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Berkeley Parents Network > Advice > Going Places > Travel with Babies



Trip to East Coast with 9-month-old

Nov 2005

We have a 9 month old we will be travelling to Boston and NYC with. We will be checking his carseat, and have a car to use in Boston, but in NYC no car. We will mostly be doing subway and walking in NYC, but for getting to/from airport, we were going to do a cab, but don't know -- can you put a carseat into the cab? Anyone done that? Better alternative? Any other travel tips would be appreciated as well -- esp re: (1) should we bring pak-n-play? (2) if we get an xtra seat on the flight, should we try to bring the carseat ON the plane? (3) we're bringing bjorn, which he likes, but should we also bring a stroller? (4) should we pack babyfood, or just buy while we're there (he eats mostly jars)? Thanks! Jamie


I have travelled quite a bit on airplanes with my now 18 month old son. My advice to your questions would be:

If you BOOK a seat for your child, bring the car seat on the plane. If you DON'T book a seat, check your carseat as you would a bag - if you wind up trying to bring it on the plane ''in case'' there is an empty seat and there isn't, they'll need to gate check your carseat - uncovered - and it will get manhandled. To check it as luggage, we bought one of those embarassing but lifesaving ''backpack cases'' that you can place a carseat in and then wear it on your back. Goofy looking, yes. But have you ever tried to lug around a carseat? Plus, you can jam clothes into it.

If we take a cab to the airport here in Oakland, we attach the carseat in the cab, un-attach at the airport, put carseat in bag, shove clothes in (already in plastic shopping bags for easy shoving), check it with luggage. Reverse on the other end, attach carseat in cab/my mom's car/friend's car in NY.

Do you know anyone who can lend you a pack-n-play (or are you staying in a hotel who should have a crib for your room?)? If so, borrow that instead of lugging around carseat AND PnP AND luggage AND baby. Blech. That said, if I couldn't borrow one in NY, I'd (reluctantly) bring one along.

Bring the stroller - you can check it at the gate (wheeling it to door of plane, doesn't count as luggage), and rolling baby around while carrying bags is infinitely easier than carrying baby while carrying bags.

As for food - BRING SOME. Bring extra. Bring something like a cookie that you'd ordinarily not let him/her eat. I make sure I have more than enough food in case of delays, etc.

And some unsolicited advice: I often offer to buy my immediate seatmates (front/back/next) a glass of wine as soon as we're all seated - I pre-apologize about their sitting next to a baby and offer the glass of wine. It's a great ice-breaker and disarms most of the people we've flown with.

Good luck! CK


We took our then 9-m.o. cross country over summer. The airline (United) lost our bags---and with it all his clothes, food, diapers. So I'd recommend packing a couple of days worth of clothes, diapers, PJs, jars, etc. in case something like that happens to you (not that I'd wish it on you!) Do take food with you. There's nothing worse than arriving after a long plane trip and having to scurry around looking for somewhere to get basic supplies. Or do a web search for supermarkets near where you're staying that will have eeverything you want. We found everything we needed at Shaw's in Boston and we're Wholefoods junkies.

As for the carseat on the plane, I'd bring it. We had a seat for our son and he was able to nap in the carseat. Set it in the plane seat facing you if you can--that way your son can't kick the seat in front of him :)

All the hotels we've stayed in (four) had some sort of pack'n'play/crib that was fine. But bring a familiar light blanket or sheet. And none of the hotel cribs have bumpers so if you're worried about your son seeing you in the room and getting distracted and not sleeping, bring a bumper or something to secure a hotel towel or similar to the crib.

And do bring a stroller, a light one if you have it. Even if you're Bjorning the baby, a stroller is good for loading up with a bag or two in airports! Some strollers also carry some carseats (w/o baby), which makes getting around a bit easier.

Have a great trip! Anon traveler

Editor Note: also see additional advice about Car Seats and Cabs in NYC


8-month-old: Front vs. rear, Changing diapers on the plane

Nov 2004

My husband and I are traveling by plane with our 8 month old for the first time. I have read past postings about this topic, but was wondering if anyone else had any tips. I am very anxious about it. We have purchased a seat for her, but I have some questions. What is the best way to change a dirty diaper on the plane? Is it better to sit in the front or rear of the plane? We also have a layover at one airport before we reach our destination. Does anyone have any other suggestions? first time mom


I don't have a suggestion as to where to sit in the plane. We've sat with our growing baby in all different parts and none was more convenient or inconvenient.

As for changing diapers, most airplanes have a changing table in the bathroom. When our daughter was a baby, we changed her there. Now we change her on the seat (if it's just pee) 'cause it's more convenient (less crowded than the bathroom). Flying with babies is actually much easier than it sounds, just make sure they have something to suck when the plane takes off/lands (or breastfeed them), and give them plenty of liquids through the trip. anon


Hi - I can empathize with your fears. I was a wreck before our direct flight to NY this past summer (son was 20 mos), but as everyone had said, it worked out fine. Changed wet diapers there in the seats (got the 3 middle row seats). Didn't have to deal with a poopy diaper; I don't think he was ever 'relaxed' enough to poop. With a layover, you'll have the perfect opportunity to change diapers, etc.

I would recommend the back - I ended up walking my son to the back galley and the flight attendants were great about it. (One of them even got out some dry ice, then poured water over it, to entertain my son...eventually it lulled him to sleep!) Plus my general feeling is that if your baby is cranky, the less people around you the better - too much visibility in the front! But my main recommendation is to get the middle seats if that's an option on your flight. Good luck! anon


I also saw, on this last trip, small rooms in the airport, near the restrooms, labeled as ''Nursery''. These had a changing table, sink, chair, etc. in them. Could be worth looking for on your layover. Kim
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for buying a seat for your child. I cannot begin to describe how horriffic it is to fly seated next to someone attempting to restrain an 8 month old child on his/her lap for 6-12 hours.

