Flying with a baby

Below are our tried-and-tested tips — war stories included — to help make flying with your baby smoother, calmer, and dare we say, enjoyable.

Get there early (and prepare for a slower pace)

Flying solo: breezy. Flying with baby: you’re basically flying with “everything” (stroller, car seat, baby bag, spare clothes… you get the idea).

• Leave yourself extra time at the airport so you’re not racing while baby’s already in meltdown-mode.

• Use online check-in if you can. Skip the “just in case” queue if possible.

• Once you’re through security, take a moment: grab water, let baby stretch or crawl in a safe spot, and mentally shift into “baby-on-board” mode.

• Tip: Document time = chaos time saver. Re-pack, reorganise your bags while you wait so you’re not scrambling later.

Pack smart for baby + yourself

You’ll hear this again because it’s gold: pack more than you think you need.

• Extra nappies/diapers, lots of wipes — the plane toilet changing table might be tiny or awkward.

• An extra change of clothes for you as well as baby. Spit-up, blow-outs: you’ll thank yourself.

• Feeding gear if needed (bottles, formula, pumped milk) and a little cooler or insulated bag if you’ll need it.

• Dress baby in layers: plane cabins can get unpredictably hot or chilly. Try zip-ons or elastic waist trousers to make changes easier.

• Small surprise toys or books — new items feel extra exciting mid-flight. Newton Baby+1

• Noise-protection: If your baby is noise sensitive, consider earmuffs or noise-reducing plugs. Planes are loud.

Select the right seats & gear

Choosing your seats and how you travel matters more than you’d expect.

• If possible, get a seat near the front of the plane: easier access, often less turbulence, quicker to exit. 

• If your airline offers a bassinet row (for infants), it can be a game-changer: more space, easier access to baby.

• Think about bringing a car-seat if your baby uses one and you’ll use one at destination: many airlines allow them, and a familiar seat may help baby sleep. 

• Decide how you’ll manage your stroller: gate-check it vs. check-in early. Gate-checking means you can use it up to the aircraft door, which can be super handy.

Take-off & landing game plan (ears & sleep)

This is the moment babies often struggle. Pressure changes, strange environment, energy levels up.

• At take-off and descent offer sucking: breast/bottle, pacifier — that swallowing helps their ears equalise.

• Consider adjusting feeding or nap time: if you can align take-off or nap to baby’s schedule, all the better. 

• For sleeping, try replicating home-routine: pyjamas or familiar blanket, soft light if you can. This helps.

• Stay calm — your calm helps baby feel safe, even if things are a bit wobbly.

It’s a moving playground

Don’t expect baby to sit still for hours on end — and no, you will not win “airplane patience” awards.

• Before boarding or during a lay-over, give baby a chance to move: crawl, stand with support, sit in the stroller just outside the gate, etc. Energy out = calmer baby later.

• Encourage interest: big windows, planes taxiing, new people — make it a little adventure rather than “sit still now”.

In-flight survival kit

Inside the aircraft, the environment changes: smaller space, less room to roam, different noises.

• Keep essentials in an easy-reach carry-on: wipes, nappies, changing mat, a spare outfit.

• Bring a few tiny toys or board books. Save one “new surprise” for a bit in, when baby might get bored.

• Use that stroller or baby carrier right up to the aircraft door if you can — some airports will let you fold it and gate check. This keeps baby comfy until the last possible moment.

• Don’t worry about “airplane etiquette” too much — most people understand babies will cry sometimes. Focus on baby comfort first.

After landing: stay ahead of fatigue & meltdowns

Yes, you made it off the plane — but there’s still a bit to go.

• Try to maintain baby’s sleep rhythm if you can: a quick nap or rest in destination time zone helps avoid the “overtired meltdown” later.

• Let baby stretch soon after landing: gate arrival may involve walking, stroller rides, etc — it helps with transition.

• Hydration: planes are dry, so offer breastmilk/bottle or water (if age-appropriate) more frequently.

• When everything feels overwhelming, take a deep breath. You’ve done brilliantly. The “flight with baby” badge is earned.