Flying With a Baby

Olivia was 5 months old when we took our first trip - just her and me on a direct flight from Calgary to Prince George. I solicited advice from my Facebook friends and I wanted to share their tips and tricks, as well as my own thoughts on traveling with a little one!

1. Bring something to chew or suck on during takeoff and landing. If you are breastfeeding, nurse your baby! I've flown upwards of 10 times with Olivia and I have continued to nurse her during these times and she has never had an issue with ear pain (plus, she usually falls asleep!)
2. Don't be afraid to ask for the seat next to you to be empty, if possible! Extra room is always helpful when you're traveling with a baby, especially if you're by yourself.
3. Try and go into the situation as unstressed as possible. Babies cry. Toddlers sometimes throw tantrums. If anyone has an issue with it, politely tell them to shove it. But honestly, the majority of people are understanding and being stressed about potential issues won't help anyone! 
4. I've tried various options for checking my stroller, using a baby carrier, etc. Here's what I prefer: I bring my stroller through security so that I can do the door-to-door check. I prefer this to using the carrier because it allows me to walk around the airport easily with her in the stroller. However, for boarding, I will put on my baby carrier and push the empty stroller to the plane door. I've found this to be the easiest, most efficient, and comfortable option for us!
5. If you can, plan your trips at night or during naptime - baby will be more likely to sleep! 
6. However, also bring toys, small snacks (depending on age), a tablet with some videos or games (this was super helpful when flying with Olivia most recently at 18 months), books, and water. You might feel like a pack-mule but it will be worth it!
   
7. If (or, maybe, when) your little one gets upset ... Don't stress! Think: how can I make my baby happy, rather than how can I make her stop crying so it's not bothering other passengers.

I hope this helps and I would LOVE to hear some of your tips for traveling with babies/toddlers! 

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