Preparing for an International Trip With a Baby
Traveling abroad with a baby takes extra planning, but with the right steps, it feels manageable. Here’s how we prepared for our first big trip with Parker- from paperwork to health checks to packing.
Infant Passport (Canada)
We started Parker’s passport application about three months before we needed it so we wouldn’t have to pay rush fees. It is possible to apply closer to travel time, but giving yourself a buffer makes the process less stressful.
Because it was a new passport application, we needed a guarantor to sign the back of one of Parker’s photos to confirm it was accurate. Chris (Parker’s dad) had to sign the forms, but I went to the office with Parker alone.
The photo was the trickiest part. Many places wouldn’t take infant passport photos since Parker couldn’t sit up on his own. After a couple failed attempts, we found a location that specifically advertised infant passport photos - and they managed to get one that met the requirements.
Travel Vaccination Clinic
Before leaving, we visited a travel vaccination clinic. The pharmacist reviewed our destination and Parker’s age, then recommended region‑specific vaccines. They were also able to give some routine vaccines earlier than usual to ensure Parker was protected. One roadblock we ran into in Canada was that pharmacists cannot vaccinate infants - they can prescribe vaccines, but we had to see a nurse or doctor to have them administered. The clinic also provided us with infant antibiotics to carry overseas in case of an emergency.
We also confirmed our travel insurance for ourselves and Parker before leaving. Having coverage in place gave us peace of mind, especially knowing how unpredictable travel can be with a baby.
Trying Allergens Before Travel
Since Parker had started solids, we made sure he had tried all the common allergens several times at home before heading to Thailand. That gave us confidence that he’d already had safe exposure, and we wouldn’t be navigating new reactions abroad.
At this stage, solids are about exposure, not nutrition. Parker still got most of his fill from breast milk, but introducing flavors and textures helped him develop eating skills and made meals abroad more fun.
Packing Essentials
Alongside the usual baby gear, we packed Benadryl for emergencies. While there’s no infant dosage, having it on hand helped us feel prepared. We also included disinfectant wipes, a travel spoon, and a small first aid kit — items that made daily life easier while away.
We carried copies of Parker’s passport, vaccination records, and insurance information in a separate folder. Having documents organized and accessible turned out to be one of the most useful “packing hacks.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do babies need passports to travel abroad? Yes — even newborns and infants need their own passport. In Canada, you’ll need a guarantor for a first application, and infant photos can be tricky to get. Apply early to avoid rush fees.
What vaccines should babies get before international travel? It depends on your destination. A travel vaccination clinic can advise based on your baby’s age and where you’re going. In Canada, pharmacists cannot administer vaccines to infants, so you’ll need a nurse or doctor.
Should I introduce allergens before traveling? If your baby has started solids, it’s wise to try common allergens at home before your trip. That way, you’ll know how they react in a safe environment.
What emergency medications should I pack? Many parents bring items like Benadryl for peace of mind, even if infant dosages aren’t established. Some clinics may also provide infant antibiotics for emergencies.
What documents should I carry for a baby abroad? Keep copies of your baby’s passport, vaccination records, and insurance information in a separate folder. Having them organized makes border crossings and emergencies much smoother.
