Traveling FAQ

Most big hotel brands lend a crib or a pack-and-play for free, but each hotel has only a few and they run out on busy weekends. Ask when you book, then call again two or three days before you arrive.

It depends on the hotel. Ask which kind, how big it is, and whether it comes with a fitted sheet.

A firm, flat mattress with a fitted sheet, no gaps at the sides, nothing broken, and nothing soft inside: no pillows, bumpers or loose blankets. Put your baby to sleep on their back, as the American Academy of Pediatrics advises.

A suite with a separate bedroom is the easy answer: a door to close. In one room, set the crib away from the window, use portable blackout shades and a white-noise machine, and plan a quiet hour for the grown-ups.

On holiday weekends, or if your child sleeps better in a familiar bed, yes. Use only the mattress it came with: safety officials warn against adding a second mattress or pad.

Each hotel sets its own maximum, often 4 for a standard room, and babies often count. A room described as "sleeps 6" may still allow only 4. Ask for the room's maximum guests, in writing if you can.

Often, yes. Fire rules count people, not beds. Ask the hotel before you book.

Usually not: most hotels treat them as a request. Call the hotel after booking and ask them to note it, then confirm again before you arrive.

Away from the elevator and the ice machine for quieter naps, but not at the far end of a long hallway with a stroller. A room with a fridge, and a bathtub if you'll need one.

Look at two-bedroom suites first, then two-room suites with a sofa bed or two connecting rooms. Rooms for 6+ has the brands and the questions to ask.

Most suite hotels have one in every room. Other hotels often lend one if you ask when you book.

Stand it in a cup or sink of warm water. Don't use the microwave: it heats unevenly and can leave hot spots, which pediatricians warn against.

Usually. Call the front desk to ask whether they'll take a delivery and keep cold items until you arrive, then schedule it for after check-in. Our groceries guide covers services and timing.

Pack a day's worth, check the brand's store locator for stores near your hotel, and compare with the grocery stores we list on every hotel page.

A collapsible basin, a bottle brush, travel-size dish soap and a small drying rack keep bottles apart from the toothbrushes.

On US domestic flights, children under 2 can usually fly on a parent's lap. The FAA says the safest place for a child is their own seat in an approved car seat or harness. Check your airline's rules.

If the label says "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft", and it fits the airplane seat. You'll need it for the rental car anyway.

Yes. The TSA allows formula, breast milk, juice and baby food in carry-on bags in amounts over 3.4 ounces. Take them out and tell the officer at the start of screening.

Most US airlines check strollers and car seats for free, at the gate or the counter. Check your airline before you fly.

You can, but you won't know its history, and staff usually won't install it. Rent or bring your own compares prices and options.

Walk the room at toddler height: cover outlets, tie up blind and lamp cords, move the coffee maker and anything breakable up high, check the balcony door lock, and clear the minibar shelf.

Most hotel pools have no lifeguard. Stay within arm's reach of a toddler in or near the water, every moment.

Free hot breakfast is one less meal to plan. Ask what time it opens: early risers may beat the doors.

A thermometer, the fever medicine and doses your pediatrician recommends, saline drops, bandages and any prescriptions in their original packaging.

Every hotel page lists the closest pharmacy. Look up the nearest urgent care and children's hospital when you arrive, and call 911 in an emergency.