Flying with a baby

Work through the list in order. Hide the notes when you know what to do.

1. Book the infant ticket

   Even a free lap infant needs their own ticket issued. Without it you won't board.

2. Request a bassinet from the airline early

   Planes carry 2–4 bassinets, first come first served, with a baby weight limit. Call right after booking.

3. Birth certificate

   Proves age (free infant fare) and your relation when surnames differ. International flights need the baby's own passport.

4. Diapers — 1.5x your normal math

   Count hours door to door, then multiply by 1.5: delays pick the worst possible day.

5. Formula and baby food in carry-on

   Baby food and formula water are exempt from the liquid limit — just show them at security. Cabin crew will warm the bottle.

6. Breast, bottle or pacifier for takeoff and landing

   Sucking equalizes ear pressure — the top reason babies cry on planes. Start at the takeoff roll and on descent.

7. Spare outfits: two for baby, one for you

   Spit-up and a leaky diaper at 35,000 feet are a matter of time. Your shirt goes down with the onesie.

8. Sling or baby carrier

   Hands stay free for passports and bags, and rocking a baby in the aisle works best in a carrier.

9. Gate-check the stroller

   Almost all airlines gate-check a light stroller for free. Confirm at check-in.

10. Disposable changing pads

    Line the lavatory changing table and any airport surface you have to use.

11. Wet wipes and bags for the dirty stuff

    There's no such thing as too many wipes. Zip-lock bags quarantine soiled clothes until the hotel.

12. A surprise new toy

    An unfamiliar toy holds attention far longer than the favorite one. Deploy at the meltdown, not before.

13. Saline nose drops

    Cabin air is bone dry and baby noses clog fast. Saline keeps breathing and sleep easy.

14. Baby's mini first aid kit in carry-on

    Child-form fever reducer and a thermometer — as agreed with your pediatrician. Teeth and fevers love to spike mid-trip.

15. Pick a flight around baby's sleep

    A flight that overlaps nap or night sleep is half the battle. Early mornings usually beat evenings.

16. Choose seats in advance

    The bulkhead row with bassinet mounts, or an aisle seat for rocking walks. Your row neighbors will thank you too.

17. Get to the airport with time to spare

    Everything takes longer with a baby. Find the airport's family room on the map — changing tables, quiet and a microwave.

18. Snacks and water for yourself

    Everyone forgets the parent's food. A hungry adult holding an infant is the flight's second crisis.

19. A familiar blanket that smells like home

    A familiar smell and texture help baby sleep in a loud strange place. Works better than white noise.