Want to go to Ireland with your family? Why not take your baby with you? The country is ideal for travelling with toddlers and young children! L’île a l’exploration has the advantage of being equipped with all the comforts you need to travel with your children. Of course, planning a trip with a baby can seem daunting, but rest assured, Ireland is an ideal destination for the whole family. Here are a few tips for travelling in Ireland with a baby, with complete peace of mind… while enjoying the beauty of Ireland’s landscapes and attractions!
Aerial view of Dunquin – © Cristi
Ireland offers variable climates where it can be cold and wet. When it comes to heat, don’t expect miracles: Ireland is still Ireland, and you’ll very rarely reach 28°C!
This information is crucial when traveling with a baby. So remember to leave during the mildest, least cold and least rainy months.
Spring and summer are perfect for outdoor activities.
Forget the image of overworked parents, turning into sherpas, overwhelmed by the cosy, the stroller, the cot and the changing bag! It’s possible to treat yourself to a real vacation in Ireland, without falling into the trap of overburdened parents!
No need to lug around strollers, cots or even car seats. Many services in Ireland offer baby equipment for hire, often at fairly affordable rates.
Also, think minimalism: remember that you don’t need to take the whole house with you. A favorite toy, a beloved blanket and the essentials for feeding and changing are often all you really need.
Flying to Ireland with a baby is extremely comfortable – © Irina Schmidt
Of course, it all depends on where you’re going… If you’re flying from the U.S. or Australia, you’ll need to take a plane. But if you’re travelling from Europe, you’ll have the choice between ferry or plane.
The airplane has the advantage of being fast and efficient. Babies may cry for a quarter of an hour, but after take-off they tend to fall asleep very quickly. Flight attendants
They tend to take good care of babies, and will happily offer to heat their water for bottles or baby food.
What’s more, there are special areas on the plane in case your baby needs to be changed. Practical!
If you prefer the ferry option, be sure to rent a cabin on board. The perfect place for your child to sleep, away from noise and other passengers. You’ll gain privacy, and avoid the stress of having an inconsolable baby on a plane, disturbing the peace and quiet of the passengers! (Every parent’s worst fear, isn’t it?).
A passport – AboutImages
After collecting your luggage, you’re off to Ireland! But you’ll need to pass through the border control checkpoint… and that means presenting papers, both for you… and your baby!
Although Ireland is a member of the European Union, it is not part of the Schengen area. As a result, all travellers, including EU citizens, must undergo a passport check when arriving in Ireland, babies included!
The documents required to enter Ireland with your family vary according to your nationality. The best source of information on this subject would be your nearest Irish embassy or consulate, or your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, bear in mind that an identity card is sufficient if you are in the E.U., while a passport tends to be necessary for other countries in the world (roughly speaking).
A word of caution: if you’re traveling alone with a child who doesn’t have the same surname as you, you may be required to provide proof of your parental relationship, usually a birth certificate showing that you are the child’s parent or legal guardian. It’s not always the case, but it’s best to be prepared, because it can happen!
Public transport in Ireland is fairly reliable. However, if you’re planning to visit remote areas, a rental car would be ideal.
Make sure the vehicle is equipped with everything you need for baby’s comfort, including a car seat (available to rent locally), a sun visor and, of course, basic safety equipment.
Please note: car seats are compulsory in Ireland. Failure to do so may result in fines.
Look for accommodations that offer family-friendly amenities, such as spacious rooms, a kitchen and maybe even a babysitting service. Bed & Breakfasts in Ireland are an excellent option, as they give you the chance to sample Irish culture in a family-style setting.
The owners are generally used to receiving whole families, including babies. They will therefore have all the necessary equipment (baby chair, etc.). Don’t hesitate to contact them beforehand for more information.
A hotel is also an excellent option for a quiet night’s sleep. Many have cots, chairs, and everything you need for a dip in the bathtub.
Finally, if you feel like sleeping in a castle in Ireland, you should know that many accept your children, even the very youngest. Be sure to check with them beforehand to see what they have to offer.
Feeding a baby in Ireland is easy – © Tom Merton/Caia Image
Breastfeeding is becoming increasingly popular in Ireland, but the country still has one of the lowest rates of breastfeeding in the world. So it’s not all that common to come across mothers breastfeeding in public places, despite the notable presence of infants.
That said, there’s nothing to stop you breastfeeding in public if you wish. Several large shopping malls even offer dedicated breastfeeding areas, equipped with comfortable armchairs and changing tables.
These spaces are generally very welcoming, so don’t hesitate to use them if you can find any. If this isn’t the case, breastfeeding in a café or restaurant is a perfectly feasible option.
Finally, if your child is already diversifying, we advise you not to overload yourself. Instead of taking pots and pans for the whole stay, why not opt for local options once you’re there? You’ll be able to discover some of Ireland’s baby-friendly specialities (checking the ingredients, of course).
As for restaurants, most will welcome you with ease, offering baby seats and adapted menus. You’ll have no qualms about eating out with your family: it’s a great opportunity to sample Irish hospitality!
In Ireland, it’s extremely easy to find what you need for your child. Need a bottle, potty, puree, compote, diapers or pacifiers?
Don’t worry, supermarkets have huge departments specially dedicated to our little ones. Prices are similar to those in other countries, so you’re sure to find what you’re looking for!
Don’t hesitate to visit a hard discount store if you want to save a few euros!
It would be wise to take out travel insurance that also covers your baby. Take a well-stocked first-aid kit with you, and note the contact details of hospitals and doctors in the vicinity of your stay.
Medical facilities are modern and reputable.
Here’s an overview of what you need to bring with you:
Travelling with a baby in Ireland – © kasto
Last but not least: make the most of your trip by discovering Ireland at your own pace! Adapt to your children’s pace and explore the major attractions of the Emerald Isle!
Please note that most sites have stroller-friendly access.
There are also many hiking trails that are easy for parents to follow, provided they have a backpack. Children love to be whisked through lush green landscapes! The icing on the cake is the pure Irish air: perfect for their health and quality of sleep!
Don’t hesitate to choose the right places: beaches, museums, wide-open spaces, national parks… You’ll be spoilt for choice for an unforgettable exploration, while sharing the experience with your baby!
The only caveat: make sure you keep your children with you at all times, especially if they’re old enough to walk. Because some places are more dangerous than others, and will require tighter surveillance.
Also, be careful if you’re exploring ruined castles, or walking along Irish cliffs – some places aren’t totally safe! There are risks of landslides and falls.
Once you’ve got past that warning, you’ll be glad to know that Ireland is a great place to travel with a baby. Above all, take your time, explore in the morning and nap in the afternoon. Don’t be put off visiting and exploring: Ireland is a playground for the whole family!
