Flying with a baby...tips please!

[MommyBryn]

I was wondering if anyone might be able to share some tips with me. We're taking a big family vacation to WDW this coming winter, and my daughter will just be turning 1 at the time. We'll be flying, and it will be a looong flight, since we're from Oregon. Generally it's about a 1.5 hour flight to Denver and then 3-4 hours to Orlando.

Soooo...originally I was going to take her as a lap child so I wouldn't have to buy a seat, but then I realized how crazy that would be for a 3-4 hour flight! (But then again, I wonder if there is anyway to find out if the flight won't be full and they'll just have extra seats...that way we wouldn't have to purchase a seat???) But I'm just hoping and praying it won't be a miserable experience!!

She's only 3 months right now, so I can't really say what her interests/likes/dislikes will be at that time, but any suggestions on how to keep her occupied/entertained will be great.

 

[dawnj99]

I have flown several times with my boys and I would go with your thought of buying a seat, the baby will be more comfy in their carseat since it is familiar, especially on a long flight. I would take your stroller all the way up to the plane and gate check it. Be sure to pre-board so you have time to install the seat, it is not as simple as it is in car but still quite doable.

 

[tjmw2727]

I will preface this by saying I am an advocate of purchasing a seat for infants and toddlers and using a carseat. Knowing my stance I will provide some information and links but ultimately its your decision to make.

Both the AAP and the FAA recommend that a CRS be used for children under 40lbs as do most of the major airlines.
link to aap:
http://aappolicy.aappublications.or...cs;108/5/1218

Keep in mind that if you do decide to use a carseat it must have the sticker on the back that indicates it is approved for use in aircraft, most newer seats do have one.

A warning on the hopes of an open seat, most airlines are now overbooking so the chances are very slim. In addition a few airlines are no longer permitting the use of a CRS in an empty seat for an infant. Yes, they are actually flying it empty rather than "giving them away" to lap babies.

So its up to you if you want your chid in a carseat in the aircraft. We used a CRS for our girls up to age 3 closer to 4 for youngest dd, especially if we needed the carseat for ground transportation during the trip anyway.

FWIW No, I don't think badly of those who fly with lap children - I really don't think badly of anyone!!

TJ

 

[tjmw2727]

Entertaniment ~ color wonder, portable dvd if she is watching by then, sippie cup or bottle and interesting snacks. Stickers or tape and picture books are great. I have a feeling that closer to the trip you will have a good idea of what will keep her interested.

There are two threads going on the family board right now with tons of idea on airplane trips. Head over, its another great part of the dis.

TJ

 

[morrismhs]

I would second the buying of a seat for the baby. I flew the first time with my 15 mo DD and was glad she had her own seat. SHe was much more comfy in her carseat and actually fell asleep for about an hour. As you get closer see what foods your child will always eat and bring that. Goldfish and cheerios worked for me. A special blanket or toy might help too.

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

portable dvd if she is watching by then

A 1 year old? I really hope that there aren't a lot of people who think that watching tv/videos is appropriate for that age.

As to hopes for an empty seat, chances are slim to none that is going to happen, at least for all legs of your flight.