Our Favorite Long-Haul Destinations with a Baby (Yes, It’s Possible!)
I know what you’re thinking: “There’s no way I’m getting on a 12-hour flight with a baby.”
I get it. The idea of a long-haul trip when your little one is still in diapers sounds… well, a little terrifying. But here’s the truth: babies can actually be easier travel companions than toddlers. They sleep more, eat less “real” food, and don’t demand a kids’ club every morning.
PLUS, PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. I REALLY BELIEVE ALL THE TRAVEL WE STARTED EARLY WITH BOTH OF OUR KIDS HAS HELPED MOLD THEM INTO THE PRACTICED TRAVELERS THEY ARE TODAY.
I’ve flown across the world with my babIES — multiple times — and while it takes planning (and snacks, always snacks), it’s absolutely worth it. Those dreamy destinations you thought you’d have to put on hold until kindergarten? You can do them now. And they might be even more magical with a baby in tow.
Here are my favorite long-haul destinations that are surprisingly baby-friendly….
Maldives: Dreamy… and Baby-Doable
Why It Works: Calm lagoons (basically giant natural baby pools), private villas with plenty of space, and resorts where staff fall in love with your baby instantly!
Baby Perks: Many resorts like Soneva Jani and One&Only Reethi Rah offer baby clubs starting at 1 year old, plus babysitting services if you want a dinner just the two of you. Villas usually come with cribs, high chairs, and blackout shades.
Insider Tip: Book a resort with speedboat transfers instead of seaplanes. Trust me, after a long flight, you don’t want to juggle a baby, luggage, and a tiny prop plane.
Japan: Orderly, Safe, and Surprisingly Kid-Centric
Why It Works: Japan is one of the cleanest, safest, most organized countries in the world. Stroller-friendly trains, immaculate restrooms, and baby-changing stations everywhere. People will happily coo at your baby and help you fold up a stroller at a metro stop.
Baby Perks: In Tokyo, hotels like Aman Tokyo and Hoshinoya Tokyo provide baby gear on request. In Kyoto, you can explore tranquil gardens with a baby carrier or rent a stroller for smooth paths. Plus, convenience stores stock baby food and diapers — lifesavers when you’re on the go.
Insider Tip: Keep your itinerary slower than usual. Think two cities max, so you’re not constantly packing and unpacking. And don’t skip the depachika (food halls) — easy grab-and-go meals when baby naps on you.
South Africa: Safari + Baby? Yep.
Why It Works: While many safari lodges have age restrictions, there are plenty of luxury options that welcome families with babies. And South Africa has the advantage of minimal time zone difference if you’re flying from the U.S. East Coast — hello, easier sleep schedules!
Baby Perks: Lodges like Morukuru Family Madikwe or Jabulani Safari cater to families, with private villas, nannies, and flexible schedules. While babies can’t go on game drives, staff will happily care for them while you sneak out for a quick “lion-spotting” adventure.
Insider Tip: Pair safari with Cape Town or the Winelands. Gorgeous scenery, amazing food (with kid-friendly options), and wide open spaces for little ones to crawl and toddle.
Costa Rica: Nature Meets Family-Friendly Ease
Why It Works: Costa Rica is like a giant playground — rainforests, beaches, volcanoes — but it’s also incredibly family-friendly. English is widely spoken, medical care is excellent, and the pace is laid-back.
Baby Perks: Resorts like Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo and Nayara Gardens cater to families with villas that have private plunge pools and easy beach access. Many offer babysitting services and kids’ menus.
Insider Tip: Stick to two main regions (like Papagayo and Arenal) so you’re not bouncing around the country with a baby in tow. Domestic travel is possible but not worth the packing stress.
Bali: Baby + Bliss
Why It Works: Bali is stunning and surprisingly easy with little ones. The island’s villa culture means you can stay in a private space with your own pool, kitchen, and (often) staff — including nannies.
Baby Perks: Resorts like Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay and private villas in Ubud set you up with everything: baby cots, high chairs, drivers with car seats, even baby puree menus.
Insider Tip: Hire a private driver for the week. It’s affordable, and you’ll be grateful not to juggle taxis, car seats, and nap schedules.
Don’t Wait!
Long-haul with a baby isn’t crazy — it’s actually the perfect time. They’re portable, they’re not asking “Are we there yet?” every five minutes, and they usually fly free or at a fraction of the cost. And when you choose destinations that are already set up for luxury and family needs, the trip is smoother than you’d think.
That’s where I come in — I know which Maldives resorts have baby clubs under 2, which safari lodges let you bring an infant, and which Japanese hotels will provide everything from cribs to tiny yukata robes (yes, really).
So don’t wait until “someday” to take that dream trip. The world is ready for you — and your baby!
