Traveling with kids is one of those things that sounds either magical or mildly terrifying—sometimes both at once. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this even worth it?” you’re not alone.
But as a mama who’s taken twin boys on over 50 trips across 10 countries since they were just four months old, I’m here to tell you: Yes, it’s worth it—but each age comes with its own set of highs and lows.
Whether you’re debating if your baby is too young to hop on a plane or wondering how to survive a flight with a chatty seven-year-old, this post is for you. I’m breaking down the real pros and cons of traveling with kids by age group, from infants all the way to elementary schoolers.
So if you’re trying to decide when (or if) to book that next family adventure, keep reading—because I’m giving it to you straight, based on years of experience, baby blowouts in foreign countries, and more than a few tantrums (from them and me).
Traveling with an Infant (0–12 months)
Pros of Traveling with an Infant
Free Flights Until Age Two
One of the biggest perks of traveling with a baby? They can fly for free as a lap infant until they turn two. That’s a huge cost-saver—especially when you’re traveling with more than one. For us, flying with twins meant we could stretch our travel budget further while they were still small.
Go-With-the-Flow Vibes
Babies don’t have packed itineraries or strong opinions, so they’re usually pretty chill. As long as they’re fed, dry, and close to you, they’ll likely nap through much of the journey. We started traveling with our boys at just four months old, and by five months, they were snoozing under the Puerto Rican sun.
Babywearing = Total Game Changer
Forget clunky strollers for every occasion—babywearing made everything easier. Whether navigating airports or climbing trails, having them close (and hands-free) was a lifesaver. I still remember babywearing during our hike through El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico—lush greenery, light rain misting through the trees, and my boys tucked in close as we explored.
Entertainment? Not Yet Needed
At this age, entertainment isn’t a huge concern. For the plane, I would bring a suction spinner and/or a chewy teething toy, and they would be content because babies are mesmerized by ceiling lights, shadows, and peek-a-boo.
No screens or elaborate activities required.
What you do get is the pure joy of watching them react to the world. Like when we fed elephants in Thailand—seeing their little faces filled with wonder was everything
Cons of Traveling with an Infant
The Gear Struggle Is Real
Traveling with babies, especially twins, means doubling up on bottles, car seats, strollers, and all the baby things. On our train ride from Amsterdam to Paris, a double stroller was just too much. That’s when I learned about the BabyZen Yoyo. I ultimately opted for GB Pockit strollers for a more budget-friendly option.
Also, wondering what you can bring through TSA? They have clear guidelines for traveling with infants and children. You can check the latest rules on TSA’s website to know what to expect before you get to the airport.
They Can’t Tell You What’s Wrong
Another challenge? Babies can’t tell you what’s up. If they’re upset, you’re playing detective—hungry? tired? wet? uncomfortable? And if that moment hits mid-flight, with every row watching you, it can feel intense. Luckily for us, feeding or walking the aisle usually calmed things down quickly.
Traveling with a Toddler (1–3 years)
Pros of Traveling with a Toddler
You Can Start Reasoning with Them
One of the biggest wins at this age is communication. You can start explaining what’s happening—why you’re standing in a long TSA line, what to expect during takeoff, or why they need to stay seated. When we were headed to see family or heading to Disney, we’d say, “To see Grandma or Mickey, we have to do X, Y, Z.” It helped build understanding (and minimize meltdowns).
You Can Build Excitement About Travel
Toddlers love a good storyline, and shows like Super Wings made airports and travel feel like a grand adventure. Seeing their faces light up as they made real-life connections to the characters and scenes from their favorite shows? Priceless.
They Can Actually Participate in Activities
This is when travel starts to get really fun. Toddlers are more interactive and curious—and they want in on the action. For the boys’ second birthday, we went to Costa Rica. Watching their faces light up when they played in the volcanic mud was one of those “core memory” moments.
Cons of Traveling with a Toddler
Tantrums Are a Real Possibility
Let’s be real—toddlers are called “two-nagers” for a reason. While they can start to reason, they also have big emotions and limited tools to express them. You have to stay alert for triggers and keep tools handy to head off a meltdown before it starts. (Snacks, a toy, a change of scenery—whatever works.)
Travel Costs Jump at Age Two
This is the age when they’re no longer flying for free. Once they turn two, you’re paying for a full-price seat—so for twin parents like me, travel costs literally doubled overnight. It’s a real shift in budget planning that catches many parents off guard.
Traveling with a Preschooler (3–5 years)
Pros of Traveling with a Preschooler
You Can Take Advantage of Off-Peak Travel
Preschoolers don’t have rigid school schedules yet, which gives you more flexibility to snag those flight deals and off-season bargains. We planned some of our best trips during this stage—fewer crowds, better prices, and way more options. We use Going to find our flight deals. They send alerts straight to your inbox when a deal matches your departure city.
