Hawaii Bound: What to Pack when Travelling as a Family (with a Baby)

Don't forego travels just because you have kids (or a baby); BRING THEM WITH YOU!

I can't count the number of times someone asked me “Why do you travel so much with young kids? It’s not like they’ll remember any of it!”

As what Dr. Montessori has proven: Babies and young kids are learning from the moment they are born. Travel helps children experience a wide repertoire of sights, smells, sounds, colors, faces and languages from an early age.

The key we've discovered is just to follow their "routines" as you ease them into a new one (the sequence of things that happen on a day-to-day-basis) . As much as possible, create a home away from home. Plus, travelling with kids allows them to be more adaptable to changing situations and be more flexible in their habits.

Anyway, BECAUSE YOU ASKED -- I created some infographics on what you're allowed to bring in your baby's carry-on bag. This is important to note especially for international flights. Checking in of strollers and carseats are FREE but this is part of your luggage allowance.

BABY FOOD: You're allowed to bring baby food, milk, formula, water, juice, and other baby items in your carry-on luggage as long as you are travelling with a child who is less than 2 years old.

BREAST MILK: Passengers travelling with or without their children can bring breast milk in quantities greater than 100 ml (just check as the limit depends per airline).

MEDICATION: Prescribed medicines or first-aid medicines should be packed in a clear bag so it's easy to get inspected (hence, I mentioned to bring ziplock bags!)

ICE OR GEL PACKS: These are allowed to be brought on-board as long as this is used for prescribed medication or for those travelling with children below 2 years old (for their food and breast milk).

CREAMS OR LOTIONS: These must be placed in containers that are not more than 100 ml and packed in a clear bag so it's easy to get inspected.

TOYS OR BOOKS: Pack your child's favorite toy (that aren't messy nor will make loud noises... be considerate of your travel companions inside the plane).

WET WIPES: Always bring one to clean small messes.

ELECTRONIC GADGETS: Only bring small devices that are approved for travel (like smart phones and tablets).

I'm not saying travelling with babies and kids is easy -- IT'S NOT! It's a major production. Plan for some hiccups along the way. Those will be the fun stories you will always remember. Raising young little travelers, is really exhausting but it's pretty exciting too and so worth it.

Love,

Mommy K