Roberta Aguirre
Travelling with a baby can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to navigating your way through the airport. From getting to the airport, to checking in, passing through security, and boarding the flight, there are many challenges to overcome. However, with some forward planning, you can make the process much smoother. This might include reading up on your airline's car seat policy, familiarising your child with the idea of flying, and making sure you have the correct documentation.
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What You'll Learn
- Getting to the airport: use a car seat or taxi/Uber/Lyft, or public transport
- Airport security: prepare for screening, allow extra time, and have correct documentation
- Preparing baby: make flying fun, practice protocols, and pack a carry-on
- On the plane: book a separate ticket, use a bassinet, and ask for help
- Strollers: check at the gate, and retrieve after the crowd has left the plane
Getting to the airport: use a car seat or taxi/Uber/Lyft, or public transport
Getting to the airport with a baby can be stressful, but there are a few options to consider. You could drive yourself and bring your own car seat, take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft, or use public transport. Here are some tips for each option:
Using a car seat
If you plan to drive yourself to the airport, it is essential to have a car seat for your baby's safety. Make sure you allow enough time to install the car seat properly before departing. You can also bring your car seat with you if you take an Uber, Lyft, or taxi. Many ride-sharing services accommodate car seats, and some even provide them upon request. This can be a convenient option, especially if you need to travel with your car seat to your destination.
Taxi/Uber/Lyft
If you choose to take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft, you have the option to bring your car seat or use one provided by the company, if available. Some companies, like Delancey Limo, provide car seats, so you don't need to bring your own. However, it's always good to confirm this in advance. Alternatively, you can use a portable car seat option, such as the Tote 'n Go Portable Car Seat, which converts ordinary seat belts into a five-point safety harness.
Public transport
Using public transport to get to the airport with a baby is also possible but may require more planning and time. You will need to consider the logistics of carrying your baby, any luggage, and potentially a car seat or stroller. If you plan to bring a stroller, find out if you can check it at the gate, as this may impact your boarding process. When using public transport, allow for potential delays and give yourself plenty of time to navigate the various modes of transport with a baby in tow.
Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, it is crucial to plan and allow for extra time when travelling with a baby. This will help ensure a smoother journey and reduce stress for both you and your little one.
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Airport security: prepare for screening, allow extra time, and have correct documentation
Preparing for airport security when travelling with a baby can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process smoothly:
Prepare for Screening:
Before arriving at the airport, familiarise yourself with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines. The TSA has specific rules regarding items allowed through security, so be sure to check their website for an up-to-date list of approved items. Some items, like medically required liquids (baby formula, food, breast milk, and medications), are exempt from typical liquid restrictions but will require additional screening. You should also be prepared to remove your shoes, jacket, and any metal objects, while children under 12 are exempt from these requirements. Practising the security process at home with a mock security checkpoint can help your child understand the process and make it less intimidating.
Allow Extra Time:
When travelling with a baby, it is essential to factor in additional time for security screening. The process can be more time-consuming, especially with items like strollers and car seats. Allow for at least 15-20 extra minutes to navigate security and consider the time needed for installing and checking these items.
Have Correct Documentation:
Don't forget to bring the proper documentation for your child when travelling. For domestic flights, if your child will be a lap infant, you will need proof of age, such as a birth certificate, immunisation records, or a passport. This is important, as you may be denied boarding if you cannot provide proof of your child's age. Additionally, consider booking a separate ticket for your child, even if they are under two years old, for added comfort and safety.
Travelling with a baby through airport security can be challenging, but with preparation, extra time, and the correct documentation, you can make the experience much smoother. Remember to stay organised and patient, and don't be afraid to ask for assistance if needed.
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Preparing baby: make flying fun, practice protocols, and pack a carry-on
Flying with a baby can be challenging, but with the right preparation, you can make it a fun and smooth experience. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your upcoming flight:
Make flying fun:
To make the flight an enjoyable experience for your baby, try to stick to their regular routine as much as possible. Bring their favourite toys, books, or comfort items to keep them entertained and comforted during the flight. You can also download child-friendly shows or games on your tablet or phone, or bring colouring books and crayons for older babies.
Practice protocols:
Before your trip, it is important to consult your pediatrician, especially if your baby has any health concerns. They can advise you on any necessary precautions and provide guidance on in-flight care. Additionally, familiarise yourself with TSA and airline guidelines regarding carry-on and checked baggage. Many airlines allow you to bring diaper bags, breast pumps, and car seats on board, but it's always best to check with your carrier beforehand.
Packing a carry-on:
When packing your carry-on, remember to bring enough diapers, formula or breast milk, and food for the trip. Pack two days' worth of diapers and formula/breast milk in case of delays. Don't forget to bring a few baby blankets, which can be used for burping or breastfeeding coverage. If your baby is eating solids, pack small jars of baby food and some snacks. Also, include easy-to-eat snacks for yourself, as taking care of a baby during a flight can be demanding.
