You can check the Pack and Play in with your luggage if you really want to carry it. I am usually traveling alone during my trips, so I usually ask a friend/family member at my destination to rustle one up for me to borrow or go buy one at Walmart for $40 (they do have a basic model for that). Ask the same family member to track you down an exersaucer (the only other piece of gear that comes to mind that would be very helpful with a 5-month-old).

If you want more specifics, drop me a line. Certainly, don't stress about this! jan m

I actually think the extra seat isn't that important because what 5 month old or 15 month old is going to sit still for that long. It does help to have the extra room though, so ask the airline to leave an empty seat next to you if possible (if the flight is not completely full). If someone is sitting in the seat next to you, they may choose to move to an empty seat if there is another one available on the plane. I have often gotten extra seats without having to buy one.

In terms of ''gear'', take only the ''necessary'' items on your trip. More luggage just makes things more difficult and you will be surprised at how well you can get by without all the ''stuff''. Check your carseat at the checkin counter so that you will have it at your destination. There is no need to take it to the gate or on the plane. You might not have a seat to put it in anyway and it will just be more to carry. Take only a small carryon and your diaper bag on the plane. If you are travelling with a stroller, gate check it at the plane and you will get it back at arrival gate when you land.

During the flight, be ready to get up and walk up and down the aisle if needed. Try to get an aisle seat and not be too far from a bathroom with a changing table. Keep your baby happy however you do at home. At 5 months, they are generally happy to be held a lot, which they are guaranteed in this situation.

Have a great trip. chris

Carseat: Once I brought mine and just checked it. This is easy - they'll put it in a bag for you. With a Graco you don't need to bring your base. I've also rented one at a rental car place - about $5-9/day. Those seats were a bit big, but no safety issues.

Gear: I actually thought this is an easy time to travel with her because she doesn't need that much: clothes; when I was staying for more than 4 days, I bought diapers when I got there (my relatives were happy to do this ahead of time when I asked!); a few small favorite toys; her swaddling blankets; I'm the milk supply so I purchased a small Avent hand pump. If you use formula, buy it there. Stroller: she was small enough that I was happy with her in the Bjorn during all of the trips. If you absolutely must bring a stroller, you can check it in the airport - but you'll be happiest with just a lightweight umbrella stroller. A new place will be more entertaining so likely just rolling on the floor and crafty toy ideas (e.g., pots, pans, and paper) will be plenty during the trip Frequent Flier

Check any bags you don't need in flight AND the car seat. If you did not buy a seat you will most likely not get a seat. If you have a snap-n-go or travel system, you can keep the car seat up to the gate and gate check it with the stroller. In any case, take your stroller up to the gate and check it there. (Or, if you use a bjorn or sling, that is probably even better).

Take on the plane diapers, wipes, a spare outfit for everyone, water for you if nursing or formula if not.

Nurse or give a bottle during take off and landing and whenever else. Between that and the movement of the plane, baby might sleep a lot.

If your baby is fussy, don't worry. It is pretty loud on a plane anyway and not as many people can hear you as you think.

As for day to day gear, be minimal. I am of the opinion that no one should actually have to pack their pack-n-play as there are people around the world with one you can borrow. Ask your family if they know anyone with a baby who can lend you what you need. They will probably have a bouncy seat, a swing, whatever...but if not, your baby does not really need all that stuff.

It will be fine. We have traveled at 6 months, 1 year, and 1.5 and our child always seems to enjoy it since it means constant mommy and daddy time for the whole voyage anon

You only need to take a stroller and car seat. I've had my family go to resale shops before we visit and buy a pack-n-play, swing, high chair or booster - whatever. I reimburse them if they let me. My mom typically doesn't. Then have them keep what you'll need for the next visit or resell it to the resale shop. It's way cheaper than buying new and they'll get some of their $$ back.

Check the car-seat. Gate check the stroller. Done -Have a great trip!

You DEFINITELY do NOT need a separate seat for your little one at this point. If you are breast feeding, it is ideal, because you can feed on the way up and on the way down - keeping the little one hydrated and his/her ears clear from the pressure of altitude change.

Don't worry about taking too much gear. Your baby will be so glad to have you and Daddy for the entire flight. Take a couple of good books or toys and you can always walk around and show your baby people and intersting things on the flight.

