A Parent’s Guide for Flying With a Baby

Packing for a baby is an art form. You need to have access to all the essentials, but you also don't want to rummage through a big bag to find something you need. Your diaper bag will be the saving grace of everything you pack, so pack smart.

Flying, in general, is sometimes stressful – packing, long lines, turbulence, etc. But flying with a baby adds a whole other level of fear in parents due to the “what ifs” that could happen, like crying fits, diaper blowouts and antsy kids that want out. The stress of flying with an infant is overwhelming, but you're not alone in this parental challenge. Many new parents and old, face the daunting task of air travel with their little ones. But what if we told you that with a bit of patience and preparation, all of that uncertainty can vanish?

We asked parents, industry leaders and travel experts to offer tips for newbies to make their flights better. We compiled a must-have “survival” guide that will transform your flying experience from a potential nightmare into a manageable and, dare we say, enjoyable adventure. From pre-flight preparations to in-flight hacks, we've got you covered with everything you need to know before taking to the skies with your baby.

Pre-flight preparations to make before flying with a baby

Do a little pre-flight prep before booking tickets since all airlines have their own policies. From security screening and things to pack, here are a few key preparations to make before travel day and some before booking.

Understanding airline policies for flying with infants

Different airlines have varying policies for flying with babies. American allows babies two days old and United allows babies seven days old. Most airlines allow you to keep children under two on your lap. Baggage allowance and bassinet availability vary, so it’s always best to check with your specific airline for the most up-to-date information. You may even want to call customer service before booking your flight so there are no surprises. Ask about travel documents needed; age allowed to fly, lap rules and restrictions, formula guidelines and carry-on items, including FAA-approved car seats and strollers. Also, ask about the in-flight changing table situation.

*The information above is sourced from United and American Airlines’ official websites in 2024.

Booking seats strategically

Before booking your flight, consider whether you plan on going the lap route (typically free for two and under) or booking an extra seat for the car seat. Some people feel comfortable flying with a baby on their lap for short flights and some bring a car seat to attach to the airplane seat like you would in a car. The latter option means you must pay for a full-price ticket for the baby. Choosing the right seat can make all the difference.

Here are a few other tips:

1. Choose a bulkhead seat for extra legroom
2. Book an aisle seat for easy access
3. Reserve a bassinet seat on long-haul flights if possible
4. Consider purchasing an extra seat for your baby's car seat (Some airlines require car seats to be in a window seat so they don't block other passengers)

Consult your pediatrician before traveling

It’s always a good idea to contact your pediatrician before traveling with an infant. Some airlines, like American Airlines and Delta, require a doctor’s note for newborns under seven days old stating they’re medically cleared for travel. Check with your airline to give you time to visit your pediatrician.

Check whether infants fly free

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) doesn't require a ticket for US domestic flights for children under two years old. Anyone over two is required to have a paid seat. Unfortunately, there are no kids' seats – an excellent reason to try and travel far and often before your child turns two! For flying internationally, some airlines, like Delta and United, may charge a partial fare based on destinations. When booking your flight, you must add your little one to the reservation.

*The information above is sourced from Delta and United Airlines’ official websites in 2024.

Ensure you have the necessary documentation

If you’re flying internationally, you’ll need a passport for your baby regardless of age. The rules for domestic travel vary by country, but typically, you won’t need to bring the baby’s birth certificate. However, it’s a good idea to bring it anyway, so there are no issues at the airport. Some airlines may ask for it, especially if your child looks older than two or to verify parental status. Some airlines may even ask for a note from the other parent if you are flying alone with your little one.

FYI: Southwest always asks for proof regardless of age and requires a Boarding Verification Document, which can be accessed at check-in or at the airport.

Don’t forget your ID or passport, travel docs, boarding pass and any important documents needed for your trip, including rental car information! Print your boarding pass (or save it on a mobile device) to have everything ready and easily accessible when you arrive.

*The information above is sourced from Southwest’s official website in 2024.

Choose the right flight time

They say timing is everything in life and flying with a little one is no exception. Selecting an appropriate flight time makes your journey smoother. The trick is to consider your baby’s schedule when searching for a flight. Here are some suggestions:

• Book flights during your baby's usual sleep or nap times.
• Avoid peak travel times or holidays to reduce stress at the airport.
• For long-haul flights, consider overnight options and red-eye flights.
• Skip really early morning flights. Factor in time for feeding and diaper changes before boarding.

With these pre-flight preparations in place, you'll be well-equipped to handle the challenges of flying with your little one.

