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Checklist for Traveling with Baby by Plane
You are seated on a plane, looking forward to a tranquil trip catching up on a good book or maybe checking out the in-flight entertainment, when you spy a harried looking couple with a baby in their arms heading your way. As they plop down in the seats across the aisle from you, you frantically look for an open seat as far away from baby as possible. Now, however, you’re the one carrying the baby and getting the dirty looks from the other passengers. And who could blame them? It certainly isn't very pleasant being stuck 30,000 feet above the ground for hours on end, listening to baby scream.
Most of the planning for air travel with a baby happens before you board the plane. In fact, the best time to start your planning is actually when you book your ticket. You need to find out up front what the airline's policy is on traveling with an infant. For instance, you can't assume that an airline will allow you to carry your child in your lap, or that the airline is will to let you carry all of your baby gear onto the plane. These things can especially be an issue when you're flying on a smaller plane or if the flight is fully booked. Find out the carry-on restrictions, the weight limit on checked baggage, and how your baby can travel on board well in advance of taking your flight. Who want to turn up at the airport only to find out you can't travel?
Once you know what you're allowed to bring, you have to decide what you really should bring. One of the biggest decisions a parent has to grapple with is whether or not to bring the car seat. If you are going to be riding in a car at your destination, then it is essential that you bring your car seat. Even if you're not, however, most experts agree that is it worth the hassle. Having the car seat means you're prepared for anything that may come up during the trip. If you have bought a seat for your baby, a car seat is a must. The airline will require you to have a FAA approved car seat for your baby to sit in on the plane. You should also know that babies in car seats are required to sit by the window, so book your seats accordingly.
Should you buy your baby a ticket? Sure, saving that extra money on one more ticket sounds appealing, but most experts agree that for safety's sake, your baby should have its own seat. If you hold your baby in your lap, you could inadvertently injure your child during those in flight bumps. Giving your baby its own seat, with its own seat belt, means they are strapped in for all of the turbulence.
You will also have to give some thought to packing your carry-on bag. You won't be allowed to take one carry-on for you and one for baby, so you’ll have to consolidate. Choose a bag large enough to meet your needs, but small enough to pass the airline’s carry-on rules.
Traveling with baby needn't be painful. With the right planning, you’ll fly with ease.