Yaaay, your first family vacation with your baby! Traveling with a baby is a whole new experience, and it can be pretty daunting, but we are here to help! With the right preparation you can limit the turbulence of your first flight with baby. We have summarized the most commonly asked questions and answers to give you all the information you need for flying with a baby.
When can I fly with my baby for the first time?
It's probably sooner than you think. According to Baby Center, most airlines will insist that your baby is at least two weeks old, but depending on where you live and where you are flying to there are no standard regulations, so it's best to check with your airline before you book. Some airlines may ask you to provide a fit-to-fly letter from your doctor if your baby is less than two weeks old.
If you gave birth by cesarean section, you may need to wait until after your six-week postpartum check-up before you take to the skies. Even then, you should only fly when your pediatrician gives you the all clear.
It's usually easier to wait a few weeks before flying, to give you time to settle into life together. Also, your baby is more vulnerable to germs during their first month so you may not want to coop them up with dozens of strangers on an airplane. Waiting until after your child’s first vaccinations can also help you board the plane with greater peace of mind.
In addition to age, the stage of development and health of your baby are also important factors that determine whether your little one is ready to fly. Check in with your pediatrician if you have any specific concerns. This can also be useful for older children if they have a respiratory infection, stomach ache or earache.
What to pack when taking a baby on vacation?
From birth, your baby will need a passport for any trip where you leave the country. Their passport is valid for five years, so it's worth bearing in mind if they have any older siblings that might need a renewal soon too.
For a relaxed trip, your carry-on should include the following must-haves:
- Diaper bag with diapers, wet wipes, disposable diaper sacks. Carry a small wash bag so you don’t have to haul your entire carry-on to the bathroom as there’s normally not much room in there!
- Spare clothes. Also bring clothes for you in case you spill their drink in a spot of turbulence, or in case air travel increases the amount they drool.
- A bag for any dirty clothes
- Several sterilized pacifiers, if your baby uses them—sucking can help them stabilize the pressure in their ears during take-off and landing.
- Your baby's blanket as the smell can be comforting.
- Muslin cloths to wipe up accidents or spills.
- Enough formula milk if your baby is bottle fed and food if baby has started solids for the journey. Snacks can be one of the best ways to keep little ones occupied on a plane if they have started solids.
- Baby spoons and bibs if your baby is on solids.
- Toys and books to keep them occupied. We love mess-free coloring, reusable stickers and suction cup fidget spinners.
And find out about the carry-on regulations in good time: Most airlines allow you to take a stroller with you free of charge.
Can you take baby food on a plane?
TSA states that when traveling with a baby you’re allowed to take enough baby food, baby milk for the journey with you in your carry-on. There is no legal limit to how much you can take, however we always recommend checking with your airport before you travel as some have their own restrictions.
You can carry breast milk in carry-on even if you’re not traveling with a baby. It’s helpful to the officers when formula and breast milk are in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches.
How do I travel through the airport with my baby?
There are various options here. The simplest is carrying your little one in their baby carrier. You can take your carrier on your flight to settle your baby or to have them close to you. In addition, the forward-facing carrying position is perfect for when you are sitting on the plane (not too long to avoid overstimulation) and with the baby carrier you have two hands free to go to the bathroom, eat your in-flight meal or look after other children. Some airports will also let you keep baby in the carrier as you walk through the scanners, perfect if they’re sleeping or overwhelmed, but it is at the airport's discretion.
With a compact buggy like our Metro 3 , you can also push your little ones from check-in right up to the stairs to the plane. Thanks to lie-flat recline, your baby can take a nap in between. The Metro 3 is cabin friendly and fits into the overhead bin on most planes. Or alternately, you can pop it in a carry bag (available to purchase separately) and carry it on your back. Always check your airline requirements and their carry-on guidelines.
A third transport option is the baby car seat. Even if you don't want to use your car seat on the flight itself, you may want to take your car seat on your trip. Most airlines will allow you to check a car seat into the hold for free in addition to your baggage allowance.
Do I need an airplane seat for my baby?
If your child is under 2 years old, you aren't legally required to purchase an airplane seat for them. Instead, you have the option of holding your baby or toddler in your lap. But it's much safer for your little one to be secured in an approved child restraint system in their own seat, no matter how short the journey is. On longer flights, you may be able to reserve a baby airplane cot (bassinet) for young babies when booking.
What qualifies as an approved child restraint system?
If you buy an airplane seat for your baby or toddler, the safest way for them to fly is in a child restraint system. (Once they reach 40 pounds, they can wear regular lap belts.)
There are two types of child restraint systems approved by the FAA:
- A car seat: Most car seats are airline approved. Look for a label that says \"This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.\" You'll install it without the base, rear- or forward-facing based on age.
- A CARES device: A lightweight harness approved for airplane use for children up to 40 inches tall and between 22 and 44 pounds. Learn more at AmSafe.
Does airplane pressure affect baby?
Yes. Take-off and landing can be uncomfortable. Let baby suck during these moments—via nursing, bottle, or pacifier. For older children, snacks work great. If baby has a cold, use nasal drops to help. Ask your pediatrician about proper use.
Can I change a diaper on board?
Yes, but it’s tricky. Some airplane restrooms have changing tables—ask a flight attendant. Change baby as close to boarding time as possible in the airport. Bring a small diaper clutch instead of your full bag.
Tip: Some UK airports with Boots allow in-store pickup, which can reduce what you carry through security.
Flying solo with a baby?
If you need to use the restroom, ask a flight attendant to keep an eye on baby or wear your baby in a carrier and take them with you.
We hope that with this knowledge you can start your vacation well equipped and relaxed.