| Traveling with an infant doesn't have to be the stuff | | | | times when planes tend to be not so full. While |
| of nightmares. You don't have to be the mom or dad | | | | making reservations, confirm with your travel agent |
| that everybody glares at mid air, when your child is | | | | that the airline is open to giving you an available free |
| throwing a tantrum. Flying with a baby requires a lot | | | | seat for your baby. |
| more planning and foresight than flying with | | | | Some airlines will also allow you to book a baby |
| preschoolers or older kids. Plan accordingly, make sure | | | | bassinet or cot, although your child will have to be |
| your carry on luggage includes a few essentials and | | | | lesser than 8 months old to take advantage of this. |
| you can have a relatively hassle free flight without | | | | Your carry on bag should contain disposable bibs for |
| going hysterical. | | | | meal times, a bowl and spoon, and feeding bottles. |
| First, take your car seat along. The American | | | | Make sure you take along a small tin of baby food - |
| Academy of Pediatric recommends that children | | | | although crew might offer you baby food, it might |
| below the age of 2 years be strapped to a child seat | | | | not be the one you're baby's used to eating. Take |
| on flight. This makes it easier for you, because you | | | | along a bottle of pre boiled water which you can |
| won't be left holding the baby uncomfortably on your | | | | then ask the crew to warm up again if you need. |
| lap. Your baby is also likely to feel more comfortable | | | | A good idea for breastfeeding moms - Ask for a |
| in a familiar car seat, and therefore less cranky. | | | | window seat. Take a small blanket or thick sheet and |
| Remember to book your child's eat in advance, and | | | | use a couple of pins to attach it to your seat and |
| take care of seating assignments. Car seats are | | | | the seat in front, to create a privacy screen for you. |
| normally allowed for window seats, or at the center | | | | If you don't have a window seat, ask other |
| of a row in between aisles. | | | | passengers if they can trade. Put on your most |
| If you balk at the thought of purchasing another | | | | helpless look, add a pleading tone to your voice and |
| ticket for your baby, remember some parents will | | | | no one will say no! |
| give you a free seat for your baby during off season | | | | |