The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Your Baby/Kids! (Part 02)
- Trevor Lawrence
- Jan 18
- 17 min read
Updated: Apr 17
What to pack/how to pack it? So many questions when you first start traveling with your kids. It's really intimidating, especially before the very first flight. (Looking for Part 1?)
Here in this post, we'll answer some of the most burning queries, like:
Do I need to travel with my baby’s birth certificate?
Most airlines say they “may” check your baby’s birth certificate. We have never actually had anyone look at it, but we always have a copy of her birth certificate with our travel documents – just in case. This is especially important if you’re traveling alone with your child.
What are the different airlines’ policies for babies on board?
While there’s a general standard for how airlines treat babies, each one is a little quirky. And honestly, your experience can even vary depending on who’s working the front desk or the gate.
Generally, you’re allowed to gate check one item per adult (i.e. stroller + car seat), and often (but not always) you’re allowed to bring one additional carry-on bag for your baby.
Every airline has an FAQ page about their exact baby and child policies, so check that out before you fly.
What is gate checking?
The vast majority of airlines (and every American domestic flight we’ve taken) allow you to “gate check” one item per ticketed adult. So, when my husband and I are traveling together with our child, we’re able to gate check the stroller and the car seat.
After you’ve carried or worn your baby through security, the next step is getting special gate check tags from the gate agent. You’ll typically need to present your ID and boarding pass.
We always attempt to get these tags in advance, and usually the gate agent will give them to you upon request. However, the procedure often differs by airline and even seems to change arbitrarily airport to airport. Sometimes you’ll even get your tags while boarding. Sometimes the gate agent wants to see the bags. Sometimes they hand out gate tags like M&Ms.
Then, while boarding you deposit your tagged items at the end of the jet bridge, just before you step onto the plane. The luggage handlers will put them in a special spot under the plane, and when you land, they will be returned to you in the same place on the jet bridge – so hang out immediately after deplaning until your items arrive.
Every so often, internationally, they will gate check your stroller + car seat and the items will still end up at baggage claim (often in the mysterious oversized area). It’s unlikely, and if it does happen, it will probably only occur on small planes. But it’s still a bit frustrating when you’re left standing at the door of the plane looking like a lost puppy.
You might want to consider putting AirTags or similar in your gate checked or regular checked items.
What if I check my stroller or car seat like regular luggage?
You may wind up checking your stroller or car seat instead of gate checking either because your stroller exceeds the weight limit (usually 20 lbs), you have too many bags and don’t feel like juggling, or you’re flying an airline that doesn’t do gate checking (looking at you Copa Airlines). In that case, your items will usually emerge in the oversized area, but double check with the check-in agent when you drop off your bags to verify.
What’s it like breastfeeding while traveling?
I exclusively breastfed my baby until 9 months, then we switched over to formula until she turned 1. If you breastfeed, there are some major advantages while you’re traveling:
o It’s free!
o No need to worry about sterilizing bottles or packing enough formula.
o It can be soothing on the plane.
Your comfort with breastfeeding while traveling will probably mirror your comfort with it at home. I’ve never been a “whip-my-nips-out” gal, so I usually use my feeding shawl, though very quickly I started choosing a window seat and foregoing the cover while feeding on the plane. It’s just too much to juggle in a small seat.
Many people prefer an aisle seat for easier access, but it comes with a trade-off. Small babies can sit/lie comfortably in your lap or a baby carrier, but once they get bigger, I worry about a wayward drink cart or errant elbows sneaking up on us.
While still at the airport, I usually just find an empty gate to use, or I use my shawl. Most airports have nursing rooms as well, but I’ve never actually used one.
My breastfeeding tips:
1. Don’t forget to wear your breastfeeding-friendly shirt & nursing bra…
2. It’s just about you and your baby – don’t worry about anyone else.
3. (Sadly) I limit my morning coffee so I don’t have to go pee as much.
Feeding on takeoff and landing is the biggest tip to help your babe’s ears adjust to the altitude changes.
