Stress-proofing a Flight with your Baby

Flying with an infant may not be most parents' idea of a relaxing start to a trip, but it doesn't have to be a nightmare. Just knowing what to expect will make the flight easier on the whole family.

Be prepared

Although many parents opt for the less expensive "lap child" fare, a separate seat for your baby is recommended as turbulence can throw the child from your arms. Especially if your baby is under six months old, request the bulkhead seats and ask for a baby bed that can be set up in the extra leg room. If you've booked a separate seat, you can bring an aircraft-approved safety seat of no wider than 16 inches, which must be placed in a window seat. If you choose to hold the baby, a commercially available lap restraint strap that passes through your seat belt can be used to secure your little one.

Some airlines provide baby kits with diapers, formula, and other necessities and most offer baby meals, but be sure to request these when you book.

If only one parent is traveling internationally with the baby, have a notarized letter of permission or power of attorney from other parent to avoid being stopped for suspected kidnapping.

What to pack

If you're bottle feeding, simplify meals by taking some bottles with pre-measured amounts of water to which you can add single-serve packets of formula. Bottles can be warmed in the galley when you need them. For babies on solids, bring jars of foods you know your baby will eat cold. Because infants are susceptible to dehydration, water or diluted juice should be offered regularly.

A familiar blanket and stuffed animal will comfort your baby, but keep the favorites packed in your carry-on to avoid losing them. To prevent pacifiers and teething rings from tumbling around during turbulence, secure them with clips. Also remember to take along enough spare diapers, blankets, clothes for cool and warm weather, food, and bottled drinks to get you through any possible delays.

Typically, only collapsible umbrella-type strollers up to 45 inches qualify as carry-on. Combination stroller/safety seat systems are ideal for air travel. If you'd rather not struggle with a stroller, though, a "front pack" with extra shoulder padding can also work well.

Boarding

Arrive early with your tickets and documents in easy reach. Check as many bags as possible so you'll have less to worry about. Unless you want to wheel your baby onto the plane, you can check your stroller when you board and pick it up at the gate on arrival.

While many airlines allow parents to pre-board, not all make a pre-boarding announcement. It's best to be ready with your bags and documents when the flight is called and ask to pre-board. If your baby will be traveling in a safety seat, face the seat to the rear for infants under 20 pounds and forward for older infants. Once you're settled in, switch off the overhead air vents, which just re-circulate unpurified air.

In flight

During taxi, take-off, and landing your baby must be either secured in a safety seat or held on your lap. Booster seats and baby beds cannot be used. If your baby seems uncomfortable when the air pressure changes at these times, a pacifier or bottle can help.

Every airline is different and travel agents can't know everything, so important details should be settled directly with the airline. Even then, to be on the safe side, take enough supplies to see you through the whole flight. With a little preparation, you can avoid the typical headaches and enjoy a hassle-free flight with your baby now, before your little one learns to scamper around.