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How To Travel To Laos With A Baby ?

Traveling to Laos with a baby: Is it possible? Laos is a unique destination in Southeast Asia, known for its wild natural beauty and typical Buddhist culture that captivates Western travelers. However, when traveling to Laos with a baby, it's essential to plan an itinerary that includes child-friendly activities. For example, biking through the old town of Luang Prabang, swimming in the Kuang Si waterfalls, or participating in Laotian workshops such as sewing or farming. Here's a complete guide to ensure a successful Laos trip with your baby.

I. What to prepare for your Laos family trip with a baby?

One of the first things to consider when planning a trip to Laos with your baby is that your child might feel unsettled due to the many new experiences away from home. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay, it's crucial to prepare both the necessary items and documents for your baby.

1. Travel documents for a baby in Laos

Just like adults, babies and children need specific essential documents to travel to Laos. Here are the must-have travel documents for a baby going to Laos:

• Passport
• Laos visa (depending on the baby’s nationality)
• Birth certificate
• Health record
• Travel insurance Laos (optional but recommended)

2. Essential items for traveling with a baby in Laos

Once you’ve prepared all the necessary documents, it’s also important to consider your baby’s essentials for the trip to Laos. Here’s a list of must-have items for traveling to Laos with a baby:

• Baby gear: baby carrier, stroller, diapers, disposable wipes, changing mat, bottle…
• Food and nutrition: familiar snacks in case your child doesn’t adjust to Laotian cuisine.
• Baby sunscreen: Laos has a hot and humid climate year-round, so sunscreen is essential to protect your baby’s sensitive skin.
• Sun protection clothing: sunglasses, hat, and a light jacket.
• Basic medications: mosquito repellent (for outdoor activities, especially in rural areas), cold medicine, digestive aids, etc.

II. Why travel to Laos with a baby?

Traveling to Laos with a baby can bring numerous unforgettable memories. Laos, with its laid-back lifestyle and natural and cultural richness, is an ideal destination for families seeking a peaceful and enriching adventure with their baby. Here are some reasons why Laos can be an excellent destination for traveling with your babies and children:

1. Laos - peaceful and safe destination

Traveling with a baby to Laos? You don’t need to worry about social safety in this country of a million elephants. Laotians are known for their gentleness and warm hospitality towards international tourists visiting their homeland. This is partly due to the strong influence of Buddhism in the country, where people value a simple, friendly, and respectful way of life, regardless of origin, age, or skin color.

Additionally, Laos is renowned for its preserved nature, offering a tranquil atmosphere. The locals lead a calm and serene life. A Laos family trip with a baby will provide a soothing experience, away from the hustle and bustle and modernity of large cities in other countries.

2. Fun family activities

If you think Laos is limited to admiring nature and landscapes, and there isn’t much to do with kids, think again! Laos is a perfect destination for a family trip, with plenty of fun activities to share. Imagine a peaceful cruise on the Mekong River, a bike ride to explore the charming town of Luang Prabang, or a family swim in the picturesque Kuang Si Waterfalls. You can also participate in local workshops with your children for an even more immersive experience. In short, there are plenty of options for a fantastic trip with a baby in Laos!

3. Laos cultural beauty

A family trip to Laos with a baby is also an opportunity for you and your children to discover a unique culture, typical of a Southeast Asian country, with its differences and similarities compared to other Eastern cultures. This trip will enrich your knowledge of Laos’s cultural and historical sites, such as Luang Prabang, the former capital of the country, which embodies a fusion of Asia and Europe, as well as the local Buddhist culture through the morning Tak Bat ritual that takes place every day in Laos.

4. Must-try food in Laos

Of course, cuisine is a major reason to travel with your family to Laos. This country will captivate international travelers with its rich and unique specialties that are hard to find elsewhere in the world, such as Laotian coffee, pork salad (Larb), fried seaweed (Kaipen), dried beef (Sien Savanh), and more. Laotian dishes are not only delicious and varied but also affordable, making them an ideal choice for traveling with children.

III. What to visit in Laos with a baby?

When traveling to Laos with a baby, the must-visit destinations below will provide unforgettable activities and experiences for you and your family:

1. Luang Prabang

Formerly the capital of Laos and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang is a popular destination among international tourists, often considered more attractive than Vientiane, the current capital of the country. First, the old town of Luang Prabang, with its French colonial-style houses, exudes a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

A family bike ride through its picturesque streets and surrounding temples is an unforgettable experience. Additionally, the Mekong River runs through Luang Prabang, offering the opportunity to explore the city via a boat excursion, an essential activity.

