Almost every parent worries about the crying-baby-on-a-plane moment. The good news is that most babies do better than you expect, and a little planning goes a long way. Here's how to set your baby (and yourself) up for a calmer flight.
Before you fly
Pick your flight time with naps in mind. If your baby naps well on the go, a flight during nap time can mean a sleepy, peaceful stretch. Early morning flights also tend to be less crowded and less delayed.
Choose your seat wisely. A window seat gives you a little privacy for feeding and keeps your baby away from the aisle cart. A bulkhead row gives you more legroom, and some airlines offer a bassinet there for small babies, so it's worth asking when you book.
Get to the airport with time to spare. Rushing through security with a baby stresses everyone out. Babies pick up on that. Give yourself extra time so you can change a diaper, feed, and walk around before boarding.
At the gate
Let your baby move. Before boarding, let your baby crawl, kick, or bounce in a carrier. A little activity now can mean more rest later.
Think twice about pre-boarding. Many airlines let families with small children board early. That's great if you need time to settle in, but it also means more time in the seat. If one parent can board early with the bags while the other stays at the gate with the baby, you get the best of both.
During takeoff and landing
Changes in cabin pressure can make little ears uncomfortable. Swallowing helps. Try nursing, a bottle, or a pacifier as the plane climbs and again as it starts to descend. The descent usually begins well before landing, so start offering a feed when the pilot or crew announces the descent, not when you feel the wheels touch down.
If your baby is asleep, you don't need to wake them. Sleeping babies often do just fine.
In the air
Pack a few new things. A small toy, a crinkly book, or a board book your baby hasn't seen yet can buy you a lot of happy minutes. Hand them out one at a time.
Use everyday objects. A paper cup, a napkin, or the safety card (with a close eye on little mouths) can be just as entertaining as a toy.
Walk the aisle. When the seatbelt sign is off, a short walk and a change of scenery can reset a fussy baby.
Keep the routine where you can. If your baby has a sleep sack, a lovey, or a song you sing at bedtime, bring it along. Familiar things help babies feel safe in a strange place.
Try white noise. The hum of the plane is already a kind of white noise, and many babies find it soothing. A white noise app on your phone, played softly, can help too.
If your baby cries anyway
It happens, and it's okay. Most passengers have been there or understand. Stay calm, try feeding, a diaper change, a walk, or a change of position, and remember that the flight will end. You're doing a great job.
What to have in your diaper bag
Diapers for the flight plus a few extra for delays
Wipes and a portable changing pad
A change of clothes for your baby, and a spare shirt for you
Plenty of formula, breast milk, or snacks
A pacifier, plus a backup
A light blanket or swaddle
A few small toys or books
Arrive Ready Baby makes the trip lighter, so you can focus on your baby instead of your luggage. We deliver a baby box to your hotel or rental in the Chicago area before you arrive, with a travel bassinet, a compact stroller, a white noise machine, a diaper pail, diapers, wipes, and formula in your brand. Reserve your baby box and land to a room that's ready for your baby.
