Flying with your baby gives your family the chance to start exploring the world together — or visit distant loved ones — right from the start. It can also introduce some challenges, though.
If you’re feeling nervous about your upcoming trip, know that’s completely normal. You can channel that nervous energy into some preparation, ideally helping you feel more comfortable as your flight approaches.
At Rise & Shine Pediatrics in South Plainfield, New Jersey, we’re here to help you prepare. Board-certified pediatricians Kalpana Kumari, MD, FAAP, and Himabindu Kasivajjula, MD, FAAP, prepared this guide to help your travel go more smoothly. And to help defend against illness during your trip, we offer immunizations before you leave.
Traveling with a baby introduces a lot of unknowns. TSA might spend more time going through your carry-on thanks to the various things you’ll need to bring. Formula, breast milk, and baby food can exceed the 3.4-ounce limit for liquids, but the TSA agent will likely need extra time to screen those items.
Plus, even after you get through security, you never know when your baby will need to be changed or fed. Get to the airport 30-60 minutes before you normally would, so you won’t wind up feeling stressed.
You’re probably used to swapping outfits after a blowout or big spit-up incident. You might routinely have backup clothes for your baby in the bag you pack for them. Make sure you stick with that for your flight.
On the plane, you won’t necessarily have an easy way to deal with the dirtied outfit.
Include an empty, sealable plastic bag in your packing. This way, you can stow messes away until you’re off your flight.
Most babies have some discomfort during takeoff and landing as their ears acclimate. Have a bottle or pacifier handy. Sucking on something helps their ear pressure regulate faster.
Babies cry on flights. It’s normal. If you’re traveling without a partner and the people around you offer to lend a hand, let them. Whether that’s the flight attendant or a friendly passenger in the next seat, accepting assistance can help lighten your load.
When you fly, the close proximity to so many other people makes it more likely that your child could get sick. If they’re up to date on their immunizations, that risk goes down.
Dr. Kumari and Dr. Kasivajjula can help you figure out which immunizations your baby should have before your upcoming trip. To put this layer of defense in place before you go, come see us ASAP. Call our office at 908-205-0632 today, or book your appointment online anytime.
