flying tips

I'm still trying to find out the best method(s) for flying with a baby. We've flown a lot and luckily, Izzy has been pretty easy. Although, this last time proved more difficult. I'm thinking because of her age and that fact that she's wanting to walk and discover everything...and that equals frustration at mom and dad when she's not allowed to discover everything (like the sleeping man in 36C).

Here are a few tips from my experience of flying with a baby.

1. If it's a long flight, try to fly in the evening. I've found that my little one finds it easier to avoid naps rather than bedtime.
2. Try to book a non-stop flight. Your baby could be sleeping, or in the flying groove and having to switch planes could mean you start all over.
3. Buy an extra seat? I've never bought an extra seat for my baby, but it's probably very helpful. If you do, bring the carseat on board.
4. Give your self time in the boarding area. Before you get on the plane, let your baby crawl/walk in the boarding area. Let them use some energy. You also get to board first which is helpful.
5. Change your baby's diaper before boarding. They'll probably appreciate freshness before a long flight.
6. Breastfeed or bottlefeed your baby during during takeoff and landing. The sucking helps release ear pressure.
7. Request a bulkhead seat. The extra room is invaluable for mobile kids. In 11 planes, I have had bulkhead seat every time (even in business class). It works for us.
8. Dress your baby in comfortable clothes like these. That way they can play and sleep in them.
9. Pack an extra outfit for your child. You never know what could happen: explosions, major food spills, water spills, etc. Especially as a newborn, this is a must!
10. Pack enough food. Overpack if in doubt. And bring foods that are easy to open and prepare...and not too messy (if possible). Snacking foods to divert attention are always helpful too.
11. Get maximum use from each toy. Bring them out one by one. But don't bring too many. I've found that Izzy really isn't into her toys on the plane, because there are so many other things going on. On our last flight, I brought a book and a couple small toys.
12. Diapers and wipes: the quantity depends on how long your flight is, but the cabin crew will always have extra if you run out. I still pack extra diapers to be safe and I bring the refill, soft packet of wipes.
13. Bring a changing mat for the bathroom. It's a very hard surface and you never know exactly what's been on it. Oh, and diaper changes are tricky in there (just an fyi).
14. Sedatives. I've never used them, but some people do. If you do, probably shouldn't test them out for the first time on the plane. Kids are affected in different ways. My nephew gets hyper with Benadryl. Not nice to find that out on a plane.
15. Ask for help. If you're traveling alone and you need someone to hold your baby for a minute or two, don't be scared to ask. Look for the smiling grandma across the aisle.
16. Fluids. My doctor advised to make sure she had enough fluids. Babies get dehydrated with jetlag.
17. Dedicate a small carry-on to the baby. Try to organize feeding, diaper changing and toys into different sections within the bag. That way you aren't searching for the item(s) you need.

One more thing.

18. Don't stress if your baby has a meltdown. People are usually understanding and for the occasional person who isn't...well, they should be.

Feel free to add any tips you might have!