Many parents are hesitant about travelling with an infant. You should know that it’s possible, but requires organisation and preparation. Having a baby as a piece of luggage changes the way you travel, even for experienced parents. Your vacation will likely be calmer, and you need realistic expectations and follow your baby’s pace. Why not use this time to rest and hang out as a couple and family? It requires a lot of energy to prepare everything, but it also energises at the same time because getting away from the daily grind is always a good thing!
So that your trip with your young baby is fun, I suggest you prepare to avoid little…or big problems! If you plan on taking the plane with your baby, here are a few suggestions for both during and after the trip.
Preparing to Travel with a Baby
Choose your destination based on
- the weather,
- the risk of severe travel illnesses,
- the political conflicts,
- the travel time and
- the hotel establishments that can welcome families with young babies. Ask if they provide baby equipment, such as strollers, cribs, high chairs. This will help you plan for what you need to bring.
You should always check airline company policies when you travel with a young baby. Some will refuse babies under two weeks of age, or you might be charged additional fees (especially for international flights). Most companies do not charge for children under two years of age.
When travelling by plane outside the country, always check which documents you need to identify your baby. You can now get a passport for a baby right after childbirth. If you are leaving alone with your baby, you also need a letter of consent from the other parent authorising you to leave with your child.
Before travelling with your young baby, talk to a health professional to check if they need to get vaccines before leaving, even if they are not part of their regular vaccine schedule. The goal is to protect them as much as possible from infection risks in the destination country. To maximise vaccine effectiveness, it should be given six weeks before departure.
Try to choose a direct flight to avoid lost time waiting for transfers. Travelling with a newborn is usually very easy because they sleep more. But if your baby is almost one year old, they will want to move around during the flight. If available, you can also reserve a travel bed to place your baby in during the trip.
Don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito repellant for your baby, even if they are under six months of age. You also have to protect your baby from mosquito bites by covering them with a light blanket or dress them in long clothing.
Forbidden items
Always check updated airline travel rules regarding articles you can’t bring on flights. The latest modifications add the following items that are forbidden: more than 350 ml of granular or powder materials (about the size of a soda can), for example, bath salts, sea salts, sand, baby powder, foot powder and cooking powder. However, newborn formulas, powdered proteins, tea and coffee are authorised in any amount.
According to Health Canada, despite the restrictions on liquids in the cabin, it is acceptable to bring the food required for the duration of the flight, in small containers, as well as the required quantity of milk (breast milk or commercial formula), reasonable for a child under 2 years of age. All you have to do is declare it to the control officer. Please note that it’s best to bring an insulated bag for transporting milk, since refrigeration is not possible in the air.
During the Trip
On the big departure day, I think that it’s a good idea to use a stomach baby carrier. Mom and dad can carry the baby while waiting to board. You will have your hands free for luggage, airline tickets, etc. The baby also likes sleeping with your warmth.
Most of the time you can preboard with your baby so that you can get seated comfortably. Your baby can sit on you during the trip if they are less than two years old. Some parents bring a car seat and book an additional seat to travel with their baby safely.
You need to dress your baby according to the temperature in the plane, as it is usually cooler. Additionally, don’t forget that products you bring on to the plane to care for your baby need to respect regulatory measures – 100 ml or less (ex.: zinc cream for your baby’s bottom, etc.). Your diaper bag is your best friend. Make sure you have everything you need: diapers, cleaning cloths, pacifier, bottle if needed, change of clothes, snacks if they eat, toys and reassuring objects for when they sleep, and disposable bags that can be used for garbage and trap odours.
Breastfeeding while traveling
Breastfeeding is actually beneficial during travel with a baby. Everything is ready to serve, no formulas, milk to heat. Everything is perfect and available 24/7!
Breastfeeding during the trip is ideal because it helps protect the baby due to the mother’s antibodies. Additionally, sucking (on the breast or bottle) can help the baby on takeoff and landing. It will reduce pain or buzzing caused by the change of pressure in their ears. Sucking and swallowing have a beneficial effect on the uncomfortable sensation. Before departure, it’s strongly suggested that you clear the baby’s respiratory tract with a saline solution and nose pump.
Return from your Trip
When you return home, you should keep an eye out for persistent fever or other symptoms that don’t seem normal. For a very young baby, you should go to the doctor if this occurs.
Marie Fortier
The Baby Expert
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