Flying With Infants

10 Tips: Flying with Infants

Maura Huntz

Reviewed by: Anthony Bruno

Updated: August 17, 2024

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Key Topics:

• 1. Lap or Separate Seat?
• 2. Ease the (Ear) Pressure
• 3. Keep Baby Items Within Easy Reach
• 4. Carry Extras
• 5. Dress Your Baby in Comfortable Layers
• 6. Review TSA Policies
• 7. Don’t Forget Medications
• 8. Pre-Board Like You Own It
• 9. Gate Check Baby Gear
• 10. Flying with More Than One Lap Infant
• FAQ: Flying with Infants

Planning to take your little one on a flight? With some preparation, you can keep your baby happy and safe throughout the journey, and make your flying experience much better too!

1. Lap or Separate Seat?

I've been in the situation where I had to decide whether to keep my baby on my lap or buy a separate seat (I won't even get into what happened a few years later when I had twins!). While many airlines allow infants to sit on your lap without an extra ticket, I learned the hard way that it’s not always the best option. During a particularly turbulent flight, I struggled to keep my baby secure, and it made me realize how much safer it would have been to use a child safety restraint system (CRS). If you can, I highly recommend booking a separate seat and using an FAA-approved car seat. Some airlines might offer a discount for infants, but it’s best not to rely on that.

2. Ease the (Ear) Pressure

One of my biggest concerns during my baby’s first flight was how the change in pressure would affect her ears. To help with this, I always breastfeed or give a bottle during takeoff and landing. It’s amazing how something so simple can make a big difference. I recall once I started feeding my daughter too early, and she finished her bottle before we even took off. Now, I always wait until the plane is literally leaving the ground before starting.

3. Keep Baby Items Within Easy Reach

I’ll never forget the time I left my baby’s favorite pacifier in the overhead bin—it was a real pain trying to retrieve it during the flight, as I couldnt leave her alone for 2 seconds. Now, I always make sure everything essential is within arm’s reach. Diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and small toys are all packed in a diaper bag under the seat in front of me. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort to organize your carry-on bag so you don’t have to struggle during the flight. Learn more about what to pack in your carry-on baggage.

Traveling with a baby can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be! In this video, you'll get a step-by-step guide to flying with a baby, packed with practical tips and insights that can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. As someone who has flown countless times, I found this video incredibly helpful in preparing for my first flight with my little one. From essential paperwork to comfort items and electronics, this guide covers it all. Don't miss out on these invaluable tips—watch the video and make your next flight with a baby a breeze!

4. Carry Extras

I used to think I could predict exactly how many diapers and how much formula I’d need for a flight—until our flight was delayed for three hours. Now, I always pack more than I think I’ll need. Extra diapers, wipes, and formula have saved the day more than once. There’s nothing worse than running out of essentials mid-flight or during an unexpected delay. Check out some helpful kids’ carry-on tips page.

5. Dress Your Baby in Comfortable Layers

Planes can be cold one minute and hot the next, so I always dress my baby in layers. One flight, I had her in a thick onesie, and she was so uncomfortable. Since then, I opt for a light onesie with a jacket or sweater that can be easily removed. This way, I can adjust her clothing based on the temperature in the cabin, which makes for a much happier baby and a more peaceful flight.

6. Review TSA Policies

Navigating airport security with an infant can be stressful, but knowing the TSA policies beforehand has helped me avoid many headaches. On one occasion, I forgot to declare the formula in my bag, which led to extra screening. Now, I always inform the TSA agents about any baby food or formula I’m carrying, and I ask them to change their gloves before handling anything. It’s a small step that makes a big difference. You can find more on this at our infant travel rules page.

7. Don’t Forget Medications

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to never forget to pack any medications in my carry-on. On one trip, I realized too late that I’d packed my baby’s medication in my checked bag—it was a stressful few hours. Since then, I keep all necessary medications in my diaper bag, clearly labeled and easily accessible. It’s reassuring to know they’re there if I need them.

8. Pre-Board Like You Own It

One of the perks of traveling with a baby is getting to board the plane first. I used to feel awkward about it, but now I embrace it fully. Pre-boarding gives me the chance to settle in, organize my things, and make sure my baby is comfortable before the rush of passengers begins. It’s a little bit of peace before the chaos of a full flight.

9. Gate Check Baby Gear

Gate checking our stroller and car seat has been a lifesaver on many trips. There’s no need to juggle everything at once—I use the stroller right up until we board, and then hand it off at the gate. It’s waiting for us when we land, which makes navigating the airport so much easier. Plus, I always make sure to use gate-check bags to protect our gear from getting dirty or damaged. Check out our tips for flying with toddlers for more insights.

10. Flying with More Than One Lap Infant

Traveling alone with two lap infants? I’ve been there (twins!), and it’s a challenge. Airlines allow only one lap infant per adult, so if you’re flying solo with two babies, you’ll need to buy an extra ticket. When traveling with another adult, we had to switch seats because only one lap infant is allowed per row due to the limited number of oxygen masks. It’s a good idea to discuss seating arrangements with the flight attendants when you board.