Travelling with a Baby Under Six Months: What You Actually Need (and What You Don’t)
- Andy Shepherd
- Jul 31
- 3 min read
✈️ Can You Even Fly with a Baby Under Six Months?
In our experience, we did take our baby to South Africa when they were just two months old, and honestly—it was perfectly fine. Although within the first few weeks, flying can be quite tough on a newborn, with added exposure to germs and general stress. So if you can wait just a couple of months, it’s often smoother for everyone.
✅ What You Really Need
Feeding During Take‑Off & Landing
Offer breastfeed, bottle or dummy during ascents and descents to help equalise pressure and keep baby comfy.
A Good Carrier or Sling
Hands-free, cosy and germ-shielding: ideal for airports, short trips, or just keeping baby close. We often reach for this when zipping through terminals or hopping off a flight.
Compact Travel Stroller: the Baby‑Zen Yo‑Yo
Many parents still favour bulky prams thinking they’re comfier—but the truth is: a newborn is just as happy in the Yo‑Yo with newborn pack as in a heavy stroller. It’s cabin‑approved on most airlines, folds quickly, and is ideal for city travel .
Carry‑On Nappy Bag
Pack nappies (more than you expect!), wipes, three changes of clothes, a changing mat and spare outfit for yourself in case of blow-outs.
Comfort & Distraction
Include a favourite comforter (lovey), plus one new small toy or book—perfect for offering mid‑flight attention.
Medical & Emergency Kit
Stock infant paracetamol, saline drops, a nasal aspirator, and any prescribed meds. Always check whether your destination has your preferred formula brand—or bring enough if not.
🛒 Our Travel Gear Picks
Ergobaby Omni Dream Baby Carrier– super-soft and simple to use from birth, supports newborn ergonomics beautifully—and great for close, cosy cuddles on trips. Independent reviews note excellent leg and hip support (“sits in a comfy, ergonomic position”) from day one .
BABYZEN YOYO 3 with Newborn Pack – our go-to carry-stroller that’s airline-friendly and foldable in seconds. Perfect through city streets or train stations, handling surprisingly well on cobbles too
BabyBjörn Baby Travel Cot Light - You'll be suprised how many hotels/rental apartments have baby cots to offer, so always check when booking. However, if your little one does need a bed on the move, most airlines will let you check one in for free. We tried a number of travel cots but found the Baby Bjorn one great for comfort and pack down size and weight.
✂️ What You Don’t Need (Please Don’t Bother)
A massive, full-size stroller for short trips: heavy, bulky, and more hassle than comfort to your newborn.
Endless toys and gadgets—they won’t amuse a baby this young (nor do you need all that gear at 2 months old).
📋 Sample Carry‑On Checklist
😅 Real‑Life Tips from Parents (Including Me!)
Arrive early—everything takes longer with a baby in tow: security, feeding, getting settled… rule of thumb: add an extra 30 minutes per leg.
Fly during naptime if possible—this can seriously up your chances of a quiet flight (us included!).
Use family boarding to get seated early and avoid the rush.
Keep perspective: a bit of fuss or a blow‑out isn’t the end of the world. Trust me, other passengers are far more forgiving than you think.
💤 Why Bother Travelling with a Baby Anyway?
Babies might not remember these trips—but they’ll be influenced by our adaptability, openness to new experiences, and love of travel. Not to mention, you get to make epic family memories (and stories) while they snooze in your arms.
🎉 Final Thoughts
With a baby under six months, you don’t need Everest-level kit. Just:
feed at the right times,
pack thoughtfully,
stay flexible and light,
and hold on tight to the fun bits (plus the inevitable mishaps—they make excellent anecdotes later).
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