My wife and I are planning a trip from NY to Florida in late July for about a week. What should we know about traveling with a 9-week-old? Should we bring the whole stroller or just the car seat? What happens to the stroller/car seat when we board? Do we need to buy a ticket for the infant, or do they sit on our laps? Is a diaper bag considered a personal item? Do we carry the baby through the body scanner? Do we get priority boarding, and if so, is it better to board first or last? Is there an ideal spot on the plane to sit? Any tips to reduce stress?
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Under two-year-olds are exempt from the legal requirement to sit in an airline seat; instead, they can travel on their parent’s ticket as “lap infants.” In general, lap infants are free of charge, but if you’re traveling abroad, you might have to pay a portion of the total fare.
Traveling with a 9-week-old can be quite an adventure! While it may seem challenging, careful planning can help ensure a smoother trip.
Essential Items for Baby:
Car Seat: Bring a car seat that is FAA-approved for both car and airplane travel.
Stroller: Opt for a lightweight stroller that is easy to maneuver through airports; you can gate-check it at the boarding gate.
Diaper Bag: Pack essentials such as diapers, wipes, changing pads, clothing, and baby food.
Carrier: A baby carrier is invaluable, especially during security checks and when moving around the airport.
Airline Guidelines:
Infant Ticket: Most airlines allow infants under two years old to travel for free as lap-held passengers, though taxes and fees may apply.
Car Seat: Check with your airline regarding policies for bringing a car seat on board.
Priority Boarding: Take advantage of priority boarding often offered to families traveling with infants.
Travel Tips:
Pack Wisely: Travel light to ease your load.
Be Flexible: Prepare for unforeseen delays or changes in your baby’s schedule.
Comfort: Dress your baby in layers and bring a blanket for warmth.
Feeding: Carry sufficient formula or breast milk, along with extra supplies in case of delays.
Entertainment: Bring along toys or rattles to keep your baby engaged.
Remember: Airports and airplanes can be overwhelming for babies. Stay patient and adaptable to manage any disruptions to your baby’s routine effectively.