by Julie Bywater

Created on: December 29, 2007

It doesn't have to be a nightmare. A little planing ahead and common sense can make traveling with an infant a breeze. I flew with infant for the first time when my oldest was four months old. I've since flown many times with my children when they were young. I've installed my carseats on many different airplanes and airlines. I've learned a few tricks along the way.

Try to fly during off-peak travel days, usually during the middle of the week. If possible, try to pick flight times that will coincide with nap times or evenings when baby is drowsy. Try not to disrupt their schedule any more than possible. If you have the choice, pick a direct flight, or one with the least amount of connections. The more you have to change e, the more likely you are to run into delays.

First and foremost, buy tickets for all individuals traveling. This includes the baby. While most airlines will allow infants under the age of 2 to travel in the lap of a parent/caregiver, I would not advise this for several reasons. Babies are used to their carseats and know what the expect while riding in one. This does not change just because the mode of travel has. Many infants find the seat reassuring and fall asleep as they do while traveling in the car. Also, having their own seat gives you much more flexibility to eat, relax, and take care of babies needs.

You will also need a carseat where you are traveling and the best way for that carseat to get there is with the baby. It can't get lost if the baby is using it. Also, the baby is safest when traveling in their own FAA approved carseat. You can check for this on your infant's safety seat. There will be a sticker stating this information on their seat. Check with the FAA, http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/, and print out their recommendations prior to flying. Take it with you; some airline attendants aren't familiar with FAA policy regarding carseats. Request extra time to board so that you have plenty of time to install the seat. Read the safety seats instructions thoroughly before flying the first time. Be aware that some seats are easier to install with a belt extender.

Take a compact stroller (commonly known as a umbrella-type) with you, or sling/carrier. This will make going through the airport easier on you. Another useful item is a small luggage cart that you can bungee-cord your carseat to. Make sure you have a large diaper bag with twice as many diapers and wipes as the amount of travel indicates. It should also contain

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>