Four Helpful Tips for Flying with a Baby
by MyFirstDino Team
Flying with a baby can sometimes feel like an other-worldly experience. The very concept of traveling light flies out the window with all the baby stuff that you need to carry. Then there is the extra attention you need to pay to the infant's health because the recirculated cabin air can be a prime host for a number of different viruses and bacteria. There are, however, four easy tips you can use to make the experience a little easier for all involved.
- An extra seat
The norm is for baby to sit in the lap of the mother or father when flying. However, according to the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the safest way for an infant to fly is in the child-restraint seat used in cars. This will usually mean purchasing an extra seat for your child. Check with the airlines if they offer any discounts for infant seats.
- Multipurpose travel gear
The very thought of carrying all that extra baby luggage can drive you up the wall. However, it doesn't have to be that way. Instead of carrying multiple items, think of replacing them with multipurpose utility products. For instance, an ergonomic baby carrier where you can simply carry your newborn through the security check with both your hands-free to collect belongings afterward. Or a multi-purpose children luggage which could be converted into hand-carry luggage, ride-on suitcase and bed/leg-rest, in the very same suitcase.
- Board late
It may seem at first glance that boarding as early as possible is the smart move when traveling with an infant. However, when you consider all the extra time the child will spend in their seat, being fidgety or grumpy, you may decide that it is not such a great plan. As such, if you are not carrying a lot of cabin luggage, it is probably best to board at late as you possibly can.
- Feed during take-off and landing
A baby's ears are sensitive to changing air pressure. The take-off and landing, in particular, can cause quite a bit of bother for the baby with the fluctuating air pressure in the cabin. Feeding your infant during this time allows them to swallow and keep their ears open and minimize discomfort.
In Closing
Traveling with a baby can certainly be challenging. However, by following the tips contained in this article, you can make the process just a little easier.