Travelling with a child can be an enriching experience, full of new adventures and discoveries. Choosing the right destination ensures your family trip is smooth and enjoyable. Fortunately, Australia is close to several great destinations that require only a short flight.
Here are some top picks for short flights from Australia to help you plan your next family adventure.
1. New Zealand
Just a short hop across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand is only a three to four-hour flight from the east coast of Australia. With stunning landscapes and family-friendly attractions, it’s an excellent choice for a first international trip with your child. Cities like Auckland and Wellington offer beautiful parks, interactive zoos, and other delightful wildlife activities.
2. Fiji
A tropical paradise just four hours from Australia, Fiji is renowned for its warm hospitality and family-oriented resorts. Many resorts provide excellent childcare services and child-friendly amenities, allowing parents to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings while knowing their children are well cared for.
3. Bali, Indonesia
With a vibrant culture and gorgeous beaches, Bali is about a six-hour flight from Australia. This island destination is well-prepared for families, offering numerous child-friendly accommodations and activities. The Balinese people are famously welcoming to children, and many resorts feature babysitting services and amenities designed for young families.
4. Singapore
About eight hours from Australia, Singapore is a fantastic destination with its blend of modernity and rich culture. This city-state boasts excellent healthcare facilities, which can be reassuring when travelling with a child. Additionally, Changi Airport is one of the best in the world for families, with numerous amenities and services to keep children comfortable and entertained.
Tips for a Smooth Journey with Your Child
Here are some tips when selecting your flight:
Book a bassinet: Many airlines offer infant bassinets, providing a cozy sleeping arrangement during the flight.
Choose the right flight time: If possible, book flights that align with your child’s sleep schedule. Night flights make it easier for children to sleep through the journey.
When booking your accommodation and planning activities:
Book Child-Friendly Accommodations:
When booking accommodation, look for family-friendly hotels that offer amenities like cribs, play areas, and babysitting services.
Maintain a Routine:
Try to stick to your child’s routine as much as possible, including nap times and meal schedules. Familiarity can help them feel more secure in a new environment.
Plan Activities Wisely:
Opt for child-friendly activities and attractions at your destination. Research ahead of time to find parks, zoos, and museums that cater to young children.
Use Technology Wisely:
While screen time can be a great distraction, balance it with other activities to avoid overstimulation. Use headphones to decrease noise and consider child-friendly apps and educational games.
Take Breaks:
Allow for plenty of breaks during travel and while sightseeing. Too much activity can overwhelm the little ones, so downtime is essential.
Involve Your Child in Planning:
If your child is old enough, involve them in the planning process. Let them help choose activities or pack their travel bag. This can make them more excited about the trip.
Health Precautions:
Ensure your child is up-to-date with vaccinations and bring any necessary medications. Carry a basic first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and fever medication.
Prepare for the Unexpected:
Bring extra supplies in case of delays, including nappies, wipes, clothes, and snacks. Being over-prepared can save a lot of stress.
What to bring on board?
Prepare a Travel Kit:
Pack a variety of snacks, books, colouring books, crayons, and a tablet loaded with your child’s favourite shows and games.
Don’t forget your child’s favourite blanket or stuffed toy to soothe them if they become restless or anxious.
Dress Comfortably:
Ensure both you and your child are dressed in comfortable, layered clothing. Planes can be chilly, and it’s easy to remove layers if it gets warm.
Consider easy-to-remove shoes for both you and your child, making airport security checks smoother.
Keep Hydrated:
Airplane cabins can be dehydrating, so make sure to offer your child water frequently. Bring some electrolytes and an empty water bottle to fill up after passing through security.
Plan for Ear Comfort:
Take-off and landing can cause discomfort in children’s ears due to pressure changes. To help alleviate the pressure, have them sip on a drink, use a pacifier, or chew on something.
Use a Baby Carrier or Lightweight Stroller:
A baby carrier can keep your hands free and is convenient for navigating through airports. A lightweight stroller is also helpful for long walks through terminals and can be gate-checked.
Ready to plan your next family adventure? Explore our range of eSIMs, perfect for parents on the go.