We were lucky that AJ never seemed to mind takeoff or landing; I often got the timing wrong, so I was feeding her before or after takeoff. As long as she had her pacifier in, she didn’t make a peep. And if she was asleep during takeoff or landing, I just let her be.
WS&T Travel Tip: After a long flight, it’s easy to forget that landing isn’t the end – sometimes you’ll wait another 10–20 minutes before deplaning. And remember, your mood often rubs off on your little one. If your baby is calm, stay seated and relaxed until the rows just ahead of you start moving. One of the only real meltdowns we’ve had with AJ happened when we jumped the gun and tried to stand up too soon!
While traveling, yet another reason we love road-tripping is that there’s always a cozy spot to feed AJ – the backseat of the car! It is also great timing for giving her and everyone else a break from the car seat and to stretch our legs. Otherwise, I just keep my shawl with me and get comfortable feeding her in some odd locations.
How about formula feeding while traveling?
Formula feeding on the go can be a bit trickier, but here are several (so many!) options to choose from – and you’ll likely find your own, creative hybrid solution.
1. Mix your bottles after security or on the plane: You can purchase an inexpensive formula dispenser for your powdered formula, then purchase a large bottle of water inside the airport. Most newsstands carry unrefrigerated water so the bottle is less cold for baby. TSA may swab your formula dispenser, but let them know that they can’t open it or it might contaminate the powder. If you prefer hot water, you can bring a very handy heatable thermos, which recharges easily. We love our MomCozy water (or milk) heater. On the plane, you can ask the flight attendants for hot or bottled water anytime.
2. TSA should allow you to bring your own thermos of water through security if you inform them that it’s part of your baby feeding kit.
3. Instead of bringing a formula dispenser, you can pre-scoop the formula into your sterilized bottles for easy mixing, or just bring the whole formula container.
4. You can premix several bottles at home, then bring the bottles in a cooler with an ice pack with you. Again, TSA may try to open the pre-made bottles, so be prepared to let them know that they’re not able to open them. In fact, it’s their own policy not to open the pre-made bottles.
5. An extra safe, very easy but pricier option is to purchase ready-to-feed, pre-made formula (with a pop top).
We recommend doing a little research on formula in your destination first, but in general you can bring enough formula for a few days and then purchase more in-country.
If My Baby Eats Solids, What Snacks or Food Should I Bring on the Plane?
Once your baby is on solids, snacks become both a necessity and a distraction tool.
Go for:
Pouches and purees
Teether crackers
Bananas
Puffs or cereal
Don’t forget wipes. Lots and lots of wipes. Which leads us to our next topic.
Can I bring formula, baby food, or breast milk on the plane?
From the TSA Website:
Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) are considered medically necessary liquids.
This also applies to breast milk and formula cooling accessories, such as ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs (regardless of presence of breast milk). Your child or infant does not need to be present or traveling with you to bring breast milk, formula and/or related supplies.
Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in excess of 3.4 ounces. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from your other belongings. TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items. It is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches.
Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) – regardless of the presence of breast milk – are also allowed in carry-ons, along with liquid-filled teethers. If these items are partially frozen or slushy, they are subject to the same screening as described above.
When Should We Board the Plane?
Most airlines will announce that families with small children can pre-board, and some even indicate on your boarding pass that you’re eligible for pre-boarding. Some, cough Delta cough don’t always do pre-boarding and make you board with your group.
If we’re at all concerned about overhead bin space, we pre-board when possible. The journey from the boarding gate to the plane is the most annoying because Trev has to lug the stroller and car seat to the gate check area, but once those items are deposited it’s smooth sailing.
If we’re not worried about space, we often forego pre-boarding and board with our group to minimize the time that AJ is cooped up in the plane. It’s really down to your personal preference.
Airline Takeoff & Landing Policy
To the best of my knowledge, it's because of an extremely outdated FAA rule that you are required to physically hold your baby (i.e., not in a carrier) during takeoff and landing. Given how secure modern carriers are, this feels pretty silly – especially if you’ve just gotten your baby to sleep. Plus, having my hands free in an emergency... isn’t that safer?
