Summer is finally here! If you are planning a road trip or catching a flight to your holiday destination, preparation is essential when traveling with children.
Whether this is your first trip with your child or your fifth, traveling with kids can sometimes feel stressful. Today we want to share some helpful tips that worked well for us when traveling with our little ones—from packing essentials to keeping your child entertained during the flight.
At Organic Baby Formula Shop , we want you to enjoy a wonderful vacation with your family. This article is part of a small series about planning vacations with babies and toddlers. Today’s focus: traveling by plane with kids.
Before Booking Your Flight
Before purchasing your tickets, take time to review the airline’s policies regarding traveling with babies or small children.
Different airlines have different regulations regarding:
- Priority boarding for families
- Free baggage allowance for baby equipment
- Transport of strollers, pushchairs, and car seats
- Travel cots or booster seats
- Seating arrangements (lap infant vs. child seat)
Understanding these rules ahead of time can help you avoid unexpected costs or surprises at the airport.
We found this helpful guide to be a great resource when comparing airline family policies.
Travel Tips for Flying with Kids
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at the airport at least one extra hour earlier than the airline recommends. Traveling with children often requires additional time for check-in, security checks, and unexpected delays.
Pack Smart
Try not to overpack, but make sure you bring the essentials. Your diaper bag will likely serve as your carry-on bag, so include:
- Diapers and baby wipes
- Extra plastic bags for used diapers
- Pacifier
- Organic snacks
- Baby formula or breast milk
- Baby bottles
- Your child’s favorite toy
- A comfortable blanket
- Any necessary medication
Creating a reusable packing checklist on your phone or computer can make future trips easier.
Getting Through Airport Security
Airport security procedures can vary widely depending on the airport. Some airports offer priority security lines for families traveling with babies.
If you are traveling with breast milk or baby formula, security agents may need to inspect the liquids. Allow extra time for this process.
If you want to learn more about how long breast milk and formula can safely remain at room temperature, check out our article on refrigerating and freezing baby formula .
At the Gate
When you arrive at the gate, speak to the airline staff to get the required tags for your stroller. This helps avoid delays during the boarding process.
Breastfeeding and Pumping at the Airport
We strongly support breastfeeding anywhere and everywhere—it is natural and should never be a source of embarrassment.
If you prefer more privacy, many airports offer nursing rooms or private pods where you can feed or pump comfortably. Airport staff can guide you to the nearest facility.
Once on the Plane
Feeding your baby during takeoff and landing can help reduce discomfort caused by cabin pressure changes. The sucking motion helps equalize pressure in the ears.
If you are bottle-feeding, ask a flight attendant for a cup of hot water. You can warm the bottle by placing it briefly in the hot water.
During Takeoff and Landing
Depending on your child’s age, airline staff may require your baby to be secured using a specific infant safety belt during takeoff and landing. Always follow the instructions provided by the cabin crew.
Keeping Your Baby Calm During the Flight
Some babies will sleep through most of the flight—but many will not. New sounds, unfamiliar surroundings, and cabin pressure changes can make babies uncomfortable.
Stay calm and try simple distractions:
- Your baby’s favorite toy
- A short story or picture book
- Singing a quiet song
- Gentle rocking
- A small game
Remember: babies cry sometimes, and that is completely normal. Don’t feel embarrassed if other travelers give you a look—every adult was once a baby too.
Some parents even hand out small apology gift bags to nearby passengers, but we personally don’t think this is necessary. Ultimately, it’s your choice.
Enjoy the Journey
We hope these tips help make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
In our next articles we will continue sharing helpful tips for planning a great vacation with your little ones.
Where are you heading this summer?