Helpful tips to use at the airport with a baby

Your flight has been booked, you’re all packed and it's time to head to the airport. Arrive early and allow extra time for security and last-minute diaper changes. Download the airline’s mobile app for fast check-in and boarding passes. Take a few deep breaths; you got this!

Keeping your baby comfortable during wait times or delays

You'll likely spend a considerable amount of time waiting at the airport before your flight, so to keep your little one content, try a few of these helpful tips:

• Find a quiet corner and set up a cozy spot to lay out a blanket for your baby to stretch and play before being cooped up.
• Bring a few favorite toys to keep your baby entertained.
• Time your feedings wisely. Feeding a baby during takeoff and landing is recommended to help with cabin pressure, but if you’re there a while, you may want to feed your baby in the airport while you have time to do a diaper change. Snacks are always a good idea.

Navigating security with baby gear and formula or breast milk

It’s no secret that babies require a lot of gear and supplies. Which is daunting when at security checkpoints. Streamline the process by:

1. Informing TSA: let TSA agents know that you're traveling with an infant.
2. Prepare formula and breast milk: although they’re exempt from liquid restrictions, they may require additional screening. You may also bring baby food and puree pouches.
3. Collapse strollers: have your stroller ready to go through the X-ray machine.
4. Wear your baby: using a carrier frees up your hands and simplifies the security process.
5. Check as much gear as possible: if wearing your baby, consider checking the stroller or car seat.

Patience is key. TSA agents are there to help, so don't hesitate to ask for assistance.

Request a bassinet from your airline

If you’re flying international or a long flight, most airlines have bassinet (bulkhead) seats available at no extra charge. They have a pull-down bassinet for your baby to sleep in. Bassinets are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Requesting a bassinet at the time of booking is recommended to ensure availability for your flight. But some domestic flights often won’t let you reserve a bassinet until you check in at the gate.

Pro tips and hacks for flying with a baby

Getting through the airport may be the most challenging part of your journey. Now that you’ve made it onboard, it’s time to sit back and relax. Maybe. Here are a few tips and suggestions that are helpful in flight.

Give your baby a bottle or pacifier during take-off and landing

Try to feed your baby during take-off and landing to avoid ear pain from air pressure and cabin change. The best way to relieve it is by swallowing, so a bottle, sippy cup or chewing food helps. Pacifiers are another life-saver on the plane.

Pack toys and entertainment

Keeping your baby entertained during a flight is key for a smooth ride. Here are some ideas:

• Soft, colorful toys that don't make noise.
• Board or flipbooks with simple, bright images.
• Teething toys or pacifiers.
• A small mirror for self-fascination.
• Tablet or smartphone with pre-downloaded children’s content (don’t forget a portable battery pack).
• For older babies and toddlers, bring coloring books and washable crayons.
• Don’t forget entertainment for yourself while the baby sleeps.

Dealing with fussiness or crying

We’ve all been on a plane with a crying baby and swear that will never happen to us. Until it does. Remember, it’s normal for babies to cry especially in an unfamiliar place like an airplane with loud noise and strange faces. Keep calm and when your baby becomes fussy or starts crying, try these techniques:

• Babies like movement – walk up and down the aisle (when it’s safe)
• Use white noise apps on your phone
• Offer comfort through nursing or bottle-feeding
• Try changing positions frequently

Managing sleep schedules

The golden situation is for a child to sleep for as much of the flight as possible. Maintaining your baby's sleep routine is challenging during a flight. Here's how you can help:

• Create a dark environment using a blanket or covering
• Stick to your usual bedtime routine as much as possible and dress your baby in pajamas
• Bring their favorite blanket or stuffed animal
• Book a flight that coincides with nap or bedtime
• Try to keep your baby awake and active in the airport so they tire themselves
• Use a sleep sack or swaddle blanket

Every baby is different, so be prepared to adapt on the fly as needed. With some patience and a lot of preparation, you’ll make your flight experience more enjoyable for both you and your little one.

What to pack in your diaper bag when flying with a baby

Packing for a baby is an art form. You need to have access to all the essentials, but you also don't want to rummage through a big bag to find something you need. Your diaper bag will be the saving grace of everything you pack, so pack smart. You will find that having a diaper bag with many pockets and compartments is helpful for easy navigation.

When in the midst of a diaper blowout, you need to grab things fast! Arrange everything carefully so it’s easily accessible during the flight. Use packing cubes to keep things organized. Use one for toys, diapers, supplies, extra clothes and snacks. Cubes come in handy when you run to the bathroom with your baby and have no room for your bag. With your diaper bag properly packed, you'll be well-prepared to handle any situation, allowing you to feel more confident and relaxed.