Interestingly, most airlines seem to agree this rule is outmoded. In our experience, only a few have occasionally strictly enforced it. The first time it happened, we waited until the very last minute – hoping to avoid being asked to remove AJ from her carrier – but no such luck. So far, Spirit and American are the most consistent about requiring it.
If you have a lap infant, some airlines require and will provide a seat belt extender that attaches to your seat belt and fits around the baby. Again, with today's baby carriers it can feel silly, but you'll occasionally have to humor your well-meaning flight attendant by affixing the thing. Assuming AJ is asleep, we can usually fit this thing without waking her. But it's airplane origami, to be sure.
What Do I Do When My Baby Cries on the Plane?
Deep. Breaths. It can feel like the world is caving in when your baby starts screaming on the plane. I get so stressed. The key is to stay (or project) calm, take deep breaths, and remind yourself:
It’s not the end of the world.
People are way more understanding than you think.
If all else fails, a walk down the aisle can work wonders. (except during takeoff/landing)
If AJ is more than just fussy, I think my fellow passengers are more understanding when they can see me trying to soothe her. Safety permitting, sometimes that can mean rising in place – with a knee on my seat – to bounce her. When in doubt, hand her off to your partner so he can look like the bad parent (JK)… or try a feed.
Sometimes you just have to call upon ancient deities, make soothing sounds, and pat gently ‘til the moment passes. Which it will. I promise.
Snacks and Toys Are Your Allies
Once your baby starts solids, snacks become your best distraction tool. Think teether crackers, puffs, bananas, or whatever your kid loves most (bonus points for minimal mess). And toys? Bring a mix of old favorites and shiny new distractions for novelty. Think small if you’re committed to packing light.
See below for some of our faves!
WS&T Tip: Avoid anything with sound effects unless you have a fetish for dirty looks from fellow passengers.
How Do I Change My Baby’s Diaper on a Flight?
Very carefully – hah! It’s a tight squeeze, but planes do have fold-down changing tables in the bathrooms, so just make sure to keep a hand on your baby at all times. And make sure you wait until there’s no turbulence. It’s become commonplace for pilots to be aware and notify passengers of turbulence 5-10 minutes in advance.
I also suggest having what T and I call our “satellite diaper bag” – this small zipper bag contains a foldup changing pad, two diapers, travel-sized wipes, a small tube of diaper rash cream, and an quick-to-change magnetic onesie (just in case). Just the essentials for quick changes in a tight space.
Sometimes I’m tempted to change AJ in the seat if I know it’s only wet, but unless it’s just T and me in a row, it’s just not good manners.
How Do I Keep My Baby Entertained on a Flight?
The "newborn stage" is great because they really don’t need to be entertained and tend to be much better sleepers. The whole plane is a giant white noise machine – it’s kind of awesome.
Once they get older, you’ll need to pack some games and toys to keep them entertained. Though, truth be told, AJ’s favorite activity right now is forcing everyone on the plane to make eye contact with her so she can smile. She’s a ham!
For toys, I recommend bringing some of your baby’s favorite items, as well as a few newer toys to introduce for the novelties. Once they get closer to 1, you can try suction spinners that stick to the window, light-up toys (though no sounds of course), and a couple of textured books.
AJ also loves her Indestructibles books. They are super thin, and just about as compact as anything you can squeeze into a diaper bag. AJ can and will chew these rip proof, waterproof, nontoxic skinny books for ages before getting bored.
Parents swear by painter’s tape or washi tape which your kid can pull off of the tray table or window. Velcro seems to be a big hit too! As you probably know, babies can make toys out of just about any household object.
Once they’re older, if you’re a low-screen-time family, consider making travel days a “special occasion” exception.
The biggest lesson I had to learn was that my days of spending the flight reading a book or watching a movie are over. Once I accepted that we’re pretty much on kid-duty, the entertainment moments became easier.
...And pray for sleep when you can finally catch that rom-com you saved for the flight. Oh, who am I kidding? The moment that kid is out, I’m right behind her.
...
“GREETINGS FROM THE FLIGHT DECK, LADIES & GENTLEMEN…” Noooo!