Re: diaper changing, please use the bathroom. Your child's soiled diapers with excrement should be confined to an area with a door and where they cannot contaminate or disturb other paying travelers.

I once sat next to a woman who, immediately before the dinner service, proceeded to lay her daughter on her lap and change her diaper loaded with excrement, and, put the dirty diaper on her tray table. It was beyond disgusting. Changing diapers in public should be done in a restroom to prevent disease transmission and out of respect for others.

I fly a great deal and usually it is better for everyone if parents flying with young kids are in the back. The reason is that it usually takes longer for them to board and deplane and this can wind up holding everybody else back and creating an environment where the tension gets ratcheted up beyond what it is already on today's completely full flights. Alternately, use miles to upgrade your family to business or first.

Bring her favorite snacks, non-noise making toys, and, the things you know she likes to drink. Try having her suck during take off, descent and landing to help with the ear popping thing. There's always Benadryl if it's a long flight. Good luck and thank you for acting responsibly by purchasing a seat for your child. anon


We flew with our baby when he was 3 months and again just this Thanksgiving when he was 6 months. I recommend calling the airline and asking if the plane you will be on has a changing table in the lavatory. I assumed they all had them and then on this last trip, one of our planes didn't have any. I had to change him on the back of the toilet seat cover! I would also recommend changing your baby right before the flight so that if it isn't too long of a flight, you might not need to change him/her at all. I would also recommend the front of the plane. If you are lucky, you might get to use the first class lavatory which sometimes is a little bigger. Finally, the airlines no longer ask for families with small children to pre-board, but if you ask them, they usually will let you. This gives you some extra time to get to your seat and get settled. Good luck! Kim
I fly with my child often and generally head to the middle of the plane, just behind the wing/emergency exit rows. The noise/vibration from the engines helps her sleep.

Also, some airlines have changing tables in the bathrooms -- all JetBlue planes (in every bathroom...hey, the founder has 9 kids, he knows what Moms need) and many of the larger aircraft of other airlines (747, 767, 777) have changing tables in one of the restrooms. Carry a plastic bag for disposal in the aircraft bathroom. If a plane does not have a changing table (an issue that I hit on Southwest a lot), I just do the bizarre balancing act on the toilet seat lid. It isn't pretty, but it works. Even if the flight attendant tells you otherwise, please don't change the diaper at the seat. It grosses me out and I have a kid. Hand down, though, he absolute best method that I have found for changing diapers on planes, is to smile sweetly at my husband and say 'honey, I think that she needs changing' and off he goes. :-) anon


Hi, we went to Spain with our 6 month old. We sat in the front, where there is a fold-down bed for the baby. We didn't have to buy an extra ticket.

I recommend the front row because if your child gets antsy, she can climb up and down the seat, or crawl an play on the floor in front of you without disturbing anyone in front. Plus there's a little more room.. These seats are really popular with families, so I would reserve as soon as possible if you decide to go that route. GC


We flew a LOT with our kids when they were small (we still fly with them, but the oldest is now a kindergartener, so we have school vacations to consider). In no particular order, here are things I've found useful when flying:

1. You mentioned that you bought a seat for your 8 month old, and that should give you some peace of mind. If you don't purchase a seat, and the plane is not full, you can still bring your carseat on and buckle up the child. This is highly recommended, not just as a safety measure, but also because if your child falls asleep in his/her seat in the car, s/he may do so in the plane, which is a great releaf to all concerned. Also, keep your stroller with you till the last minute, and gate check it at the bottom of the ramp. It makes a good luggage rack and carseat transporter, even if the kids aren't in it.

2. Bring an EXTRA LARGE changing pad. Some airlines have changing tables in their bathrooms now (Jet Blue does), but not all of them. If you're in a bulkhead seat, the floor works well for changing, otherwise, with a big pad, you're ''covered'' in the isle, or on a row of seats, or whatever spot you can find.

3. Although we mosty use cloth diapers, we only bring disposables when travelling. Bring more than you think you'll need on the plane, as babies tend to have bowel movements on takeoffs and landings, due to (the flight attendent tells me) changes in cabin pressure. Also bring LOTS of plastic bags for disposal of same, and extra wipes. Note: Some flight attendants actually told me that moms have handed them dirty diapers to throw out. They don't appreciate it one bit.

4. Also, if you nurse, try nursing on takeoff and landing if the baby is experiencing ear discomfort.

5. Front Vs. Rear: We like the front, because of the bulkhead. But what's really important is that you be near a galley, for things you may need like trash disposal, juice, etc. If your baby drinks milk, be aware that some carriers do not have milk, (like Southwest), only juice.

6. Expect to be entertaining your child the entire trip. Forget reading, or visiting. If you get to do that, it's a bonus. Bring every amusement you can think of for the child--Books, toys, etc., including one or two new things. Keep a few out of the overhead compartment before takeoff---you may be on the runway longer than anticipated. Ditto for food. TRY NOT TO PICK LOUD OR OBNOXIOUSLY REPETITIVELY NOISY TOYS. You may need help from your fellow passengers at some point. It's easier if they don't hate you.

7. Label everything. We even put a tag on our toddlers overalls, just in case he wandered off.

8.Make sure your carryon has enough of everything that if you get stranded somewhere overnight, you can cope.

9. Welcome the kindness of strangers. If you are alone with the kids, and somebody offers to help you carry a stroller, or carseat, LET THEM! You can return the favor someday when you are not encumbered. T.L.


