Travelling with children: a simple planning checklist

By the Safarly team · Updated 10 November 2026 · 4 min read

Family trips go smoothly when the paperwork, seats and bags are sorted early. Check every traveller's passport, read the airline's child rules, pack a small comfort kit and choose a hotel that suits your family.

Travelling with children is easier with a little planning. This checklist covers the main things to sort before you go. Rules differ by airline and country and can change, so confirm anything important with the official sources named below.

Documents first

• Every traveller needs their own passport, including babies. Check the expiry date and the validity your destination asks for. Many countries have their own rules, so read the entry requirements for your destination.
• Names must match. The name on the ticket should match the passport exactly. Tell us or your airline early if something is wrong.
• Check the official sources. The UK government publishes country-by-country entry requirements at GOV.UK foreign travel advice. Passport applications and renewals are handled by HM Passport Office. Allow plenty of time, as processing times vary.
• If only one parent is travelling, or the child travels with other relatives, some airlines and countries may ask for proof of permission. Ask your airline and the destination's embassy what they require, and carry any paperwork they suggest.

Seats, fares and baggage

Airline rules for infants and children differ, including seat rules, baggage allowances and what items you can bring free, such as a pushchair or car seat. Read the airline's own child and infant page before you book. Our guide to fares and baggage explains how to read allowances.

• Check whether children get their own baggage allowance on your fare.
• Sit together where you can. Airlines may charge for seat selection, so check before you pay.
• Ask the airline how it handles pushchairs and car seats.

At the airport

Allow extra time. Check in online if your airline offers it, keep passports and boarding passes in one easy pocket, and follow our airport check-in and security tips. Rules for baby milk, food and liquids at security differ by airport, so read the official guidance for your departure airport before packing.

A small comfort kit

• Snacks and an empty water bottle to fill after security.
• Wipes, spare clothes for children and a spare top for you.
• Favourite toy, books, drawing things or a tablet with downloaded shows and headphones.
• Any medicines your child needs, in your hand luggage, with the information you may need to show.
• Chargers and a power bank, checking your airline's rules on power banks.

Choosing a hotel

Look at the facts that matter to your family: room size, cots or extra beds, whether children are free or charged, distance from the airport, a pool or shallow area, and whether rooms connect. Always read the hotel's own child policy on the booking page. If you book through our partners, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Getting around and staying connected

For a tired family, a pre-booked airport transfer can be easier than finding a taxi. Check that a child seat is available if you need one, and ask the provider in writing. An eSIM can keep your phone online on arrival. Browse hotels, transfers, car hire and eSIMs in our travel extras. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Need a hand?

We can look at flight options for your family and explain baggage and fare rules in plain words, in writing, before you pay. Ask for a flight quote or message us on WhatsApp.

Quick answers

Do babies need their own passport?

Yes, every traveller normally needs their own passport. Check the entry requirements for your destination on GOV.UK foreign travel advice.

Can I take a pushchair or car seat on the plane?

It depends on the airline. Read its child and infant page, or ask before you travel.

Do I need a letter if I travel with one parent?

Some airlines and countries may ask for proof of permission. Ask your airline and the destination's embassy what they require.

Rules, fees and entry requirements change. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Always check official sources and your supplier's terms before you book.

← All travel guides