Flying With Baby – Minus The Tears

You don’t have to stop travelling once baby arrives. The keys to enjoying smooth air travel?

Proper planning and staying calm.

What’s the best age for air travel?

Baby is never too young to travel, except for his first seven days. In fact, the younger baby is, the more low-maintenance he is.

What medication/immunisations does baby need?

Before international trips, allow four to six weeks to meet with your child’s doctor for advice about medications and immunisations. Keep a copy of your child’s vaccination records on your trip. Avoid giving baby sedatives on long flights as it can have the reverse effect. Sucking on a preferred drink can have the same soothing effect.


Plan-ahead strategies
1) When reserving your flight, say you’re travelling with an infant. Ask for a flight that’s not fully booked and get a front-row seat (for more leg room). Often, these seats are also near the toilets, so you can change baby’s diapers urgently.
2) Book a bassinette for baby to sleep in during the flight.
3) Arrive at the airport early to check in before the queue starts forming.
4) Look for flights that won’t upset your baby’s routine, like night flights or those that coincide with baby’s naptime.
5) If you’re changing planes, ask for a courtesy cart between gates.