Long-Haul Flight & Florida Vacation Rental Stay with Baby

Taking a long-haul flight to Florida on vacation with a baby – is that possible? Our experience: Yes! If you prepare well, it’s really easy. Our baby was five months old on his first Florida vacation. We flew in the morning from Vienna to Düsseldorf and then on to Fort Myers in Florida. Read our tips and preparations for a Florida vacation with a baby.

Medical precautions and travel first-aid kit

Of course, we discussed our trip in advance with our pediatrician, who had absolutely no concerns. We put together a travel first-aid kit and kept it within reach in our carry-on – not only for emergencies on the plane, but also to protect against the possible loss of our luggage. Good travel insurance is a must for a Florida vacation.

Passport and ESTA for the baby

Just like adults, babies need a passport and an ESTA to enter the USA. In Austria, the passport is free for babies; in Germany, it costs about €40.

Booking a long-haul flight with a baby – tips

A separate seat isn’t necessary for a baby. There’s an option to add a bassinet for free – for that, you need to reserve a seat directly at the bulkhead in the middle section (about €50 per flight per person). Booking a stroller and a separate suitcase for the baby – that was included in our airfare.

Booking a rental car and a car seat

We booked an SUV rental car with a car seat ($90). Driving without a car seat wasn’t an option – not only for safety, but because in Florida, just like at home, it’s the law. The fines are very high.

Tip: Buy an additional headrest at Walmart (about $12) – it’s not included with the standard car seats from rental car companies.

Florida vacation with a baby in a vacation rental

We stayed in Cape Coral in a vacation rental with a pool. We also bought a play gym ($25) and a swim ring for the baby at Walmart.

At the beach with a baby in Florida

The most important thing is good sun protection: a UV-protection suit to change into, a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF. Walmart has open beach tents for $29 – a great tip! Set up in one minute.

Important: Don’t go to the beach with a baby without an umbrella or beach tent, and not during intense midday heat. Make sure the baby drinks enough!