Tips on Traveling With Your Baby on Airplanes
Traveling with a baby on an airplane can seem like an impossible task, but it really doesn't have to be. With a little preparation, air travel with your baby can be pleasant and successful. If your partner, spouse, or a friend is coming along, then baby travel is even better.
These tips for baby travel will help you make those first few outings with your little one a smooth ride.
Ask for help.
If you're traveling alone, you'll definitely want to ask for help from friendly travelers. Accept offers to help load the stroller onto the security belt or place your luggage into the overhead compartment.
Try to keep calm and do your best.
There may be times you feel completely overwhelmed with the various aspects of traveling with your baby. You have a lot to handle, after all, from getting checked in and through security to soothing your baby on the trip. Remember that the calmer you are, the more likely it is that your baby will stay calm, too.
Do what you must.
Creativity is nothing new for parents -- we're constantly thinking up ways to get things done when it comes to our babies. Baby travel is no different. You may find you need to do something a little different to help your baby get through his travel experience as smoothly as possible. Try singing a new song to catch your baby’s interest, or break out a toy he hasn’t played with in a while.
What to pack.
Diapers, diapers, diapers. Your baby will need a lot of coverage, depending on how long and how far you’re traveling. You can never go wrong packing extra diapers for a long trip. Other key essentials include: a diaper changing pad, blankets to keep him warm, his favorite toys, pacifiers, extra clothes (just in case), some plastic bags to throw dirty diapers in, and baby wipes to keep him clean and comfortable. If you're feeding your baby formula and/or baby food, bring extra just in case your plane is delayed. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to carry everything you pack. When in doubt for how much to bring, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Don't hesitate to nurse on the plane.
If you're breastfeeding your baby, then you'll probably find yourself needing to feed him a couple of times on the plane. While it's a little tricky to do so in such a small space, your baby needs to eat. Nursing will also help soothe him if he is cranky or if his ears hurt from the cabin pressure.
Change your baby's diaper before boarding the plane.
The plane bathrooms are very small. Even with a fold-down changing table, you may find it uncomfortable to change your baby there.
Traveling with a baby isn't all that bad when you do some planning and preparation. Enjoy your trip!
Photo by Paul Hanaoka on Unsplash
