The thought of flying with babies can bring a mix of excitement for new adventures and a healthy dose of apprehension. Rest assured, with a bit of planning and preparation, travelling with your little one can be a manageable and even enjoyable experience. The key to a smooth journey lies in being organised well ahead of time, anticipating potential challenges, and knowing how to make the trip as comfortable as possible for everyone.
Booking Flights and Ground Transport
When booking your flight, consider timing carefully. Perhaps book a night flight so the baby sleeps part of the journey. This can significantly reduce the amount of awake time your baby spends on the plane, potentially leading to a more peaceful flight for both of you. Once your flight is secured, don’t forget the ground logistics. Organise transport to and from the airport with a baby seat well before the flight. This ensures your baby travels safely and legally in all stages of your journey.
Dressing Baby for Changing Cabin Temperatures
Onboard, temperature can fluctuate significantly. Dress baby in layers to allow for temperature changes. This enables you to easily add or remove clothing to keep your baby comfortable, preventing them from becoming too hot or too cold.
Easing Ear Pressure on Take-Off and Landing
A crucial tip for infant comfort during flights relates to ear pressure. Babies have small eustachian tubes, making them susceptible to ear pain during ascent and descent. It’s good to get bub to suck on take-off and landing, whether through breastfeeding, a bottle, or a dummy. The sucking motion helps to equalise the pressure in their ears, providing relief.
Managing Nappy Accidents and Hygiene Mid-Flight
Long flights, changes in routine, and the confined space can sometimes upset a baby’s delicate digestive system. As a result, ‘poonarmies’ (explosive bowel movements) are not uncommon when flying. Being prepared for this can save you a lot of stress. Extra clothing for everyone is advisable, not just the baby! Pack an extra outfit for yourself and your partner in your carry-on, just in case. Also, given that plane bathrooms are very small, having snap lock bags with a nappy and wipes or nappy wipes & extra clothing for accidents can be much easier to manage in the limited space. Simply grab a pre-packed bag, use it, and seal it for discreet disposal. Alcohol wipes can also be helpful for quick clean-ups of surfaces.
Using a Baby Carrier for Easier Transit
A baby carrier, particularly a lightweight and easy-to-use one, can be an absolute lifesaver. Baby carriers can be helpful for navigating the airport, boarding and disembarking, and even for soothing a restless baby in your seat.
Know Your Airline’s Baby Travel Policies
Before you fly, it’s essential to check with your airline around rules with babies as far as extra luggage, fluid limits if any, baby bags, prams, car seats etc. Policies vary significantly between airlines regarding what you can bring on board, what counts as extra luggage, and how baby equipment like prams and car seats need to be stored or checked in. Some airlines even have specific staff to help families travelling with small children to help avoid long queues and to be seated first, particularly if you are travelling alone. It’s worth inquiring about these services when you book or check in.
Using Bassinets and Compact Travel Prams
If you are fortunate enough to book a bassinet for your baby on a long-haul flight, be aware that these are usually located near the lighted toilets. A simple cover (like a thin blanket or muslin cloth) can be helpful to decrease light so the baby can sleep undisturbed. If you plan to bring a travel pram (like a “yoyo” or similar compact stroller), remember that for it to be allowed to be placed in an overhead locker, it usually needs to be stored in its designated bag.
Helping Baby Adjust to Jet Lag After Flying
Finally, be prepared for the aftermath of your journey. Remember babies are much more affected by jet lag than adults. Their internal clocks are still developing, and they struggle more to adjust to time zone changes. Be patient upon your return, don’t plan anything for the first few days, and help them adjust by taking your baby out in filtered sunlight during daytime hours to help regulate their circadian rhythm. Gradual exposure to natural light can be very effective in resetting their body clock.
Support for Travelling Parents
Ready to embark on your family adventures with confidence? Flying with babies can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. Having A Baby Classes offers comprehensive guidance on navigating the challenges and joys of early parenthood, including practical tips for travel and maintaining routines away from home. Explore our classes today and gain the knowledge and confidence to make every journey with your little one a smooth one! Visit www.havingababyclasses.com.au to learn more and enrol.