The thought of taking a six-month-old abroad can be overwhelming. With medical clearances, visa processing and flight logistics to consider, many Filipino parents don’t attempt it. But when I dreamed of introducing my baby Jett and three-year-old Jax to their grandmother in Vancouver, Washington, I knew we had to make it work — even with the daunting 43-hour journey ahead.
Fast-tracking official documents
We secured Jett’s passport, birth certificate and US visa within four months of his birth, even though obtaining a PSA birth certificate usually takes six months in the Philippines.
We had Jett’s hospital birth certificate stamped by the local civil registrar one month after birth and requested a “Negative Certification” from PSA. With these, we applied for his DFA passport. While waiting, we also requested an “Advanced Endorsement” from PSA to expedite his official birth certificate.
For the US visa, Jovi and I already held B1/B2 visas, so we were able to apply for Jett’s visa through a process that allows minors under 14 to submit their passport and requirements by mail. (Please check the US Embassy in the Philippines website for the most current guidelines.)
Health preparations that matter
Three months before the trip, we worked with Jett’s pediatrician to advance his immunization schedule. Given the recent measles outbreaks in the US, we also requested the measles vaccine. Our entire family got the updated flu shot, which is essential when traveling to colder climates with small children.
Packing essentials for small children
Before packing, ask yourself: “What can’t I buy at my destination?” For us, it was Jax’s comfort items and medications. Despite my best efforts to pack light, we ended up with 11 pieces of luggage and two strollers — packing light with small children is nearly impossible.
Since Jett was bottle-fed, I planned for three full days of travel: 15 pre-measured formula packs, bottled water and disposable feeding systems.
Pro tip: I switched to Enfamil before the trip, as the US version was available in case we ran out. We were also mindful of costs, choosing in-store brands for baby gear and supplies instead of splurging on expensive brands.
Flight survival strategies
Four months in advance, we booked EVA Air with bassinet reservations. That bassinet was a lifesaver — Jett slept peacefully while we enjoyed bulkhead seating. Surprisingly, turbulence helped soothe him, like gentle rocking.
Pro tip: An infant’s diaper bag doesn’t count toward carry-on limits, as long as it’s within reasonable weight. Just allow extra time for security screening.
When the plane was mid-takeoff to Seattle, disaster struck. Jett decided it was the perfect time for a diaper change. His cries until the seatbelt sign clicked off made it clear: even with perfect planning, babies are unpredictable!
Making the trip enjoyable
While the flights were challenging, the experience itself was rewarding — something we carried with us throughout the trip. In Washington, we stayed at my mother’s home and opted out of official tours. Over the month, we explored parks like Mt. Tabor and Washington Park, and breathtaking spots such as Mt. Saint Helens and Multnomah Falls. We enjoyed fried oysters on the Oregon coast and farm-to-table cheese and ice cream at Tillamook.
During our stay at Skamania Lodge, we woke to the sound of rustling leaves and stunning views of tree-covered mountains that changed with the morning light and the Columbia River winding through the gorge like a silver ribbon. The children played freely in the open spaces, with the beautiful scenery as the perfect backdrop.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of packing every day with activities, but we learned that rest was essential for all of us. Slowing down to truly enjoy the scenery and play made the trip more enjoyable. There were tough moments — dealing with jet lag and the exhaustion of managing an endless to-do list with babies — but we learned to roll with it as part of the adventure.
Unexpected rewards
This journey reset our family. Away from routine, Jovi and I discovered new depths in our children — Jett mastering rolling over halfway around the world, Jax’s confidence blooming at each playground. Traveling with young children is an adventure that tests limits while creating irreplaceable moments.
The greatest gift? Watching our boys bond with Grandma. We’re fortunate for this opportunity. After months of planning, we’re sharing these insights, hoping other Filipino families realize their travel dreams can become a reality.