Flying with a baby comes with challenges, including carrying all the gear and keeping your baby from crying while in the air. If you keep your baby's basic needs met, she is likely to travel well on the airplane. Plan the baby packing list ahead of time to ensure you bring everything needed to keep her fed, dry and content.
Baby Care Products
Baby care products keep your baby comfortable and allow you to meet his basic needs. Pack more diapers than you think you'll need, especially if the flight portion of your trip is long. Include wipes and a small tube of diaper rash ointment in case his skin becomes irritated. As a precaution, pack an infant pain reliever and a first aid kit in your carry-on.
Comfort Items
Keeping your baby comfortable during the flight decreases the chances of crying or temper tantrums. Pack your infant's favorite blanket or toys to keep her content. The blanket also helps your baby stay warm on the flight if she feels chilly. If she regularly uses a pacifier, pack extras for the flight. The sucking action helps relieve ear pressure and can calm her during the trip.
Food
No matter how long the flight, food for your baby is a necessary item on the packing list. If you breastfeed, you have little to pack and are able to easily feed your baby at the airport or during the flight. Pack a blanket or nursing cover-up for modest breastfeeding in public areas. The TSA allows formula, breast milk, juice and baby food in reasonable amounts that exceed the organization's usual liquid restrictions when traveling with an infant. Pack enough of these items to last for the day in case your flight is delayed. If your baby eats solids, include snacks to make the flight easier.
Clothing
Spit-ups, leaky diapers and spilled food leave your baby's clothes stained, damp and uncomfortable. Pack extra clothing for those unexpected leaks and spills. Include at least one full extra outfit in your carry-on luggage. If the flight is long or you have several layovers, pack even more clothing. An extra shirt for yourself is a wise addition to the packing list in case your infant's mess makes its way to your clothing. Pack plastic bags to hold the wet, stained clothing or other wet items.
Gear
Certain pieces of baby equipment make the air travel safer and easier for you. A stroller or baby carrier allows you to move through the airport efficiently. Most airlines allow you to check the stroller at the gate when you board. If you purchase your baby his own seat, you'll need an FAA-approved safety seat.
