Flying for the first time with a baby: practical tips and information

My baby embarked on his first flight when he was 2.5 months old, and it was a flawless debut! So, I've decided to share some tips if you're preparing to fly with your baby for the first time.

What do you need to know to ensure everything runs smoothly? What identification documents do you need? How should you plan your commute to the airport? How does airport security work with a baby? What are you allowed to bring into the cabin? What precautions should you take to prevent earaches? How should you settle your baby on the plane? Find answers in this comprehensive guide!

Taking your baby on his first flight: identification documents

To be able to travel with a baby, he or she absolutely must have their own identification document. In fact, since 2012, European regulations have mandated that minors carry this document when they travel, so it's no longer possible for them to be registered on their parents' IDs.

You'll need to have an identity card or passport issued for your child before the trip.

Passports are accepted everywhere, including outside the EU and Schengen area, but they do incur a fee (in France, it is €17 for a baby, approximately $20, which is quite cheap, it might be different in your country) and often take a bit longer to obtain than identity cards. This is THE key point to remember if you're planning to fly for the first time with your baby, as delays can be quite lengthy, especially during peak travel periods.

What type of plane ticket should you get for your baby?

On most airlines, when you travel with a child under the age of 2, you'll be offered two options when you buy your ticket:

• Reserve a seat for your baby;
• Have your baby travel on your lap.

Dedicated seat or on your lap?

Your choice may be guided by your budget, the duration of the flight, your child's age, and your personal preferences. Indeed, traveling with your baby on your lap is much cheaper, since you don't have to pay for an extra seat.

However, opting for a dedicated seat can offer several advantages:

• Greater safety: the International Air Transport Association (IATA) recommends that toddlers travel in an approved car seat, on their own seat, for enhanced safety.
• Greater comfort: if the flight is lengthy and your child is past infancy, carrying them in your arms can be tiresome for you and frustrating for them if they want to play and move around more freely. In such cases, a dedicated seat may be appropriate.
• More space and luggage: when your baby travels on your lap, the luggage allowance is generally limited, as is the space! On the other hand, when your baby has their own ticket, they usually benefit from their own baggage allowance, and you can keep more items within reach in the cabin by placing them under the seat in front of your baby, in addition to the carry-on baggage under the seat in front of you.

When I decided to fly for the first time with my baby, we went to Crete, which is a 3.5-hour flight from Paris. So, I opted to keep him on my lap. However, on a long-haul flight, I would have chosen the extra seat for added comfort!

Which car seat should you choose for your baby?

Regarding car seats, it's important to note that some airlines don't allow you to bring a car seat into the cabin, even if it's approved, so be sure to check beforehand (if the website doesn't provide any information, a call to customer service may be useful!) If you're allowed to bring a car seat, you'll need a specific model approved for air travel (FAA or European TÜV certification). These seats are typically marked "Certified for use on aircraft".

Among the leading brands on the market, here are a few approved seats:

• Cybex's Aton M i-Size car seat;
• Maxi Cosi's Pebble 360, Coral 360, Rock, and CabrioFix models;
• At Joie, the Gemm, i-Gemm 3, and i-Jemini car seats;

It's best to check beforehand if the airline will allow you to bring the seat into the cabin; otherwise, it will need to be placed in the hold, where it could be mishandled.

What about baby cribs on planes?

On long-haul flights, many airlines offer parents a free crib for their baby. Generally, it must be reserved, ideally at the time the ticket is purchased by contacting the airline.

There are weight and height restrictions for cribs, which can vary between airlines (in general, the baby should weigh between 22 and 33 lbs and be less than 29 inches tall). Note that these cribs are designed for babies under 1 year old.

The advantage of a crib is that it allows your baby to lie down and sleep during the flight, but they're available on a first-come, first-served basis. It's also important to know that the crib will be installed at the front of a seat section, where there is more legroom. So they'll need to be stowed away during take-off, landing and in case of turbulence.

Some airlines offer activity packs, plush toys, hygiene care or meal packs dedicated to toddlers.

Navigating airports, security checks, and flight prep with a Baby

Which seat is best for traveling with a baby: window or aisle?

I personally prefer the window seat, but every parent's choice varies!

A window seat has its advantages. It's usually quieter since you won't be bothered by passengers moving in your row or people walking in the aisle. You also have the wall to lean on for rest, and older babies might enjoy the view.

However, there's a downside: being near the window can feel a bit confining. This might be inconvenient if you need to change your baby's diaper or if you have a toddler eager to move around during the flight, especially on longer journeys.

Consider opting for a row with extra legroom. Although you can't keep your personal belongings with you during take-off and landing, you'll appreciate the additional space during the flight.

Packing essentials for air travel with a baby

I've previously written an article on packing for a trip with a baby, so this piece will focus on aspects unique to flying.

Understanding baggage allowances

Baggage rules vary depending on your ticket type. It's essential to clarify with your airline the number and weight of bags you're allowed. This helps decide if you need to purchase additional luggage capacity or choose between items like a stroller and a car seat.