I've travelled 4 times cross-country already with my 7-month- old, and the best solution I've found to the diaper issue is to use an overnight diaper and not change it on the plane. If this seems too gross to you, some planes have changing tables in the bathroom; I've also done it in the bulkhead area. I don't think it matters much where you sit, unless you're on United and you can get Premier seats with more legroom. Also, if you're planning to nurse to help your baby's ears (this may not be necessary -- I only found the pressure to be a problem for my baby when he was getting over an ear infection), you might also want to bring a bottle with water in it, in case he wants a little now and then, and it's not really time to eat. And bring some toys and books. My baby also spent a lot of time playing with ''airplane toys'' (i.e., an unopened pack of snack pretzels, a plastic cup, an empty milk container after I drank the milk). And remember that even if it turns out to be hard, it only lasts so long. You'll be fine! lara
I like the rear because you are generally near more bathrooms. There may be a map of your airplane at www.seatguru.com. Most airplane bathrooms have a changing table, but ask a flight attendant about it as you board. David
Airplane travel with an 8-month-old is relatively easy. (That is, harder than travelling by yourself but easier than travelling with a toddler.)

Most (though not all) airplanes have fold-down diaper changing stations in the restrooms.

As for the layover, the hard thing about that is that most airports don't have any quiet, dark areas in which to help your baby fall asleep if it's his or her naptime. I have heard that some airports DO have this -- Philadelphia and Houston, I think. Perhaps the airport you're stopping at has a website you can check to find out. You could try bringing a dark or opaque blanket and draping it over him or her either while you're breastfeeding or while she is in her stroller, and perhaps she'll fall asleep (though not likely with all of the noise and action going on).

I strongly recommend bringing your carseat on board to install in her seat -- we found our baby slept in it quite well (you can install it forward-facing). I also recommend bringing an umbrella stroller and checking it at the gate and requesting that it be available to you at the layover airport. This way, you can put her in the stroller and walk her around the airport so she can see all the lights and action.

If she likes looking at books, I recommend ''The Big Book of Everything.'' It's got pictures of everything under the sun. It kept our baby entertained for quite a long time.

As for front versus back, I don't think it makes much difference. Some people say that it's better to be towards the back because it's less crowded and closer to the restroom. Depends on how quick your connection is, I think. Happy traveller


Above all...don't stress! Flying can be stressful but I have found everyone to be accommodating and very helpful when we fly with our baby. We have taken about 10 flights since our daughter was born and have not had any problems at all. All airlines, I believe except Southwest, have changing tables in the restrooms. When we take Southwest we just lay her across the seats to change her. I find it best to take the bulkhead seats in the front (if you're allowed to preboard) as this is the roomiest section and easiest to get in and out. If your baby gets fussy or ansy a lot of times the flight attendants, being close by, will come and play with them too. Definitely be attentive to your baby - we all hate it when the parent is sitting there reading or watching the movie while the kid wails! But if you are trying, and you still have a fussy baby, people are very understanding. Advice for layover...check as much as you can so you're not hauling around all your stuff thru another airport. Once you get this one over with, you'll feel ready to do it more, and traveling to new places is a great gift to give your little one. Good luck!
I have traveled with small children quite frequently over long distances - it is never as nerve-wracking as you might expect beforehand. The airlines are well versed in people coming aboard with babies. Airplanes have restrooms equipped with fold- down changing stations. You can tell which ones are the right ones by the symbol on the door showing the parent with infant. Please don't change the child on the seat - it is not that safe and I would assume not that sanitary, and doesn't go over well with the other passengers around you. The trick of using the changing stations is being able to get up for an extended period, when you can be sure that you won't hit turbulence - speaking from experience bumby air makes it hard to balance in the bathroom while changing baby. The front of the plane is always better if you have a choice - the rear is much more susceptible to turbulence. If you can when you make your reservation, you should request a bulkhead seat - that is where most airlines prefer to seat parents with children. If it is a long flight/big plane, these seats are also the ones with attachable bassinets (provided by the airline) but I have to confess I haven't seen those used on domestic flights, just international ones. SM
I have taken the plane 6 times with my baby. In planes for long flights (overseas) you'll find changing tables in the restrooms. For national flights I ask the flight attendant where is best to change my baby. Sometimes it was OK to do it on our seats and once we did it on the floor covered by a blanket they gave me on the back of the plane. Have a nice trip barbara
We always try to get the front so that we can get off the plane as soon as possible after it lands. There are few things more frustrating than dealing with a cranky/poopy baby while you wait 10+ minutes for the plane to empty out. I always request a bulkhead ahead of time as it gives you more room-- they usually accomodate parents with babies.

Jet Blue is the best for diaper changes...all planes have a changing table in the lav. I bring a receiving blanket solely for the purpose of covering the changing table. I also carry sanitizer, which I never use at home, and I use it frequently. I'm normally one of those parents who figures exposure builds their immune systems, but on planes I get very germ wary-- there's too much nasty stuff coming in from all over the place on a plane.

Other airlines are hit and miss -- ask when you book if the plane has a changing table -- if not, nice airline attendants have let me change my daughter on their pull down seat in the back of the plane- and even closed the curtain for me! I've also had an attendant stop me from changing a wet diaper on the floor of the bulkhead (on a disposable changing pad). While I wouldn't subject other passengers to a poopy diaper, I personally don't think that changing a wet diaper on a pad is rude - although this is a personal judgment call. I've done it a number of times and only had an attendant ask me to stop once.

Buying a seat at that age is a wise move; we have done lap baby until now, and the last trip we took (she was 91/2 months) made us swear not to do it again.

