There’s nothing quite like planning your first flight with a baby. You think you’re ready and then the questions hit. What if they cry the entire time? What if you forget something? What if the other passengers give you that look?
Here’s the good news: flying with your baby isn’t easy, but it is doable. With the right prep and a little flexibility, you will both get through it and maybe even enjoy the ride.
1. Try to Book Flights Around Nap Time
If you have the option, look for a flight that lines up with your baby’s usual nap schedule. It doesn’t always work out perfectly, but giving your baby a shot at sleeping in the air can make the trip smoother.
Early morning flights also tend to be less crowded and more likely to stay on schedule. Bonus: everyone is generally in a better mood before noon.
2. Don’t Wait to Pick Your Seats
A good seat can make a huge difference. If you’re traveling alone with your baby, the aisle seat gives you more flexibility to get up for feedings or diaper changes. Traveling with a partner? Try booking the window and aisle, leaving the middle open. If the flight isn’t full, that seat might stay empty. If not, most passengers are happy to switch so you can sit together with your baby. Airlines do require specific seat assignments because of the location of child life preservers.
3. Keep Your Carry-On Simple AND Strategic
You’ll want to pack smart. Think bare essentials, not a full nursery.
Here’s what I always brought with me when my children were young:
- A few diapers and wipes
- A change of clothes for the baby (and maybe one for you)
- A light blanket or swaddle
- Snacks or formula if needed
- A familiar toy and a new one to keep it interesting
If your baby uses a pacifier or bottle, keep it within reach. You’ll want it during takeoff and landing.
4. Invest in a Lightweight Travel Stroller
A compact stroller is a lifesaver at the airport. Look for something that folds quickly and fits through tight spaces. I see that there are now even options that easily fit in the overhead bin like the Babyzen YOYO2 . Even if you are gate-checking, smaller strollers are easier to maneuver with one hand while carrying a diaper bag.
5. Feed During Takeoff and Landing
Ears popping during altitude changes can be really uncomfortable for babies. The easiest way to help? Have them suck on something during takeoff and landing bottle, breast, pacifier, whatever works for your little one.
Start just before the plane begins its ascent or descent. It doesn’t always prevent fussiness, but it helps more often than not.
6. Give Yourself More Time Than You Think You Need
Airport travel takes longer with a baby. Security lines, bathroom stops, and boarding all add up. Arrive early so you’re not rushing through the terminal while juggling a baby and your bag.
Good to know: TSA allows parents to bring formula, breast milk, and baby food in quantities larger than the usual liquid limits. You will just need to let them know at the checkpoint. Here’s what TSA says about it.
7. Expect the Unexpected
Sometimes everything goes smoothly. Other times, your baby poops during takeoff and screams halfway through the flight. It happens.
The key is staying calm. Most people are more understanding than we give them credit for. A few kind words or even just a smile can go a long way if things get loud.
Remember you’re not the first parent to fly with a baby. You’re just the latest in a long line of brave, sleep-deprived moms and dads making memories one mile high at a time. Just relax and take some photos. It flies by, as they say.
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