Solo Travel with a Baby: Sarah's Journey

The Decision to Fly Solo

Sarah’s motivation was simple: her parents in Sydney had yet to meet their grandson. “We’d tried everything — FaceTime, daily photo updates — but it just wasn’t the same. I wanted them to hold him, smell that sweet baby scent, and bond in a real, physical way,” she says.

With her partner tied up at work and unable to take extended leave, Sarah decided she would make the trip alone. “I had my doubts. People warned me about the jet lag, the packing, the crying baby mid-flight… But I kept reminding myself: this is a season, not a lifetime. And I knew it would be worth it.”

Packing Light (Well, Lighter)

Packing for a solo trip with a baby requires strategic minimalism. Sarah became a master of prioritization. “You have to rethink everything. I brought only what we absolutely needed — nappies for the first few days, a baby carrier, two changes of clothes each, and plenty of snacks and formula.”

Her most valuable item? A lightweight, compact stroller that folded up with one hand. “When you’re juggling immigration forms, a nappy bag, and a baby, that stroller felt like magic.”

Preparing for the Flight

Preparing for the flight is just as crucial as the packing. Sarah researched tips for flying with babies, and she was determined to make the journey as smooth as possible. She downloaded movies, curated a playlist to soothe her baby, and even targeted the flight timings for when her child usually napped.

The Flight: Long, Loud, and Not Without Tears

A 24-hour journey with a baby is no small feat. Sarah’s flight included a long-haul leg to Singapore, a layover, and a second flight to Sydney.

“There were moments I thought I was absolutely mad,” she laughs. “He cried during takeoff, spit up on me twice, and had a major blowout somewhere over the Indian Ocean. I cried, too. Quietly. In the bathroom.”

But she also experienced kindness from strangers. “Flight attendants offered to hold him while I used the restroom. One woman rocked him while I ate my dinner. A fellow parent gave me their last baby wipe when I ran out. There’s something about seeing a solo mum with a baby that brings out the best in people.”

Jet Lag and Settling In

Landing in Sydney didn’t bring instant relief. “Jet lag with a baby is… wild,” Sarah says. “He thought 2 a.m. was party time for about a week. But having my mum and dad help during those tough nights made all the difference.”

Once they adjusted, Sarah said the emotional payoff was enormous. “Watching my dad sing lullabies to his grandson, or seeing Mum walk him around the garden, felt like a reward for every sleepless hour on that plane.”

Building Family Connections

Establishing connections with family after such a long distance made the journey worthwhile. Sarah noted how crucial physical presence is for bonding. When her parents interacted with their grandson, they created memories that would last a lifetime. This experience taught her the importance of family ties and cherishing every moment together.

Lessons Learned and Advice for Other Parents

Now back in London, Sarah reflects on the experience with gratitude and perspective.

“I learned I’m capable of more than I thought. I also learned that babies are more adaptable than we give them credit for. He was fussy, yes, but he also slept, smiled at strangers, and adjusted better than I did in some ways.”

Her advice to other parents considering international travel with a baby includes:

• Start small if you’re nervous. Try a solo weekend away first.

• Plan but don’t overpack. You can buy most things at your destination.

• Give yourself grace. There will be rough moments. That doesn’t mean it’s a mistake.

• Ask for help. Strangers can be surprisingly supportive — especially if you’re open and kind.

• Remember your “why.” Whether it’s family, culture, or simply the adventure, keep your purpose close when things get hard.

  
  

Advice from Expert Travelers

Travel experts often emphasize practical tips for traveling with infants. Choosing the right time to travel can prevent turbulence in the baby's routine. Also, packing a carry-on bag with essentials at your fingertips helps manage any unexpected situations.

A Journey Worth Taking

Sarah’s journey from London to Australia wasn’t easy, but it was meaningful, empowering, and full of little joys she wouldn’t trade for anything.

“There was something very special about that time — just me and my son, figuring it out together. I’ll always treasure that bond we built, and I know this is only the beginning of many adventures ahead.”

Are you a parent who’s tackled international travel with a baby? Share your story with us — we’d love to hear from you!

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