Any type of travel can be challenging when you have an infant. Air travel can be especially harrying if you have to juggle your baby, all of the necessary paraphernalia, security checkpoints and potentially long layovers. Scheduling a red-eye flight can be a solution if you want your baby to sleep on the airplane, but shorter flights and smaller airlines may complicate the timing of your travel. Staying calm and foreseeing trouble you might run into with your infant can make air travel a success for the entire family.
Buy the Ticket
Buy your infant his own plane ticket if you can afford it. Many airlines do not require a child under the age of 2 to have his own seat and ticket if you hold him on your lap. However, both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Federal Aviation Administration recommend that you buy the extra ticket and secure your baby in his car seat during flight. You may also be more comfortable without having your hands and lap occupied by your infant.
Even if you don't buy you infant a ticket, gate-check the car seat for use from the airport to your final destination.
Pack Supplies
Pack plenty of supplies when you travel by air with your infant. Diapers, blankets and small toys are essential to keeping your young child comfortable and occupied. The Transportation Security Administration explains that breast milk and baby formula and jarred baby foods are exempt from the three-ounce rule limiting the amount of liquids you may bring on the plane. The agency states that "reasonable amounts" --- quantities are not specified --- can be declared prior to boarding, to keep your baby fed and as happy as possible while in the air. Clearly labeled medications are also exceptions, and, like baby feeding items, do not need to fit into a quart-sized zip-top bag.
Soothe the Ears
Offer your infant a bottle, breast or pacifier during take-off and landing to minimize ear pain associated with changes in altitude. The sucking and swallowing action equalizes the pressure in your baby's ears, the Mayo Clinic explains. If you are lucky, the take-off meal might lull your baby to sleep for the remainder of the flight.
