Tips for flying with an infant....

[two-foxes]

First, I did a search on this, as I am sure it has been discussed here, but I think you need a PhD to figure out the search fuction (at least I do!) So if there is a thread, please attach a link!

I will be flying with my son who will be under 4 months for the first time in October and I am nervous as all can be! What are the best tips for flying with a little bugger this young....from how the heck to change a diaper in the little bitty bathroom to dealing with a "I-puke-everytime-I-eat" (he has acid reflux) on the plane!

Also, this is a short weekend trip back home to Cleveland. Do you guys typically pack what diapers or supplies you need for the weekend or do you buy what you need at your destination and take what you don't use home? Silly questions...but what has worked best for those 3 night trips for you guys?

TIA!

 

[fun4disney]

1st, what a cutie you have.

this is what has worked for me.

I have purchased a seat for my DS. Then I can bring along and use his car seat. (ask about infant fares when you call the airline, they can be 50% off).

Then, because I have purchased a seat, I get 2 more pieces of checked luggage to bring along and 1 more carry on.

DS was used to sitting in the car seat, so that was good. He didn't need to get out.

How long is your flight? I think that your DS should be able to make it 2-3 hours without eating, so you wont have to worry about that while on the plane. Feed him right when you get on the plane and then take time after before going to baggage claim to feed him again. It always takes a long time to get your luggage anyway! Do the same for the diaper. Unless he - well smells- then you should be fine and not need to change him.

You can bring your stoller all the way to the gate and up to the plane door, then check it there. Then when you get off, it will be right there waiting for you.

It's not that hard to travel with a baby. Ok, I lied again...It is, but it's no harder than just trying to get out the door for a regular outing.

If you decide not to bring diapers or formula, make sure they have the same kind where you are going. Have a family member check. A babys bottom doesn't like to change diaper brands. If you do bring the diapers with you, make sure you have enough in your diaper bad incase your luggage gets "mis placed". If that happens, it will usually turn up in a few hours.

He's to small for "toys" and wont need to be intertained, so that is good. If you plan it right, he may even sleep all the way there.

Happy travels to you.

 

[Destination Disney]

Well stated above.

We just returned from a Georgia trip to see the in-laws and I had my MIL pick up the diapers I needed so I would have them there and I just paid her when I saw her. (however she refused the $)

Also during take off and landing be sure to allow the little guy to be able to have that sucking motion to swallow and pop his ears in case that may bother him. It worked wonders for my DD. You knowhow you feel when you need to "pop your ears".

 

[SalandJeff]

The first time we flew with dd, she was a lot older than your beautiful son. But I did have to change her a couple of times. There are fold down changing tables that cover the entire toilet area (at least on our flights that is what we found). So there was enough room for changing.

If you are traveling alone with your ds, I would follow the previous posters suggestion and have a family member get your diapers, etc. It will be less for you to carry because you will have your hands full. Also, depending on the airline, you may want to see if you can request the bulkhead seat which will give you a little more room.

 

[laughinplace199]

First of all, your little guy is adorable!

If you're checking a bag and you have room, it might be easier to bring diapers, wipes, etc., but if you're just using carryons, then I'd suggest buying supplies when you get there. Either way, make sure you have more than enough diapers, wipes, and formula (if you use it) for the flight. You never know when there will be delays.

We have traveled with kids lots of times, most recently in April when my youngest DS was 5 months and again in Aug when he was 9 mos. We always buy a seat for the baby so we can bring and use the car seat. I also bring extra clothes for baby and me (I also have a puker!). Some planes have changing tables that fold over the toilet lid. We've had to use them twice as DS always decides to poop on the way home from Orlando! Because of this, I always have zip lock bags and/or scented diaper disposal bags in my bag at all times.

At that age, they are really easy to travel with. He'll probably sleep most if not all of the flight. DS is always asleep before we even take off.

 

[NotUrsula]

Carry an emesis basin. I'm the Mom of a frequent-flying reflux kid, and I can tell you that you won't catch it all if he vomits, so be prepared to clean. Line the carseat with a towel, put another over his lap, and bring a full change of clothes for anyone who might hold him. Also a bag to seal all the soiled stuff in.

Worst time for vomiting is right after landing -- watch him carefully until you are back in the airport.

 

[julz_e]

you may want to take the little guy to the chiropractor... IT helped tremedously with my puker...and i am talking hospitalized for failure to thrive becasue he couldn't stop puking from the reflux.
I would keep him in the seat, that way when he pukes it's only on him, minimizing your mess. Otherwise maybe try a sling or something that will keep him close to you, but upright, and bring a change of shrits (s) for you!
good luck!