Air Travel With an Infant
Air travel can be daunting, especially when traveling with an infant. But don’t worry, with a few helpful tips and a little preparation, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. In this post, we’ll provide you with 15 useful tips to help you survive air travel with an infant.
From packing the right items to creating a comfortable in-flight experience, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your air travel with an infant enjoyable and stress-free.
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1) Get organized – Air Travel With an Infant
Traveling with an infant
The key to surviving air travel with an infant is getting organized. Start by making a list of the items that you need to bring on board and make sure you have everything packed and ready in advance. You’ll want to include diapers, wipes, extra clothes, toys, bottles, formula, and snacks. Also make sure you have any paperwork necessary for the flight, such as passports, visas, or health insurance cards. Make sure you have a plan for keeping everything organized and easily accessible during the flight. Consider packing everything in a carry-on bag so that you don’t have to worry about luggage getting lost or delayed. It may be helpful to keep all of the items you need within easy reach in a diaper bag or a small backpack. Being organized will help make the trip smoother and more stress-free.
2) Check with the airline
A one-year-old baby sitting in his car safety seat
When traveling with an infant, it is essential to check with the airline beforehand. You may need to make special arrangements or purchase additional tickets or seat assignments depending on the airline’s policy. Find out the airline’s policies for lap babies and babies in car seats, as well as any fees associated with these services. Also, be sure to check the size limits for strollers and car seats if you plan on bringing them. Lastly, familiarize yourself with the check-in process, boarding procedures, and any special instructions for parents with infants. Knowing what to expect can help make your journey smoother and less stressful.
3) Choose your seat carefully – Air Travel With an Infant
Seating arrangements for infants
When traveling with an infant, it’s important to consider the seating arrangement carefully. Choose a seat that allows you to access your baby’s essentials quickly, such as the diaper bag and formula. Some airlines offer bassinets for infants which can be placed in front of the seat, so make sure to ask about this option before booking.
You may also want to book a window seat if possible, as it will provide a nice view and help your baby stay entertained during the flight. Try to avoid the middle seat, as it won’t offer much space or comfort. If possible, book an aisle seat so you can easily access the bathroom and move around when needed.
It is also a good idea to call the airline ahead of time and ask about their policy on unaccompanied minors. This will ensure that everything is taken care of before you fly, giving you peace of mind.
4) Bring your baby’s gear
Baby activities on a plane
One of the best ways to ensure a successful air travel experience with your infant is to bring your baby gear. This includes items such as a car seat, stroller, and/or infant sling. If you’re planning to bring your car seat along, be sure to check with your airline for their specific requirements. Some airlines allow you to check in your car seat for free, while others may charge a fee.
Another great item to bring along is a travel crib or play yard. These portable units are designed to provide a comfortable place for your little one to sleep or play while you’re in transit. When choosing your travel crib, make sure to look for features such as easy setup and folding capabilities, adjustable height, and breathable mesh material.
If your infant needs special equipment due to medical conditions or developmental delays, be sure to alert your airline before departure. They will be able to provide you with guidance on how best to transport the equipment. Additionally, you can pack a few favorite toys or books to help keep them entertained during the flight.
No matter which items you choose to bring along on your trip, having your baby gear will help ensure that the air travel experience is a success!
5) Make sure you have enough food and formula – Air Travel With an Infant
Bottle feeding
When traveling with an infant, it is important to make sure you have enough food and formula for your little one. Depending on the age of your baby, you will need to plan for enough food for the duration of your trip. If you are bottle feeding, bring enough formula and bottles to last the entire trip. For babies who are eating solids, bring enough snacks to keep your baby full throughout the journey. It’s also a good idea to bring an empty sippy cup and snacks that can be easily eaten on the plane. If you plan on breastfeeding, make sure to pack a nursing cover and comfortable clothing that makes it easy to access your breasts. Bring extra supplies in case of delays or cancellations. By having plenty of food and formula ready to go, you can ensure that your baby is well-fed during your travels.
6) Dress your baby for comfort
Comfortable clothes for infants while traveling by plane
When traveling with an infant, comfort should be a priority. Make sure to dress your baby in clothing that will keep them warm, but not too hot. Consider packing extra layers of clothing that can be added or removed depending on the temperature in the plane. A soft, lightweight blanket is also a great item to have on hand for extra warmth. It’s important to make sure the baby’s clothing isn’t too restrictive so they can move around comfortably. Choose loose-fitting items, like onesies and sweatshirts, over tight clothing such as jeans and t-shirts. And make sure to avoid anything with buttons or zippers, as these can be difficult to fasten and unfasten while in transit.
7) Bring plenty of distractions – Air Travel With an Infant
Keeping the baby entertained during the flight
When traveling with an infant, distractions are your best friend. You’ll want to bring a variety of activities to keep your baby entertained during the flight. Pack a few small toys, books, or puzzles that can easily fit in your carry-on bag. You might also consider bringing along a tablet device with pre-downloaded apps and videos. Noise-canceling headphones are also a great way to keep your little one engaged and help them relax on the plane. Finally, don’t forget to bring plenty of snacks and drinks to help keep your baby satisfied during the flight.
8) Use a baby carrier
Using a baby carrier is a great way to make air travel with an infant more manageable. It keeps your hands free to navigate the airport and allows you to hold your little one close while in the air. There are a variety of baby carriers available, such as wraps, slings, and backpack-style carriers, so make sure to choose the one that best fits your needs. Also, make sure to wear it correctly before you board the plane to avoid any accidents or discomfort.
