Are you dreading the thought of taking a flight with your baby? Don’t worry – you’re not alone! Flying with a baby can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
In this article, we’ll give you some tips and advice for navigating the skies with your little one in tow. From packing the right items to knowing how to keep your baby calm and comfortable, we’ve got you covered!
Pre-Flight Considerations
If you’ll be flying with a baby under the age of two, there are a few things to keep in mind before departure. First, check with the airline to see if they have any restrictions on flying with young children. Some airlines may require a medical certificate or letter from your child’s pediatrician.
Next, make sure you have all the necessary gear for your baby. If you’re breastfeeding, be sure to pack plenty of expressed milk or water for mixing formula.
Finally, plan ahead for security and boarding. If possible, get to the airport early so you don’t feel rushed. Have your diaper bag packed and ready to go through security, and keep essential items like pacifiers and bottles easily accessible during boarding.
In Flight Strategies
There is nothing worse than being on a long flight with a baby who is crying the entire time. If you are prepared and have a few strategies up your sleeve, you can make the experience much more enjoyable for everyone involved. Here are a few tips:
- Bring along some snacks and drinks for your baby. This will help to keep them happy and hydrated during the flight.
- Dress your baby in comfortable clothing. You want them to be as comfortable as possible so they can sleep if possible.
- Bring along some toys or books to keep your baby occupied during the flight. A portable DVD player can also be a lifesaver on long flights.
- Get up and walk around often with your baby. This will help to keep them from getting too fussy in their seat.
By following these tips, you can make flying with your baby a much more pleasant experience for everyone involved!
Post Flight Tips
After a long flight, the last thing you want to do is deal with a cranky baby. Here are a few post-flight tips to help you and your little one adjust:
- Get some fresh air as soon as you can. A quick walk around the airport or even just sitting outside for a few minutes will help to clear your head and wake you up.
- If your baby is old enough, let them crawl or walk around for a bit before putting them back in their seat. This will help them burn off some energy and hopefully make the rest of the trip more bearable.
- If you’re breastfeeding, try to nurse your baby during takeoff and landing. The sucking motion can help relieve any discomfort from pressure changes.
- Pack snacks and drinks for both you and your baby. Hunger (and thirst!) can make anyone grumpy, so it’s best to be prepared.
- Bring along some toys or other activities to keep your baby occupied during the flight. A few favorite items should do the trick.
Finally, don’t forget to take deep breaths and relax. It’s okay if everything isn’t perfect – that’s what travel is all about!
Comforting and Distracting Strategies
One of the most stressful parts of flying with a baby is trying to keep them comfortable and distracted during takeoff and landing. If your baby is anything like ours, they hate having anything on their head or over their ears, so finding headphones that actually stay on and don’t irritate them is key. We also highly recommend bringing along a lovey or small stuffed animal for your baby to hold onto during takeoff and landing. This will help to comfort them and distract them from the pressure changes.
If your baby is older and can understand simple instructions, explain to them what’s happening during takeoff and landing. This will help them feel more in control and less anxious about the whole process. And if all else fails, bribery never hurt anyone. A few pieces of candy or a new toy to play with during takeoff and landing can go a long way in keeping your little one happy (and quiet!) during these potentially stressful moments.
Get Ready to Fly with Your Little One
Flying with a baby can be a daunting experience but by following these simple tips, you can make it much easier and stress-free. From packing the right supplies to ensuring that your little one is comfortable on the flight, having a plan in place will help ensure that your journey is smooth sailing from start to finish. So don’t let fear stop you from taking off, get ready for take-off and have an amazing trip!>>