If you have any other questions feel free to email me. We've traveled a number of times with our daughter via plane. brb


Hi I travelled to England with my 8 mo old son this summer. I was worried about the flight as I was flying alone with him but it was fine. There is a bathroom on the plane that has a changing table, ask the attendants where it is. I also advise you to take a bag of toys that baby hasn't seen before as well as some old favourites and books. I distracted my son with different toys, books, cheerios and walks around the plane. Hope this helps, good luck! Vanessa

Flying on my own to Ireland with 6-month-old

March 2004

I am travelling with my son to Ireland in a few weeks time. He will be 6 months old when we take the 11-hour flight. I will be flying on my own as my husband can't get the time off so I am looking for the following advice: - How do I make the 11 hour flight as pleasant as possible for my baby and for my fellow passengers bearing in mind that I will be alone? Any advice on what to pack in carry on luggage would be really helpful. - How do I help my son deal with the jet lag? - How do I help him adjust to the eight hour time difference? Please help - I am nervous about this first flight with baby! Thanks! Grainne.


We flew to Germany with our then six month old baby. I too was nervous but it all went well. We flew with Lufthansa I believe and they can provide baby beds if you request it and are able to sit in the right place. Our very social baby was thrilled and excited to be around lots of people. He nursed at take-off but I had a bottle prepared in case he didn't want to. Despite my concerns, it went well. He slept a few hours but did OK with jet lag. There's not much one can do to help them adjust so you may have a few tiring days but it will work out. Be sure you have a light-weight fold-up stroller that is easy for you to carry if need be. Do find out about the possibility of baby beds if you're taking a European airlines. If it's an American airlines, they don't have them. Transnational Mama
Hi, I travelled with my 6 week old daughter, then when she was 4.5 months and again when she was 8.5 and 9 months to and from Europe. 11 hour flights and jetlag. At six months, if the sleep routine is not that set in for the child it does not really matter. You must continue the day as is when you land and follow what you would normally do back home until night time. Naps, feeds etc. The baby will wake up during the night confused and probably want to play, amuse him/her and then go back to sleep. It takes a few days to adjust, especially for the parent. You will be very tired. As to what to bring on the flight, bring her toys to play with, a blanket to sit on the floor so she can play, lots of diapers (you never know when the flight will be delayed). If nursing, food is not a issue, if he/she eats, some baby food and lots of patience and calmness. It really is not that bad. You will get a travel cot at the bulk head of the plane. Get to the airport early so that you get one, there are limited cots and once they are gone thats it, baby is on your lap. As it is a night flight it should be ok. Nurse baby on take off and landing so that the ears don't pop, and generally have a great trip. Travelling mama
My husband and I flew to France last summer with 11 month old twins. The flight over was an over-night flight and the flight back departed Europe at 10am (so it was a day flight, but when we landed in SFO it was 5pm west coast time but 1am France time). The overnight flight was a little easier as our girls slept for about five hours overnight. The day flight was harder on us and on them because no one in the plane seemed to want to calm down and sleep so there was a constant buzz of conversation, and other passengers moved about constantly which restulted in a lot of bumping into us while we walked around the plane with an over-tired but awake girl. Several times one of our girls was wakened by the meer jossle. I'd take an overnight flight again both ways in a heartbeat.

We used all of our carry on luggage for baby food, toys, books, diapers, and a change of clothes. We also bought the infant bassinet that hangs on a wall which we used for sleeping kids, but also for storage. It was most valuable when the girls were awake because we prepared food there, stored toys that would have been under our feet otherwise, and let a girl sit in it while we played with her. We also walked one baby around the plane very frequently which kept her less figity. I think the shuffle from parent, to bassinet, to walking resulted in very little fussiness. However, it was very tiring, as you can probably surmise, for us. The alternative seemed less desirable; we didn't want crying kids the entire flight, which we did see with other kids whose parents sat in their seats the entire flight.

On our flight over, there was a mom with baby, alone. I believe her son slept for only short periods which must have tired her more than normal because at one point she had a little cry. The passengers around her volunteered to watch her son while she departed for the bathroom. She as in there for half an hour at least. I assume she needed the break and her son was asleep while she was gone. Likewise, he was in no danger being watched by strangers on a plane. I wondered if travelling alone also meant she'd had to do all the pre-flight prep (like packing) alone before her flight which could have contributed to her on- flight fatigue. If so, the care of her son added to her travel fatigue. If my guess is right then make sure you get a ton of rest before you fly. It will help with any ''off-schedule'' baby surprises you have to deal with in transit.

One tip, see if your airline will let you check a stroller on the plane. This is invaluable when you exit the plane to collect your baggage. If you are carrying on an infant car set, you won't need the stroller though if you use a luggage cart to carry the car set through airports.

As for jet lag: our pediatrician wasn't terribly keen on the idea of bringing along baby Benedryl to use as a sleep aid for jet lag. We'd heard from other travelling parents who recommended this. His advice was to just go with a two-to-three day natural flow of letting our girls, and us, adjust to the time difference once there. For the most part we did this; giving lunch at 6pm, dinner and play time at 1am. However, we did bring along Triminic cough syrup (don't get a cough syrup with any other symptom relievers like an antihistimine) to give to them in desparation. We used it two or three times around 3 or 4 AM when our girls had been up for a few hours and we needed to go back to sleep. Our pediatrician advised that Benedryl hipes up some kids (about 10% who take it) and recommended Triminic instead. We let them sleep for as long as they liked otherwise through the morning.

