Plane Favorites
• Hardwired , kid-friendly headphones that can be plugged into the airplane ’ s mounted port .
• Melissa and Doug water pen coloring books .
• Crayola Magic Marker pages .
These options are awesome because writing on plane walls is impossible .
I have a special airplane bag that is used only for trips . I rotate toys / books as needed . It always contains :
• Two books that haven ’ t been read recently
• Colored pencils + stamps + notebooks for writing and art
• Racecars
• Doll
• Random figurines like bugs or animals
International notes
Passports
Your baby needs a passport to travel to foreign countries .
• Passports for 16 and under are good for five years .
• Passports for 16 and under ( when issued to child under 16 years of age ) must be renewed in person .
» Passports issued to 16 + can be renewed by mail and every 10 years .
» Renew your passport 6-9 months before it expires . This will ensure you are compliant .
Visas & Miscellaneous
Citizens of the United States have great flexibility when traveling . Yet , some countries may require a visa or a reciprocity fee to enter ( nonimmigrant payment to enter the country ). Check the State Department website to verify what you need .
Every country has different standards and protocols surrounding COVID-19 , which are changing daily . Research before you buy and be sure to double-check requirements two to three days before departure to ensure you and your family are compliant .
If you aren ’ t used to traveling or are traveling with kids for the first time , be sure to reach out to the airline with any questions and research what ’ s needed for international excursions . Policies — baggage , traveling with children , etc .— are all listed on websites . Wherever you go , don ’ t be afraid to ask for help , especially if you ’ re on the move solo . It ’ s been my experience people are eager to assist , and strangers can be your greatest allies when you ’ re in the thick of travel .
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