Question 1

At what age can children fly?

Accepted Answer

Babies are generally allowed to fly from the age of 7 to 14 days, depending on the airline. Until their second birthday, toddlers sit on their parents' laps and pay only a reduced fare (usually 10% of the adult price). For long-haul flights, many pediatricians recommend a minimum age of 3 months, as the immune system is more stable by then. It helps to give a pacifier or a bottle during takeoff and landing to ease pressure changes. Book seats in the front row or at the emergency exit, where baby cribs can often be installed.

Question 2

Which destinations are particularly suitable for families?

Accepted Answer

Family-friendly destinations are characterized by short flight times, child-friendly beaches, good medical care, and a wide range of leisure activities. In Europe, Mallorca, the Greek islands, the Algarve in Portugal, and the Baltic Sea are particularly popular. For long-distance travel with children, Thailand, the Canary Islands, and Florida are suitable due to their excellent infrastructure. Look for gently sloping sandy beaches without strong currents, family hotels with childcare, and good access to excursion destinations. In our holiday finder, you can specifically search for family-friendly destinations.

Question 3

What should I consider when traveling with a baby?

Accepted Answer

Pack a sufficient travel pharmacy with a thermometer, fever syrup, electrolyte solution, and sunscreen (SPF 50+). Book family-friendly accommodations with a baby cot, high chair, and preferably a separate sleeping area. Plan for plenty of breaks and try to maintain the usual daily rhythm. On the plane, pacifiers and bottles help with pressure equalization. Breast milk, baby food, and medications are allowed in hand luggage despite liquid restrictions. Ensure adequate sun protection — babies under one year should not be exposed to direct sunlight.

Question 4

Do children need their own passport?

Accepted Answer

Yes, since 2012, every child — including babies — needs their own identification document for travel. The children's passport is valid until the age of 12, costs 13 euros, and is issued immediately. From the age of 12, children need a regular passport (37.50 euros). For travel within the EU, a national ID card is usually sufficient, which children can obtain from birth. Plan the application early — a regular passport takes 6 to 8 weeks, while an express passport takes 3 working days for an additional fee. Also, check if the destination requires special entry documents for minors.

Question 5

Is a family vacation under 500 euros possible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, an affordable family vacation is definitely possible! Campsites on the Baltic Sea, in the Netherlands, or France offer pitches starting from 20 to 30 euros per night, and children have plenty of nature to play in. Holiday apartments in the off-season are often available for 40 to 60 euros per night, especially in Poland, the Czech Republic, or Croatia. Youth hostels (DJH) also offer family rooms starting from 60 to 80 euros, including breakfast. Take advantage of early booking offers, travel outside of school holidays (if possible), and book accommodations with a kitchen to save on food costs.

Question 6

Tips for long car journeys with children?

Accepted Answer

Plan a break every 1.5 to 2 hours, ideally at rest areas with playgrounds. Pack a 'surprise bag' with small toys, coloring books, and snacks to distribute in portions. Audiobooks and podcasts for children (e.g., 'The Three ???' or 'What is What') can significantly shorten long distances. Start the journey as early in the morning or at bedtime as possible so that the children can sleep for part of the trip. Download offline games and videos onto a tablet in advance. And very importantly: allow enough time — stress from time pressure immediately transfers to the children.

Question 7

What vaccinations do children need for long-distance travel?

Accepted Answer

In addition to the standard vaccinations recommended by the STIKO, children should be vaccinated for long-distance travel depending on the destination. Hepatitis A is recommended for most tropical and subtropical countries and can be administered from the first year of life. For certain regions in Africa and South America, a yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, possible from 9 months. Typhoid vaccinations are recommended from 2 years, and rabies vaccinations depending on the travel region from infancy. Consult a tropical medicine specialist or your health department at least 6 to 8 weeks before travel. Many health insurance companies cover the costs as a statutory benefit.

Traveling with Children & Family