Flight With Baby Tips

Flight With Baby Advices

Expert tips for gear, clothing, and gadgets to enhance your family's travel experience.

3. Gadgets and Accessories for Comfort and Entertainment

• Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Babies: Noise-cancelling headphones (like Baby Banz earmuffs) help reduce airplane noise and can make naps easier during the flight, especially during takeoff and landing.

• Portable White Noise Machine: A small white noise machine or app on your phone can create a soothing environment for your baby, drowning out background sounds on the plane.

• Tablet with Pre-Downloaded Baby-Friendly Content: For older babies, a tablet with pre-loaded baby-friendly shows, nursery rhymes, or interactive apps can be a lifesaver. Use a durable, baby-proof case to protect it from drops.

• Snack Containers: If your baby is old enough to eat solids, bring spill-proof snack containers filled with easy-to-eat finger foods (like Cheerios or cut-up fruit). Munchkin makes some great options.

• Pacifier Clips: If your baby uses a pacifier, bring a clip to attach it to their clothing or carrier. This helps prevent it from falling on the airplane floor.

1. Essential Gear for Flying with a Baby :

6- Travel Light: How to Pack Efficiently:

5. Travel-Friendly Hygiene Products

2. Clothing Tips for Baby and Parent :

• Layers for Baby: Airplane temperatures can fluctuate, so dress your baby in layers. Start with a soft, breathable onesie and add a zip-up fleece or sweater. Consider footed pajamas for added comfort.

• Wearable Blanket or Sleep Sack: A lightweight sleep sack keeps your baby cozy during the flight without the risk of loose blankets.

• Change of Clothes: Always pack at least one full change of clothes for both the baby and yourself in case of spills, accidents, or unexpected messes.

• Comfortable Clothing for Parents: You’ll be carrying a baby and possibly walking through airports, so wear comfortable clothing with pockets and consider compression socks for long flights.

4. Feeding Supplies for the Flight

• Bottles and Pre-Measured Formula: Bring enough bottles and pre-measured formula for the flight, and pack extras in case of delays. If you’re breastfeeding, a nursing cover may offer more privacy in tight spaces.

• Insulated Bottle Warmer: If your baby prefers warm milk, an insulated bottle warmer (like Tommee Tippee’s travel warmer) is handy for heating bottles without needing access to an outlet.

• Breastfeeding Pillow: If you’re breastfeeding, a small, travel-sized breastfeeding pillow can help make feeding more comfortable for you and the baby during the flight.

• Baby Carrier: A soft, ergonomic baby carrier (like the BabyBjörn or Ergobaby) allows you to keep your hands free while moving through the airport. It’s also great for calming your baby during the flight.

• Travel Stroller: Opt for a lightweight, compact travel stroller (like the Babyzen YOYO or GB Pockit). These fold easily and can often be gate-checked, making them convenient for both the airport and your destination.

• Car Seat: If you have a long flight or want extra safety, bringing your baby’s FAA-approved car seat can be helpful. It also gives your baby a familiar place to sleep. Many airlines allow you to use car seats if you’ve purchased a separate seat for your baby.

• Travel Bassinet: If your baby is still small, some flights offer a bassinet, but if not, a portable travel bassinet can be handy for naps in the airport or hotel.

• Diaper Bag Backpack: A well-organized diaper bag that doubles as a backpack allows for hands-free carrying. Look for one with multiple compartments for easy access to diapers, wipes, and feeding supplies (Skip Hop and Bag Nation make popular models).

• Disposable Changing Pads:

  • Why You Need Them: Airplane changing tables (if available) are usually small and not always the cleanest surfaces. Disposable changing pads provide a clean, sanitary surface to change your baby on.

  • Recommended Options: Look for compact, foldable pads that can easily fit into your diaper bag. Brands like Munchkin and Summer Infant offer affordable, disposable changing pads that you can simply toss after use.

  • Tips: Bring multiple pads in case you need to do several diaper changes during a long flight or layovers.

• Travel-Sized Sanitizer Wipes:

  • Why You Need Them: Airplane tray tables, seatbelts, armrests, and other surfaces may harbor germs. Before you settle in, wiping down the area ensures that your baby’s immediate surroundings are as clean as possible.

  • Recommended Options: Babyganics offers sanitizer wipes that are baby-safe, non-toxic, and effective. Wet Ones also makes travel-sized packs of antibacterial wipes that are good for both hands and surfaces.

  • Tips: Keep these wipes within easy reach (not in the overhead compartment) to quickly clean any surfaces your baby touches, including your hands before feeding or changing.

• Hand Sanitizer:

  • Why You Need It: You may not always be able to access a restroom to wash your hands after changing diapers or handling dirty items. Hand sanitizer is a convenient way to clean your hands when soap and water aren’t available.

  • Recommended Options: Choose a baby-safe hand sanitizer, such as Dr. Bronner’s Organic Hand Sanitizer or The Honest Company Hand Sanitizer Spray, which are gentle on the skin and effective.

  • Tips: Opt for alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content for maximum effectiveness, but ensure it's safe for baby use. Always apply a small amount and let it dry before touching your baby.

• Swaddle Blanket: If your baby is still swaddled, bring a lightweight, breathable swaddle blanket that’s easy to use during the flight.

• Travel Pillow for Parents: A comfortable travel pillow can support your neck if you plan to hold your baby during naps or for added comfort during longer flights.