When it comes to taking off and landing, you’ll need to keep your baby in the carrier and adjust the straps accordingly. For take-off, tighten the straps so your baby is held securely against you. For landing, slightly loosen the straps so your baby can breathe easier. Be sure to keep your infant facing toward you at all times for extra security.
Using a baby carrier can help make air travel with an infant much less stressful and more enjoyable for both you and your little one. Just remember to research your options and practice wearing them correctly before you fly!
9) Request a bassinet – Air Travel With an Infant
If you’re flying with an infant under two years of age, you should consider requesting a bassinet. Bassinets are available on most airlines, but they must be requested in advance. Some airlines will even let you check in online to reserve your bassinet before the flight.
A bassinet is a great way to give your little one a safe, comfortable place to sleep while you travel. Make sure to check the airline’s website for the specific requirements and restrictions regarding bassinets. Most airlines will only provide a bassinet if the infant is under a certain weight and height limit.
In addition, many international airlines have different regulations regarding bassinets, so make sure to research the policies for any flight you book. Also, not all seats on a plane are equipped with bassinets, so you should also call the airline to check availability.
When traveling with an infant, requesting a bassinet can be invaluable. Not only will it give your baby a safe place to sleep during the flight, but it will also free up more space in your seat. This can make a huge difference if you’re stuck in a cramped space for several hours!
10) Board early
Family early boarding policies
When traveling with an infant, it is best to board the plane early so that you can settle in with your little one. If you are lucky enough to get a seat with extra legroom or a bassinet, make sure that your board is as soon as possible. This will allow you to get your infant settled before other passengers board the plane. Additionally, if you are going to be using a car seat or stroller during the flight, make sure that you board early so that you can store them properly. Boarding early will help ensure a smoother flight experience for both you and your baby!
11) Don’t be afraid to ask for help – Air Travel With an Infant
Flight attendant helping a woman with a baby
One of the most important things you can do to survive air travel with an infant is to not be afraid to ask for help. Flight attendants and airport staff are usually more than willing to help parents out with a crying baby, change diapers, carry luggage, do or anything else they can do to make your journey easier. If you’re traveling alone, don’t be afraid to ask another passenger for assistance. Most people are happy to help and it can make the experience much less stressful for everyone involved.
12) Be prepared for changes in the schedule
Schedule changes while traveling by plane
When traveling with an infant, it is important to be prepared for schedule changes. Air travel can be unpredictable, and delays are common. It’s best to plan and have a few backup options in case your flight is delayed or canceled.
You should bring a few books, toys, and other activities to keep your baby occupied while you wait. Bring snacks and drinks as well, so your baby can stay nourished and hydrated if you end up stuck at the airport for an extended period.
Make sure that you know the airline’s policy on accommodating passengers with delayed flights. Be prepared to contact the airline if your flight is delayed or canceled, and find out what your options are for getting another flight as soon as possible. If you know ahead of time what the airline’s policy is, you can act quickly when something goes wrong.
By being prepared for schedule changes, you can save yourself from a lot of stress and hassle when traveling with an infant. Have a backup plan ready, and know how to contact the airline in case of a delay or cancellation. With the right preparation, you can make air travel with an infant go much smoother.
13) Be flexible – Air Travel With an Infant
Inevitable delays or changes while traveling with infants
Air travel with an infant can be unpredictable. From delays to cancellations to changes in seating, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for the unexpected. While it can be frustrating, it’s important to stay calm and flexible. This can be easier said than done, but try your best to go with the flow and remember that sometimes delays or changes are inevitable. If you’re stuck on the tarmac for a while or need to switch planes, take it all in stride and be patient. You may find yourself having to miss a connection or arrive later than expected, so be sure to have a plan B if needed.
14) Have a plan B
No matter how well you plan your air travel with an infant, sometimes things don’t go as expected. That’s why it is important to have a backup plan in place. Make sure you research the airline’s policies and regulations before you book your flight and keep an eye out for potential delays or flight changes. You should also create an emergency plan for any unexpected events. Have a list of nearby hotels, stores, and restaurants in case your original plans fall through. Additionally, pack extra diapers, wipes, clothes, and snacks to make sure that you are prepared for any eventuality. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask the airline crew or other passengers for help if you need it. With the right preparation and a little bit of luck, you should be able to survive air travel with your infant in tow!
15) Enjoy the experience! – Air Travel With an Infant
Enjoying the flight with your infant
Traveling with an infant can be a daunting task but there are so many ways to make it an enjoyable experience for you and your baby. Take the time to enjoy the moments and don’t let the stress of planning and organization take away from your precious time with your little one. Enjoying air travel with an infant can be as easy as taking a deep breath and taking it one step at a time.
You may find that your baby enjoys the journey just as much as you do. Watching the clouds out the window or cooing at the other passengers can provide hours of entertainment. If your child is too young to recognize their surroundings, have some fun with them by talking to them in silly voices or playing games such as peek-a-boo.
Ultimately, your attitude will affect how much your baby enjoys the experience. If you are relaxed and happy, chances are that your baby will be as well. So take the time to enjoy the experience of traveling with an infant and make some great memories together!
Conclusion
Planning a trip with an infant can be daunting, but with the right preparations, it can be an enjoyable experience for everyone. Following the tips outlined in this blog post should help make your journey smoother and more stress-free.
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Keep these useful tips in mind and happy travels!
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15 Tips for Traveling With an Infant – What You Need to Know