Additionally, consider bringing a portable car seat, such as the Tote 'n Go, which can be easily transported in a diaper bag. This can be especially useful if you plan to use taxis or car services at your destination. However, note that some portable car seats are not approved for aircraft use, so check the specifications before your flight.
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On the plane: book a separate ticket, use a bassinet, and ask for help
If you're travelling with an infant, it's worth finding out whether your airline offers bassinets and how to reserve one. Bassinets are small beds that can be attached to the plane, often to the bulkhead wall in front of a passenger seat. They are not designed for safety but for convenience, and babies are not allowed to be in them during take-off, landing, or during turbulence. There is no standardised airplane bassinet, so options vary from airline to airline. In general, bassinets are best for newborns up to one-year-olds, but this depends on the child's height and length. If your child is too big for a bassinet, they will need their own seat with an FAA-approved car seat.
If your infant will be travelling in their own seat, you must buy them a ticket. They must either travel in an FAA-approved safety seat or be able to sit upright in their seat without assistance and have their seatbelt securely fastened during taxi, take-off, and landing, as well as whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is illuminated. If you don't buy a separate ticket for your infant, they will be seated on your lap for the duration of the flight. Only one infant may be seated on the lap of each ticketed adult, and the infant must be included in the reservation.
If you do opt for a separate ticket, you can ask to be seated in the bulkhead row, which has more space and may offer bassinets. Bassinets are typically offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's worth reserving one in advance if you can.
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Strollers: check at the gate, and retrieve after the crowd has left the plane
When travelling with a baby, a stroller can be a very useful item to have at the airport. It can help you navigate through crowds, wait in line, or hang out before boarding your flight. It can also be a familiar, comforting item for your child. However, flying with a stroller can be confusing, especially for first-time parents. Here are some tips to make the process less stressful:
Check with your airline:
While most major airlines allow some bags and packs to remain attached to gate-checked strollers, it is important to check with your specific carrier to confirm their policy. Some airlines may have additional restrictions on the number, size, or type of items allowed to stay on the stroller during checking and handling. It is best to verify this information before arriving at the airport.
Consider a lightweight, compact option:
If you plan to leave bags and gear attached to your gate-checked stroller, opt for a small, lightweight diaper bag or backpack that won't weigh it down too much. More compact options are easier for baggage handlers to transport and load under the plane. Heavy or oversized bags may be removed during handling.
Give yourself extra time:
When travelling with a stroller, allow for additional time to get through airport security. You may need time for stroller folding/unfolding, bag checks, and other screening requirements. Plan to arrive at your departure gate at least 20 minutes before the scheduled boarding time.
Ask about priority boarding:
Some airlines offer early or priority boarding for families with young children and gate-checked items. Take advantage of this if it is available, as it will allow you extra time to get settled on the plane before general boarding begins.
Protect your stroller:
Whether you check your stroller at the ticket counter or gate, consider using a plastic bag, a stroller travel bag, or a durable waterproof protective case to keep it clean and reduce the possibility of scratches or damage.
Check your stroller at the gate:
Checking your stroller at the gate allows you to use it while navigating the airport and turn it over to the crew only upon boarding. Most airlines allow you to check or gate-check a stroller for free, and you can request a gate tag for it after passing through security. However, strollers must meet the airline's requirements, and larger or heavier strollers may need to be checked at the ticket counter.
Be prepared for retrieval:
After landing, if you checked your stroller at the gate, you may want to wait until the crowd has left the plane before disembarking. This is because strollers are typically retrieved by a baggage handler and brought to the aircraft door, which can take some time. The retrieval time will depend on factors such as the type of flight, time of arrival, and priority status. On connecting flights, there is a higher chance of delay or misdirection, so plan accordingly.
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Frequently asked questions
If you are driving to the airport, you can either hold the baby in your lap or use a car seat. If you opt for a taxi or shuttle, you can check if they provide car seats. If not, you can bring your own or hold the baby in your lap.
Arrive early. Most airlines recommend you get there 2-3 hours before your flight. When you arrive, you can ask for a bassinet to be attached to your seat.
You can carry your baby through the metal detector. If you have a stroller, you will need to take your baby out and walk through the detector separately. You can then leave the stroller to be X-rayed. The TSA makes an exception for baby formula, breast milk, and juice, so you can bring these in any reasonable quantity.
If your infant will travel in their own seat, you must buy a ticket. The infant must either travel in an FAA-approved safety seat or be able to sit upright without assistance. If your infant is under 2 years old, they can travel on your lap for free (within the US) or at a reduced fare (internationally).