What’s the Deal with the Airplane Baby Bassinet?
Ah the mythic bulkhead bassinet. On many long-haul, international flights, airlines offer a baby bassinet in certain bulkhead seats. This is a sky cot or small bed that attaches to the wall in front of a bulkhead seat.
If you secure one, your baby will be able to sleep in a comfy, regular position, and you’ll be able to actually move during your 12-hour journey.
Win-win.
But! Bassinet seats are a bit of a unicorn. They are first-come, first-serve and not always available on some carriers.
What is a Bulkhead Seat?
This means the first row in economy class. This is the only spot where bassinet seats are offered. You also get extra legroom, though you’ll need to store your personal bags in the overhead compartment during takeoff and landing.
Also, your armrest will likely be fixed in place because the entertainment system will be folded up inside it.
How Do I Book a Bassinet Seat for My Baby?
When you’re preparing to book your flight, check the specific airline’s policies about bassinet seats. In general, you need to select the bulkhead seats (some even have a little baby icon, indicating where bassinet seats are offered).
Then, in an old-school turn of events, you need to call the airline’s customer service and request a bassinet. If you want to increase your odds and also experience what our ancestors went through, you can book the flight over the phone to make sure you can request the bassinet prior to purchasing the flight.
You may also want to call again a couple of weeks before flying to confirm that your bassinet request is in the system.
Do Bassinets Cost More?
Bassinets themselves should be free, though bulkhead seats are almost always more expensive than other seats.
What is the Weight Limit for Bassinet Seats?
My husband says the bassinets look so cozy, he’s been tempted to verify the upper weight limit. But in general, the bassinet weight limit is 22-25 lbs. Check each carrier for exact specs.
Lap Infant vs. Own Seat?
Airlines allow you to fly with your baby as a “lap infant” until the age of two. There’s a hot debate on the internet about whether you can fly with your baby on your lap during their 2nd birthday (hah!) or whether you can try and cheat the system for a few months.
At WS&T, we recommend sticking with the rules despite the expense; you don’t want to be called out and have your trip interrupted or be forced to buy a last-minute ticket. Rumor has it, flying with a two-year-old in your lap is HARD.
That being said, I plan to keep AJ on my lap until her 2nd birthday or as long as we can stand it, if the result is some savings.
Others disagree with that approach for safety reasons (the FAA says that having a child in an approved restraint system is the safest way to fly) or have a particularly large or squirmy child and want to purchase an extra seat. Of course, if you’re traveling with two parents and a kid, having a whole row would be extra nice.
If you want to purchase a seat for your under-2 or if you need to purchase a seat for your over-2, here are the options:
1. You can have your child fly in an FAA-approved car seat. Your child should be in a rear-facing car seat until they turn two, then they can turn around. And it's still recommended on long flights that you observe the 2-hour rule, giving your little one a break from the car seat every two hours or less.
Which car seats are FAA-approved?
All car seats and travel systems we’ve discussed so far are FAA-approved for use on planes:
· Doona Car Seat and Stroller System
· Evenflo Shyft DualRide
· COSCO Scenera NEXT
Check your specific car seat, but most common seats are approved for use on planes.
My Baby Hates the Car Seat. I Don’t Want to Strap Them in for that Many Hours. What Else Can I Do?
Most families don’t end up using a car seat on the plane. It’s too confining. Too many hours to keep them strapped in.
One great solution is called the CARES Harness.
This is the only FAA-approved travel harness, and a fan-favorite among many traveling parents. It’s a simple install and can be used in any window seat or middle seat on a plane. Kids can use the CARES Harness starting at 1-year-old, up to 44 lbs. Keep in mind that the harness works like a super-seatbelt and thus is forward-facing only.
What about inflatable kid’s beds?
Inflatable kid’s beds like the Flyaway Kid’s Bed are rarely allowed on planes and never during takeoff and landing. Some flight crews may let you use them in the window seat, but you will likely not be permitted, so get carrier confirmation before your trip. British Airways is a notable exception, having just approved the specific use of the Flyaway Kid's Bed brand.
