Plan and Prepare
- Book early: Secure your lap infant seat well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Notify the airline about your infant and inquire about any specific requirements.
- Pack smart: Pack light, prioritizing essentials like diapers, wipes,formula/breastfeeding supplies, change of clothes for both you and the baby, and a comfort item for the baby. Pack versatile clothing for varying temperatures.
- Research entertainment: Download age-appropriate apps, pack some teething toys, and consider bringing new or interesting objects to keep the baby occupied.
Comfort is Key
- Dress comfortably: Choose loose-fitting clothes for yourself and the baby. Layers are helpful for adjusting to cabin temperature changes.
- Bring a baby carrier: A carrier can be a lifesaver, allowing you to move around and soothe the baby hands-free.
- Pack a feeding pillow: This can support your arm during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, reducing strain.
Be Flexible and Patient
- Expect disruptions: Accept that your travel schedule may be disrupted due to feedings, diaper changes, or meltdowns. Be patient and try not to stress.
- Board early: Most airlines offer priority boarding for families with young children. Use this time to get settled and familiarize yourself with the airplane.
The first flight is the hardest. I was nervous to be that mom on the plane, you know, the one with the screaming child. But I had decided long ago that part of parenting for us meant that we wouldn’t stop traveling, so Stella is along for the ride. I prepared myself for her first flight with a “come what may” attitude. I’d recommend your first flight be domestic, you’ll both learn a lot.
To be honest, she did extremely well, and after many more flights, I’ve decided that the 6- to 8-month age range is ideal for infant travelers. They’re old enough that you don’t have to worry about their ears and every germ they touch or somebody who coughs, yet they’re still small enough that they don’t mind being held. Side note: Unless I’m traveling business class, I’ve decided that one and walking is the cutoff lap infant age. In my opinion, they are too active to be held for more than 3+ hours.
Also, there’s still good in the world. The number of people who smiled and played with her far outweighed any negative encounters. Teach them young right?
Consider Additional Needs
- Check on car seats: If you plan to rent a car, research and pre-book an infant car seat if needed. Some airlines allow checking car seats for free.
- Dietary considerations: If your baby has specific dietary needs, pack enough formula/food or inquire about bringing breast milk pumps and storage containers.
- Medications: Pack any necessary medications and ensure they are easily accessible during the flight.
Embrace the Journey
- Focus on bonding: View the flight as an opportunity to cuddle and bond with your baby. Use calming techniques like singing or rocking to soothe them.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated yourself and help with milk production if breastfeeding.
- Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to ask flight attendants or fellow passengers for assistance if needed. Most people are understanding and happy to help.
Make it fun! I clapped for the plane during landing so Stella would have a positive association and on our second flight she was clapping with me, excited for the ride-in. I thought a window seat would be best but she preferred watching the flight attendants walk up and down the isles. At the end of the day you know your baby best so prepare however you think is right.
Learn As You Go
Traveling with a baby is not easy, but the more prepared you are, the more confident you will be. I swear babies can read our anxiety, so the calmer you can be going into the experience, the more at ease they will be.
✈️ Check your stroller at the gate! Stella wanted to be carried anyway but the stroller gave me a place to throw my carry on, diaper bag, and everything else to keep my hands free for her.
✈️ Breast milk/formula is not subject to TSAs 3 oz limit so you can have a bottle ready to get you through security without so much fuss. Even better, TSA Pre-Check – the amount of extra work we avoided traveling with kids and a stroll and formula with Pre-check is heaven.
✈️ Have a pacifier, snacks, or a bottle ready for take off and landing to help with ear pain.
✈️ Bring a new toy they’ve never seen before, intrigue is everything.
✈️ Work with what you’ve got! Ask for blankets and set them on the floor for added space to explore. Water bottles are the best toys.
I thought a window seat would be best but she preferred watching the flights attendants walk up and down the isles. At the end of the day you know your baby best so prepare however you think is right.
Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another. These tips are just a starting point, and it’s important to adapt them to your baby’s individual needs and your own parenting style.
DID YOU KNOW ABOUT IN-FLIGHT BASSINETS?
While I would recommend a short flight or direct flight for your first time, there are a few benefits to traveling international. Now, traveling with a toddler and lap infant, we sure do love a redeye flight. And my favorite thing about long-haul flights with lap infants – the bassinet option. We didn’t buy a seat for Donovan (7 months old)…but did reserve a bassinet. So he essentially received a free first class seat!
Bassinets are free on many long haul/international flights. Check with your airline ahead of time on policies but most are available for babies who can’t sit up yet or are around 6 months of age. Reserve ahead of time! Call your airline right after booking your bulkhead seats (this is where the bassinets are located.) Or book with my air desk and I’ll call for you!
✈️ There are a limited # of bassinets available. First come, first service to request ASAP (and ask again at the gate). Available in economy, business, & first!
✈️ You cannot use for take-off, taxi, landing, and during turbulence and best for babies around 6 months or younger. Donovan slept for at least 4 hours of our 9 hour flight, giving me (mainly my arms) a chance to rest!
Traveling is always unpredictable but with littles, you need a lot more patience and appropriate expectations for what you can handle. When traveling with connecting flights, build in extra time with layovers to give you both a break.
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