The best age to take a baby abroad is generally between three to seven months.
While most airlines permit infants as young as two weeks old (though some allow even seven-day-old infants), the period from three to seven months presents a sweet spot for several reasons. Always check directly with the airline for their specific booking policies.
Here’s a breakdown:
-
Airline Policies: Usually infants must be at least two weeks old before they can travel although some airlines allow seven-day old infants on board. The booking policy differs from one airline to another, so it is important to check directly with the airlines.
-
Immunity: Babies start developing their immune system but aren't yet crawling and putting everything in their mouths, reducing the risk of infections from unfamiliar environments.
-
Flexibility: This age is often before babies become highly mobile or experience significant separation anxiety, making travel easier.
-
Feeding: If breastfeeding, it is very easy. If bottle feeding, parents are usually already very well set up with the supplies and sterilisation techniques needed.