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Planning to fly with your baby soon? Whether it’s your first family holiday or a trip abroad to visit loved ones, the thought of travelling with a little one can feel overwhelming and sometimes even a bit daunting. From managing their feedings to keeping them comfortable during the flight, there are plenty of things to consider when preparing for the journey.
We’ve all been on a flight where a baby’s cries seem endless, and as parents, none of us wants to find ourselves in that situation, feeling helpless while our baby is unhappy or uncomfortable. The truth is, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smoother journey for everyone involved - your baby, you, and even your fellow passengers.
To help you navigate this experience with confidence, we’ve compiled our essential tips to make flying with a young baby as stress-free as possible. From packing the right items in your carry-on to planning for feedings and naps during the flight, these practical steps will help you prepare for a more enjoyable journey and reduce the likelihood of mid-air meltdowns. With the right approach, flying with your baby can be a manageable - and even memorable - experience!
READ MORE: What You Need to Know About Travelling While Pregnant
Make Your Airline Aware
It’s worth letting your airline and any other travel companies know that you’ll be travelling with a baby. Many airlines can provide additional accommodations to make your journey smoother when travelling with a young child. For example, some airlines offer bassinets for long-haul flights, priority seating, or even additional baggage allowances for baby essentials like push chairs or changing bags.
Oftentimes, airlines will also allow families with young children to board earlier, giving you extra time to get settled without the stress of rushing onto the plane. This can be especially helpful when juggling baby gear and ensuring your little one is comfortable before takeoff.
Don’t hesitate to ask about these options when booking or checking in - they can make a big difference in your overall travel experience.
Think About Where You’re Going to Sit
When booking your tickets, it’s worth spending time considering where you’ll be sitting whilst on the plane. If you’re able to reserve a specific seat, you’ll be able to pick a location on the plane that will work best for you. This might mean being closer to the door for a quick entrance and exit, being closer to the toilets, or opting for business or first class to have more room.
We spoke to Karen, mum of four and the mind behind Travel Mad Mum, who recommended a certain choice of seat that she’s found works well in the past: “My number one tip is to book bulkhead seats so that you can make use of the bassinet for baby. It allows parents to be hands-free during naps and for the baby to stretch out a little. Although bassinets have a weight limitation and babies over 10-11kg will usually have outgrown them, it’s still a great seat on a plane for some extra space as a parent.”
Prepare For the Change of Pressure
One of the main reasons a baby may become upset during a flight is the change in cabin pressure during take-off and landing, which can cause discomfort in their ears. Babies are more sensitive to these pressure changes because their ears are still developing, and they may struggle to equalise the pressure on their own.
A helpful solution is to bring a dummy for your baby to suck on, as the sucking motion can help relieve the pressure and make them feel more comfortable. Alternatively, breastfeeding or bottle-feeding during these times can also be highly effective. The swallowing movement helps to open the tubes in the ears, reducing the pressure build-up and alleviating discomfort.
Pack Smart
When travelling with a baby, packing smart can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and stress-free trip. Start by creating a checklist of essentials to avoid forgetting anything important.
Include enough nappies, wipes, and baby food or milk for the entire duration of the travel, plus extra in case of delays. A compact, organised baby bag with compartments can help keep items easily accessible. Pack an extra set of clothes for both the baby and parents in case of accidents, and don't forget comfort items like a favourite toy or blanket to keep the baby calm.
For longer trips, it’s wise to bring a lightweight stroller or carrier that's easy to manoeuvre. Finally, keep crucial documents such as passports, tickets, and health records in a designated, easy-to-reach spot.
READ MORE: Carry On - What You Can and Can't Pack
Consider Sleeping Times When You Book
Although it might not always be possible, trying to align your flight time as closely as possible with your baby’s sleeping schedule can be a helpful strategy for a smoother, more peaceful journey.
Babies are often more comfortable and settled when their natural routines are maintained, so this can reduce stress for both you and your little one. Look for flights that align with their usual bedtime, as this will encourage them to sleep through the majority of the trip. A sleeping baby means fewer disruptions and a quieter experience for everyone on board.
On the other hand, try to avoid flights that leave early in the morning or during times when your baby is usually awake and active. Flying during these periods might result in a restless baby, as they may struggle to stay entertained or calm in the confined space of a plane.
Planning your travel schedule thoughtfully can make a significant difference in ensuring a more enjoyable flight for you, your baby, and even your fellow passengers.
Accept it Might Not Be Perfect
With all the will in the world and all the perfect preparation, you have to accept that it still might not be perfect and not everything will go as planned. From the baby being in a bad mood to running out of supplies or experiencing flight delays or cancellations, there is plenty that might not go as you want it to.
READ MORE: What to do if your flight gets cancelled
This is advice that Victoria, a family travel blogger at Bridges and Balloons, shared when we asked for her insight. She told us: “No matter how well prepared you are for your flight, remember babies are unpredictable. Teething, illness, bad moods, etc., can turn all the best-laid plans upside down. It’s not your fault if the flight doesn’t go perfectly. And just like childbirth, you tend to forget the stressful bits once you arrive at your amazing destination!”
Travelling with a baby may have its challenges, but with a little preparation and flexibility, it can still be a rewarding and memorable experience.
We hope this article has been helpful and that your first trip with your little one goes smoothly! Travel doesn’t have to be stressful. By preparing for your baby’s first flight and ensuring you have essentials like holiday insurance for pre-existing conditions, you can set yourself up for a hassle-free journey.
For more travel tips, destination guides, and answers to common travel questions, be sure to explore our travel blog. Safe travels!