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Home › Articles › Traveling Grandparent › A Baby Abroad

A Baby Abroad

International Travel with Infants

Part One

By Danielle Hamilton

Pages:  1  2  3  4  

  • Two forms of identity/citizenship. For babies: a certified copy of birth certificate (must be long-form in California and Texas), Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship, AND a person who can vouch for you, such as a parent with two forms of valid ID.

    • Your child need not appear in person. You, as parent or legal guardian, can apply for your child. When you receive the passport it must be signed immediately. In the space provided for the signature, a parent must print the child's name and then sign their own name. Then, in parentheses by the parent's name, write the word "mother" or "father." Your newborn's passport will be valid for five years but may be renewed as needed.

    Many countries do not require tourist visas if entering from the United States. Some only require a tourist card that may be obtained on the plane prior to landing. Check with your travel agent or airline when making reservations or visit the State Department's Web site to see if the country you're visiting requires one and how to apply.

    Flight Reservations
    The most important tip when traveling with infants is to maintain a flexible schedule and allow for plenty of "down time." Babies can become over-stimulated and fussy during travel. Try to schedule your flights during off-peak hours or during the week when it is less crowded. Aim for flights during routine nap times or overnight on the "red eye" flight, where the child may fall asleep naturally.

    sleeping infant Cathleen Farrell, who resides in Columbia, traveled with her daughter, Maria Carolina, to more than 14 countries before the baby turned 8 months old. She recommends that parents book non-sop flights when possible and consider bulkhead seating at the front of each section. These seats have no other chairs in front of them, providing more legroom for easier diaper changing and more room to play. Many planes also have a car-bed or a bassinet that can be attached to the wall after takeoff and removed prior to landing. Request bulkhead seating and the bassinet when you book your flight, if desired.

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