The first few days after landing, and when you return home, are very tiring because you and your kids(s) are jet lagged. This is just normal. Don't plan much then and just adjust. Be prepared to take on a schedule set by your jet lagged child and wake and sleep ''off hours'' until he has adjusted. It was a little overwhelming but short lived. Our girls adjusted in about three days and were completely fine and happy afterward. Since adjusting to jet lag is a a time commitment for you both, I'd never recommend a short trip over because you need some tourist/family time in between the jet lag adjustment. Overall, we have no regrets going and had a memorable trip. You will too. Good luck! travelled with twins


I flew for the first time (also alone) with my 6 mth old last November. The best advise I got from the network was introduce yourself to your neighbor at the very beginning!! There was a 20ish man next to me (I was by the window). I asked if he had kids and he said he had neices/nephews. I joked that I hoped he brought his ear plugs and he did laugh. My son nursed/slept almost the whole flight but did cry when we were landing (around 15 minutes straight). The man tried to distract him, played peek-a-boo and ended up carrying our bags to the waiting stroller. By making the first move, it erased any stress and pressure that I was feeling and ended up being great. Good luck with your flight and have fun. DiAnn
Hi, I just have one comment about the flight. We flew to Europe on United when our daughter was 5 months old. We asked for a bassinet, having seen the hanging ones before (on United, no less!). We were told we would have one. When we got there, we were told the bassinet was on the floor by our seat. Looking down we found a sort of zip-up papoose-like thing, just laying on the floor, made of vinyl! We were supposed to insert our daughter into this floppy thing and zip it up, like a foot in a shoe, and then leave her on the floor, loose, for the duration of her sleep! She did not like the vinyl, she did not like the way the sides kept drooping onto her, and she did not like the sound of the engines coming through the floor. We didn't like the way the vinyl seemed like it might smother her, and it seemed consummately unsafe, the way it was completely unanchored. We ended up holding her the whole overnight flight, and wished we had been prepared for it. Just be careful to ask specifically what the airplane is providing. I also recommend working hard to get some bulkhead seats so that you have room to move around and put down toys, etc. If you have a baby bjorn, that can be extremely useful, not only for walking but for sleeping together with her securely attached to you. At that age, the jetlag shouldn't be too bad. More naps than usual, is all. Good luck!

Traveling overseas with a 2-month-old

Feb 2004

We plan on taking a 4 week vacation to Western Europe when our baby is 2 months old (given that we will have regained some of our sanity by then). Is this too young? How young is too young? When are infants usually ''old enough'' to travel? Is there anything in particular we should be concerned about or aware of before we make plans? We plan on talking to the pediatrician but I'm quite interested in hearing what you have to say. Traveling as a family


Hi! I travelled to Pakistan and Thailand with my 4 month old. It was a really easy stage to travel with. I had his pediatrician accelerate some of his shots so he would have more protection. I breastfed him on take offs and landings to help his ears adjust to pressure. Make sure to take extra clothes for you and the baby on the plane. Some airlines have you sit in the center bulkhead seat and have a crib they can hang in front of you. He slept for most of the flight. I also took a few offers from other passengers who volunteered to cuddle him while I went to the bathroom or took a walk around the plane. Make sure you have a good comfy way to carry the baby. One of my friends got this cool stroller that converts into a car seat (the wheeled frame comes off and folds up). If you are renting a car in Europe, you will need a car seat and I don't know if I would trust what they provide. I used a baby back pack for walking around town but your baby could probably use a Baby Bjorn type carrier. Have fun! It was really pretty easy. kl
Hi, We travlled with our newborn daughter to the UK and France when she was 6 weeks old. It is ok to travel with newborns at 6 weeks, and they should also have their first batch of immunisations (that is our personal opinion). This is the easiest time to travel with infants because they eat, poop and sleep. Since you are going to Europe, depending on the airline, you get a sleep bassinet so that the baby can sleep. You also get the bulkhead of the plane because that is where the bassinet is placed. Please ask the airline in advance and get there early to get the bulk seats and the bassinets because there are usually many babies on board. We travelled with Virgin Atlantic one of the better airlines for long haul on economy. They do great deals on business and Upper. Once there, no worries. Babies at this age have no real routine so it is quite simple. When the plane takes off and lands, try and breastfeed if that is what you do, or give the baby a pacifier or bottle. It will help with the little ears and prevent them from popping. Personally, ours was fine with the ears at that stage. Hope this helps and relax and have a great holiday. It will be a breeze. anon
I can't think of an easier time to travel with a baby! We've been overseas a few times with our little ones, and we've found the younger they are, the easier it is. The baby nurses and sleeps, you travel. We never had any issues, no jet lag (the baby's schedule is wacky anyway), and nothing I can think of that we were concerned about. When the baby is older it's still totally doable, but it'll never be this easy again. Go for it, and have a great time! DL
I would recommend traveling when the baby is more like 4 months old, if possible. In the newborn (up to 3 months) period, the baby's immune system is still pretty fragile, so it pays to be more careful about germs and so on. Plus, at two months you may still be sleep deprived and struggling with, or just starting to recover from, feeding problems or colic.

Younger babies *are* pretty portable -- they fit in a bucket seat and can easily be carried around in a sling or frontpack, they don't require any special food or feeding paraphenalia (assuming they're breastfed), they can sleep pretty much anywhere, and they can't crawl away the moment you glance elsewhere! But all of those things are still true at about 3-5 months, when the immune system will be better developed, they'll usually have developed a more predictable daily routine (including, if you're lucky, a longer stretch of sleep at night), they're usually less fussy and more capable of play, and the parents will probably be coping a bit better.

We never did any major traveling when our son was an infant, but we did do a weekend ski trip (a group thing) when he was 5 or 6 weeks old. The weekend itself was fine, but of course I was not feeling up to any actual skiing; we did fine on the drive up but the drive home was miserable -- lots of traffic and an uncomfortable baby meant it took FOREVER, with many long stops to nurse in random parking lots. I don't think I'd've wanted to brave an airport at that point, if I had a choice, nor would I want to deal with jet lag on top of normal newborn night waking! And my son was a fairly good sleeper and not at all colicky -- something we could not have known until after he was born, of course, so I wouldn't have wanted to plan a trip ahead of time. anon


Hi -- We traveled in Italy for three weeks when our son was just over two months old. It was realy quite easy! We carried him all over in the Baby Bjorn and he slept most of the day (we took photos of him, asleep, so that he'd atleast know he'd once been to Venice, Florence, Amalfi Coast!) People treated us/him so nicely; a woman even voluntarily rocked him for us on a 3 hour train ride! The only problem was that he caught his first cold (on the airplane?), so I recommend you take baby cold remedies (thermometer, tylenol/motrin, nasal asperator, etc.) Have wonderful trip!! Christine

So. Cal. trip with 1-month-old?

