Here's What You Need to Fly with a Baby Under One You got this.
By Danielle Halibey | Photo by Stocksy
Let’s all pour one out for the days when all we needed to worry about before a flight was sticking to TSA-approved luggage weight limits, grabbing the latest issues of Cosmo and PEOPLE, and having enough gum to get through the hellishness of lift-off and landing. Because once you have an actual baby as your carry-on, things get a lot more complicated — even shorter flights are up in the air when you have an infant in tow.
Thankfully, we’ve talked to enough parents and survived our own airplane adventures with littles to tell you that it can be done. Check out these first-class commodities — from oversized changing mats and comfy sneaks to bitsy-sized snacks and sanity-preserving sensory toys — guaranteed to keep your first-time flyers all kinds of happy from the time you board to the time you disembark.
Even a few relievers for mama, too, because those cravings for an in-flight cocktail come on awfully quick when babe starts melting down and you’re still taxiing down the tarmac.
If you’re anxious about checking your stroller, you’ll love one that can ride with you. The compact Jet was designed to be fully equipped. Our fave part? The luxe, leatherette bumper bar doubles as a luggage handle to wheel like a suitcase…Yaaas! Photo courtesy of Pottery Barn
Bringing a crying, just-blown-out baby into the teeny tiny airplane bathroom? No, thanks. Stocked with wipes and disposal bags, this extra-large, waterproof changing kit has everything you need for a quick and hygienic diaper change. Photo courtesy of Munchkin
If you’re breastfeeding, you’ll want to wear an easy top (under a cardigan) to make feeding in a cramped row tolerable. This magical, bodycon nursing tank with a built-in bra sports a genius front strap adjuster for flexible support and a one-handed clasp for ASAP access. Photo courtesy ofHATCH
The low humidity on flights wreak havoc on lips, leaving parents’ puckers totally parched by the end of the plane ride. If you happen to be nursing, you’ll get a double whammy of dry, irritated nips. This lanolin-free formula helps relieve dry lips and calm and soothe irritated nipps via tropical butters and superfruits. Photo courtesy of HATCH
Eventually, baby will give you that look that says “Bottle. Now. Please and thank you.” This battery-operated, portable warmer will be your best friend, whether you’re feeding with formula or breastmilk. It also has four temp settings for your super-fussy babe. Photo courtesy of Baby’s Brew
Bloating and gas on a plane? YES, everyone feels it, but babies can’t exactly get up every hour or two and walk down the aisle for relief. That’s why a safe and effective organic ginger and fennel supplement, like Gripe Water is a first-defense against digestive issues. Photo courtesy ofMommy’s Bliss
If you’ll be going through security with your just-about-walking waddler or do want to take them for an aisle stroll when the antsy-ness kicks in, these are the shoes you’ll want on their feet. Soft, flexible soles are recommended by pediatricians and podiatrists because they allow children to closely mimic barefoot walking. Photo courtesy of Pediped
Each individual play thing in this adorable Lovevery sensory kit is amazing for getaways. From the wooden rattle and black and white contrast cards to the soft cloth book and crinkle bag there’s so much fun to be found in this kit, you’ll actually forget you’re flying. Photo courtesy of Lovevery
No lie, you might want to trade your mini bags of pretzels or peanuts for these delish bites. The melt-in-the-mouth sticks of puffed organic corn are sprinkled with strawberry and perfect for safe, self-feeding (particularly for ages 7-12 months). Whip them out when baby gets hungry or starts showing signs of ear pressure, and then use the resealable pack to put them back in the diaper bag without any spills. Photo courtesy of Little Bellies
The Artipoppe carrier is so easy to put on, even with one hand, and it’s super comfortable and cute, too. Babies love sleeping in it, plus it’s also great for feeding super discreetly. Just loosen the straps and they’ll latch on, and no one even knows it’s happening. Photo courtesy of Artipoppe
This breastmilk travel cooler bag is wipeable, leakproof and keeps breast milk cold or warm for long hours. We love the bottom compartment that holds up to six nine-ounce baby bottles, while its top compartment is design to keep lunch and snacks warm and fresh. Bonus points for its front and back pocket for easy access to small items. Photo courtesy of Teamoy
Now you no longer have to check the stroller and the carseat: Doona’s complete and fully integrated travel system allows you to move from car seat to stroller in seconds. This is especially genius when your babe is resting soundly in the carseat on the flight, and all you have to do is attach the seat to the stroller and go. Photo curtesy of Doona
