Air Travel Tips with Baby

If you're adding a lap infant to your reservation for the first time, this blog post is for you. Like many parenthood milestones such as changing your first diaper without a table or catching vomit mid-stream, flying with your baby can be both anxiety inducing and incredibly self-affirming. We're here to provide you with the tips and tricks you need to make it go smoothly. 

Planning Ahead

Perhaps you're used to being a more spontaneous traveller known to book last minute flights at all hours or budget fares to faraway airports. Those days are gone and you can thank us for the ease that a little planning provides. 

• Choose the Right Flight: Whenever possible, book a direct flight to minimize the hassle of layovers and additional boarding. Opt for flights that align with your baby's sleep schedule to increase the chances of them snoozing through the journey. A safe bet is going with the earliest flight of the day, when babies tend to be in a better mood and airline delays are less common. 
• Seat Selection: Snag a window seat which provides a more enclosed space for feeding and changing. Plus the blue sky and clouds offer endless entertainment to your intrepid little explorer.

Pack Smart

This is the part where some planning goes a long way. Having an extra change of clothes for yourself and baby is the moment you level up in the parenting game.

• Consider adding a car seat to your car rental and leave your bulky car seat at home. A lightweight, foldable travel stroller that fits into the overhead compartment is another game changer.
• Pack a carryon with all the essentials, including diapers, wipes, a change of clothes for both you and your baby and pacifiers. Don't forget plastic bags for soiled diapers and clothes. As for our choice in hold alls, the Calpak's Luka Duffel and Yeti's formidable 35 Carryall Tote are our favorites.
• Feeding supplies: Bring enough formula, breast milk, or baby food for the duration of the flights and layovers. If you're breastfeeding, your AU Baby blanket makes a cozy and chic privacy cover.
• Entertainment and comfort: Pack your baby's favorite toys, books, and their blanket to keep them entertained and comfortable during the flight. If possible, introduce a new toy to keep them extra engaged. Noise-canceling headphones for babies can also help reduce the stress of engine noise.
  
  

On the Plane

• Takeoff and Landing: To help your baby’s ears adjust to the pressure changes, feed them during takeoff and landing. Sucking on a bottle, pacifier, or breastfeeding can help relieve ear discomfort.
• Pee First: Be prepared to be nap-trapped for a long portion of the flight. Plan accordingly by using the restroom before settling down for nap time and make sure your own entertainment (and snacks!) are within arms reach. Consider using a baby carrier to keep your hands free and your baby secure during the flight. 

• Diaper Changes: Airplane restrooms are small, but they usually have changing tables. Bring a compact changing pad and be prepared for the confined space. 
• Feeding: Bring a small cooler bag with ice packs to keep milk or food fresh. Ask the flight attendants for hot water if you need to warm a bottle.
• Entertainment: Keep your baby entertained with new toys or books that can hold their attention. Interactive toys, soft books, and teething rings are great options. You might be pleasantly surprised with how entertaining just being on a plane is for a young child.