Aug 1998

I would like to get feedback on travel with newborns. How early have you traveled and did you go by plane or car? What kind of experiences have you had? I'm due 8/25 and have family getting married in Southern CA at the end of Sept. and am wondering if this is way too soon to take a trip? Obviously I will talk to my doctors and it will depend when the baby is actually born but I'd really like input from parents on this list. Thanks. Dylyn


Sounds as if your baby won't actually be strictly newborn. If he/she is a month old there should be no problem in taking her on a trip. We did overnight trips with our little one when she was one month old, and it worked just fine. The great advantage at this age is that the baby is not yet used to his/her familiar bed. They tend to sleep anywhere you put them.

What we found a bit difficult was having her sit in a car seat. Most car seats (the usual rear-facing infant thingies) are far too upright for a young baby who can't yet hold her head. The U-shaped support cushions don't help at all, because the head can still fall forward, and it will. So we ended up having one of us sitting in the back of the car holding our little daughter's head with our hands. In case you haven't bought a car seat yet, try to get one where the baby can actually lie down flat, possibly sideways rather than facing the back. (I don't know if they sell them in this country; I've seen them in Europe).

We haven't tried air travel with our daughter yet, but I've seen many babies on flights that I took before my daughter was born, and they usually did very well. It gets far more difficult later with a one-year-old who wants to move around the plane, but the tiny ones are just happy if Mommy is close. Angela


I didn't take a long trip with my 4 wk old...only a 2 hour car drive. We tried to drive when she slept because she didn't (and still doesn't) like to be in a car seat. But, there are merits to each method of travel. Mostly what I wanted to pass on was some advice that my midwife gave me about going to large gatherings with a very young baby. First of all she said stay far away from anyone who is coughing or smoking etc. Second she said that babies tend to pick up the excitement/tension inherent in a large gathering. They then fuss and cry a lot, maybe have trouble settling down to nurse. She suggested that the mom and baby have a refuge..maybe a room with a comfortable chair and a bed to snuggle up on and get away from the crowd and settle. People could visit quietly during the times that seemed right. I noticed that my daughter would have a good, alert time at our larger family gathering and then have a major crying fit to settle down to rest. Karen
We drove with our son to Oregon (about the same distance as to L.A.) when he was 5 weeks old. This was in September and our car doesn't have air conditioning. Our pediatrician told me to drink lots of fluids so I could nurse the baby often on the trip. We also used cold washcloths on the baby and dressed him only in diapers, to make sure he didn't overheat. We were also told to check out the water where we were going, to see whether or not we'd have to boil it before using it to make formula.

You can tell if the baby is keeping hydrated by the rate at which it wets its diapers. Your pediatrician could be more specific, but my guess is that it should be at the same rate as at home. My vague memory is that we stopped every hour-and-a-half for nursing and diaper changing.

My instinct is that driving would be better than flying. Airplanes are notorious for circulating germs through the recycled air. Fran


My daughter was a preemie(4lbs 14oz) and went on her first car trip just 2 weeks after she was born. My mom owned a van at that time and she travelled just fine, in a rear-facing car seat during that 3 hour drive. Two months later, my family travelled to Los Angeles, via van, and again she endured the trip. As a matter of fact, she was the perfect baby to take on a trip. She never cried, or became restless. I think she enjoyed all of our excursions. We would make periodic stops for a diaper change, feeding, a kiss and a cuddle and off we went again. To this day, Miss Ashley loves to travel. She's now 13yrs old. I think that if the infant has contact with someone during the trip, the baby will be preoccupied and will hardly notice the long trip. Just make sure that the car seat is well padded and that the car's temperature stays constant. Also, if you will be travelling by car, make sure that you protect the baby against sunburn from the sun shining through the car windows. Different stores sell sun visors that will block the sun but will not impair the driver's view. Kimberly

Travel by Plane

I have travelled extensively with my daughter since she was a small baby. Here are some tips you may find useful.

1. Make absolutely sure you can carry everything you need to carry on yourself. My system when travelling alone with her (which was often) was to take a stroller to put my child in (umbrella fold ups- you can usually carry on, if not they will gate check them which means you can pick it up at the door of the plane on your way out) I would strap the carry on bag to the handles of the stroller and carry her car seat in a carrier on my back. This left both hands free to wheel her and attend to her. If she was asleep or crying, I would put the car seat strapped in the stroller, hold her, and wheel with one arm. It may sound difficult but it works very well. The stroller is indispensable for going long distances through airports, on shuttles etc. The car seat is good bc apart from keeping her safe and being immediately available for taxis/cars on arrival (even if your luggage gets lost) its often more comfortable for the children when they are very small, and she was used to napping in it. She could sleep, be safe and I was free to read or rest.

2. EVEN if you don't have a purchased seat for your child ALWAYS ask the stewardesses if you can have an empty one. It doesn't always happen but usually does. I would always say very sweetly "everyone on this plane will be much happier if my daughter isn't confined to my lap and grabbing the person next to her's things during the whole flight".

3. I also recommend sitting near the back of the plane-although the engine is much louder, it drowns out the sound of your child and also masks noises in the cabin that can wake them up. Also it puts you near the stewards station so you can get as much milk warmed up as you need , extra napkins for spills etc. Also they can easily keep an eye on the baby when you need to use the toilet. There are usually more free seats back there too.

