How to Best Travel with Infants

If you are traveling by air with your baby to another country you will probably need a ticket and passport for your infant. It is also a good idea to have travel insurance that covers your baby. Many airlines allow you to carry your baby on your lap for no fee, but it is best to confirm this information before traveling. Some airlines allow you to check in a stroller and a bag, but some do not. It is best to verify the rules of your carrier before your trip to make certain. If you can refrain from flying when it would upset the baby' s schedule that's good; nighttime or early morning are many times best for the infant.

When traveling an infant, take baby wipes and have them handy even when flying. The bulkhead seats are helpful if a bassinet is needed. Otherwise, it is helpful to take seats where the armrest can be adjusted up so that you and your baby can be comfortable while he/she sleeps. Sometimes the most comfortable way is if he/she is lying on a seat next to you. Bringing your own formula or juice is a good idea in case the airline does not have what you need. Feeding the baby during take off and landing will keep the pressure off of their ears. Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding both work equally well. If your child uses a pacifier, this can also be helpful during take offs and landings as well. Airline attendants can help you with your bottles too but make sure to check the content's temperature when getting help from the crew. Bringing disposal bags that are scented for the diapers is also considerate. Place them in the trash disposal containers in the restroom.

The Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, of the U.S.A. has some travel tips that apply to infants. Even the babes have to be screened, but take the baby out of the carrier and let the carrier run through the x-ray. The baby's diaper bag, blanket, toys, baby carriers, booster seats, umbrella-strollers and backpack have to be screened as well. The stroller should be folded for screening. Put other baby items in the plastic bin. When taking the infant through the metal detector take him out of his infant carrier and hold him yourself. Giving him to the person behind you like your spouse isn't allowed nor is asking the attendant to hold the infant. Again, make sure you check the TSA rules for traveling with an infant before your trip.

Some essentials to pack for the infant in a diaper bag or back pack include necessary medications for baby, bulb syringe in case of stuffy nose, body lotion, bottles and formula, diapers, wipes, diaper cream, teething lotion, nail clippers, and pacifier (if used). Also pack enough clothes for extra changes. Bring a portable crib, a baby carrier, and umbrella stroller. If you are traveling by car the larger items will be more easily managed. When traveling by bus, train, or airline get any needed instructions for traveling with larger items.

When you plan a long road trip with the baby, one way to entertain him is to tie some shiny, dangling toys from ribbon and tie it to clothes hangers in the back seat. If your child is in a forward facing car seat, try putting some pictures in front of the baby on the back of the front seat with tape. This may help interest the baby for some time. Take more frequent breaks, and make sure you keep the sun out of the babies face without blocking your view. Bring some hand wipes. Have snacks for the baby and for you and your older children.

When traveling with your infant, it is always best to be geared up for delays. A little planning and packing savvy can help you enjoy your travels with your children and infants for years to come.