Is A Baby On Your Packing Checklist? Well, Here’s Some Helpful Advice

by erin on May 28, 2010

Traveling Mommies are becoming more and more common in today’s world as family’s move all around the globe. You might wonder how those particular Mommies survive toting a baby on board, but you’d be surprised just how carefree it can be. Airlines are taking their cue and adjusting to make infant travel easier, and there are some tips that can help you prepare too. Just being aware of how to get a child’s passport quickly and knowing just what you should expect on your flight can help your trip run smooth and incident-free.

Everyone in your family will need a passport for traveling abroad, including your baby. It’s best to locate or renew passports way in advance in your trip to avoid any potential troubles, but we all know that not every trip is planned. So, if you need an expedited passport, you are able to get one. However, it might cost a little more. In order to obtain your passport, you will need two professional passport photos. These can be taken at your local drugstore (be sure to check yours) or at the passport office itself. Phone ahead of time to make sure that the location has the means to photograph your baby, as not all of them do. You will also need to bring a birth certificate for Baby and two forms of identification for yourself, and anyone else in your family.

Many airlines offer special conveniences that can make your flight with Baby go a lot smoother. When booking your flight, try to pick times where the plane is less crowded, such as during the week or the red-eye flights. A benefit of red-eye or overnight flights is the fact that your child will be more naturally prone to fall asleep, as these flights are generally during his or her sleep schedule. If there was ever a time that you invested a little extra money to get a non-stop flight, the time is now. Also, the bulkhead seating section, located at the front of each row, offers more leg room that provides a little extra space for baby to play in.

Even though many airlines offer free tickets for babies, you might want to buy a ticket for him or her anyway. They are usually much cheaper, and having an extra seat will give you more room to move around. Flight attendants are generally very helpful when it comes to helping you and your baby, including providing extra blankets or warming up a bottle.

When you are planning how you are going to spend your trip, make sure to make room for lots of down time. A schedule that is blocked full of activities will tire Baby and you out, and no will have any fun. Bring your own baby food, because many countries carry different brands that could upset Baby’s tummy, which isn’t good for anyone. Bring your own water bottles as well, both for your personal drinking and for baby’s bottle.

Traveling with Baby can be a great experience. Preparing for whatever you can beforehand will end up saving you much unwanted stress. Knowing how to get a kids passport fast will definitely help in case there is an emergency. Once again, get an expedited United States passport only if you need to, otherwise get it plenty of time in advance. Most importantly, ask around and get advice from Mommies who have traveled with babies before, as they will provide the best advice.

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