The first time flying with a baby is overwhelming; there’s no way around it. Between diaper blowouts, security lines, and the fear of judgmental stares, it can feel like a survival test. But it’s doable, and honestly, far less intimidating than you’d think. Most people are kind, and airline staff are used to helping families. With the right prep, you can make your baby’s first flight (and your sanity) go surprisingly smoothly.
Tip #1: Buy the Extra Seat (If You Can)
It’s not always realistic, and that’s okay. But if you can afford it, the extra seat is worth every penny. A car seat gives you both breathing room, helps your baby nap better, and keeps your arms from going numb. We’ve flown both ways, with and without a seat, and both can work. But if you’re debating it, do it. You won’t regret it.
Tip #2 – Time is your Friend
Get to the airport early. Like borderline obnoxiously early. Having that cushion helps you deal with diaper changes, unexpected meltdowns, or just slow-moving lines without panic. While some things are out of your control when flying with a baby, time shouldn’t be one of them. Time buys calm. Use it.
Tip #3: Boarding Strategy
Every airline handles “family boarding” differently, so check with the gate agent early. If they don’t specifically call for it, board when they invite “those who may need extra time.” You qualify.
Getting on early means you can set up bottles, wipes, and entertainment before the stampede begins, and that calm start sets the tone for the whole flight.
Tip #4: Seating Arrangements
If your baby’s in a car seat, it’ll need to go by the window for safety reasons. We didn’t know this, and we looked and felt a little dumb. Now you know. Car seats are also required to be airline-approved, which usually means you’ve got an airplane logo or sticker on the car seat somewhere. We’ve had flight attendants question it a few times, but we’ve always been just fine.
If you can, aim for bulkhead seats; that extra space in front is a game-changer. You lose under-seat storage, but you gain room to move, play, and breathe.
Bonus: Some airlines even have bassinets for babies under 26 lbs. Ours hated it, but if yours naps anywhere, take advantage. Look for the option when booking/managing a reservation, or give the airline a call ahead of time to confirm.
Tip #5: Popping Ears (and Snacks That Save You)
Babies’ ears don’t know what’s going on during takeoff and landing. The trick? Keep them sucking or swallowing, bottle, breastfeeding, or pacifier all work.
If your baby’s older, snacks help too. Applesauce pouches and soft crackers are our go-tos. It keeps them calm and helps their ears equalize.
Tip #6: Follow Their Routine — Even in the Sky
You can’t always plan flights around naps or bedtimes, but you can bring the routine with you. Change the diaper, brush teeth, zip into the sleep sack, feed, and rock just like you do at home. Your baby will be confused by the traveling experience, but if they know their routines, then they’ll know it’s time to go to sleep.
Tip #7: iPad Parents Unite
We used to say “no screens.” Then we flew with a toddler. We pull out all the tricks to help keep our baby happy. If Ms. Rachel buys you 20 minutes of peace, take it. Headband headphones were our go too when Hadley was smaller, now she’s got her own pink headphones that she absolutely loves. Don’t feel guilty, feel grateful.
Tip #8: Ignore the Peanut Gallery
Flying with a baby can be stressful; there’s no denying it, especially with so many people sitting around you. However, the reality is that most passengers don’t even notice or care. Most people are too wrapped up in their own worlds to care if your baby cries. Nowadays, everyone seems to have headphones and distractions, and your baby’s noises are barely heard above the sounds of the plane and their own entertainment. Babies cry. Planes are loud. Life goes on. We’ve flown with a baby who screamed half the flight. We survived. You will too.
Tip #9: Keep It Simple and Start Small
Don’t debut your parenting-on-the-go skills with a 14-hour flight to Europe.
Try a short weekend trip first. Get used to the rhythm, check-in, security, boarding, in-flight care, and deplaning. Once you’ve done it once, the mystery and fear disappear.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, when it comes to flying with a baby, you know your little one best. While these tips can be helpful, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. I’d be lying if I said it was easy, but it’s certainly not the nightmare the internet makes it out to be. Trust your instincts and do what feels right for you and your baby. Every flight makes you better. You’ll find what works, ignore what doesn’t, and eventually realize you’ve got this.
Have more tips you learned through experience? Comment below!