Since your little one is so young, I assume he/she will sleep for part of the flight too - so you can relax a bit and read or zone out or watch the in-flight movie.

Enjoy yourself and try not to worry so much about the upcoming flight. Just make sure baby gets enough liquids going up and especially on the way down to keep ears clear Have a great flight!

If you're not going to rent a car, I would suggest going on Craig's List for the area you'll be going and see if you can find some one selling an appropriate car-seat used. Then, have a relative go pick it up for you. You can find them pretty cheap and will certainly cost less than renting a car for the duration of the trip. This is what we are doing for our trip to Michigan this Christmas holiday.

I did not bring a stroller, and I didn't miss it much, but you could do the same thing, and buy a cheap umbrella stroller once you're there.

Your options, if you buy these things, are to ship them back home and sell them once you return, or try to sell them while you're still there, or leave them with the relatives for future visits (or for them to sell)!

What I ended up bringing with me on the plane was a carry-on with food (for both of us), toys, an extra blanket and water, diapers and a change of clothes (for the baby). For my check-in luggage, I packed only one bag (we stayed about 10 days) and really limited myself. I just washed clothes as needed.

Finally, we took later evening flights, and the baby slept almost the entire time.

Good luck on your trip, and don't stress, this is the EASIEST age to travel, before they become MOBILE! Alesia

If your relatives are the helpful type, give them a list ahead of time of what you'll need--brand and size of diapers, wipes, baby food, extra bottles, a bottle brush, etc. If you have a pack-n-play crib, you can bring it, or if you'll be staying with these relatives often, have them buy one and keep it there.

You'll need a carseat if you'll be in cars--we always brought ours--it's free, and the baby's used to it. Otherwise you may be able to rent one, or buy one when you get there. Durable, fabric carseat bags are very helpful for travel--Rockridge Kids has them. You can just check the seat through with your luggage.

If your relatives are NOT so helpful, take what you'll need for 24 hours (a dozen or so diapers (with plastic grocery bags for the plane), changes of clothes for the baby, extra wipes), and go shopping when you get there. As far a stroller, you can take one, with baby in it, right up to the door of the plane. You'll be given a Stroller Tag at the gate desk, and then after your flight(s) they'll bring the stroller back to the door of the plane, so you'll have it at all times in the airports. Best of luck, and have fun! heidilee

Okay, some tips:

you might know about nursing or giving a bottle/pacifier at take off and landing. don't panic if you are unable to latch on or unable to do so because the baby is asleep. if the pain wakes him/her up, latch him/her on at that time. my daughter was unaffected by air pressure.

request bulk head seats. the extra space is great for all that gear. i put down one of those airline blankets and my daughter loved being on her belly for a while. they say those are first come first served. we got to the airport hours early just for this. it worked.

if you are able, bring the car seat on just incase there is an empty seat next to you (a lone passenger might be more than happy to move and avoid any screaming)

bring a carrier backpack. my husband and i must have walked 4 hours each to keep our daughter quiet. now that i think about it, a backpack would have been so great. just in case you don't already have enough gear. i brought a baby bjorn which is so hard on the back, but ended up being invaluable when we all took a nap. she was on our lap and the baby bjorn kept me from dropping her while i snoozed.

a little back pack of new toys. this was invaluable. i can't tell you how tired of all her old toys she was at that point. each new toy bought about 5 minutes.

teething biscuits. more quiet time. a little early, but the fascination will get you some quiet time.

i nursed at anytime she wanted - even if it meant a short nap. she ended up sleeping quite a bit.

looking back i should have been less nervous about the other passengers being pissed off at me. i think some of this stress was passed on to my daughter who cried inconsolably for what seemed like an hour. (btw, i went into a bathroom and stayed there for a while. it kept me from being overly worried about waking everyone on the plane) so relax. babies need to travel and part of living in society is dealing with things like this. the baby will be fine.

good luck........ it will be over very quickly and you will laugh about your anxiety when you look back. a parent who can relate

If the flight is not very busy and your baby still uses an infant carseat, you will want to take it with you into the plane, and you may be able to use an extra sit for your baby, plus that'll be one less thing to have to deal with at the other end.

Bring some favorite and some new toys, and an extra t-shirt for you... and the baby!

