Before you board an airplane with your baby you, you should consider a few things… Flying can be challenging for anyone, but for a baby, and with a baby, it is even more challenging. For ease at the airport, book an early flight on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Airports are less crowded mid-week and get more and more crowded as the day rolls on. So fly early and avoid weekends to get through security quickly and easily with your special little cargo.
You should also consider whether to buy a ticket for your baby or not. Lap babies (under 2 years old) fly for free on your lap. This is a great savings but it’s important to remember that your baby will be safest in a government-approved car seat that is strapped into an airplane seat. If your flight is full and you did not buy a ticket for your baby, the airline will not be able to let you place your baby in a car seat in the seat next to you. You should also know that if you do decide to buy a seat for your baby (again, under 2 years old) you will probably be able to do so at a 50% discount. This discounted arrangement also requires a government-approved car seat. For children over 2 years old, a seat and a full priced ticket is the rule.
The TSA (Transportation Security Administrations) gives a lot of great tips on their website about traveling with your baby. One useful piece of information to consider when packing is that, thankfully, “medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces (100ml) and are not required to be in the zip-top bag.” You should definitely bring drinks, snacks, and pacifiers on your flight. These will come in handy during take off and landing to help alleviate your baby’s eardrum pressure. And don’t hesitate to ask a flight attendant to warm a bottle for you. Just be sure to check the temperature before feeding your baby as the galley system tends to overheat.
You should also know that most airlines offer gate checking for your stroller, but call ahead to confirm this. When you arrive at your gate, ask for a gate check ticket for your stroller and also inquire about the early boarding time for you and your baby. Boarding early will ensure that you have ample time and space to get your baby well situated.
If you are flying internationally make sure that you get a passport for your baby first. Yes, it seems silly but it is the law. It is an easy process that can take up to a few weeks, so plan ahead. If you are just one parent traveling with your baby then you may also need a signed letter from the other parent consenting that your baby may leave the country. This rule is not strictly enforced everywhere, but it is always better to be prepared than not.
Once you are on the plane and in the air there are a few things you might want to have to make the flight easier. Disposable bibs, bottles, and sippy cups are great becasue you don’t have to wash them in the airplane bathroom. And of course, some brand new toys – quiet ones, remember that there are many people on the plane – for your little guy or gal to play with. These just might keep your baby occupied long enough for you to stretch out, and if you are lucky, glance out the window at the bright, beautiful scenery.