Infants in this age group require closer medical attention,” Dr Vekaria-Hirani explains. Your paediatrician will assess the baby’s health and give advice tailored to your destination.”
Some areas, she says, may require specific vaccinations or preventive measures, making professional guidance important before you travel.
Managing feeding routines while travelling is one of the biggest concerns for new parents. But it does not have to be complicated.
Dr Vekaria-Hirani encourages parents to plan feeding times ahead and, when flying, to nurse or bottle-feed during takeoff and landing. This simple step helps reduce ear pressure discomfort.
For road trips, she says scheduling breaks every 45 to 60 minutes ensures that babies feed comfortably and remain settled throughout the journey.
“Don’t rush feed,” she notes. “A calm, well-timed break helps both the parent and the baby.”
Handling motion sickness and discomfort
While motion sickness is common among older children, Dr Vekaria-Hirani explains that it is rare in babies under six months. Their brains rely less on visual signals, making them less prone to nausea.
However, discomfort can still happen. To prevent this, ensure your baby is well-positioned, especially during long flights or drives.
Keep the car cool and well-ventilated, avoid turning on screens, and maintain a calm environment. Small adjustments in positioning and airflow go a long way in ensuring comfort.
Safety and comfort in new environments
Every travel destination comes with its own challenges: new temperatures, unfamiliar surroundings, changing light, and varying levels of cleanliness.
“On flights, a soft and comfortable baby carrier helps keep the baby secure,” Dr Vekaria-Hirani advises.
For road trips, a rear-facing, well-installed car seat is non-negotiable.
She advises parents to regularly check their baby’s position, ensuring they are shaded from direct sunlight and not overheating.
“Surfaces such as armrests, windows, and tray tables should be sanitised, especially where the baby might touch or rub against. If an environment feels stuffy, opening a window or moving to a cooler area helps maintain comfort.”
Sleep can be unpredictable when travelling with a baby. Changes in routine, noise levels, and unfamiliar surroundings can all interfere with naps and bedtime.
That’s why Dr Vekaria-Hirani recommends planning travel times around your baby’s usual nap schedule.
A baby wrapped in diapers sleeps comfortably. Photo| File
“Familiarity is very comforting to babies,” she says.
Keeping bedtime routines like warm baths, lullabies, or storytelling consistent can also create a sense of continuity even when you are away from home.
Hygiene and diaper changes on the go
Parents should always have a portable changing pad, enough wipes, diaper cream, disposable bags, and sanitisers. During road trips, stopping every 45 to 60 minutes for diaper checks helps reduce discomfort and prevents rashes.
“Remember to always sanitise your hands before and after changing the baby, and clean any surface the baby comes into contact with. This reduces the risk of infections and keeps the baby comfortable.”
Travel-related illnesses to watch out for
While most trips go smoothly, it is important to remain alert. Common travel-related illnesses in babies include fever, diarrhoea, respiratory infections, and skin rashes.
“Other red flags include dehydration (sunken eyes or soft spot), difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, unusual lethargy, or irritability.”
