For too long, there’s been a false narrative around parenthood: that once you have kids, adventure is over. The same people who once backpacked through Europe or island-hopped in Southeast Asia suddenly convince themselves that life should be lived in suburban stillness, trading variety for stability. Travel becomes framed as risky–something to be put on hold until the kids are older.
The truth? Traveling with a baby isn’t just possible. It can actually be one of the easiest, most rewarding times to see the world. In fact, 62% of millennial parents routinely travel with infants and toddlers, embracing family exploration as an ingrained lifestyle rather than a rare milestone, not because it’s easy, but because it’s valued.
Below, we’re breaking down the most common myths about traveling with a baby, and why they’re worth tossing out before you book your next trip.
Myth 1: You need to pack your entire nursery
Truth: Babies need far less than you think.
Diapers and wipes are globally available, and destinations from Scandinavia to New Zealand make traveling with a baby easier through stroller-friendly transit, hotel baby gear, and rental options. Strollers aren’t always necessary either, especially in Europe where roads are old, narrow, and made of cobblestones: a chest carrier is often more than you need, and it doubles as a workout without the bulk.
Most mid-range to luxury hotels will have a pack-n-play or a crib they can place in your room, and often at no charge (depending on the country). However, consider that bedsharing is a global norm (despite its controversy in some Western medical systems), and a king-sized bed might be more comfortable (and easy to manage). If you choose this route, follow safe sleep guidelines like those from La Leche League.
As for toys, your baby is more interested in faces, keys, TV remotes, hotel phones, and the world around them than a suitcase full of plastic. Anything can be turned into a toy at this age, and anything you bring will likely go untouched. When it comes to clothes, anticipate the need for frequent laundering, and choose accommodations that have laundry, are close to laundromats, or are in urban areas where laundry wash and dry services are as accessible as Uber (i.e. Laundryheap in London).
Myth 2: You have to lug a car seat everywhere
Truth: Rules and options vary worldwide.
Children under two don’t need their own plane seat, and in many countries taxis or rideshares don’t require car seats (some, like Careem in Dubai, even provide them). Car seat regulations also differ between the US, Europe, and Australia, so a seat from one region may not be legal in another. Rental car companies usually have seats available, though often poorly installed. If the idea stresses you out, pick destinations with strong public transit and book accommodations near train or metro lines. The less gear you bring, the easier your trip will be, so choose the option that matches your comfort level.
Myth 3: You have to plan everything around nap times
Truth: Babies sleep when they’re tired.
Don’t chain yourself to a schedule that causes more stress than freedom. Babies will nap when their bodies need it, whether that’s on a plane, on a train, or simply being carried by mom or dad. Travel days may look different from home routines, and that’s okay. You’re not going to break your baby by switching things up.
Myth 4: You can’t do anything fun with a baby
Truth: You can still do plenty, you’ll just redefine “fun.”
Instead of stressing over nightlife you’re missing, use your trip to connect with your family. Put the phone away, turn off the TV, and lean into uninterrupted time together. Countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland prioritize outdoor play, while in New Zealand, some of the best boat tours even stock infant life jackets.
You may not be skydiving or club-hopping until 1 a.m., but you’ll discover a different kind of joy: showing your baby the world. And if you do want adult time, consider destinations with world-class nanny services or bring grandparents along for built-in childcare.
Myth 5: Babies don’t fly well
Truth: Babies cry. It’s not a crime, it’s just part of taking public transportation.
You don’t need to apologize for bringing your child on a plane or hand out “sorry my baby cries” gift bags. Airlines are equipped with bassinets, changing stations, and flight attendants trained to help. Some even go above and beyond in economy like Air New Zealand’s Skycouch, creating a sleepable, playable, baby-friendly space.
Pro tip: nurse or bottle-feed during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure. Most newborns sleep soundly with the hum of jet engines. The real “challenge” comes when they’re mobile, but even then, snacks, keys, or sticker books often entertain longer than toys.
Myth 6: It’s too hard
Truth: It’s only hard if you’re inflexible.
Life is only easy if you live in a bubble, and even then, it probably doesn’t feel easy all the time. Parenting is no different–full of unpredictable days. You can slog through the same meltdowns and messes at home, or have them on a beach in Portugal, with someone else making the bed. The hard days don’t go away, but your surroundings can make it a whole lot more enjoyable.
Myth 7: Babies won’t remember the trip, so what’s the point?
Truth: Travel leaves an imprint, on them and on you.
Even if your baby won’t remember seeing the Eiffel Tower or recognize what it is, the sensory input of new sights, sounds, smells, and textures helps wire their brains for adaptability. Early exposure to new environments fosters resilience, creativity, and confidence. Taking your babies with you makes them better humans. And for you as a parent, navigating new cultures with your child builds skills that make everyday parenting at home feel easier. It’s also proven to strengthen your relationship with your significant other, a bond that probably feels a little “off”, as you’re navigating early parenthood.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with a baby doesn’t have to be a logistical nightmare. With the right mindset, it can be one of the most meaningful experiences you choose to invest in. The baby stage won’t last forever, but the adaptability, resiliency, and teamwork you nurture by adventuring together, will.
At Trimester Abroad, we believe building a family shouldn’t cancel your bucket list. It’s not about perfection, it’s about possibility. So pack light, stay flexible, and go see the world, with your baby in tow.
