Taking your first trip by air with a baby is intimidating. After all, you don’t want to be the parent with the screaming baby and you’re not sure what you can bring and if you can handle luggage, car seats and a stroller. Never fear – parents have been flying with babies for decades. It might not be easy, but it doesn’t need to be impossible either.

Airline Regulations

Since 9/11, airlines and airports have tightened security and added procedures that should help keep us safe. Of course these procedures also make travel more complicated – especially for parents trying to bring little ones through crowded airports.

Gear

Baby gear makes up most of what is stressful about traveling with babies. You usually bring a stroller, a pack-n-play, clothing, diapers, bottles, carriers, and a carseat. Fortunately, you are allowed extra baggage by major airlines for babies. In addition to the standard bags, babies are also allowed a checked carseat and another bag for diapers and gear. Checking the pack-n-play is permitted as well.

Check as much as possible upon arriving at the airport. The less you have to take through security the better. Take the stroller to the gate, even if you’re not using it at the moment. You’ll appreciate having it when the plan lands and they attendants will check it for you and have it set up when you exit the plane. Also be sure to wear shoes that slip on and off. There is nothing worse than trying to hurry and get your own shoes back on while your toddler races away.

Food

You are now allowed to bring stored breastmilk, juice and formula on the plane, even if your baby is not with you. You must present it right away at the security checkpoint, however. It is best to store the liquids in containers of less than three ounces if possible as this is the magic cutoff for the TSA. Bring enough for the plane ride (with a bit extra for security) and check the rest in your luggage. Consider feeding your baby during take off and landing to help with pressure in his ears.

Airplane Safety

Airlines allow children under two to fly free as lap babies. While this is economical, it is not as safe as paying for a child’s fare and bringing a carseat. The seat will keep your child comfortable and safe in case of turbulence. It will also allow you to have your hands free to make bottles, fix snacks and do all the entertaining you must do to survive the flight in one piece.

Parents with small children are allowed to board a flight early. This helps them get all of the gear stored and the children settled. Take advantage of this perk, but bring extra toys and snacks for the waiting you’ll be doing while everyone else is boarding. Buy your tickets far in advance to get the front seats with extra leg room. You will not be allowed to sit on the exit aisles. Pack your bag with exciting toys, snacks and maybe a portable DVD player to keep your little one distracted and entertained for the entire flight.