Travelling with children is one of life's great adventures — and one of its great logistical challenges. The right gear transforms a potentially chaotic airport experience into something manageable, even enjoyable. This guide covers everything Australian families need for stress-free travel with kids of all ages.
Kids' Luggage: What to Look For
Children's luggage needs to be lightweight, durable, and ideally something your kids actually want to carry. The key specs to look for:
- Weight: Under 2kg empty — kids have limited carrying capacity
- Size: Small enough to fit in overhead lockers as carry-on
- Durability: Hardside polycarbonate handles rough treatment better than softside
- Handle height: Adjustable telescoping handle sized for children
Browse our full range of kids' luggage including spinner suitcases in fun colours and designs.
Ride-On Luggage: The Airport Game-Changer
If you haven't discovered ride-on luggage yet, prepare to have your airport experience transformed. Ride-on suitcases double as a scooter or seat for your child — they sit or stand on the bag while you pull them through the terminal. No more tired legs, no more tantrums at the gate.
Our kids' ride-on luggage range includes options for toddlers through to primary school age. Most meet standard carry-on size requirements for Australian airlines.
Travel Strollers: Compact Options for Flying Families
A full-size pram is impractical for air travel — you need something that folds compact, is lightweight, and ideally fits in the overhead locker. Key features to look for in a travel stroller:
- Weight under 7kg (lighter is better)
- One-hand fold mechanism
- Recline for sleeping toddlers
- UV-protective canopy for outdoor destinations
- Compact fold dimensions
Browse our range of travel strollers and pram accessories.
Packing for Kids: Age-by-Age Guide
Babies (0–2 years)
- Nappies (pack more than you think — delays happen)
- Formula or expressed milk in approved containers
- Change of clothes for every flight segment (plus one extra)
- Favourite comfort toy or blanket
- Baby carrier or compact pram
Toddlers (2–5 years)
- Ride-on luggage they can manage themselves
- Snacks, snacks, and more snacks
- Headphones sized for kids (check airline compatibility)
- Small backpack with their own "special" items
- Change of clothes in your carry-on
School Age (5–12 years)
- Their own carry-on suitcase they're responsible for
- Tablet or device loaded with offline content
- Kids' travel pillow and eye mask for long-haul flights
- Small amount of local currency to feel involved
Must-Have Kids' Travel Accessories
Browse our full range of kids' travel accessories including:
- Kids' travel pillows and neck supports
- Children's luggage tags and ID holders
- Kids' water bottles and snack containers
- Travel games and activity kits
- Sun protection accessories for outdoor destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can kids have their own carry-on luggage?
Most airlines allow children of any age to have a carry-on bag, though the size and weight limits are the same as adults. Practically speaking, children from about age 4–5 can manage a small carry-on suitcase independently.
Is ride-on luggage allowed on Australian airlines?
Yes — most ride-on luggage meets standard carry-on size requirements for Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar. Always check the specific dimensions of the bag against your airline's current limits before flying.
What's the best travel stroller for long-haul flights?
Look for a stroller under 6kg with a compact fold. Gate-checking is usually available on most airlines, meaning you can use the stroller right up to the aircraft door and collect it on arrival.