Parents always complain about how difficult it is to go out with their kids because it just takes them forever to get out the door. But what if you have to take a plane ride somewhere? Flying with your baby can seem like a daunting task, but there are times when it’s unavoidable. If you have to travel with your baby, be sure to do your homework because you need to make this trip go as smooth as possible. You also need to look out for your baby’s safety. Below are tried and tested ways recommended by parents who have traveled with their babies before.
Make a Checklist
It’s always wise to prepare beforehand the items that you’ll need to pack in your carry-on. When flying with an infant, you don’t have the luxury of your kids carrying their own carry-ons as some parents do with older kids. So It’s up to you to bring everything you need because last-minute shopping at the duty-free won’t cut it. Plan your list that includes extra diapers, a change of clothes, a blanket, a nursing cover-up, bottles and formula, pacifiers, some comfort toys, and Ziploc bags with baby snacks.
Airline Rules and Baby Bottles
When it comes to airport security, the TSA only allows not more than three ounces of liquid. Be prepared by presenting your bottles, formula, water, juice, or even breast milk for inspection once you reach the security checkpoint. With bottled breast-milk, it’s inspected with a hand scanner before they allow you through. Empty bottles are allowed easily, so another way to make it easier for you and your baby is by preparing your bottles with formula powder only or bring single-serving formula packs. You can always get water once you’re on the plane.
Plan Your Child’s Seating Arrangement
If your child is under the age of two, then you don’t need to buy a ticket. As much as this is cost-effective, but bear in mind that this means you’ll carry your baby throughout the whole flight. A much safer route to go is to buy a second ticket and get a car seat for your baby; treat this flight as if it’s a car ride. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that babies less than 40 pounds should be carried in a secured car seat and you can only use FAA approved car seats only. If you’re unsure about which one to buy that is safe, FAA approved, and suitable, you can see a list of airplane car seats that is recommended here with detailed reviews and comparison charts. You need to be able to find a car seat that is lightweight so you can carry it around easily as well as one that is slim enough to fit the narrow airplane seats with ease.
Prep Your Travel Gear
Walking around with a baby and your luggage around the airport can seem a little difficult, but if you plan your gear right, you won’t go through any issues. Consider having a stroller to help you rush from one gate to the other. Choose one that is easily collapsible and once you reach the gates, the airport attendants can send it back down to the cargo hold and will return it once you’ve landed. During security checkpoints, consider carrying your baby in a sling so you can have two free hands to collect all your belongings.
Prepare for Takeoff and Landing
During takeoff and landing, you might notice that it’s coupled with a child’s screams and wails. That’s because the changing cabin pressure causes major discomfort and pain to their little ears. In order to protect their tiny ears, and to avoid them screaming their cute little heads off, it’s recommended that you can feed your baby during takeoff or landing. When you breastfeed or bottle feed your baby, it can release some of that pressure in their middle ears and calm them down. The sucking motion helps greatly ease the pressure and you can also use a pacifier.
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Flight
Don’t make the rookie mistake of not planning for your trip. As much as traveling with infants and children can seem quite impossible, it actually can be managed with a few tips and tricks. Plan everything beforehand to ensure your child’s safety and well-being as well as your own sanity and comfort.