👉 Get more tips on catching a flight deal 👈
Less Gear, More Freedom
This is when you start saying goodbye to all that baby stuff. We ditched bulky strollers and switched to a collapsible wagon instead—it gave the boys a place to ride or rest, and it doubled as a luggage hauler. You also get smarter about packing. My must-haves? They’re all in my Amazon storefront here.
Travel-Friendly Car Seats Are a Game-Changer
Preschoolers are big enough to use travel-specific car seats like the WAYB Pico, which folds down and fits in overhead compartments. Another option we used? The RideSafer Travel vest—a compact alternative to bulky car seats that’s still crash-tested and safe.
They’re Finally Old Enough for Kids’ Clubs
This age opens the door to one of the biggest parent perks—kids’ clubs. Most hotels and cruises start allowing kids to attend at age 3 or 4. It’s the first real moment you get a break, and they get to have fun in a space made just for them.
My boys absolutely LOVED the kids’ club on the Disney Wish Cruise. And so did I and my husband. It stayed open until midnight, meaning we could do bourbon tastings and other adult-only activities. And the crazy part is- when we would pick them up at 11:55 PM, they’d ask why we came so early.
Know your Family Travel Personality?
🌟 Take the
Cons of Traveling with a Preschooler
You’re Still in “Parent Mode” the Whole Time
Let’s be honest: even though they’re more independent, preschoolers still need plenty of support. You’re still monitoring meals, managing moods, and making sure they don’t wander too far. Unless they’re in the kids’ club, you’re very much “on.” But compared to baby and toddler travel, this stage is refreshingly lighter.
Traveling with an Elementary-Age Child (6–10 years)
Pros of Traveling with an Elementary-Age Kid
They Truly “Get” It
At this age, kids become full-on travel buddies. They understand what’s happening, can follow directions, and often travel better than some adults (seriously). Since we started traveling with our boys so young, by the time they hit elementary age, they were total pros—from navigating airports to breezing through security.
They’re Independent (in the Best Ways)
Elementary-aged kids can carry their own backpack, roll their luggage, and keep track of their stuff—at least most of the time. It makes the logistics of family travel so much easier when you’re not juggling everyone’s belongings on your own.
👉 Grab my Minimalist Family Packing List here 👈
They Want to Be Involved
At this stage, kids start developing opinions—and it’s a good thing! They want to help choose activities, vote on where to eat, and even pitch in when building an itinerary. When they’re involved, they’re more invested, which makes for a smoother (and more fun) trip for everyone.
Cons of Traveling with an Elementary-Age Kid
Their School and Activity Schedules Limit Flexibility
The biggest downside? You can’t just travel whenever you want anymore. Between school, extracurriculars, and standardized testing windows, your travel windows get tighter. We’ve had to get creative with fall break, three-day weekends, and the occasional school holiday. (Pro tip: This school year alone, my kids are off 13 times- with the majority NOT holidays—those are golden.)
Final Thoughts: Is There a “Best” Age to Travel with Kids?
The truth? There’s no single “best” age to travel with kids—each stage comes with its own mix of magic and mess. Infants are easy to fly with (as long as you pack light-ish), toddlers bring big feelings and even bigger joy, preschoolers open the door to real adventures, and elementary-aged kids become actual travel partners.
What matters most isn’t their age—it’s your mindset and flexibility as a parent. That’s why I created a Mindset Prep Checklist to help you set realistic expectations, avoid frustration, and actually enjoy your trip.
Thus, if you go on a trip expecting a few bumps, planning smart, and staying open to the wonder of it all, the memories you’ll create together are beyond worth it.
Whether it’s their first time seeing the ocean or their hundredth plane ride, travel gives your kids the chance to explore the world—and for you to see it all through their eyes.
You’ve got this, mama. Now, let’s plan that next trip.
⭐ More Tips on Traveling with Baby and Toddlers ⭐
Getting Through Airport Security With Baby: Step-by-Step Guide
Can I Travel Internationally With Kids? What Parents Need to Know
Traveling with a Newborn: Tips for Flying During Baby’s First Year
CARES Harness vs. Car Seat for Flying with Kids: What’s Best for Your Family?
Traveling With Kids: Biggest Challenges + Smart Fixes
What’s the Best Age to Travel With Kids? Real Talk for Moms
Pros and Cons of Traveling with Kids (By Age Group)
A Complete Guide to the Best Toddler Airplane Beds
25+ Toddler Travel Essentials: Traveling with a Toddler Checklist
Best Toddler Travel Beds- Ultimate Kid Portable Bed Guide
15 Tips to Help a Toddler Sleep on the Plane
21 Tips for Flying with Toddlers From a Traveling Mom
27 Beach Essentials for Toddlers and Babies