If possible have your baby nurse or use the pacifier during take off and landing. EP

Solo Air Travel with 3 month old

I am planning on traveling out to Ohio in early December when my son will be three months old. It will be just the two of us, and am truthfully quite daunted by schlepping him and all his baby gear solo. (As he is only one month old right now, I can't even imagine taking him to the grocery store, but that's another post altogether.)

Can anyone offer tips for how to fly alone--on a four hour flight-- with an infant? I searched the archives, and most of the advice there was for toddlers. Specifically: What gear should I bring, which should I leave? How can I keep him happy on such a long flight? I saw some posts about people getting grief for breastfeeding--not like it would stop me, but has anyone else experienced this? lisa

Sit in the aisle - you can hang out into the aisle when necessary. Watch out for the carts, though. Let it all hang out - i breastfed frequently throughout the flights. At some point (10 minutes into the flight), i gave up on modesty - not enough space to move. But mr. baby covered up most everything. Wear a front zip sweatshirt over your nursing bra or a nursing tank top. Works great! Good luck! baby traveler

Specific advice - you'll have to go through security with him, so make sure to dress both of you in clothes that won't set off the alarm and easy to slip off shoes. Sometimes I traveled with a stroller, but often just used a sling. A stroller may make it easier for you, because then you can put the diaper bag and your purse in the basket, and you just have a carseat to lug. If your carseat doesn't have a carrying bag with a comfortable strap, you may want to get one, because carseats are the bulkiest, most problematic part of traveling with a little one. Or, you could check it as luggage and take your chances (if the baby is going to be on your lap). I wouldn't bring much else with you - he doesn't need a whole lot of toys yet, and anything else can go in your checked luggage. Just pack your diaper bag like you would for any other day-long outing. (If you use cloth diapers, I suggest going with disposable just for travel - it makes it easier).

I never got any grief for breastfeeding on planes. If anyone gives you grief, you could ask if they would rather the baby cried the whole time. jen

I always scheduled my flights for wee hours of the morning or night, so we would be tired and could sleep on the plane.

Also, it is soooo essential to nurse during take-off AND landing--I would give light feedings before traveling if my daughter was really hungry, but I really tried to wait to nurse until the plane was taking off. The sucking helps equalize ear pressure, and my daughter never (ever!) screamed during travel. Bring a sheet-like blanket so if you get too hot, you both can have the sheet over you while you blast the little Air conditioner toward yourselves but don't have to deal with the air-blowy feeling it gives you. We used one to cover us for comfort (not for privacy, but hey-maybe it made those with outdated nursing-in-public ''issues'' more comfortable too).

Be sure you have a complete change of clothes for your baby with you, and clothing for yourself, too, in case you have a spit-up or poop accident on the plane and need to change. Extra baby wipes. Huge bottle of water for you to drink so you don't get dehydrated, and some non-dehydrating (i.e., low sodium) snacks for yourself.

People will avoid you when they see that you have an infant with you, because they assume your child will cry the whole time. With the nursing thing going though, we always got comments from those around us about how happy and quiet my baby was.

My daughter now loves to travel on planes, and almost always sleeps (she is almost 7 now)! Maybe the take-off and landing nursings have good subconscious memories for her. Best of luck. -mom of a happy traveler

Trip to East Coast with 9-month-old

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

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

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

Long flight with a 5 month old

I'd like advice on air travel with my five month old. It's our first plane ride 8 hours with a lay-over. That means up and down twice. . . I'm concerned about equilibrium/ear pressure issues and his fussy times. I'll be sure to nurse upon take off and landing, but is there anything else I can do to make the flight any easier. Thank you! jean

I'm kidding of course, but I think you'll survive. I found that other passengers are much more understanding than I gave them credit for.

I recommend trying to pack smart and as lightly as possible. Be prepared to have to change a poopy diaper on the floor of the flight attendent cubby. If you're traveling alone, be prepared to ask others for help because you pretty much can't get out of a seat without having someone hold your baby.

