Some Tips On Flying With Babies

by garrett on February 14, 2012

Traveling in general can be stressful, never mind throwing an infant into the mix. Trying to pack all the necessary items while also complying with security guidelines is enough to rip your hair out. The thought of maneuvering an airport with a baby in a stroller with a car seat and luggage galore is very disheartening. However, there is hope. By keeping some tips in mind, traveling with your infant can be much easier than expected. The first tip is to ensure that all your passport documentation is in order. You need an infant U S passport for your infant as well as a passport for yourself that has gone through all the necessary processes like a passport name change or renewal.

Passports

Passports are necessary for any sort of international travel. They allow for an individual to enter a foreign country and then return back to their country of origin. Without these documents travel is impossible. This is why it’s so important that all documentation be filled out properly. By having all passport documentation in order you can avoid any difficulties that can arise with travel. If you need a US passport name change, get that handled long before you travel.

Travel Preparation

When preparing to travel with your infant, only pack what you need. Keep a diaper bag with you including the necessary diapers and extra changes of clothes as well as toys to occupy the infant. You may bring formula and bottles through security; they will be subjected to a litmus test. Also be prepared to fold your stroller up when you go through security. The stroller also has to go through the same system that your bag does. Often security agents will assist a struggling parent with a child.

Plane

Children under the age of two are allowed to sit on their parents lap, however safety guidelines recommend buying an extra seat for the child. Car seats that are FAA approved will work on airplane seats. There are also special harnesses available for toddlers to be securely fastened to their seat. Children tend to have a hard time once the plane ascends and descends due to the pressure. This can be avoided by giving the child something to suck on at the same time such as a bottle or a pacifier.

Stress While Traveling

Every parent’s nightmare while traveling is their child screaming relentlessly on the flight; it is equally a nightmare for those who are on the flight. The best way to handle such a situation is to remain calm. Children are acutely aware of their parent’s mental state. If you are stressed, they will be stressed as well. Do your best to calm them and if a flight attendant can offer assistance be sure to flag one down.

Trying to stay calm while traveling with your infant is the best way to ease stress. Traveling with an infant does not have to be a nightmare, by creating a checklist and sticking to it you can greatly reduce any unnecessary stress. The most important tip is to make sure that all your passport documentation is in order; such as the infant passport and any necessary passport issues such as a pass port name change. This is will ensure undue stress when it comes to international travel with your infant.

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