Traveling with a baby can make you feel like you're packing for a small expedition! The checklist alone can be overwhelming, and preparation can be both hectic and exciting.
The good news is that a bit of planning and a few smart parenting strategies can help make most of your parenting woes go away. With that in mind, here are some tried-and-true tips to help you and your kids gear up for a memorable and stress-free adventure.
Book a Bassinet Seat on the Plane
If you’re flying with a baby, check for the availability of airplane baby bassinets.
Bassinet seats are offered on a limited, first-come, first-served basis and can be requested at the time of reservation.
Many airlines offer bassinets for long-haul flights, which can make all the difference for some parents. Notably, these seats are assigned in the bulkhead row, giving you extra legroom and a safe, cozy spot for your baby to sleep.
Pro tip: If you'll be taking the window seat, the protruding baby bassinet can make it challenging to vacate your seat during the flight. So, make your pre-flight preparations accordingly and pack your own essentials to limit the hassle.
Book Your Baby with Their Own Seat
Even if a 'lap baby' gets a free ride (babies fly free if they're under two), it’s worth considering getting your kid their own car seat.
Experts agree that car seats are safer for kids, especially those under 40 pounds. It's also generally more comfortable for both you and the baby. Most infant car seats are also dynamic and can be used for flying, land transport, and more. Hence, you can get more value for it in the long run.
Pro tip: Rear-facing car seats add another layer of security for your children even in rear-end collisions because they allow the passenger's neck and spine to move together with the seat.
Pack a Set of Extra Clothes
Kids can have their messy streak all of a sudden. To prepare, pack at least one extra outfit for your baby—and don’t forget an extra shirt for yourself since a diaper blowout or a mid-flight spill are not to be trifled with.
Additionally, please avoid keeping all your clothes in checked luggage. Make sure to have something accessible within your airplane seat, like a travel diaper bag for all your baby travel essentials, including spare clothes.
Don't Forget Extra Diapers
You can never have too many diapers during your travels. A good rule of thumb is to pack double the number of diapers you think you’ll need. Delays happen, and you don’t want to be short or without a stock.
Pro tip: Stash a few diapers in your carry-on and keep the rest in your checked luggage to save space. You may also store them in a diaper bag, luggage stroller, or with your baby carrier onboard.
Consider Your Baby's Schedule
It's important to stick to your baby's usual schedule as much as possible.
If they nap or fall asleep at a certain time of the day, plan your travel activities around this cycle. If they’re used to eating or bottle feeding at particular intervals, make sure you have snacks or bottles ready. Keeping things familiar will help your baby feel more secure and less fussy.
Learn TSA Rules for Breast Milk and Formula
If you’re traveling with breast milk or formula, it’s important to know the TSA rules.
In general, breast milk or formula is allowed in reasonable quantities, even if they exceed the usual liquid limits. But be sure to check the latest guidelines on the TSA website to get the most updated guidelines and best practices for carrying breast milk.
Take a White Noise Machine
Babies look for familiar sounds, and a white noise machine can help treat them to that intimate environment. The familiar hum of white noise can help your baby sleep comfortably, be it in a noisy airport or a hotel room. White noise machines are often portable, so you can easily take one with you during travel.
Bring Their Favourite Toys
Bringing your child's favorite baby toys can be a lifesaver when traveling with a baby.
When possible, take lightweight, easy-to-pack options like soft books, teething toys, or small rattles. Keep them on rotation throughout the trip to keep your baby entertained and engaged. Bonus points for toys that can clip onto a stroller, car seat, or baby carrier.
Feed Your Baby During Take Off and Landing
Much like how it can lead to ear pain for adults, sudden drops or increases in cabin pressure during takeoff and landing can be uncomfortable for the baby's ears. Feeding them during these times can help alleviate the pressure and keep them calm.
Change Diapers Before Boarding
Changing a diaper in a cramped airplane bathroom is less than ideal.
To avoid this (most of the time), try to change your baby’s diaper right before boarding to minimize the chances of needing to do it mid-flight.
If you do need to change them on the plane, most aircraft have fold-down changing tables in the restrooms—just ask the flight attendant for assistance. Otherwise, you may need to use a closed toilet seat as a changing pad.
Summary of the Best Baby Travel Tips
Planning your travels with a baby can be tricky but it shouldn't be a source of frustration. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you can make the journey memorable for both you and your little one. With that said, this checklist should help you stay on top of your baby essentials, however, don't forget to pack accordingly for your sake, too!
