Air travel or flying with 9 month old baby can be a daunting prospect for new parents. Be it for a family vacation or visiting grandparents, flying with young children requires extensive preplanning and preparation.
But with the right mindset, tools, and a bit of planning, flying with a 9-month-old can be a breeze. In this blog post, we will share some practical tips to make your travel with a young baby more comfortable and less stressful.
Plan ahead and be prepared
Planning ahead is the key to stress-free travel with a baby. Before you book your flight, research the airline’s policies on traveling with infants.
Check-in advance for the availability of bassinets, seat selection, and early boarding opportunities. Consider booking a red-eye flight, as the chances are higher that your baby might sleep longer and the flight is less crowded.
Gather all essentials for your baby, such as diapers, wipes, formula, and baby food, and put them in a carry-on bag.
Bring extra clothes for your baby and yourself, as a diaper leak or spit-up is common during flights.
Pack some entertainment and toys for your baby too, such as pacifiers, stuffed toys, or soft books.
Choose the right seat
Choosing the right seat is crucial to your baby’s comfort. Book a seat with extra legroom or opt for a bulkhead seat with a bassinet attachment, if available.
If you are traveling alone, choose an aisle seat for easy access to the bathroom and stretching your legs.
Make security checks easier
Airports can be stressful, but you can reduce some of the anxiety with planning and being prepared.
Wear slip-on shoes and remove all liquids or electronics from your carry-on bags to speed up the security process. Pack baby food and milk separately, as TSA rules allow.
To make security check-in easier, bring your baby’s birth certificate and vaccination records that show her age. Be ready to remove all baby carriers, strollers, and equipment at the entrance.
Keep your baby comfortable during the flight
Keeping your baby comfortable during the flight can make a big difference in her mood.
Feed your baby during takeoff and landing to help relieve ear pressure, and consider giving her a pacifier or a bottle during the flight to keep her calm.
Bring a light blanket to cover your baby when it gets cold, and dress her in layers in case of temperature changes.
Consider using a baby carrier or a stroller when navigating through the airport, as it can keep your baby close and calm during the rush.
Stay calm and flexible
Traveling with a baby can be unpredictable, and things do not always go as planned. Stay calm and flexible, and do not get too worked up if your baby cries or acts up.
Try to comfort her and distract her with toys or snacks. Remember, other passengers are likely to be sympathetic and understanding. Be kind to yourself and your baby and enjoy the journey.
Flying with a 9-month-old can be a challenge, but it can also be an enjoyable experience.
With a bit of planning and preparation, you can make your flight more comfortable and stress-free.
Remember to pack essentials, choose the right seat, make security check-in easier, keep your baby comfortable during the flight and stay calm and flexible.
By following these tips, you can create beautiful memories with your baby and make the flying experience enjoyable for everyone. Safe travels!
