Recently, our S2T marketing expert, Dezaree, flew with her six-month old baby boy for the first time on United Airlines! She's sharing her insights on flying with an infant for other parents on our blog today.
Flying with an infant for the first time can feel overwhelming, but with proper preparation and some helpful tips, it can be a smooth and even enjoyable experience. Here's everything I learned from my recent trip, including what to pack, how to navigate airport security, and tips for making the flight as stress-free as possible.
Tips for Flying with an Infant
What to Pack in Your Carry-On Diaper Bag
Having a well-stocked diaper bag can make all the difference during a flight. Here are the essentials:
Breast pump, bottles, and breast milk: Yes, you can bring breast milk through TSA! Just declare it at the security checkpoint.
Baby food: Choose solids that are easy to mash, like bananas or avocados.
Toys: Bring a few small toys or books to keep your baby entertained.
One extra outfit: Accidents happen, so a change of clothes is always a good idea.
A blanket: Useful for warmth and comfort.
Noise-canceling headphones: These can help your baby sleep peacefully, even with in-flight noise. Check out these here.
Stroller fan: Helps keep the baby cool when the plane temperature when the air isn't on before and after the flight. Here's the fan we have!
Suction cup bowls, a baby spoon, and a plastic fork: Great for feeding your baby on the go. Here are similar ones to the one pictured below!
Breastfeeding poncho: Helpful for privacy while nursing, especially during takeoff and landing to soothe the baby’s ears. This poncho was a lifesaver for me!
Navigating the Airport and Checking Your Bag
Consider curbside bag check: If you’re traveling with someone, have them watch the baby while you check your luggage outside. This can be a time-saver.
Car seats and strollers: If your stroller holds the car seat, you can carry the car seat base through the airport. Before boarding, gate-check the stroller and car seat (the flight attendants will tag them for you), and they’ll be checked for free.
To Buy an Extra Seat or Not?
If your budget allows, buying an extra seat can be a game-changer. Here’s why:
Extra space: We buckled the car seat into the window seat, giving the baby a safe and familiar space to rest.
Comfort: Having the extra seat provided space for both the baby and me to relax.
Assistant traveler: This also meant we didn’t have to share the row, making things more convenient.
If you choose not to purchase an extra seat, you’ll check the car seat and stroller at the gate, and your baby will sit on your lap during the flight. While this works, the extra seat was a lifesaver for us.
Getting Through TSA with an Infant
TSA PreCheck: I highly recommend it! Without PreCheck, I had to take off my shoes, place items in bins, and hold the baby while security handled the car seat and stroller.
Security check tips: Be prepared to instruct security on how to collapse your stroller and remove the car seat if needed. Some guards may tug on parts of your stroller to check for detachable pieces, so ensure everything is secure beforehand.
Patience is key: During our return flight, security double-checked our belongings, which added stress. I saw this happen to other families too, so it’s best to arrive early and stay calm.
Onboard Tips
Seat setup: We secured the car seat base in the window seat and placed the car seat on top. I carried the baby in the car seat to his seat, making it easy and efficient.
Onboard TVs: Only some planes offer onboard TVs as a courtesy! It was fun to watch The Lion King even though we didn't have headphones! If your child wants to hear the movie, bring along a set on headphones for him or her.
Feeding during takeoff and landing: Nursing helped with ear pressure, but a bottle or pacifier can work just as well.
Avoid onboard diaper changes: If possible, change your baby before boarding. The flush in airplane restrooms can be startling—my baby cried the one time we changed him mid-flight.
Ask for keepsakes: Don’t forget to ask the flight attendant if they have "wings" or other memorabilia to mark your baby’s first flight.
Extra Items That Helped
Noise-canceling headphones: These worked wonders during noisy parts of the flight, such as when beverages are being handed out and everyone is opening cans. This triggered that newborn scare reflex for us!
Suction cup bowls, baby spoon, and plastic fork: Perfect for feeding and mashing soft foods. Here's a link to the ones we have!
Stroller fan: Helps keep the baby cool when the plane temperature when the air isn't on before and after the flight. Here's a link to the one we recommend with a long battery life.
Good to Know
Runny noses: If your baby experiences a runny nose after the flight, it might be due to the altitude change. Our doctor recommended monitoring for other symptoms, like fever, before assuming illness.
Traveling with an infant is definitely tiring, but so worth it! With proper preparation, you can make the experience manageable and even enjoyable. Remember, you’re doing great, and every trip will get easier as you learn more.
Disclaimer: I am not a security expert, flight specialist, or medical professional. This advice is based on my personal experience. If you have specific concerns or questions, consult the appropriate experts.
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