Travelling always adds cherished moments to one's life. No matter how hectic your work life is, a few days off and a flight to your dream destination can help you keep stress at bay.
While you might be aware of the preparations you need to make for a solo trip, what if you have a small child? With infants and toddlers, you cannot go to destinations with harsh conditions or undertake an exhausting trek. Then how do you plan a trip with a baby?
Here is a comprehensive list of things you should know when going on an international trip with a toddler from India.
International Trips with Kids from India: Key Considerations
When on a first international trip with kids, you need to keep the following things in mind:
Plan Your Itinerary
The key to a joyful journey with kids is to include the right locations in your itinerary. Start by considering the age and interests of your child. Younger children might enjoy destinations with interactive museums, zoos or theme parks, while older children might appreciate historical sites or natural wonders.
Next, think about the pace of your trip. It is crucial to balance busy days with downtime. Too many activities can be overwhelming for both you and your child. For example, you could spend a day exploring a bustling city, followed by a day at a quiet beach or park.
Also, consider the educational value of the places you visit. Choose locations that will broaden your child's understanding of the world. This could include historical monuments, science museums or even local markets.
Apart from this, if you are looking for a budget trip, you can explore cheap countries to visit with family.
Get Passport
Ready for an international trip with kids? A passport is the primary requirement for legally visiting overseas. If you are applying for a passport for your minor child, here is the process:
Step 1: Begin by registering on the official Passport Seva website. Create a user ID and password.
Step 2: Login and click on 'Apply for Ordinary Passport' to complete the application form.
Step 3: Make the payment and schedule your appointment. The system automatically assigns a date and time based on slot availability at your chosen PSK.
Step 4: On the appointment day, visit the PSK with your spouse and child, carrying all necessary documents. Remember to bring the application form and fee receipt.
Pack Essentials
When travelling to kid-friendly destinations outside India, you must be extra careful about what you pack and leave behind. Here are some must-have items:
Carry your passports, visas and tickets. Also, keep a copy of your child's birth certificate and any necessary travel permissions.
Pack any prescription medications your kid requires, along with a basic first-aid kit. This should include band-aids, antiseptic wipes and fever reducers.
Pack enough clothes, considering the weather at your destination. Include a hat, sunglasses and swimwear if needed.
Healthy snacks, such as non-perishable items like granola bars or dried fruits, can keep your child energised during long travel hours.
Keep your child entertained during the journey by packing their favourite books or toys or downloading their preferred movies or games on a tablet.
If you have an infant, do not forget diapers, wipes, bottles, formula, baby food and a portable changing pad.
A familiar blanket or stuffed animal can help your child sleep better in a new environment.
Teach Them a Few Local Words
Learning a new language helps children understand and appreciate local culture while enhancing cognitive abilities like problem-solving and critical thinking.
Here is how to get them started:
Use interactive and fun language learning apps.
Encourage your child to interact with locals for real-world practice, which can be very effective.
Play language games to make learning enjoyable and engaging.
Reading local storybooks together is a great way to learn new words and phrases.
Know the Airline Rules
Airlines have specific rules for children of different age groups. Infants under two years old can usually travel on a parent's lap for free on domestic flights or at a reduced fare for international travel.
However, depending on your child's activity level, you can purchase a separate seat for them, provided you bring an approved car seat.
Children over two years old need tickets and a seat. The fare for children between two and eleven is typically 75% of the regular price on most routes.
Family boarding is another feature that allows families with children under two years old to board early. Families with children under 12 can book seats next to each other for free.
Book Transfers
After a long flight, the last thing you want is to navigate public transport or negotiate with local taxi drivers. Pre-booked transfers mean you have a ride waiting for you.
Pre-booking rides is often cheaper than booking on the spot. You can contrast the prices and choose the best deal. Moreover, when booked through a reputable transfer service, they are generally safer, especially in a foreign country where language can be a barrier.
Choose Your Meal Wisely
Children may find unfamiliar foods daunting, and sudden dietary changes can upset their stomachs. Food and drinking water safety can be a concern in some regions, especially during adventurous trips to remote locations. Intaking contaminated food or water can lead to illnesses.
Before you travel:
Familiarise yourself with the local cuisine.
Opt for well-cooked, hot foods and avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially seafood and meat.
Ensure your children stay hydrated by preferring bottled or purified water.
Get Insurance
Many countries have made it mandatory for tourists to have travel insurance before arriving on their soil. This requirement ensures that you have enough funds to address the situation in the event of a financial crisis or legal complications.
While we hope for a smooth journey, accidents or illnesses can happen. Our Reliance General Travel Insurance policy covers medical expenses including dental treatment, daily allowance in case of hospitalisation, personal accident cover, compassionate visit and much more, ensuring you do not face hefty medical bills in a foreign country.
Your trip can also be interrupted, delayed or cancelled for various reasons. Our travel insurance plan can cover the expenses associated with these disruptions.
Conclusion
Planning is crucial whether you are on a kid-friendly vacation in India or abroad. You must ensure that the hotels you book and the flights you travel with are convenient for your little ones.
You must also ensure that you, your spouse and your kids are covered under family travel insurance. The reason is that in an environment or with cuisine your body is not familiar with, the chances of getting ill are high. Therefore, it is best to be insured when you are on a trip with family.
Our Reliance General
International Travel Insurance plan will ensure you do not have to compromise on your itineraries or allocated budget and will pay for the covered incidents on your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need for my kids?
All travellers, including children, need a valid passport. Most countries require visas for entry. There may be other necessary documents also, like travel insurance and proof of accommodation and return flights. Review the prerequisites of your destination country before you travel.
How can I prepare my kids for a long flight?
Bring snacks, games and comfort items like a favourite blanket or stuffed animal. Explain the flight process to them beforehand to alleviate any fears.
Should I adjust my kids to the new time zone beforehand?
Gradually adjusting sleep schedules to the destination time zone can help minimise jet lag.
What health precautions should I take?
Ensure your children are up-to-date on standard vaccines. Some countries require additional vaccinations. Consult a healthcare provider for advice.
How can I ensure safety in a foreign country?
Teach your kids to stay close to you and not talk to strangers. Also, make them memorise your contact information. If you are travelling with infants, put your contact details in their pockets.