Tips for Traveling with infant on Airplane
Traveling with infant on airplane, is no piece of cake. However, when well prepared for it, you might just make the entire journey less painful for you and your baby.
In this article, we will look at some of the most vital tips for travelling with infant on airplane.
Understanding the Challenges of Traveling with Infant on Airplane
Flying with a baby does take a lot of thought. Babies are very unpredictable, and their moods can switch in a second. You may feel anxious about how your child will behave on a flight, but remember that most parents have been where you are. Most passengers are considerate and patient; as they’ve probably been in exactly the same situation before. Chances are that you aren’t going to read that book you brought with you or get any work done. Instead, focus on keeping your baby comfortable and happy.
Essential Pre-Flight Steps To Take Before Booking Your Flight
Choosing the Right Airline for Traveling with Your Baby.
Research airlines ahead of time to book one that is family-friendly. Some airlines have very family-friendly policies that will make travel easier for you, such as allowing families with infants to board early. For example, Southwest Airlines has very easy hassle-free flying for those families with babies and toddlers. This can always be verified through the website of the airline or by calling customer service regarding their infant policy.
Understanding Airline Policies on Infant Travel
You have two major options when flying with your baby: you can either book a separate seat for your baby or fly as a lap infant. Most airlines allow infants under two years to travel free or at a cheaper rate as a lap infant. However, you will want to consider the possibility that your baby may get fussy during this flight with a stranger sitting next to you. If you choose to buy a seat, ensure it has an FAA-approved seat properly fitted for safety purposes.
Lap Infant or Separate Seat for Your Baby: Which to Choose
You can pick up a lap infant ticket, but one thing to remember is it’s cheaper, and you’re expected to hold your baby during the flight. This can get really tiring on long-distance flights. Buying them their seat allows them not only to be safely secured but also comfortably enjoy flying, too.
What to Bring for Your Baby on the Plane
Baby Essentials: Strollers, Car Seats, and More
The bottom line when traveling with a baby is to efficiently pack. Of course, you would like your baby to be comforted during the trip with a variety of stuff. Bring a light stroller that can easily be folded up and carried overhead or gate-checked without fee. Many parents just love wearing a baby carrier while going through the airport; hence, it’s super convenient for them.
How much diapers and wipes should I bring?
A three-day supply packed in your carry-on, as well as extra change of clothes in case of a spill or accident. You never know when you will be stuck somewhere due to delay or layovers. A good amount to shoot for is to calculate one diaper per hour of journey time with several spares.
Comfort Items: Toys, Blankets, and Snacks
It is of essence to keep your baby occupied during flights. Take one or two favorite toys, or books that will keep them engrossed for most of the flight. Snacks are also very necessary; if your baby has reached the age when they can eat solids, you may want to take some snacks which they can easily manage like puffs or small crackers. A familiar blanket can be very comforting and help them feel secure in this alien environment.
Tips for Getting Around the Airport with Your Infant
Arrive Early to Avoid Stress
One of the main things one can do to avoid a hitch while passing through the airport is to arrive early. This normally means that airports would prefer coming in at least two hours in advance of a domestic flight and three hours in advance of an international one. This time allowance allows checking in, going through security, and even the handling of delays that come up unexpectedly without stressful pressure. With an infant along, you need that buffer time all the more. Arriving early gives you an opportunity to find your gate, change diapers, and feed your baby without feeling under pressure.
Make Use of Family Boarding Options
Many airlines have family boarding options that enable parents traveling with infants to board early. That’s a great advantage because you’ll have time to settle in without the hustle and bustle of passengers. Well, take this option so you can get your baby comfortable and store your carry-on items without hurrying. If your airline has this service, do ensure you ask about it upon checking-in.
Manage Security with Ease
Navigating security can be intimidating, especially when one has an infant. Making this process easier, consider:
Prepare for screening: Have your ID and boarding pass ready, and keep your baby items organized for easy access.
Avail of TSA PreCheck or Clear: If you fly frequently enough, know that signing up for TSA PreCheck or Clear enables you to pass through the expedited lanes of security and saves you lots of time and headache.
Have essentials within easy reach: Have things like diapers, wipes, and bottles easily accessible in your carry-on so you will not need to be digging around in it with a whiny baby in your arms.
In-Flight Strategies to Keep Your Baby Comfortable
This is the most challenging part of flying with a baby. The fllowing are some strategies to help your baby have a comfortable flight.
Feeding during take-off and landing
One sure way to help relieve ear pressure when the jet takes off or prepares to land is to feed your baby. Feeding whether by breast or bottle prompts your child to swallow, which helps relieve uncomfortable ear sensations brought about by cabin pressure changes. Prepare plenty of milk or formula in advance for these critical times.
Minimize Discomfort
The interior cabins of airplanes are both noisy and uncomfortable for an infant. To provide a more calming atmosphere:
Dress your baby in layers: Airplanes can change temperatures very fast. By dressing them in layers, you will be able to remove or add more clothes on them for comfort.
Bring comfort items: A baby’s favorite soft toy or blanket can come in handy during the flight. The familiar things in an unfamiliar environment may help in comforting them.
Plan for sleep: If at all possible, schedule flights around nap time for your baby. A well timed flight may be less eventful for the both of you.
After Flight Tips
When you land, there are a number of factors that will help make your transition from the airplane to your destination easier.
Managing Infant Jet Lag
Traveling through time zones can disrupt your baby’s sleep pattern. To help reduce jet lag:
Gradual adjustment of sleep: Before traveling, try to gradually adjust your baby’s sleep pattern to sleep closer to the time zone of your destination.
Keep them hydrated: Give your baby plenty of fluids during travel to keep them hydrated.
Getting Your Baby Used to New Environments
Give yourself time to settle upon arriving at a destination. This will allow the baby to take some little time and get used to the new environment. Make an area for the baby to sleep as soon as possible so they get used to their new environment.
Conclusion on Traveling with infant on Airplane
Flying with an infant is both overwhelming and rewarding. Proper planning and preparation are the keys that will let you practically move around the airport or make air travel quite comfortable for you and your baby. Remember, every journey is a new adventure and a time of bonding and memory sharing.
Do the following: arrive early, take advantage of family boarding, expedite security as much as possible, and try to keep your baby content during the flight. Transition smoothly upon arrival, and you will be setting yourself up for success on this journey. Lastly, embrace the challenges of traveling with an infant they often afford experiences you will always treasure.
