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Guide to Flying with a Baby

Catching flights, not tantrums…

This post is written in collaboration with Chloe Gunning - the creator of the award-winning travel blog Wanderlust Chloe. Since becoming a mum two years ago, she’s been passionate about sharing both inspirational stories and practical tips for travelling with little ones in tow. Her son is already a seasoned little explorer himself, having visited seven countries across three continents!

Planning a first trip with your little sidekick? Travelling with a baby might sound like a mission worthy of its own passport stamp, but with a little bit of prepping and planning, it’s not just doable but oh so exciting for you and your little one, too! From airport adventures to in-flight feeds, there’s nothing like seeing the world through tiny, curious eyes, and this guide is packed with tips and tricks to make that first family getaway a little less daunting.

Travelling with a newborn

First things first, you want to make sure that you have packed and prepared your carry-on so that you’ve got all the bits you need in case of an emergency. Nappies (more than you think you’ll need), wipes, extra baby outfits, snacks, dummies, bottles, a baby blanket... Basically, everything but the cot!

Once you’ve made it through the hustle and bustle of security, your little jet-setter may have a lot of energy after all the excitement of the journey so far, so here are some ideas for how to keep them calm and entertained as you wait to board.

Treat them to a new toy to keep things exciting! Chloe advises that small, travel-friendly toys are ideal. Think spinners, sensory toys, children’s books, soft toys or a mini busy board - all of these make great travel companions and can go a long way in keeping your little one occupied at the airport and during the flight.
Many airports have family lounges, nursing rooms, or quiet areas, which are perfect for feeding, playing, or just getting away from the chaos.
Change their nappy before boarding rather than having to juggle a nappy change mid-flight.
If they’re crawling or toddling, let your little one stretch their legs and explore a little before the flight.

Tips for flying with a baby

Once you and your baby are on board the plane, they may feel lots of big emotions; curiosity, anxiety, excitement... It can be tricky to know just how to help your toddler navigate those feelings in such a small seat. Chloe has shared some sky-high flight tips for infants to keep things smooth once your flight takes off.

Consider flight times when booking

“If your baby is in a routine, it’s great if you can stick to it as much as possible. Avoid booking really early flights as they disrupt your little one’s night-time sleep. For long haul flights, however, night flights can be easier, as your baby is more likely to sleep for a big chunk of the journey.”

Board the last flight

“One parent can head on board with the bags and get everything set up, while the other stays at the gate with the baby until the final boarding call. The less time your little one spends on the plane before take-off, the better — they’ll get restless soon enough!”

Book a bassinet

“If you’re flying long haul, check whether your airline offers bassinets. These usually need to be requested in advance and aren’t always guaranteed. Even if your baby doesn’t end up sleeping in it, the seats offer extra legroom and space for all your baby’s essentials.”

Feed on take off

“Some babies experience discomfort with the change in air pressure during take-off. Feeding can really help, as the sucking motion eases the pressure in their ears.”

Embrace the aisle seat

Easy access to the loo for nappy changes and to go for little strolls up and down the plane can help you and your little one feel more at ease.

Chloe’s Crucial Tip: Go with the flow

My biggest tip for parents flying with babies? Try not to worry too much! You can’t control everything. Your baby might not sleep, might cry for half the flight, or decide to time a nappy explosion just as the seatbelt sign comes on. Once you reach your destination, the journey soon fades away and is replaced by wonderful travel memories!

FAQ's

How old does a baby have to be to fly?

Most airlines allow tiny travellers as young as 2 weeks old (some even sooner), but it’s always best to check with your airline just to be sure. And if you’re travelling with a newborn, it’s always a good idea to run it past your paediatrician before takeoff.

Do babies need a ticket?

If your baby’s under 2 years old, they usually fly free on your lap (aka “infant in arms”) for domestic flights. However, there might be a small fee on international flights, even for lap babies. For a bit more space (and sanity), you can also buy them their own seat.

Can I bring baby formula, milk, or snacks through security?

Yes, yes, and yes! You’re allowed to bring baby food, formula, and milk for your little one to cover the journey - you may even be able to take more than the usual liquid limit, but as always, it’s best to check with the airport you are flying from. Just let security know exactly what you want to bring along, and they might do a quick check. But remember, you can’t bring frozen breast milk in hand luggage.

What about strollers and car seats?

Most airlines let you check both for free, either at the check-in counter or right at the gate. You can also take small strollers all the way to the plane.