Everything You Need to Know About Traveling With An Infant

I knew that motherhood was going to challenge me. But I had no idea how simple tasks I’d found a rhythm in and could do with little effort, like leaving the house or catching a flight, would suddenly become filled with checklists and anxiety.

Before my first flight with my son (he was 3 months old at the time), I took to my trusted new mom’s group chat and asked what the must-have items were that I should pack for our trip. Their input was so valuable, and with four flights under our belt before my son turned 6 months, I can say that I became pretty confident in packing for flights and traveling with my infant. Now that he’s a toddler, we thankfully have fewer necessary items but a lot more snacks.

Check out my tips and flight checklist below.

Necessities only

It can be tempting to grab every comforting toy, multiple diaper caddies, and other items that will make you feel at home and prepared for whatever your infant throws your way, but trust me—pack only the necessities. You’ll be glad you traveled light. While the following recommendations can be helpful, at the end of the day, your infant needs diapers, nutrition, and love. Don’t make this harder than it has to be.

Things on my list might not seem necessary to you, like a sound machine or boppy pillow, but in that case—do what works for you! This is the list that worked for me.

CHECK AHEAD

If you are visiting family or friends, see if they have a bassinet, Pack n’ Play, or a crib for your infant. We’ve called ahead to hotels that have happened to have cribs and other sleep solutions for infants. Even the best travel cribs can be tough to travel with, but if push comes to shove, you can always baggage check it. If you’re driving, toss it in the trunk!

IF YOU FLY OFTEN, INVEST IN A TRAVEL STROLLER

If you don’t have an easily collapsible stroller, see if you can borrow a travel stroller from a friend. I’ve seen confused parents trying to gate-check a stroller that wasn’t designed with travel in mind, and it is not pretty. Stroller/car seat hybrids are a bonus!

DON’T FORGET DAY-OF NECESSITIES IN YOUR DIAPER BAG

Nothing is worse than realizing that you packed everything you need but can’t access it. Keep an extra change of clothes, diapers, wipes, ointment, burp cloths, and feeding necessities available in your diaper bag.

HAVE YOUR CARRIER HANDY

Whether you use a baby wrap or a carrier, I highly recommend having this in your diaper bag or carry-on for boarding the plane. Especially if you are traveling solo. You and your neighbors will be glad that you have your hands free to get situated and take your seat more quickly.

Soothe Baby For Takeoff & Landing

Before my first flight, I was so worried about having an inconsolable baby the entire time due to his ears popping. Thankfully, we’ve never had that issue! If you nurse, bottle feed, or otherwise have your baby sucking on a pacifier during take-off and landing, it should help their ears adjust to the pressure.

CHANGE DIAPER RIGHT BEFORE BOARDING

The reason for this is obvious. Avoid blowouts and additional tight-spaced diaper changes by changing right before you board your flight.

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