Let’s talk about one of the most daunting challenges we face as new parents: taking our little ones on their first flight.
I remember when my wife and I decided to brave the skies with our 6-month-old. The sheer thought of it had me breaking out in a cold sweat. If you are about to face a similar situation, don’t stress, I’ve got you. I’m here to share some hard-earned wisdom that’ll help you navigate this adventure/hell like a pro.
Let’s face it, the idea of being trapped in a metal tube thousands of feet in the air with a potentially screaming infant is enough to make even the bravest dad quake in his boots. But with a bit of preparation and the right mindset, you can turn this potential nightmare into a manageable, maybe even enjoyable, experience.
Here’s everything you need to know about flying with your tiny co-pilot.
When Can Your Baby on a Plane?
First things first, when exactly can you start planning that family getaway?
Well, the good news is that there’s no hard and fast rule about when babies can fly. However, most airlines have their own policies, so it’s worth checking before you get too excited about that beach holiday.
Generally speaking, most airlines prefer that your little one is at least two weeks old before they board a flight. Some might even allow seven-day-old infants on board. But let’s be honest, do you really want to be dealing with a newborn on a plane when you’re still trying to figure out which end is up? Trust me, giving yourself a bit more time to adjust to parenthood before adding air travel to the mix is a smarter move.
Special Considerations
If your little one decided to make an early appearance, the rules might be a bit different. For premature babies, airlines often base their flying age on the due date rather than the actual birth date. It’s like they get a bit of extra time to catch up before their first adventure in the clouds.
And for all you dads whose partners had a caesarean section, you might need to wait a bit longer. The body needs time to heal after major surgery, so it’s best to consult with your doctor before booking any flights. Remember, a happy and healthy mum makes for a much smoother journey for everyone.
Seriously, the healing process can be agony, don’t even suggest it.
Tickets and Baggage
Right, so you’ve got the green light to fly with your little one. Now comes the fun part – figuring out the ticketing situation. It’s not as straightforward as you might think, so let’s break it down.
Does Your Baby Need Their Own Ticket?
Here’s a bit of good news – your baby will need a ticket, but it might not cost you an arm and a leg. Most airlines offer infant fares for children under two years old. These are usually a percentage of the adult fare, typically around 10% to 25%. Some airlines might charge a flat fee instead.
Now, here’s where you need to make a decision. Up until your child’s second birthday, you have the option of having them sit on your lap during the flight. This is usually the cheaper option, but let me tell you from experience, it’s not always the most comfortable one. Especially on longer flights, you might want to consider booking a separate seat for your little one. Even if they don’t sit on it the whole time, it prevents antagonising an exhausted businessman who got unlucky with his seat allocation.
Baggage Allowance for Babies
You might think your baby is tiny, but their luggage certainly isn’t! The good news is that many airlines offer an extra baggage allowance for infants. This can range from 5kg to 10kg, which trust me, you’ll need for all those nappies, spare clothes, and baby gear. Some airlines even allow you to bring a car seat or travel cot in addition to this allowance.
It’s hard to travel light with kids, but if there’s anything you can leave it home, do it.
Packing Like a Pro
Alright, dads, this is where your Tetris skills come in handy. Packing for a baby requires strategy, foresight, and maybe a bit of magic. Let’s break down what you need to bring and how to pack it efficiently.
The Essentials Checklist
First up, let’s cover the absolute must-haves:
- Nappies (more than you think you’ll need)
- Wipes (lots and lots of wipes)
- Change of clothes (for baby and you – trust me on this one)
- Formula or expressed breast milk (if needed)
- Bottles and sterilising equipment
- Favourite toys or comfort items
- Baby carrier or sling
Packing Smart for Security
Remember, you’ll need to go through security, so pack your liquids (including baby food and milk) in a clear, resealable plastic bag. The good news is that you’re allowed to take enough baby food, milk, and sterilised water for the journey. Security might ask you to taste it, so be prepared for that exciting culinary experience…
Carry-Ons
When it comes to your carry-on, think accessibility. Pack a changing bag with all the essentials you’ll need during the flight. This should include:
- A couple of nappies
- A small pack of wipes
- A change of clothes
- A couple of small toys
- Snacks (if your baby is old enough)
- Any medication your baby might need
Remember, you want to be able to reach these items easily during the flight, so pack them in a bag that fits under the seat in front of you.
Checked Luggage
For your checked luggage, this is where you can pack the bulk of your baby supplies. Think about what you’ll need for your entire trip, not just the flight. This might include:
- Even more nappies and wipes
- Baby toiletries
- More changes of clothes than you think you will need
- Larger toys or books
- Additional bottles in case you lose one
- Medicine like Calpol
- Any baby equipment you might need at your destination
Getting Through the Airport
Alright, you’ve packed like a pro and made it to the airport. Now comes the fun part – getting through check-in, security, and to your gate without losing your mind (or your baby). Here’s how to tackle each stage.
