As summer travel hits its peak, I asked a NYC-based mommy blogger to help other moms prepare for a trip with baby. Harmony, who writes for Baby To Go, is a stay-at-home mom who loves to travel and has taken her 15-month-old son on 16 flights, to date! I figure this is a woman who knows how to manage flying with a baby, and she’s happy to share her tips:
1. Try to book a direct flight, even if it costs more. Less hassle, less time wasted at an airport, less chance of missing a connection.
2. Use a snap and go-type stroller, to which you can attach an infant car seat. Use that to go through the airport and if there is an extra seat on the flight, you can use your car seat on the airplane. If not, you can gate check the items for no charge.
3. Use a baby carrier such as a Baby Bjorn or Ergo to keep your hands free for going through security and to carry your child when you board.
4. Bring more diapers, wipes, snacks, bottles, formula than you think you need. You never know how long a flight could be delayed and these items may not be readily available at the airport should you need extra.
5. Get your baby sucking to reduce ear pressure. If you are a nursing mom, nurse during take off and landing. (If you nurse, bring a cover and wear modest clothing such as a nursing tank or layers.) If you’re not nursing, offer a bottle or pacifier at take off and landing.
