Flying with a baby can feel daunting, especially the first time. The good news is that with some preparation most flights go far more smoothly than parents expect. These tips follow the journey in order – before the flight, on board and after landing – so you know exactly what to do at each stage.
Before the flight
Check the airline’s rules
Every airline has its own policy for infants. Before you book, check how they handle infant tickets, baggage allowances for strollers and car seats, and whether they offer bassinets on long-haul flights. Make sure your baby has a valid passport and any other documents needed for your destination.
Choose the right flight time
Where possible, pick flights that match your baby’s normal sleep times. A night flight or a departure around nap time can make a big difference to how the journey goes.
What to pack in your carry-on
- More nappies and wipes than you think you will need – delays happen.
- At least one spare outfit for the baby, and a spare top for yourself.
- Bottles, formula or baby food, and a bib.
- Comfort items: a dummy, a favourite blanket or a small toy.
- Any medicines your baby needs, plus a basic first-aid kit.
Baby food, milk and formula are generally allowed through security in reasonable quantities, even above the usual liquids limit, but they may be checked separately.
Choosing seats
Seats near the front of the cabin or with extra legroom make life much easier, and bulkhead rows are where bassinets are usually fitted. Book early, as these seats go quickly. Our guide to the best seat on a flight explains the options in detail.
During the flight
Help with ear pressure
Changes in cabin pressure during take-off and landing can be uncomfortable for little ears. Feeding, offering a bottle or letting your baby suck on a dummy at these times helps them swallow and equalise the pressure.
Stick to a routine
Try to keep feeding, changing and sleep times as close as possible to your routine at home. Familiar rhythms help babies stay calm in an unfamiliar environment.
Food and drink
Bring meals and snacks suited to your baby’s age, and ask the cabin crew if they can warm a bottle for you. Pre-measured formula in separate containers makes night feeds much quicker.
Dealing with crying
Every baby cries sometimes, and most passengers understand. Try a cuddle, a quiet song or gentle rocking. If it does not help, a short walk up and down the aisle often works wonders. On long flights, give your baby time to stretch and play to burn off some energy.
Keep things clean
Wipe down the tray table and armrests, and wash or sanitise your hands often, especially before feeds.
After landing
Do not rush off the plane. Waiting until the aisle clears gives you time to gather everything calmly. Plan your transfer from the airport in advance, ideally with a car seat arranged if you are taking a taxi or hiring a car.
Over the following days, let your baby adjust gradually to the new time zone and climate. Get outside in daylight, keep naps reasonably short at first, and expect a day or two of disrupted sleep.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can a baby fly?
Many airlines accept babies from a few days old, though some require a minimum age of around two weeks. Check with your airline and your doctor before flying with a newborn.
Does my baby need their own seat?
Children under two can usually travel on a parent’s lap with an infant ticket. Buying a separate seat lets you use an approved car seat on board, which many parents find more comfortable on long flights.
For gear that makes the journey easier, see our round-up of products for flying with kids, and for the rest of the holiday read travelling abroad with young children.
