These days, airline travel is rarely stress-free and adding an infant to the mix can make a plane trip downright nerve-wracking. While no one can guarantee an on-time departure, knowing what to expect at the airport and preparing for the unexpected will ensure you and your baby remain comfortable regardless of how your travel plans unfold.
Preparation
A well-stocked diaper bag can help keep both you and your infant comfortable during air travel. Your carry-on bag should contain one diaper for every hour of travel, plus more for unexpected delays; a changing pad; wipes; diaper rash cream; a change of clothes; a pair of baby socks; two blankets; small toys or books; antibacterial hand gel; enough formula or breast milk for the trip, plus extra for delays; two plastic bags for dirty diapers or clothes; pain reliever formulated for infants; baby food, spoons and bibs, if your baby is eating solids; pacifiers and sippy cups, if your baby uses them; and an extra shirt for you in case baby spits up or spills on you.
Regulations
As of 2010, individuals traveling with infants can carry breast milk, formula, juice and baby food in amounts greater than 3 oz. in their carry-on luggage. You will not be asked to taste or test any of these liquids but they should be separated from other carry-on liquids and gels and must be declared at the security checkpoint, according to the Travel Security Administration. Be prepared to remove your baby from her carrier or stroller and put these items through the X-ray machine, if they will fit.
Safety
Airlines don't require infants to have their own seats on board the plane but it's a good idea to buy your baby a ticket if it's in your budget. You can buckle your baby safely into her car seat and secure it to the plane seat to protect her during turbulence or other emergencies; buying her a seat has the additional benefit of giving both of you extra space on a cramped airplane.
Considerations
Parents traveling with infants under three months should take special precautions to protect their newborns' immature immune systems from illness. Take care to wash your hands as often as possible; use disinfectant hand gel frequently to avoid picking up germs and passing them onto your baby; and don't let strangers hold or touch your baby. Young babies born prematurely or those with heart or lung conditions or respiratory symptoms should get approval from their pediatricians before airline travel, recommends Pregnancy Today.
Tips
Having another adult along for the trip can make traveling with an infant considerably less stressful but if you must fly alone, consider bringing your baby's car seat and stroller. Having a safe place to put your baby down will make both the plane ride and airport navigation easier. Many airlines allow you to push your stroller right up to the gate and leave it for "gate check" when you board the plane; check with your airline before your travel date to learn about its policies.