4. Timing the flight around your children's sleep is good too. On flights to Europe I try to leave around 4 so that my daughter has a few hours of excitement on the plane, dinner, and then bed around her usual hour.

5. One last recommendation: Virgin atlantic is superb for children, the planes have child seats available on board (so you don't need to carry yours on) and give the kids special snacks, games, books etc. Also each seat has a tv and they have two or three channels for children. Even if you don't usually let your kids watch-you'll be happy to have them occupied for part of a very long flight! -- Christina (4/99)


Travel to Chicago with 6-month-old

March 1998

I will take my half-a-year-old daughter for a three day trip to Chicago in early April. Being a first-time mother, I would like to know more about the safety and TIPS to travel with an infant by air. For example, I assume we will need to bring car seat for taxi ride and rental car. Since the car seat is heavy, do I have other alternatives? Do I need the car seat for the plane? Any suggestion on infant-freindly places to go and things to do in Chicago is welcome too. Thanks. Lijing


I've traveled several times with small infants and toddlers. Here's my $.02:

Don't have the infant sitting on your lap. Buy a seat on the plane for your infant, take the car seat, and strap her in just as you would if she were riding in your car. It's against the law to have your child riding without a car seat in a car; why take any less care when flying with her in an airplane? Depend upon it; if there's trouble with the plane, you will not be able to keep her safe holding her in your lap. It will also be more pleasant for you to make the long ride with your hands free.

You may also want to get some prescription stuff (I forget what it's called) to numb her ears before takeoff and landing. Your pediatrician will know what this is. It will ease her discomfort with the change in pressure on her tiny ears. Alternatively, some bottles of milk, or, if you are breastfeeding, nurse her during takeoff and landing. The sucking will also help relieve the pressure in her ears. Kimberly


Been there, done that! Vicky Lasky wrote a very helpful book on travelling with children that can probably be found at any book store as well as any good childrens store. Regarding the car seat, United did not require a car seat the last time I travelled at car seat age, and they actually had concerns about the car seat not fitting and strapping in to the seats in the same way as in the car. If you don't want to pay for an extra seat, book the window and isle seats of a set of three seats and the chances are pretty good unless the plane is packed, that that middle seat won't get filled. Also ask for flights that don't tend to fill up (later in the morning, early afternoon departures) to increase your chances of success. If you bring the car seat, (ask the airline what their policy is), be warned that you may have to check it once you get on the plane, if you don't manage to get a free seat that you didn't pay for. Most car rental agencies have car seats they rent to you that meet federal requirements, but they may not be as comfortable as yours, so if you'll be doing a lot of driving, you have to consider that, as well.

As for Chicago, the Frommer travel guides do a series on different US cities (including San Francisco--I highly recommend it) on placese to go and things to do when travelling with children. Easy Going bookstore in Berkeley carries this series, or could advise you on other guides.

Also, call your hotel and find out if they have baby cribs and or playpens so you don't have to lug your travel one on the plane. They use up luggage allotments pretty fast. Beth


Here is some useful information from Southwest Airlines' web page on traveling with infants and toddlers.

http://www.iflyswa.com/info/infants.html Kimberly



Our five months old has already traveled to the East Coast and back three
times, and to Israel and back, so I consider myself a pro by now... We
started traveling with him when he was just over two months. First, you have
to check with you pediatrician. Assuming there's no problem on that front,
here are some tips:
*try to travel on a relatively empty flight (midweek/midday), and take the
baby's car seat with you. If there's a free seat they'll usually try to
accommodate you. Try to plan strategically: if there are two of you flying,
ask for an aisle and a window seat; if only one parent is traveling with the
baby, ask for the window seat, as far back on the plane as possible (those
seats are for some reason less desirable). Even if the person at the check
in counter tells you there's no chance for a free seat, don't despair, and
try again at the gate. It's well worth the hassle of carrying the car seat
that far, and if worse come to worse they'll check it in for you at the gate.
*On international flights ask for a seat with a bassinet.
*you can never have too many diapers, changes of clothes, etc. On the other
hand, don't carry more than you can handle along with baby, car seat, etc.
*young babies sleep on planes very well.
*take a baby carrier with you in case you can't use the car seat. It's much
safer and convenient than holding the baby, especially during takeoff and
landing.
*take the stroller with you to the gate. If you want to protect it, bring a
big plastic bag and some tape with you and wrap it up.
*unless you're going to a place where the weather is very stable, pack
enough clothes for warmer and cooler days.
*even on warm days babies need to be dressed warm for the plane ride.
*allow plenty of time and arrive at the airport early. I've found United to
be especially notorious about making parents stand in a 40 minute check-in
line...
*have some form of id for baby (birth certificate)
*if traveling with baby alone out of the country, have a letter of consent
signed by the other parent with you.
Orit

Re: travel with a newborn. I travelled to Washington, DC with my son when he was 2 1/2 weeks old, back when he was 3 weeks old. This was a bit rough on both mother and child. He caught a cold, I was not quite over the surgery of the C-section I had to have him, and on the way back they put us in the smoking section of the plane. Fortunately, people can't smoke at all on planes now, so you will be spared that. As far as travelling with a small infant on a plane, it's a piece of cake in many ways since they hardly move around at all. It sounds like you will be on a very short plane ride, so should be okay. As far as exposing him to lots of people and their germs, well, any time you go out in the world this is bound to happen. At least Sept. is not flu or cold season. Dianna


I flew with my son to Washington DC and NYC when he was 2.3 months 
old. He was much happier traveling (so much stimulation!) then
he was at home. I also traveled by plane with my second son to LA 
when he was 4 months but that was much easier because I had help. 
Below are some suggestions for traveling by plane:   

1. Nurse/bottle/pacifier on ascent and descent -- it helps to open
   the baby's ears. 

2. Arrive earlier than normal to check in. Let the gate agent know 
   you will be traveling with a baby. The agent may be able to arrange 
   an extra seat. (Except on Southwest.) 