About 30 km from Luang Prabang, you'll find Kuang Si, the most beautiful waterfall in Laos. Besides enjoying postcard-worthy waterfalls, you can visit the Bear Rescue Center, where you’ll meet charming bears rescued from poaching. You and your children can also swim and relax in the turquoise pools at the base of the falls. The waterfalls are divided into several levels, forming shallow pools, perfect for safe swimming. Moreover, small fish are there to give you a unique natural massage!

2. Vientiane

Of course, the capital city Vientiane remains a must-visit destination when traveling to Laos with a baby. You can explore the city in a tuk-tuk, a fun experience that will take you to iconic sites such as Pha That Luang, Patuxai, the Lao National Museum, and sacred temples like Wat Sisaket and Wat Si Muang.

Near Vientiane, you can visit the Xieng Khuan Buddha Park, which features over 200 Buddhist statues. This spiritual site is ideal if you wish to delve into religion.

3. Mekong river

If you prefer a tranquil family vacation, consider a Mekong River cruise, an ideal option when traveling to Laos with a baby. You'll be able to admire Laos' natural landscapes in all their splendor, enjoy a romantic sunset from a luxury boat, and gently float along the Mekong River.

You'll also have the chance to savor a refined dinner on board or simply enjoy a cocktail with traditional Laotian snacks. It will undoubtedly be a memorable highlight of your trip to Laos with a baby.

IV. Practical tips for your Laos trip with a baby

Unlike adults, toddlers and young children might not be as excited about visiting Laos, as the country does not feature large amusement parks. However, Laos still offers a range of outdoor activities, such as workshops, bike rides, and kayaking on the Mekong River. To ensure that your trip to Laos with a baby is both enjoyable and memorable, here are some practical tips:

• Prepare a first aid kit: In some areas of Laos, medical facilities can be scarce. Having essential medical supplies on hand will give you peace of mind and help you handle any emergencies.
• Plan a stopover in Vietnam or Thailand: These neighboring countries offer many child-friendly activities and could be a nice introduction before you head to Laos. Additionally, since there are no direct flights to Laos from some countries like France, Belgium, or Canada to Laos, a brief stopover can make the Laos journey more comfortable.
• Be mindful of the weather: The hot and humid climate in Laos can be tiring for your child, especially if you have many outdoor activities planned. Be sure to protect your child from mosquitoes with an appropriate repellent, especially in humid areas.
• Check vaccinations: Before traveling, ensure that your child is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations. A visit to the doctor a few weeks before departure will help you travel with peace of mind.

V. Travel rates for children and babies in Laos

Laos is known for offering affordable tourist services, especially for children and babies. Knowing this information can help you budget more economically and reasonably for your trip to Laos with a baby.

For example, airline tickets in Laos have clearly defined rates for children. With Lao Airlines, tickets for children under 2 years old are approximately 50 USD per journey. From the age of 2, the ticket price is charged at the same rate as an adult ticket.

Similarly, for other services such as Mekong River cruises, workshops, or tuk-tuk tours, children also benefit from reduced rates.

VI. Best all-inclusive Laos family holidays with a baby

1. Luang Prabang 4 days: Luang Prabang - Vat Xiengthong - Royal Palace - National Museum - Wat Mai Temple - Pak Ou cave - Kuang Si waterfall

2. Discover Laos 1 week: Luang Prabang - Ban Xienmiene Village - Long Lao Village - Kuang Si waterfall - Nong Khiew - Cruise to Ban Hatsapheuy - Sojam Village - 100 waterfalls - Pak Ou Cave

3. Laos Travel 14 days : Luang Prabang – Ban Xienmiene Village - Ban Long Laos - Kuang Si Waterfall - Nong Khiew - Cruise to Ban Hatsapheuy - Trek to Sojam - 100 waterfalls trek - Pak Ou cave - Vang Vieng - Vientiane - Orchid Trek - Fly to Pakse – Boloven Plateau - Done Khong Island (4000 islands) – Done Khone – Done Det

If you are planning to travel to Laos and the surrounding countries with a baby, don't hesitate to contact Autour Asia, your Asia agency. Our travel advisors will help you organize a memorable stay with an itinerary specially designed for you.