Here are some tips from Wendy Buckley, managing director, Travel With Kidz:

Some airlines offer more help with children than others, so check before you book.

Qantas can provide a bassinet, and offers special toddler and baby meals but you must request these when you make your reservation. Cabin crew will prepare, heat and wash bottles on request.

Carrying your baby in a baby pouch will leave your hands free to manage passports, luggage and your toddler.

Taking an approved car seat can also be a good idea. It solves the problem of getting to or from the airport in a taxi, and onboard it is the safest way for a small child to travel. You'll need to arrange approval for this with the airline at least 24 hours before departure.

Make sure you have plenty of nappies, baby food, milk, changes of clothes and essentials in your carry-on bag just in case your checked luggage gets lost.

Some parents find a stopover can help to break the journey - especially once children are mobile. Others prefer to get it over and done with!