Surviving air travel with a crying baby
Three years and more than a hundred flights with babies later, this is the post I wish someone had handed me before that first takeoff.
Flying with a baby or toddler can be challenging, especially when they start crying mid-flight. After flying with babies for over 3 years on over one hundred flights, I’ve learned a few things that can make the experience smoother. Here’s the blog post that I wish I had before flying with my baby for the first time! These tips are designed to help you stay calm and handle the situation with grace and patience.
Before the flight: get organized
Preparation is key! Before you even step onto the plane, ensure your diaper bag is packed with easy access to all essentials like diapers, wipes, snacks, bottles, and toys. I use this diaper bag and these packing cubes for inside the diaper bag, which can help keep everything organized and is perfect for separating clothes, diapers, and toys, ensuring that everything is easy to find. Lately, I’ve also loved packing a toiletry bag full of toys to keep organized! Staying organized will help you stay calm, making the flight smoother for both you and your baby.
Other products like an Inflatable Bed can keep your baby and or toddler safe and comfortable during travel on a long haul flight, while a Hip Carrier can offer support and save your arms if you are going to be walking around with them a lot. If they like a carrier, that can also be super helpful, although just note you can’t hold them in it during take off and landing. The white noise of an airplane is comforting to help my littles sleep, but if you think your little one will be sensitive to it, bring along Noise Cancelling Headphones to protect your baby’s ears and ensure your little one can rest comfortably. A calm parent leads to a calmer baby.
Stay calm when the crying starts
It’s completely natural to feel stressed when your baby starts crying on a plane, but staying calm is crucial. I know it’s hard, but remember that most passengers are friendly and understanding. Your baby will also pick up on your energy—if you stay relaxed, it can help soothe them, too.
Figure out what’s actually wrong
Take a moment to figure out why your baby might be crying. Are they hungry, thirsty, tired, or dealing with ear pressure from the altitude? Maybe they’re just bored. Understanding the cause can help you address the issue more effectively. If boredom is the issue, having the right toys can be a game-changer—check out my favorite baby and toddler toys to keep them entertained here.
Work through the fixes
Once you’ve identified the potential cause, try different solutions:
- Ear Pressure: If you think ear pressure is the issue, try giving your baby something to suck on during takeoff and landing—whether it’s a bottle, pacifier, or even breastfeeding. This can help relieve the discomfort.
- Boredom: Keep your baby entertained with their favorite travel toys, take a walk up and down the aisle (don’t forget to bring a baby carrier), or let them look out the window. If screen time is part of your routine, this might be a good time to bring out a favorite show or app. Alternatively, travel toys are also a super helpful way to prevent boredom.
- Hunger: Always pack more food than you think you’ll need—snacks are a lifesaver during delays. Multi-compartment snack containers are great for offering variety without spills as well as snack cups to help keep things mess-free. These tools ensure your little one stays satisfied throughout the flight.
- Temperature: Plan for fluctuating temperatures by dressing your baby in layers. The Love to Dream Swaddle UP Baby Sleep Sack is a great option for keeping your baby comfortable and snug, helping to calm the startle reflex while also allowing for easy adjustments if they get too hot or cold.
- Teething: If your baby is teething, be sure to pack some essentials like these teething sticks and any medication you use, I highly recommend the Orajel Non-Medicated Cooling Teething Gel to provide relief during the flight. These can help alleviate discomfort and keep your baby soothed.
Reassess if the first thing doesn’t work
If one solution doesn’t work, reassess and try something else. Sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error to figure out what will soothe your little one. Don’t be discouraged—you’re doing a great job.
Give yourself grace
Lastly, give yourself and your baby grace. Flying can be stressful, but you’re doing your best, and that’s all that matters. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that you’ve got this, and focus on the fact that the destination will make it all worth it.
Remember, you’re not alone in this! You’ve got this, and your fellow passengers understand. Enjoy your journey, and know that every flight gets a little easier with experience.
