How to Travel Alone with a 4-Month-Old: From New Zealand to Ireland
Traveling with a baby can seem like a daunting task, especially when you're traveling solo on a long-haul journey. But with some preparation and the right mindset, it can be an adventure to remember. I have always traveled and could not wait to introduce my daughter to it. Being from Ireland this is a regular journey we will be making and it was worth it to introduce my daughter to all my family and friends. If you’re planning a trip from New Zealand to Ireland with your 4-month-old, here’s a guide to make the experience as smooth as possible.
1. Plan Your Flights Wisely
Opt for fewer layovers: While direct flights aren’t possible for this route, choosing an itinerary with one long layover instead of multiple short ones can make the journey less stressful. I stopped in Melbourne with my sister which was nice to break up the three stops I would normally have. I stopped in Abu Dhabi for 2 hours which was perfect.
Choose baby-friendly airlines: Some airlines are more accommodating to families, offering amenities like bassinets, priority boarding, and attentive cabin crew. I flew Etihad and found there staff to be very helpful.
Consider flight times: Overnight flights may align better with your baby’s sleep schedule. I found having the first leg of the flight easier to be at night as my little one slept most of it.
2. Pack Strategically
Packing efficiently is key to a stress-free trip. Focus on essentials, keeping your carry-on organized and accessible. Since I was alone I wanted the least amount of luggage. I kept my suitcase to 18kg, I was pre-warned about the number of gifts she would receive and I did come back 8kg heavier. I had her nappy bag as my carry-on and a travel buggy. Having the least amount of items to look after was essential.
Carry-on must-haves:
Enough nappies and wipes for the journey (plus extra for delays).
Formula or breast milk (ensure you know the airline’s policy for carrying liquids).
A couple of changes of clothes for the baby and one for you.
A lightweight baby blanket, her sleep sack and a muslin cloth.
Baby carrier or sling for hands-free movement. I have the Ergobaby 360, the little pocket at the front was epic for easy access to passports.
Pacifiers, toys, or teething rings to keep your baby entertained.
Check-in luggage: Include items like a travel crib, car seat, and any additional baby supplies you’ll need upon arrival. I was lucky that I organized all of these items to be at home, so if this is feasible, I highly recommend it.
3. Navigate the Airport with Ease
Airports can be overwhelming, but preparation helps:
Arrive early: Allow extra time to check in, clear security, and manage any unexpected issues. I got someone to come with me to allow me to check my bags in. I knew there was a family room in the airport I could use to feed and change.
Use a baby carrier: I found it easier to keep my little girl in the travel stroller until after security as she liked looking around, it was easier to pop her out of it as you have to take the carrier off to go through security. I would feed and change her in the family room and put her in the front pack to wander around the airport. I then pushed her bag around in the travel stroller, got to the gate, put it down, and carried it onto the flight.
For passport control remember you are no longer in the quick kiosk queues, you have to stand in line with all the other children and parents so if they need fed or changed do this before you get to that point.
Ask for help: Airport staff are often happy to assist solo parents with carrying bags or boarding. When getting the bags up into the hold, the air hostess helped.
4. Manage the In-Flight Experience
Long flights with a baby are challenging, but a few tips can make it manageable:
Request a bassinet seat: If available, this gives your baby a comfortable place to sleep. I could not add as an extra like they say to on Etihad and I did have to make a few phone calls to check it had been booked for every leg. I’m glad I did this as the first woman was very abrupt and rude and had actually not booked the bassinet at all so double check!
Feed during takeoff and landing: Nursing, bottle feeding, or using a pacifier can help ease ear pressure. My little on didn’t have issues with this but I always tended to feed her on the way down and have her nappy changed so passport control was easier or we could just chill looking around the airport.
Stick to a loose schedule: I just tried to put her into her sleep sack when the plane was dark and all the lights were dimmed. The sound of the airplane is like her white noise machine so that was perfect!
Engage your baby: Bring lightweight toys or books to keep them entertained when they’re awake. My little girl was uninterested in her toys and loved watching the screen at the front so what ever works!
5. Prepare for the Unexpected
Traveling with a baby requires flexibility:
Expect delays and plan for extra supplies in case things don’t go as planned.
Be ready for diaper blowouts or spit-ups with spare clothes and plenty of wipes.
Stay calm and patient—babies pick up on your energy, and staying relaxed can help keep them calm, too.
6. Settle in Upon Arrival
After a long journey, take time to adjust:
Prioritize rest: It was so nice to take the first few days and just relax with family around so if you can avoid rushing into activities I would highly recommend it. I found my little girl adapted quickly but jet lag gave me a light head so rocking her to sleep was a challenge!
Unpack essentials: Set up your baby’s sleep space and have feeding supplies ready.
Final Thoughts
Traveling alone with a 4-month-old from New Zealand to Ireland may seem overwhelming, but with thoughtful preparation and a positive attitude, it’s entirely achievable. I loved my first travel trip with my little girl, we were exhausted on the way back but what an experience getting to introduce her to everyone at home. Embrace the journey, cherish the moments with your baby, and remember: every challenge you overcome makes you a more confident parent and traveler. Happy Travels!
Ally x