How to Fly with an Infant

Flying with an infant for the first time can be overwhelming and a bit scary. Here are some tips to get you and your baby through the flying process with ease.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toys.
• Tylenol.
• Formula/Breast Milk.
• Diapers.
• Wipes.

1. 

   Learn your airlines guideline regarding traveling with a baby. Most airlines will allow you to either check a stroller and car seat or to check them at the gate. I suggest checking a stroller/car seat at the gate. Doing so will give you extra arms for bags!
   
   If you check your stroller/car seat at the gate you will have to put the stroller and car seat through the x-ray machine. You will be asked to place everything on x-ray belt. If it does not fit security will do a hand check of the items. This may take a minute or two longer. Ask for help!
   
   You and the baby will have to walk through the security machine. This will not hurt the baby. Do not hand your baby to anyone while placing your items on the x-ray belt.

2. 

   Anticipate your baby's needs. If you formula feed bring individual feeding bottles. You can buy these at any store that carries baby items. You won't have to worry about where the water is coming from if you buy the prepared formula. If you do bring powder and ask for water on the plane make sure you see the airline hostess open a new water bottle. Also, keep in mind if you baby does not like chilled bottles this might be a little cold and you will have to wait before feeding. Have a bottle handy when you sit down so you don't have to search for it later.
   
   Bring extra clothing and bibs.
   
   Bring toys! Give the baby one toy at a time to keep him or her interested.

3. 

   Decide if you want to hold your infant or purchase an extra seat for the baby and cars seat. I recently took a 4 hour flight and had no problem holding my 5 month old. Most babies will end up on your lap because they don't like sitting in their cars seat for long periods of time unless they are sleeping.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow yourself extra time at the airport when traveling with an infant.
• You will be able to board the plane first to get situated but will leave the plane with everyone else.
• Anticipate your babies needs.
• Have food ready easily accessible.
• Space out toys to peak interests.
• Bring extra clothing and bibs for the ride.
• Anticipate plane delays and lay overs and pack accordingly.
• Never hand your baby to an airline worker.
• Ask for assistance with your luggage.
• Beware of tap water when using powdered formula.

[belleetoile11]

on 7/23/2009 Thanks for the tips!

[Rachellewms]

on 12/31/2008 Good advice!

[canadibritmum]

on 9/30/2008 Thanks for the article..I will definately try that...I am flying trans-atlantic (7-8 hrs)at Christmas and my daughter will only be 5 1/2 months old...

[TeryLynne]

on 8/3/2008 Excellent article! 5*****

[Psalmist4M]

on 7/27/2008 Things have changed so much and are tougher these days. Thanks for the helpful info. 5*s christianwomenconnect.com