Flying With an Infant

It’s not as scary as it seems. We flew with one at 3 months old and one at 6 months old for their first flights. One of those flights was even international! Go prepared and have zero expectations for behavior and you will be just fine!

5 Things to Do:

1. Try scheduling your flights around nap time. Keep in mind you’ll need to get to the airport 2-3 hours prior to your flight. If you can schedule a meal, find a quiet place to throw a blanket over your baby and encourage sleep as best you can.
   
2. Take snacks and purchase new toys just for the flight. Do not depend on beverages or snacks from the flight crew. You may need it long before they can do the service. 
   
3. Check as much as you can so that your hands are free on the flight for baby. I checked all of our things and needs, Steve had one carry on with prescriptions and change of clothes, chargers and stuff. I had the diaper bag that was packed fuller than usual! Including at least 2 changes of clothes. You never know!
   
4. Even though I just said check as much as you can, keep your stroller! Gate check your stroller because you will want that ASAP! Taking a stroll around the airport to let the baby fall asleep is easier in their space. It’s also a must because it will greet you as you get off the plane and boom, baby is down and ready to go!
   
5. Do board the plane as early as you can. If they call for family or assistance needed boarding, take it! Do not worry about what other passengers think, they will be grateful once you are seated and the baby is happy!
   

5 Things Not to Do:

1. Do not stress! You need to remain calm and confident so that your baby will stay calm before and during the flight. If you have a chance to walk the aisle with him/her, do so. Seeing all the people and things going on during the flight is fun for them.
   
2. Do not worry about the people on the plane. If you stay calm, are prepared with food, milk, toys, and entertainment the rest of the people on the plane won’t know your baby is on board. 
   
3. Do not carry loose items in your hands. Make sure everything is in a bag. Put the diaper bag under the seat in front of you or someone traveling with you for easy reach. Do not put anything in your overhead bin bag that you will need during the flight. 
   
4. It’s best not to travel alone, but if you do you will be fine. Have only one carry on, the diaper bag. Find a duffle to use that is big enough for diapering and things for your baby, but also your chargers, purse and other items you may need while traveling. Check everything except for the stroller. Gate check the stroller so that you can keep the baby comfortable before the flight (and with delays last summer this is crucial!)
   
5. Do not fly red eye flights if you can help it. International flights to Europe will be overnight flights. I’ll cover that in another post because it really takes some planning with those flights. But, if you can avoid flights when you are tired you will be better prepared for your baby.
   

Travel is great with a baby. I recommend getting your little one out as often as you can. Taking them to museums, restaurants, buses, subways and out in general will help acclimate them to new environments. The more you acclimate them the better your flights will be! 

Always use a travel advisor to book and help you plan your vacations! With connections in destinations, knowledge of current requirements for entry into countries and a passion for helping families make incredible memories, MackeyMouse Travel is the agency to use! ​

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