Different rules might apply if your baby has a separate ticket or is traveling on your lap. For instance, when my baby traveled on my lap, I was allowed a checked bag, a carry-on, and a baby accessory (like a stroller or car seat).

I suggest getting a luggage scale, it doesn't cost much and helps avoid unexpected overweight charges at the airport.

Essentials hard to find at your destination

Traveling internationally with a baby means you might not find familiar products easily. It's wise to pack items you might struggle to locate at your destination.

If your baby relies on formula, try to bring enough of their regular brand. Switching formulas can upset a baby's stomach. Once your child starts eating solids, global brands like Nestlé are typically available worldwide. However, it's still a good idea to bring a few meals for the first couple of days.

Consult your pediatrician about a tailored first-aid kit. Remember, it's usually best to avoid over-the-counter medications for very young children.

Essential carry-on items

When flying with a baby, the standard liquid restrictions are more lenient. You can bring breast milk, formula, water, and baby food in reasonable amounts for the flight duration.

You're also permitted to bring items to keep food cool, like a thermal bag. Remember, airplanes don't offer in-cabin refrigerators. It's a good idea to group these items, as you'll need to display them separately during security checks. Occasionally, you might need to sample them, like taking a sip of water.

In addition to your regular items, don't forget:

# Your baby's ID and boarding pass, unless they're on your boarding pass.

# A changing pad: It's essential for unexpected diaper changes. Plus, placing it on public changing stations offers added cleanliness. I prefer this wipeable version, easy to clean with a wet wipe or sponge.

# Containers for pre-portioned formula if you're not breastfeeding: The Nuk measuring tin is budget-friendly and handy with its four compartments, each accommodating up to 10 scoops of formula. Its clear design allows you to monitor contents at a glance, and compartments can be used individually. I've found it essential in my diaper bag since transitioning from breastfeeding.

# One or two baby bottles: To save time, pre-fill them with your baby's usual water, then simply add the pre-portioned formula, making it easy to feed your baby promptly if they get hungry.

# Small jars of baby food and a spoon if your baby is eating solids.

# A bib, a baby blanket, and a change of clothes: These come in handy for spit-ups or other minor mishaps. They're also useful if you wish to breastfeed discreetly.

# Diapers: It's always wise to be prepared and take a couple more diapers than what you need, especially in case of unexpected delays.

# Wipes: Ideal for cleaning your baby when you can't easily access water.

# Hand sanitizer: This is just as crucial, especially if washing facilities are out of reach for some time.

# A pacifier (plus a backup) with a clip: Pacifiers help soothe ear pressure during takeoff and landing. Note that sometimes feeding isn't allowed when the "seatbelt" sign is on. Even if you don't typically use one, having a pacifier can prevent in-flight ear discomfort.

# Entertaining items for your baby as they grow older (a newborn might sleep for most of the journey): like their favorite plushie, books, finger puppets, or teething toys...

If you're breastfeeding, carrying a bottle of breast milk when you leave home is an option; it usually stays good for 4 to 6 hours outside of refrigeration. That's what I did at the start of my trip! The only challenge is that breast milk is rich in fats, and cleaning the bottle can be tricky without hot water access.

For extended trips, consider bringing a breast pump and some storage bags on the flight. I recommend the Momcozy S9 Pro. It's efficient, easy-to-clean, and affordable. Its discreet design makes inflight pumping feasible, especially if you wear a loose top and a nursing bra to keep the pump in place.

How should I prepare to take my baby to the airport?

I recommend you set everything up well ahead of time, not just your luggage. This includes selecting your clothes, the baby's outfits, and creating a checklist to attach to the suitcase for last-minute items (like a favorite stuffed animal, the baby sleeping bag if your child has used it the previous night, toothbrushes, phone charger, and so on).

Traveling with a baby comes with its fair share of unexpected surprises (yes, we're referring to that surprise diaper blowout just minutes before leaving).

How to dress your baby for the flight?

I recommend "practical multi-layering". What does that entail? Flights can expose you to a range of temperatures in just one day, particularly if you're heading to a sunny destination: it might be cool when you depart, chilly in the plane due to the air conditioning, and hot upon arrival. The goal is to ensure your baby stays warm!

Consider dressing them in a long-sleeved onesie, followed by a cardigan, and add a coat if it's winter. Footed pants are also a good choice.

Opt for "practicality", even if you'd like your baby to look stylish – after all, flying for the first time is a unique experience! A onesie that opens from the front will be more convenient to change than one with an American collar, especially if there's a surprise "baby mishap". Footed pants are easier to remove than separate pants and socks during those urgent changes at the airport – not to mention socks have a knack for going missing!

On a long flight, pajamas might be the way to go!

When should you arrive at the airport?

Traveling with a baby requires extra preparation. If possible, aim for convenience: consider taking a taxi or a private car service to the airport, or parking valet services, which can park your car and return it to you upon your return for a hassle-free experience.

When booking a private car service or taxi, it's crucial to reserve ahead of time to ensure availability of a baby seat, as most cars won't have them by default.

If you're driving yourself, ensure there's enough time for securely placing your baby in the stroller or baby carrier upon reaching the airport.