Check-In
First things first, check in online if you can. It’ll save you valuable time at the airport. If you can’t, arrive early. And I mean really early. Everything takes longer with a baby, so give yourself plenty of time.
When you get to the check-in desk, have all your documents ready. This includes:
- Passports for everyone (yes, your baby needs one too)
- Tickets or booking confirmation
- Any necessary visas
If you’re travelling alone with your baby and have a different surname, you might need additional documentation to prove you’re allowed to take them out of the country. A signed letter from the other parent or a birth certificate should do the trick.
Security
Ah, security. The place where even the most organised parent can come unstuck. Here’s how to breeze through:
- Have your liquids (including baby milk and food) easily accessible in a clear plastic bag.
- Be prepared to taste any milk or food you’re carrying.
- Take your baby out of the carrier or pushchair – these will need to go through the X-ray machine.
- If you’re carrying formula powder, declare it to the security staff.
You have to get yourself through as well, including taking off shoes, belts, emptying pockets and all of that. Save yourself stress in the queue by doing this early if you can and avoiding as much as possible. Do you really need a belt on for the flight? Can you have your pockets empty but for your phone? That sort of thing.
Remember, patience is key here. The staff are just doing their job, and most are understanding when it comes to families with young children.
The Gate
You’ve made it through security. Now it’s time to tackle the gate. Here are some tips:
- Find your gate early, then locate the nearest baby changing facilities.
- Use this time to give your baby a fresh nappy and a feed if needed.
- If you’re using a pushchair, you’ll usually be able to keep it until you board the plane.
- Take advantage of pre-boarding for families if it’s offered.
When you’re on the plane the crew will see your little one and understand your needs. They see it all the time. If there is anything you want to know or ask for though, this is the time to do it, just as the cabin crew are greeting you.
The Flight Itself
This is it, the main event. You’re on the plane, your baby is settled (for now), and you’re ready for take-off. Here’s how to handle the flight along with any issues that may arise.
Ear Pressure on Take-Off and Landing
The change in air pressure during take-off and landing can be uncomfortable for little ears. Here’s how to help:
- Feed your baby during take-off and landing. The swallowing action helps equalise ear pressure.
- If you’re not feeding, a dummy can have the same effect.
- For older babies, a sippy cup with water can work too.
If they do cry, don’t worry. People around you might find it annoying. Tough luck. The baby will stop once you are up in the air.
In-Flight Entertainment
Long flights can be boring for adults, let alone babies. Here are some ideas to keep your little one entertained:
- Bring new, small toys that your baby hasn’t seen before.
- Books are great, especially touch-and-feel ones.
- For older babies, sticker books can provide hours of entertainment.
- Don’t underestimate the entertainment value of everyday objects like plastic cups or magazines (under supervision, of course).
- Go for a walk up and down the plane when you are allowed to. Boring for you, but entertaining for them.
Mid Air Nappy Changes
Changing a nappy in a tiny airplane toilet is a skill every parent should master. Here’s how to tackle it:
- Bring a thin changing mat you can roll up – those fold-down tables aren’t the cleanest.
- Have everything ready before you go in – nappy, wipes, cream, clean clothes.
- If possible, dress your baby in easy-to-change clothes for the flight.
- If there’s no changing table, you might need to change your baby on your lap or the floor (it’s not ideal, but needs must).
Feeding Time
Whether you’re bottle-feeding or breastfeeding, feeding your baby on a plane can be tricky. Here are some tips:
- For bottle-feeding, pre-measure formula into containers and ask for hot water on the plane.
- If you’re other half is breastfeeding, a window seat might offer more privacy. If not, have a linen cloth or something ready to provide cover.
Dealing with the Dreaded Meltdown
It’s every parent’s nightmare – your baby starts crying and just won’t stop. First, take a deep breath. Remember, it happens to everyone. Here’s how to handle it:
- Stay calm. Your baby can sense your stress, so be a good role model.
- Go through your mental checklist – are they hungry, tired, bored, need changing?
- Try walking up and down the aisle if it’s safe to do so.
- If you are with Mum, try a change of parent.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from the cabin crew – they’ve seen it all before.
Most importantly, try not to worry about what other passengers are thinking. Focus on your baby and ignore any disapproving looks. You and your baby have as much right to be there as you do. You’re doing your best, and that’s all anyone can ask.
Landing and Beyond
You’ve survived your first flight with a baby. Thank fu… heavens for that.
As you land, give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve just accomplished something that many parents find so daunting they never even attempt it.
Remember, every flight gets easier. You’ll learn what works for your baby and what doesn’t. Before you know it, you’ll be jetting off on family holidays without breaking a sweat.
So there you have it, fellow dads. Your comprehensive guide to surviving that first flight with your little one. It might seem overwhelming now, but trust me, with a bit of preparation and a lot of patience, you’ll be fine. And who knows? You might even enjoy it.
