8 Tips for Flying with a Baby ...

The first and most fundamental of my tips for flying with a baby is to inform the airline when you book. Even if you are not booking a seat, and plan to hold your baby on your lap, he or she will still need a ticket. You can also find out what facilities the airline offers and what will be available on board.

Bear in mind that even a tiny baby will need his or her own passport! So plan ahead and make sure you allow plenty of time for the application to be processed and the passport to be delivered. You don’t want any last-minute dashes to try to get a passport!

Takeoff can be the most uncomfortable stage for a baby, because of the sudden change in air pressure. Obviously you can’t give them sweets to suck, like you would with an older child or adult! So feeding your baby during takeoff is recommended.

Make sure you pack enough diapers and wipes for the duration of the flight, and also extra to allow for delays. And do be courteous to other passengers – changing facilities in the restroom may be cramped, but don’t change a diaper in the cabin! Plus it’s wise to pack a change of clothing (or two) in case of accidents.

Some airlines provide formula, but this is obviously a question you should ask when you make the booking. If they don’t, or you prefer to take your own bottles of formula, it is permitted to take them through security, but you may be asked to test it in front of security staff.

This is generally not included in your luggage allowance, but you will need to get a baggage tag placed on it. Also, when you pass through security you will be required to remove the baby so that the pushchair can be screened. Finally, when you board the plane you will have to hand the chair to cabin staff and it will be returned to you when you leave the plane.

If you are flying long haul, a night flight is recommended as better for your baby. Be prepared, however, for the post-flight routine to be disrupted. Your baby will not be aware of the time change, so they will not adapt in the same way as you will to the new time zone.

Finally, don’t forget to pack some of your baby’s favourite toys to keep them amused while you’re travelling. They may also like to have a favourite blanket to snuggle up with. Also a few dummies (allowing for any to get dropped) may help calm your child if they get upset (which will be better for you and the other passengers!).

Travelling with a baby may seem a daunting prospect, but sometimes for family or work reasons it is unavoidable. However there are lots of ways to make it easier for you and your child. Planning and preparation is the key! Some airlines are more family-friendly, so do your research if you have a choice on your desired route. Have you ever had a disastrous trip with a baby, or were your children absolute angels in the air?

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