If you're new to the world of flying with a baby, these 7 essentials for flying with your baby in 2023 will help you plan. Flying with a baby can be a challenging task, make a toddler and the task gets more challenging still. And let's not even mention if you're traveling alone. However, with the right gear, you can make the trip less stressful.
Here are 7 essential items you need to bring when flying with a baby:
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Formula or milk
- Snacks
- A baby carrier
- A stroller
- A change of clothes
Diapers:
Some people will recommend to pack enough diapers for the whole trip, plus a few extra just in case. However, unless you are traveling to extreme remote locations, diapers are sold everywhere. Another exception to this rule is if your child uses specific diapers. It's important to have enough diapers for the duration of the trip (including time to get to your hotel from airport etc) plus a few extras, but we do not recommend storing 80 diapers in your luggage if you're going to Toronto. Don't forget the diaper cream and any other diapering essentials you might need. Again, these can be found anywhere but if you have a specific brand you use, take it with you on your carry on.
Traveling soon with your baby and want to learn how to do it stress and anxiety free? Check out "The Ready To Fly Mom Course."
Wipes:
Keep a pack of wipes within reach for quick clean-ups and messes. I like to keep a pack on my stroller, another one in the car, another one and one more on my purse. This is all besides the one on the diaper bag. If I am flying, then I store one in the snack bag and another one on my carry on (besides the stroller and diaper bag) so I guarantee I always have wipes handy.
Formula or milk:
If your baby is on formula, bring enough for the entire trip unless you are absolutely sure the brand you like is available at your destination. If you're breastfeeding and pump, make sure to bring a breast pump if needed.
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Snacks:
Pack healthy snacks for both you and your baby. It's important to keep your baby from being hungry during flights, especially because there are so many unfamiliar circumstances around this day already. The last thing you want to do is get your baby hangry on a flight. Likewise make sure the snacks you bring are foods your baby already knows and loves. A flight is the least ideal place to try new foods (if that's all that's available). Some good options include fruit pouches, crackers, and dry cereal, as well as fruits such as bananas and apples.
Baby carrier:
A baby carrier can be a lifesaver when flying with a baby. It frees up your hands, and allows you to keep your baby close and comfortable. It's great to board or deplane if your baby falls asleep. It's also a life saviour if you're boarding with more than one bag.
Stroller:
A lightweight stroller is a must for getting around the airport and keeping your baby comfortable during the flight. But before you go searching on amazon for the next travel stroller hear me out!
The stroller you travel with should be decided based on the destination you're going to and NOT the travel time itself. AKA think of the vacation and not the airport time. Most people pack convenient umbrella strollers for ease of use around the airport and plane. While this may seem like a sound idea, imagine walking around Paris with an umbrella stroller for 8 hours 😖! Or strolling through the streets of India in your brand new city travel stroller? I hope you catch my point here. Pack a stroller that is optimal for your destination (if different than your everyday one) and just gate check it before boarding.
PS: Bring a stroller case/bag for protection if you have a nicer stroller.
Read all about the best travel strollers (read for different destinations) of 2023 here!
Change of clothes:
Accidents happen, so make sure to pack a change of clothes for both you and your baby. Yes, you read that right. You need clothes for everyone who will be in close contact with the baby. Unfortunately, babies are unpredictable and very prone to public displays of bodily fluids, so better come prepared. This does not happen to every parent or in every flight, but keep in mind that it does happen.
Pro Tip: Put the changes of clothes inside a plastic or silicone ( read waterproof) bag. This will save you if you have a leak inside the bag.
Flying with a baby can be a breeze if you have the right gear. The 7 essentials for flying with your baby listed above are essential for making your trip stress-free and enjoyable. Remember to pack enough diapers, wipes, formula or milk, snacks, a baby carrier, a stroller, and a change of clothes. With these items, you'll be ready for anything the trip throws your way.
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xoxo
The TFA Family
