Traveling halfway across the globe with a four-year-old might sound like a bold move — and in many ways, it is. From managing logistics across four different flights (Southwest, Lufthansa, and a Lufthansa partner in Italy), to juggling layovers that turned a journey into nearly 20 hours of transit, the stakes were high. However, with the right preparation, mindset, and a bit of patience, the trip became more than doable — it became memorable.

Here are the key takeaways and best practices from one parent’s successful global trek with their child in tow.

Before even booking tickets, one of the first steps was seeking medical advice. A trusted doctor recommended homeopathic jet lag pills for both myself and my son — and surprisingly, they worked. Instead of the usual week-long recovery from time zone fatigue, it was down to just one day.

Takeaway: Talk to your doctor before traveling. Jet lag solutions, immune boosters, and health tips customized to your child’s needs can make a big difference.

With four flights and a child, checked baggage was a no-go. The parent and child each had a backpack and a suitcase. The suitcase of choice? The Travel Closet by Solgaard — a smart, organized solution that helped streamline packing and unpacking. Essentials included:

Takeaway: Less is more — especially when every extra bag is an extra hassle. Stick to high-quality carry-ons and prioritize essentials that help everyone feel good during the trip.

Instead of opting for daily roaming charges,  I purchased a full international service plan for unlimited calling and texting. Not only did it save money, but it also brought peace of mind — a priceless asset while navigating foreign cities with a young child.

Takeaway: Don’t underestimate the value of connectivity. An international plan can be a game-changer, especially when coordinating transportation or emergencies.

Health and comfort were non-negotiable. Packing included the “non-negotiables” — comfy clothes, soft travel blanket,proper walking shoes, and wellness items that supported energy and immune health. I also left flexibility around purchasing additional items I figured we could get out there, like an umbrella. On a side note- traveling with kids often requires stamina, so fueling your body well is a crucial form of preparation.

Takeaway: Think beyond just clothes and toiletries. What do you need to feel great every day? Build your pack list around that.

Hunger and long travel don’t mix. Non-perishable snacks like protein bars and Goldfish crackers kept my son satisfied, especially during long stretches with limited food options.

Takeaway: Always have a stash of kid-approved, travel-friendly snacks. You’ll be grateful during flight delays, long customs lines, or odd meal hours.

I made a promise to myself a long time ago: any flight over five hours deserves business class. That decision proved critical. Being able to stretch, rest, and keep my son comfortable during the long-haul legs of the journey helped everyone arrive refreshed.

Takeaway: Invest in comfort when it matters most. For long-haul flights with children, business class can be a game-changer if it fits your budget.

While a few specific excursions were planned, the rest of the trip operated on a loose, flexible schedule. That left space for downtime, spontaneous exploring, and adjustments based on energy levels. One fixed appointment was enough — the rest was about enjoying the journey.

Takeaway: Don’t overbook. Kids thrive on flexibility, and parents do too. One or two must-dos are enough; let the rest unfold organically.

Traveling internationally with a young child doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. With some planning, smart decisions, and self-awareness, it can be a deeply rewarding experience. While every family’s approach will look different, these lessons from one globe-trotting parent show that with intention and preparation, adventure doesn’t have to wait until the kids are older.

So go ahead — book the ticket. The world is waiting!

Ask Val A Question (QR CODE)