What I wish I knew before taking a baby (and a toddler) to Europe

Hey fellow traveling parents, and welcome to the blog! Today, I’m excited to share some insights on what I wish I knew before heading to Europe with a baby or toddler.

I’ve had the unique experience of spending a month in Europe with my daughter, Adaline, first when she was just 5 to 6 months old and then again when she was a toddler. During our second trip, she turned two! Recently, we also visited the UK and Iceland with Eloise at 1 month and 8 months old, and Addie at 2 1/2 and 3 years old. Although there were notable differences between traveling with a baby versus a toddler, these tips apply to both and will help make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

Don’t switch hotels too often

During our first trip with Adaline as a baby, we stayed almost an entire month in one location. In contrast, when she was a toddler, we switched hotels every 2-4 nights. While switching every 3-4 nights wasn’t terrible, changing accommodations every 2-4 nights for an entire month became exhausting. If you have a longer trip, try to stay in one place for 4-7 nights or longer and take day trips from there. This way, you’ll see more and won’t feel as tired.

Take it slow the first few days

Jet lag is real, and it’s tough on everyone, especially little ones. While it’s important to adjust to the new time zone quickly, take it easy those first few days. Travel days are hard and can be exhausting. Keep things in perspective and remember that the destination is worth the journey!

Choose a lightweight, foldable stroller

Some places in Europe are stroller-friendly, while others are not. Having a trifold travel stroller that folds up easily was incredibly helpful. Many spots in Europe, like metro stops with lots of stairs, aren’t ideal for strollers. A lightweight travel stroller that fits in the overhead bin of an airplane is essential, especially for connecting flights. You often don’t get your stroller back for the connection with international flights in Europe, so having one you can carry easily makes a huge difference. If you’re debating whether to bring a stroller, do it! It’s great for holding your stuff, and you’ll be walking a lot.

Pack light

Especially if you’re switching hotels often, packing light is crucial. Start by making a list of everything you’ll need and then narrow it down. Bring enough diapers for the first couple of days and buy more at your destination. Use travel-sized toiletries, compressible packing cubes to stay organized, and pack enough clothes for 7-10 days max. Re-wear jeans and other big items that won’t get too dirty and do laundry if you’re staying for a long time.

Always have snacks

You won’t always be in a convenient spot to find snacks. Pack some tried and true snacks from home that you know your toddler will eat. You can also find most snacks at local grocery stores if you run out, although they might be different brands.

Mix kid-friendly stops with your must-sees

To make the trip enjoyable for everyone, mix in kid-friendly activities with your must-see spots. If you want to visit a museum and think your toddler won’t enjoy it, plan it for stroller nap time.

Move at a slower pace

Don’t over-schedule your days. It helps to alternate between busy and slow days to prevent overtiredness in your baby or toddler.

Be ready for late dinners

In some countries, dinner doesn’t start until late. Prepare by stopping at a food hall, grocery store, or fast-food restaurant that’s open earlier, or eat in at your Airbnb.

Tell me yours

If you’ve traveled to Europe with a little one, what’s something you learned or would do differently? Share your tips and stories in the comments!

For more insights and travel tips, check out my YouTube video. Safe travels!