5 Must-Haves for Baby’s First Holiday

Planning a first holiday with a baby is exciting… but it’s also a bit of a logistical exercise. Gone are the days of throwing a few things in a backpack and heading off. Travelling with a little one means thinking ahead so everything runs smoothly once you arrive.

The good news is that with a few key essentials sorted in advance, travelling with a baby can be surprisingly relaxed and really special. Here are five must-haves to organise before baby’s first trip.

1. A Lightweight Travel Pram

If you’re travelling, a compact travel pram is an absolute game changer.

Whether you're navigating airport security, strolling through a new city, or heading out for dinner in the evening, having something lightweight and foldable makes life much easier.

Most travel prams can fit in the overhead cabin or fold down small enough for easy transport, meaning less stress at check-in and when boarding.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Instead of buying a travel pram just for one or two trips, you can rent one through Baboodle (with a little Cubbi discount). It’s often much more affordable and saves you from storing another bulky bit of baby gear at home.

2. Request a Flight Bassinet Early (for Long-Haul Flights)

If you're travelling long-haul with a baby, requesting a bassinet seat can make a huge difference.

These bassinets attach to the bulkhead seats on many aircraft and allow your baby to lie flat during the flight. The catch? There are usually only a handful available per flight, so you’ll want to request one as soon as your booking is confirmed.

Even if the airline doesn’t guarantee it straight away, getting your request in early puts you in the best position.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Cubbi parents can save on flights through Alternative Airlines, with discounts available across 600+ airlines worldwide.

3. Family-Friendly Accommodation

Before you arrive, make sure your accommodation knows you're travelling with a baby. Many places will happily provide things like:

• A travel cot

• High chair

• Baby-friendly room setup

• Extra space for a pram

  
  

A quick message before arrival can mean everything is already prepared when you check in which is especially helpful after a long journey.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Habitat Escapes offers beautiful, family-friendly accommodation in the Cotswolds and Dorset. Think lakes, woodland walks and some of the UK’s most stunning beaches without the airport chaos.

4. Family-Friendly Transport

Once you arrive, think about how you’ll actually get around. If you’re hiring a car, it’s worth booking a child seat in advance so everything is ready when you pick it up. Not all rental companies guarantee availability if you leave it until the day.

And if you’re flying, don’t forget about all the other travel extras that can make things easier such as:

• Airport parking

• Airport lounges

• Fast-track security

• Car hire

  
  

💡 Cubbi Tip: Cubbi parents can save on Holiday Extras, covering everything from airport parking and lounges to car hire and transfers.

5. Smart Hand Luggage

Travelling with a baby definitely isn’t a backpack-and-go situation.

Whether you’re travelling by car, train or plane, having a well-organised hand luggage bag is essential so you can quickly grab anything you might need.

Think easy access to things like:

• Nappies and wipes

• Bottles or snacks

• Muslins

• A spare outfit (or two)

• Comfort toys or dummies

  
  

Packing smart means fewer stressful rummaging moments when you’re mid-journey.

💡 Cubbi Tip: You can save on sturdy and practical travel bags with it Luggage, making it easier to pack everything you need without juggling five different bags.

Baby’s first holiday might look a little different to the trips you took before, but it’s also incredibly special.

With a bit of planning and the right gear, travelling with a baby can be smooth, memorable and surprisingly relaxed. And if you want to save on travel, accommodation and baby essentials along the way, Cubbi members get access to hundreds of discounts designed specifically for new and expecting parents.