First time flying with a baby

Flying With Toddlers and Young Kids

Flying with a baby for the first time? Pack extra essentials, arrive early, and familiarize yourself with airline policies. Use gate-check for strollers, feed during takeoff and landing to ease ear pressure, dress your baby comfortably, and walk to soothe fussiness. Celebrate your successful journey!

Contents

1 Before the Flight: Packing and Preparation
2 At the Airport: Navigating the Maze
3 On the Flight: Keeping Comfortable
4 After the Flight: Arrival and Beyond
5 How do I prepare my toddler for a flight?
6 How do I keep my 2 year old busy on a plane?
7 How do I keep my toddler calm on a plane?
8 Notarized letter for solo-parent travel?
9 What are the rules for a 2 year old to fly?

Taking of on your first flight with a baby can feel like setting off on a grand adventure, full of excitement and, admittedly, a bit of apprehension. Fear not! With thoughtful preparation and a dash of patience, flying with your little one can turn into a smooth and memorable journey.

When traveling with toddlers, airport lounges offer a comfortable space to wait before your flight. Numerous credit cards provide free or reduced-price lounge access, often allowing complimentary entry for additional guests or family members.

Lounges typically feature complimentary beverages, snacks, Wi-Fi, and other amenities. Select lounges also boast special areas for children. However, remember that many patrons may be business travelers or seeking quiet, so it’s important to ensure your children remain well-behaved.

Here’s a guide to ensure that your sky-high adventure with your baby is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Before the Flight: Packing and Preparation

Pack Smartly: Your diaper bag is your best friend. Pack more diapers than you think you’ll need, a change of clothes for baby and you (because accidents happen), plenty of wipes, a baby blanket, and enough food and milk for the journey. Don’t forget the pacifiers, if they’re part of your arsenal!
Seat Selection Matters: When booking your flight, consider selecting a seat with extra legroom or a bassinet option for long-haul flights. Aisle seats can be a boon for easy access to the bathroom and walking around with your baby.
Know the Airline’s Policy: Different airlines have different policies regarding infant travel, baggage allowances, and stroller check-ins. Familiarize yourself with these beforehand to avoid any last-minute surprises.

At the Airport: Navigating the Maze

Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to navigate through security checks and reach your gate without rushing. This extra time can also be used for feeding and changing your baby before the flight.
Use Family Lanes: Many airports offer family lanes at security checkpoints, which are designed to accommodate parents with strollers and additional baggage.
Gate-check Your Stroller: Most airlines allow you to gate-check a compact stroller, which means you can use it right up to the boarding gate. This can be a lifesaver for moving through large airports.

On the Flight: Keeping Comfortable

Feed During Takeoff and Landing: Feeding your baby during takeoff and landing can help alleviate ear pressure and prevent discomfort. Whether it’s breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a pacifier, sucking motions can make a big difference.
Comfort is Key: Dress your baby in comfortable, layered clothing to easily adjust to the cabin’s changing temperatures. Don’t forget to also bring their favorite small blanket or toy for comfort.
Walk and Rock: If your baby gets fussy, a gentle walk down the aisle or rocking them in your arms can be soothing. However, be mindful of the seatbelt sign and other passengers.

After the Flight: Arrival and Beyond

Take Your Time: Once the plane lands, there’s no need to rush off. Wait until the aisle clears to make disembarking with your baby and your carry-on items easier.
Plan for Delays: Have a plan for potential delays or long immigration lines. Keep some snacks, toys, and a change of diapers handy in your carry-on.
Celebrate Your Journey: Congratulations! You’ve successfully navigated your first flight with your baby. Each trip will teach you new tricks and strategies, making future travels even smoother.

How do I prepare my toddler for a flight?

Prepare your toddler by discussing the flight, reading airplane-themed books together, and explaining airport security. Pack familiar snacks and a favorite toy or blanket for comfort.

How do I keep my 2 year old busy on a plane?

To keep your 2-year-old busy, bring a variety of activities like coloring books, stickers, quiet toys, and a tablet with headphones for age-appropriate games or videos.

How do I keep my toddler calm on a plane?

Keep your toddler calm by sticking to familiar routines, offering comfort items, and walking around the cabin if possible. Soft music or stories can also help soothe them.

Notarized letter for solo-parent travel?

Yes, when traveling alone with your child, especially internationally, it’s highly recommended to carry a notarized letter of consent from the other parent. This document can be crucial for proving that you have the permission of the other parent to travel with the child, helping to prevent any potential issues with immigration authorities or airline staff. It’s a precaution that ensures a smoother travel experience.

What are the rules for a 2 year old to fly?

For a 2-year-old to fly, they usually need their own seat and must be secured in an FAA-approved car seat or harness. Check with your airline for specific policies regarding child travel.

Flying with a baby for the first time is undoubtedly a significant milestone. With the right preparation and mindset, you can make this experience a positive one, laying the groundwork for many more family adventures to come. Remember, every parent on every flight with a baby has been a first-timer once. You’ve got this!

Enjoy Flying With Toddlers
Tips for Flying With Toddlers and Young Kids