Bring them a little pillow (try an inflatable one to save space) and pop your kid’s legs on your lap.
Okay, we made it to our destination. Now how do we handle actually traveling with a kid?
How Do I Deal with Kids Jet Lag AKA When Your Baby Thinks 2 AM is Party Time?
Jet lag can be as un-fun for kids as it is for adults, especially if everyone’s schedules are slightly off… it can feel like you’re all going crazy. Make sure you build in some adjustment time if you’re going somewhere with a major time change. Take it easy on yourself and your kids, and don’t over plan in those first few days.
We decided that our first few travel destinations with AJ would be within three hours of our home time zone, so her adjustment period was minimal. She went to sleep a little bit later for a few days, then worked it out.
Here are a few tips to make the rocky first few days a little easier:
1. Light and Dark Are Your Friends
Your baby’s circadian rhythm is like an onboard clock – reset it with sunlight and darkness. Get outside during the day to soak up natural light and dim things down in the evening to help them wind down.
2. Stay Hydrated
Stay hydrated! Seriously, I’m pretty sure that’s the solution for everything. Water is magic for jet lag recovery. Keep your baby hydrated (especially if you’re breastfeeding), and make sure you’re sipping, too. Bonus: staying hydrated also helps with altitude adjustments if you’re traveling to higher elevations.
3. Let’s Get Physical
Try to do physical activities on that first day. Tired toddlers = happy parents.
4. Gradual Adjustments
Some parents swear by shifting bedtime slightly in the days leading up to a trip. If that sounds like too much planning (hi, that’s me), don’t sweat it – babies adapt faster than we do.
5. Nap Like a Champion
Let your baby nap during the day but try not to overdo it. Great naps during the day often result in better night sleep. The sweet spot is enough rest to prevent meltdowns, but not so much that nighttime sleep is sabotaged. Classic, annoying-but-probably-accurate parenting advice: thread the needle!
6. Lean Into the Chaos
Sometimes, no matter what you do, your baby will wake up at odd hours. Instead of fighting it, embrace it! Have a middle-of-the-night dance party or cuddle session. The adjustment will come with time.
How Do I Deal with High-Altitude Destinations for a Kid?
Heading to a high-altitude destination, like Bogotá, means you and your family may need extra time to get used to the thinner air. At higher elevations, oxygen is less plentiful, which can lead to shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue.
We were lucky our older child, AJ, handled the altitude like a champ, but my partner T and I had to take it slow. We also anticipate our baby might feel the effects as she grows older.
Here are a few tips to help you and your family acclimate safely:
Take It Slow
If you’re flying directly into a high-altitude city, plan a couple of easygoing days at the start of your trip. This rest period can also help with jet lag. And expect to literally move at a slower pace while your body adjusts—no shame in strolling around town!
Stay Hydrated
Keep up your fluid intake, especially if you’re breastfeeding (you may need to feed your baby more frequently, so they stay hydrated, too).
Get Plenty of Sleep (When You Can)
Altitude, jet lag, and a baby’s unpredictable nap schedule can combine to wear you out – so grab all the shut-eye you can.
Disclaimer: I’m clearly not a medical professional – just sharing what worked for us. Talk to a doctor if you’re concerned about altitude sickness.
Should anyone in your family have a severe reaction to the altitude, here’s what to do:
Consult Your Doctor in Advance about precautions or prescription meds.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately if symptoms become serious.
Descend to Lower Elevation if possible, as this is often the quickest way to feel better.
Bathing Baby on the Road
We don't get to bring that handy baby tub while traveling, and depending on which exotic places your adventures take you to, one often encounters more shower types than species of birds.
Sometimes a good old-fashioned sponge bath can do the trick. But failing that, we'll often hold AJ while standing under the water. When concerned about a slippery baby, cradling her with a small towel can do the trick. Or, as an added precaution, we'll occasionally drape a small towel on the floor of the shower and sit on it.
Got another method, or something you'd like to add to our planning guide? We'd love your tips in the comments.
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