Here is a list of must-have items to pack in your diaper bag for the flight:

Essentials:

• Diapers (bring a few extra).
• Extra change of clothes (one for you, too).
• Baby wipes.
• Plastic bags for soiled diapers or clothes (doggie poop bags or zip-locks work great).
• Formula or breast milk (pack extra in case something leaks or spills).
• Burp cloths or towels.
• Bibs.
• Soft baby blanket.
• Their favorite stuffed toy to soothe your little one.
• Snacks, juice and food for babies and toddlers (puree pouches).
• Pacifiers (passengers will thank you).
• Hand sanitizer.
• Baby carrier or sling.
• Bottles or sippy cups.
• Nursing cover (for privacy).
• Disposable changing pads or puppy pads for easy clean-ups.
• Necessary medications that are pediatrician-approved.
• Breast pump, if applicable.
• Portable bottle warmer.
• Throw in a book or download a podcast for yourself.

Diaper changing in flight

Changing diapers in flight requires some preparation but is possible. To make the changing process a little easier, try these tips:

• Dress your child in easy-to-remove clothes, like onesies with front snaps and wide necks.
• Change your baby at the airport just before boarding.
• Find out ahead of time if any bathrooms on the plane have changing tables
• Pack a smaller changing kit with a few diapers, wipes and diaper cream – within your diaper bag to grab when changing in the tiny bathrooms.

Changing tables

If the airplane has a changing table in the bathroom, that's your best bet. If it doesn't, you have two options: using the closed toilet seat as a makeshift changing table or standing up and turning your airplane seat into a changing area. Some carriers, like JetBlue and Southwest, offer changing tables on every flight. With others, it depends on the aircraft. Thankfully, newer planes are designed to offer more children-friendly options, including changing tables.

Pro-tip: if there is a changing table in the aircraft bathroom, it’s a good idea to undress your baby to their diaper at your seat to avoid the cramped space.

Using your lap or seat

This can get tricky, especially if you are not sitting with family or friends. Pack a waterproof lining like a pet training pad and use it to protect the seat.

Once again, speed is essential. Undress your baby in your lap first, then stand to do the rest. Dispose of the dirty diaper in a plastic bag and dispose of it in the bathroom garbage.

Frequently asked questions

Can you bring baby formula and food on planes?

Yes, you can bring baby formula, breast milk, baby food, puree pouches, juice and water on board with no TSA liquid restrictions. There may be an extra security check by TSA, but you are allowed to do so and there is no limit on how much you can bring.

Can you take strollers on planes?

Yes, you can stroll your baby right to the gate. It’ll be checked for you at the ticket counter free of charge and waiting for you when you step off the plane. You can also check it with your luggage if it’s not needed in the airport. Consider investing in a lightweight travel stroller compact enough to fit in most overhead compartments when collapsed.

How old do babies have to be before they can fly?

This is a personal preference. There isn't an official age requirement for air travel, but airlines have varying policies. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) discourages parents from flying with a baby too soon after birth due to low immunity, but ultimately, the choice is yours to make. Alaskan Airlines has no minimum age to fly; others like Delta, JetBlue and American will allow newborns under a week old only if they travel with a doctor's note stating it’s safe for them to fly, while United has a minimum of one week old and Southwest permit babies that are two weeks old. Always check with your airline to see their policies.

Do babies need passports?

If you travel internationally, your baby will need a passport regardless of age. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) doesn't require children under 18 to provide identification for domestic travel. However, it's still smart to check your airline's identification requirements, as some airlines (Southwest) ask for a birth certificate and sometimes immunization records.

How do you get a baby to sleep on flights?

Maintaining your baby's sleep routine is challenging during a flight. But, there are several tips parents can use to help facilitate sound sleep. Create a dark environment using a blanket or covering, plan flights during nap time, bring extra comforts from home like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal and feed your baby during takeoff so they will lull themselves to sleep in flight.

Are babies allowed in business and first class?

All major airlines allow infants and children to fly in first class when accompanied by an adult. In fact, parents love the added perks of flying in business class with a baby, such as the hands-on service from flight attendants, more floor space and legroom, more flexible luggage allowances and fewer people. You can even do diaper changes right at your seat if need be.

Do babies fly for free?

Babies and toddlers two and under can fly for free on domestic flights if they sit on an adult’s lap. You may be charged a small fee for international flights based on the destination. Typically, airlines allow one lap infant per adult. If you choose to purchase an extra seat to leave your baby in the car seat, it’ll be a standard fare.