Sort the documents first: a baby needs their own passport or identity card, and sometimes consent from the other parent. Then pack hand luggage with everything for the journey: nappies, wipes, a set of clean clothes, feeds and something familiar. Spread the rest across the suitcase with spares. Always check the current rules of your carrier and destination.
What to remember
- Documents first: a baby needs their own travel document, arrange this in good time.
- Pack hand luggage that comfortably bridges a few hours of delay.
- Bring feeds you can rely on and keep to your familiar rhythm.
- Check the rules of the carrier and destination in advance.
Documents and preparation first
A baby also needs their own valid travel document, a passport or identity card. Arrange this well in advance, because the application and delivery take days. If your baby travels with one parent or with someone else, consent from the other parent may be needed.
Also bring a health card and note down important details, such as the number of your health visitor or doctor. Check the exact requirements of the destination before you book.
- Own passport or identity card for your baby, requested in time.
- A consent form from the other parent where needed.
- Health card and important phone numbers within reach.
Smartly packed hand luggage
Your hand luggage holds everything you need quickly on the way, including during a delay. Think of nappies, wipes, a changing mat, at least one set of clean clothes and an extra layer for cooler spaces.
Arrange items logically, so you do not have to unpack the whole bag for a change. A small case for the dummy and a bottle sleeve keep everything clean and together.
- Nappies, wipes and a changing mat for the journey.
- At least one set of clean clothes and an extra layer.
- Dummy in a clean case and a drink within reach.
Sorting feeds on the go
Bring the feeds you can rely on. With formula it helps to bring measured portions and, where possible, clean water separately. With breastfeeding you mainly need calm and space.
During take off and landing of a flight, sucking on the bottle, breast or dummy can help against pressure changes in the ears. Only do this if your baby is already used to it and wants it at that moment.
Sleeping away from home
A familiar bedtime routine travels along, even if the surroundings are new. Bring recognisable elements, such as a familiar sound or a sleeping bag, and keep to your usual order as much as you can.
Make sure there is a safe sleep space at the destination: a firm, flat mattress in an own, empty cot. Check whether a booked travel cot meets this principle.
The suitcase: spares and comfort
The suitcase holds the spares and the things you do not need every hour: extra clothes per day with a margin, care items, a bath thermometer if you want to be sure the bath water is right and, in consultation with your care provider, any known medication.
Pack by category and keep a short checklist to hand. That way, when you pack up again, you know exactly what should go back.
- Clothes per day, plus a generous margin for accidents.
- Care kit, bath thermometer and familiar care items.
- Known medication or cream only in consultation with your care provider.
Frequently asked questions
Does my baby need their own passport?
Yes. A baby also needs their own valid travel document, a passport or identity card. Request this well in advance, because delivery takes days.
What goes in the hand luggage?
Everything for the journey, including during a delay: nappies, wipes, a changing mat, at least one set of clean clothes, an extra layer, feeds and something familiar.
How do I help my baby with their ears on a plane?
Sucking on the bottle, breast or dummy during take off and landing can help against the pressure change. Only do this if your baby is already used to it and wants it then.
How do I arrange safe sleep at the destination?
Provide a firm, flat mattress in an own, empty cot and keep your familiar bedtime routine. Check whether a booked travel cot meets this.
Sources and review
This guide follows the Dutch government information on travel documents and travelling with children and the EASA advice on travelling with children. Always check the current rules of your carrier and destination. Last content review: 16 July 2026.