It'll be fine. anon

I haven't had any problems yet. Otherwise, have everything you will need in the seat pocket in front of you. Be prepared to change a diaper on a bathroom floor (unless you are flying jetblue which has changing tables in every bathroom). Bring one or two toys (though in a pinch, a bag of chips at altitude can hold their attention for most of the flight). If you are flying with someone, designate one leg as theirs and one leg as yours to be responsible for the baby. Grab a few pillows (though keep in mind that many air lines have elminated them though jetblue and I believe southwest still have them) or blankets to help the baby sleep more comfortably in your lap if you are not purchasing a seat (bring the car seat anyway, because you may get lucky and get a seat for free for the baby). You will be fine. I usually travel alone (and to make matters worse, it is usually standby, so I am the last person on the plane) People on the plane are going to help you out. When flying without my husband, there is always some nice woman who will identify herself to me as willing to watch my girls if I need to go to the bathroom (oh, wear pants with an elastic waist band on the plane if travelling alone) or just need a break. There is always someone who offers to wait with me until everyone else has unloaded to help me schlep my stuff.

Pilots set up my stroller and help me to my next connection. Someone may be a jerk if your baby cries the whole time, but don't worry. You will never see that person again. jan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Taking 3-month-old overseas, 10-hr time difference

I am going to travel with my 3 months old son out of the country to a place with 10 hours time difference. So practically, we will be flipping day and night times. We will be away for 3 weeks. Do infants my son's age have a jet leg? And if so, do you have any advise about how we can best handle the jet leg? All advise will be greatly appreciated. Ruth

I imagine that, like so many things, kids really vary on this one. My daughter has always been semi-regular with sleeping, having patterns but not a real tight schedule. Her sleeping style has made her more adaptable to travel, I think. Hope this helps. -- Ilana

Coming back, I tried a different approach. I slept when he did, and we both got back to normal schedules in two days.

I hope it helps... reutsh

Both directions the first night was difficult. Usually between midnight and 3am he couldn't understand why we wanted him to sleep. We managed to get him to sleep by taking him into our bed and one of us cuddling up with him. The first night he needed two nighttime feedings (usually sleeps 9 hours without feeding). The second night just once some comfort sucking. During the day we tried to keep him awake as much as possible.

The biggest recommendation is really to get an extra seat for the baby. It makes the flight more comfortable for everyone plus it's much safer for the baby (take the car seat along and put him in there). Ina

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

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 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

Traveling overseas with a 2-month-old

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

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

Flying solo to the UK with a 4 month old

I'm thinking of taking our new daughter to England to visit my mum and dad. Unfortunately her dad can't come so I'll be on my own. Now, I've flown back and forth alone loads of times so I'm not worried about me. However, I've never done it with a 4 month old. I cringe as I think of all the times in my impatient 20s when I was unsympathetic to crying babies on those long flights and feel the karma gods preparing for payback! Does anyone have advice for air travel with such young ones? I'm mainly concerned about how she'll be for that length of a flight (10-14 hours depending on tail winds) as well as how it will affect her sleeping patterns. Thanks so much, any advice will be really welcome. Angela

Enjoy it now. It gets really ugly when they hit toddlerhood. Avoiding Blighty until my boy is 4!

As for jetlag, in California she would sleep from about 8pm until 6 or 7 am. In England, she would go to sleep with me at around midnight or so and then sleep in very late the next morning. It worked out fine. It turns out jetlag is a much bigger problem for grown-ups than for kids and babies, who (usually) adjust fairly rapidly to a new time zone.

Enjoy your trip. Judith

I didn't sleep a wink either flight- even when my son was sleeping. This resulted in a very tired mom.

OK, some thoughts...Try to get seated in the bulkhead row. That way you're close to the bathroom when you need to go- and you can leave your little one in the airline provided basinette for 30 seconds. You'll be able to hear her if she makes a peep. I was lucky enough to have 2 seats on my flights which gave me some breathing room and a little privacy. I played with my son in the extra seat and when he slept, I put him in the bassinet.

As you might expect, on the flight to the UK, he slept a lot. But on the flight back to SFO he was awake most of the time. Try to befriend the flight attendants who will sympathize with you and provide lots of assistance. I was not very successful here but hopefully you will be.

As for adjusting to the time difference, this was the most difficult part of our trip. I have always done well adjusting, especially when I'm able to sleep on the flight, so I thought my son would be the same. Wrong. My son slept about 8pm-6am without waking, consistently, before our trip to England. After spending 3 weeks in England, he never adjusted to the time change, nor slept through the night. After about 6 days of returning back to California, he was back to sleeping through the night. I hope your baby is able to adjust better than my son.

With all that said, it was wonderful for my family to see my son so it was worth it! Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to discuss further. I'd be happy to. tina

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)