When using public transport, always factor in some extra time to account for unexpected delays.

Remember, it's recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours prior for domestic or medium-length flights, and 3 hours before for long-haul journeys.

Navigating security with a baby

Traveling as a couple can simplify things: one person can handle luggage while the other manages the stroller. You can even divide tasks, like one attending to the baby while the other checks in the luggage. Flying solo might be more challenging, but it's certainly doable!

For me, I'd place my baby in a baby carrier (a lifesaver for solo parents!), wheel the suitcase with the diaper bag on top in one hand, and sling the folded stroller (like the Yoyo stroller, light enough for cabin luggage and weighing only about 13 lbs.) over my shoulder.

Why opt for a baby carrier? Simply because strollers must be scanned separately at security checkpoints. If your baby is in it, you'll need to take them out, fold the stroller for scanning, and handle all this while juggling a baby and a diaper bag.

With a handy baby carrier, you can keep your baby snug till the last minute. Once ready for the security check, you can place your belongings in the provided bins, remove your baby from the carrier, and proceed through the scanner with them in your arms. After the scan, reverse the process: place your baby back in the carrier to free up your hands, repack your belongings, and collect your stroller and bag!

Some airports, although not all, offer a dedicated priority lane for parents with young children.

Breastfeeding at the airport

In numerous countries, breastfeeding in public is legally protected. If you need to nurse, you shouldn't feel compelled to "hide", regardless of the reason.

For mothers seeking more privacy (or if you're traveling to a destination with more conservative views), many airports offer breastfeeding rooms, commonly labeled as "Nursing Room" or "Lactation Room". There are also "lactation pods", which are private cubicles where mothers can nurse or pump in peace.

Flying for the first time with a baby: navigating the flight schedule

Time to prepare for boarding the plane!

Priority boarding: settling baby in

When traveling with a baby, you typically get the privilege to board first, even with budget airlines! However, if you're with a group, your fellow travelers won't be given this priority. They'll board based on their ticket class or seat assignment.

If your stroller isn't cabin-approved, it will be collected at the plane's entrance and stored in the hold. You'll retrieve it once you disembark. Alternatively, some strollers can fit in the overhead compartments.

Upon boarding, inform the crew if it's your baby's first flight. They might offer you some helpful tips or even little perks like a photo opportunity in the cockpit post-flight or a keepsake air baptism certificate with the crew's names.

The crew will provide you with an infant lifejacket, a specialized seatbelt, and explain that in case of cabin depressurization, you should secure your own oxygen mask before assisting your baby.

If the baby is seated on your lap, the baby belt clips to your seatbelt, functioning similarly to the adult version. It has a buckle that attaches to your belt.

During take-off and landing, ensure baby's back is pressed against your front, facing forward. Holding an infant in this position can be a tad challenging, but it's temporary.

Preventing ear discomfort

As the plane changes altitude, it's crucial for the baby to suckle to help equalize ear pressure since they can't purposely yawn or swallow like adults can.

Luckily, babies have a natural reflex to suckle. A pacifier works wonders. If you're nursing or bottle-feeding, this might be an ideal time, though some airlines suggest not feeding during take-off and landing. It's about reading the baby's cues and adapting when needed.

Timely diaper changes

You know your baby's routine best. Hence, plan your diaper changes around their schedule. I typically recommend a diaper change just before boarding and another right after landing while waiting for baggage claim.

For short flights, if there's no major diaper situation, changing might not be necessary. Newborns may need more frequent changes, but older infants can often go longer periods without a diaper change.

Airplane restrooms usually come with a basic changing station. For hygiene, bring your own changing pad, wipes, and hand sanitizer. Having odor-blocking bags for used diapers is also a good idea, like these ones.

Out of courtesy for fellow passengers, don't dispose of diapers in the restroom trash. If needed, use the provided sick bags or request one from the flight attendants. Also, avoid changing diapers on the seats.

Remember, inflight safety regulations still apply. You can't use the restroom when the "seatbelt" sign is illuminated.

Always anticipate diaper changes, especially before landing, which might begin 20 minutes prior to touchdown.

Feeding the baby at the right time

As mentioned, some airlines have regulations around feeding during take-off and landing. It's always good to plan but also be flexible based on your baby's needs.

If you're bottle-feeding and not nursing, getting your baby accustomed to room-temperature formula can be handy. This way, you don't need to carry a bottle warmer or wait for flight attendants to warm it up, which can take around 15 minutes – an eternity for a hungry baby!

Post-diversification, you can warm baby food before departure at airport restaurants and keep it in an insulated bag. Alternatively, choose foods that are palatable at room temperature.

Ensuring comfort throughout the flight

While much focus is on the baby, parents' comfort is equally important. Holding a baby for an extended period can be tiring. Ensure your arm is well-supported and switch holding positions regularly. Stretch your legs and move around when possible to avoid stiffness.

Upon disembarking, if permitted, you might get a chance to capture a memorable photo in the cockpit.

This trip will be one of many memorable "firsts" for your child. Though they might not remember it, you'll have stories to share. Observing my son's reactions during the journey, I believe these early experiences leave an indelible mark.