Article: Travel Tips for Flying with a Baby - What Every Mom Should Know
Flying with a baby can be overwhelming initially, especially for new moms. There are schedules to consider, bags to pack, and worries about how your baby will react on the plane. Many moms don't know how to handle feedings, naps, and diaper changes thousands of feet in the air.
The good news is that with a little planning, flying with a baby is manageable. This blog shares practical tips based on real-world experience to help make your journey as smooth as possible.
The first step in flying with your baby is to plan before you step foot in the airport.
Choosing the right time for your flight can make a big difference. Many moms try to book flights during their baby's usual nap time to help them sleep through the trip. Early morning flights are usually less crowded and have fewer delays, which can also help.
Bulkhead seats are located behind a wall or bulkhead and have more legroom, making it easier to walk around with your baby. Some parents also prefer aisle seats so they can get up quickly if they need to walk or change a diaper.
Most U.S. airlines allow infants under the age of two to fly on their parents' laps for free(within the United States) or at a reduced fare (for international travel). Still, each airline has its own rules about lap babies, checking strollers and car seats, and carrying breast milk or formula through security. Checking the airline's website or calling the customer service center can resolve any questions.
Some airlines, such as Southwest Airlines, require a copy of the baby's birth certificate to prove the baby's age, even for domestic flights. Keeping a copy in the diaper bag or travel folder can make check-in faster and easier.
Having the right items in your diaper bag can make a big difference when flying with your baby. Starting with the most basic items will help. Diapers and wipes are essentials, and it's wise to pack more than you would normally need for the same number of hours at home.
Flight delays happen. Bringing at least one extra set of clothes for the baby and one extra set for the parents can help in the event of a spill or diaper accident. It's also a good idea to have a couple of ziplock bags for dirty clothes or used wipes.
Feeding supplies are another important part of the bag. Parents who use bottles should bring enough for the duration of the trip, plus one or two extra just in case. If your baby eats solids, bringing simple snacks that won't be too messy will keep them occupied.
For breastfeeding moms, bring a nursing cover if you wish. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration allows reasonable amounts of baby formula, breast milk, and juice to pass through security, even beyond the usual 3.4-ounce liquid limit, but these items must be declared at the security checkpoint.
Entertainment can go a long way during a flight. Small toys, teethers, and favorite books can keep the baby distracted and content. It's best to avoid noisy toys for the comfort of your baby and the passengers around you.
Comfort items can also make flying easier. If your baby needs to nap on the airplane, a sleeping bag or cozy blanket will help. Many babies also take comfort from a familiar pacifier or a favorite stuffed animal (sometimes called a “baby”).
Going through an airport with a baby can be exhausting, but a few simple choices can make everything easier.
Using a baby carrier through security can help free up a parent's hands for luggage, tickets, or shoes. Most TSA checkpoints allow parents to carry their baby through metal detectors in a carrier, though sometimes additional screening may be required. Carriers also keep babies quiet and close in busy environments.
For larger gear such as strollers or car seats, checking in is a useful option. Airlines often allow parents to carry both items through security and then check them in at the gate for free. This allows families to use the stroller until they board the plane, which is useful if they have to walk a long way to the gate or if the baby needs a place to nap. It's a good idea to have a protective bag for the car seat or stroller to avoid damage.
When traveling with your baby, it's important to arrive at the airport early, but it's also important to find a balance. Arrive at the airport about two hours before your domestic flight so that you have time for security checks and last-minute needs without having to keep your baby at the gate for too long. Arriving too early can sometimes lead to extra stress if your baby is bored or tired of waiting.
Most airlines offer family boarding, allowing parents with small children to board early. Taking advantage of this makes it easier to find space in your overhead bins, settle in, and avoid feeling rushed when boarding. Each airline has slightly different rules, so it helps to listen to the radio at the gate or ask a staff member if you're unsure.
Once on the plane, a few small steps can make the flight easier for both baby and parent.
Breastfeeding during takeoff and landing is one of the most recommended tips for flying with a baby. Breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or the sucking action when using a pacifier can help equalize ear pressure and make your baby more comfortable during altitude changes. If your baby falls asleep during takeoff or landing, it's usually okay to let them go back to sleep.
If your baby is fidgety, walking down the aisle can help calm them down. Many parents find that once the seat belt sign is turned off, walking back and forth in the aisle is refreshing and calms the baby's irritability. Flight attendants are usually understanding as long as the aisle is clear and the activity is safe.
It is also important for parents to remain calm if their baby is crying. Most people on an airplane have had children before or understand that babies sometimes cry. Being overly nervous often makes things more difficult for both the baby and the parents. Even in unfamiliar surroundings, calm parents can make babies feel more secure.
Dressing your baby in extra layers is another smart move. The temperature in an airplane cabin can change quickly; sometimes it can feel warm and sometimes it can feel cold. Keeping a thin jacket, an extra pair of socks, or a cozy blanket in the diaper bag can make it easier for your baby to adjust to any temperature during the flight.
Flying with a baby presents challenges, but it's something many parents face every day. A little planning, smart packing, and staying flexible can make the flight experience go much smoother.
Some flights will go smoother than others, and that's completely normal. Every trip is an opportunity to learn what works best for your family. With each flight, parents often find more confidence and new strategies to make traveling easier. Regardless of the trip, getting through it smoothly is an accomplishment in itself.
Sources:
BjFess. (2024). Southwest Airlines Family Travel Hub: Your Guide to Flying with Kids and Infants
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Yujia Shi
An expert in sleep sack design, is a valued contributor to Kaiya Baby's blog. With a strong background in baby sleep bags and maternal care, she is highly regarded for her professionalism. Yujia Shi prioritizes baby comfort and safety in her designs, using high-quality materials. Her insightful articles on sleep bags have been featured in reputable publications and have gained a significant readership. Trust Yujia Shi to help you create a comfortable and safe sleep environment for your baby, backed by her proven track record in the industry.
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