How to Prepare an Infant to Travel on a Flight

Navigating airports, passing through security checkpoints and flying are often stressful activities. Adding an infant to your travel plans often causes more stress and confusion. However, there are several steps to take that help prepare your infant for an enjoyable flight. It is important to remain calm and reassuring with your infant as you prepare her for flying, as infants take cues about the situation from their caregivers.

Instructions

1

Have your infant vaccinated. Before taking your child on a flight, schedule an appointment with his pediatrician to receive his first set of shots. If your infant is too young for vaccines, wash your hands frequently while traveling to help prevent passing infections to your child.

2

Ensure your child is comfortable in your lap or restraint seat. Most airlines allow infants to sit on your lap during a flight or in a infant restraint seat that is approved for flight. Practice holding your child on your lap or placing her in her seat before your flight, so she is familiar with the process.

3

Take your time going through security. Make the process as positive as possible for your infant to avoid getting him upset before your flight. Remove your child from his stroller or carrier and carry him through the screening checkpoint. If necessary, ask one of the Transportation Security Administration workers for assistance with your carry-on items.

4

Change your child before the flight. Check your child's diaper before boarding the plane and change your infant if necessary to make her more comfortable during the flight.

5

Request preboarding for your flight. Talk to your airline agent about preboarding your flight to give yourself time to get situated on the plane and ensure that your infant is comfortable and secure before take off.

6

Offer breast milk or formula. Prepare your infant for takeoff by feeding him as the plane lifts off. The sucking action of drinking the milk helps equalize the pressure in your baby's ears and helps reduce the amount of painful pressure in his ears.

7

Provide toys and entertainment that your infant enjoys. While on the plane, keep your infant engaged in her favorite activities or offer her with some favorite toys to keep her occupied.