3. If you have some flexibility in schedule, try not to go with
   the weekday commuters (6am-8am). These flights are full of
   business people who are interested in sleeping or preparing for
   a meeting. You may feel more at ease (less worried about a 
   crying baby) later in the morning. I would pick a time of the
   day that your baby is at his/her best (usually mid-morning). 
   It may backfire if you try to travel at a time when your baby
   usually sleeps. He/she many not want to fall asleep because of 
   all the excitement and get overly tired. 

4. I find Southwest more family friendly then United Shuttle. Southwest
   has early boarding and I believe United (as well as Delta and others)
   have discontinued early boarding.  

5. Travel light. I find it best to bring only what I can carry in one 
   load. Also, you may be bringing purchased items or gifts back with
   you. You won't need many clothes for the baby. You won't need toys
   (any object you can find in your purse will captivate a young baby).
   
6. Bring a baby blanket. No matter where your newborn sleeps, the
   familiar scent of the blanket will provide some comfort in the
   new environment. It can also be used to pad a dresser drawer as
   a makeshift bassinet. Alternatively, most hotels will have cribs
   or you may have your child in bed with you. A portable crib is
   not necessary and is awkward for traveling. 

7. Don't worry about a crying baby - especially a newborn. You (and maybe
   other sympathetic parents) will likely be the only ones who can hear
   your baby.  

8. Take your time. Consider the airport is like a trip to the park. 
   It can be as enjoyable! 

9. The most important suggestion I have is to be very diligent in
   asking people to wash their hands with soap before touching your
   newborn. This is very tough, especially with family. Be sure that
   you have little kids just "tickle the feet".  

A final, somewhat amusing, thought:

The following happened on a trip back from Central Americal. We 
were on the third and last leg of our travel. My 17-month old
was cranky the entire flight and refused to fall asleep until,
of course, we touched down. We tried everything to calm him down
and singing seemed to help the most. As we were exiting the plane
we apologized to those around us and especially to the man in
front of us. The gentlemen said with an amused smile, "I was fine 
with my chair being bumped, and I was fine with the little hands 
on my neck, but damned if I can't get the song "The ants go marching"
out of my head".

Best wishes to your delivery and the first of your many travels.
Cynthia

At least some airlines that may no longer formally set aside a "pre-boarding" period for those needing special assistance are still willing to accommodate such needs by request. You can call an airline in advance to see whether their gate attendants are willing to allow pre-boarding on request. Aron
Many years ago my mother traveled across country (SFO to JFK) with me and my little brother who was a toddler at the time. The airplane was rerouted several times due to storms and congestion. At one point we were grounded in Philadelphia. The plane had run out of food and milk at this point and I remember there was a mother who had a screaming hungry infant across the aisle from us. Fortunately my mother had packed plenty of dry formula mix for the trip so the other baby and my brother could be fed. If you are not breast feeding, I would definitely recommend that you pack extra supplies for the plane trip since you never know when there will be a similar complication.
By the time my daughter was 1 year and 5 months she had travelled across the country twice, to Hawaii and back, and had three round trips to India under her belt. Travel with Luftansa. If you're going West, travel with EVA air and pay the small extra fee for "deluxe"-- which puts you in the nose of the plane. United is the worst: they act like you've made their life miserable by having a child. Avoid them if possible. It's hard to do, but be quietly demanding, even with the infant-friendly airlines. So, for example, when the attendant casually tells you to leave your stroller in the waiting area as you are checking in, INSIST on taking it to the gate. Go to the front of the line and board first. Don't feel guilty. When we did the really long trips (10 hours Delhi to Frankfurt and 10 hours Frankfurt to SFO) I took along two changes of clothes, lots of books, one of those magnetic drawing things, crayons.

Babies travel just fine and they love the open spaces of airports and the new sights, sounds, smells of other places. They have no particular attachment to pickett fences and to the extent they love routine, it can be a modified one. Bon Voyage! Chaudry


I have been EXTREMELY lucky flying with my now 14 month old son.  He 
made his first flight at 7 weeks and has flown nearly 10 times 
since.  He's a lovely airplane rider, but the older he gets, the 
harder it gets.  I have only ever flown with him in my lap, but 
always look enviously at the other parents whose children have their 
own seats.  I simply can't afford it.  If you CAN afford it, buy an 
extra seat, for your own sanity.  If you can't, these tips might help 
ease your trip:
1) Be prepared for absolutely everything.  Plan for the most 
uncomfortable situations imaginable...double up on everything in your 
diaper bag.  Don't worry too much about having room for your carry-on 
items...with baby in your lap, you won't get to do anything else 
anyway.  In my experience, airlines tend not to count your diaper bag 
as a carry-on, but I wouldn't count on that either.
2) Be prepared for rudeness.  Airline personnel are often nice, but 
the last time I flew the stewardesses repeatedly whacked my son's 
sleeping head with the food carts as they raced down the aisles (and 
not a single "sorry," either.)  Fortunately I was sitting next to a 
lovely woman who allowed my son's feet to lie on her lap and even let 
us put our food on her tray.  But most of the time, the people flying 
with you will be very unhappy about sharing their flight with your 
child.  My thoughts on that are, tough luck.
3) Take-off and landing are often difficult because of ear-popping.  
I think bottles are the best way to ease this, but if you aren't 
doing bottles anymore, any eating or drinking will do.
I hope you have a wonderful trip.  I just try to remember that my 
labor was longer and more uncomfortable than any flight I'll ever 
take!
(4/99)

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