Airline Traveling tips {baby}

Traveling can be stressful and tiring with a child. We have been on 6 roundtrip plane rides with our 9 month old boy and each time we learn something new. Here are a few tips to make your travels a little more fun and a little less hectic

• Make a list - a few days before your scheduled trip make a list of baby items you need to bring. If you are going to see family for an extended period of time, ask them to pick up things like diapers & wipes so you don't need to pack them for the whole trip
• Less is more - The first few times we traveled I ended up packing way too much stuff for my little man thinking he might dirty 2 or 3 outfits a day. Instead of packing every single washcloth, onesie, and towel you own try just packing one outfit for each day that you will be gone plus 2 extra. You can always do laundry!
• Stock your diaper bag - make sure you have at least 4 diapers in your diaper bag, an extra set of clothes, socks, and a plastic bag for any...accidents. We (I) have made the mistake several times now of forgetting to pack enough diapers/wipes for the plane and somehow Lewis always manages to have a huge blowout. 
• Choose your carrier - Ergo/baby Bjorn or stroller? Here are a few ways to help you decide which one will be better suited to airport travel. 
• Ergo - best to take when you are traveling alone and need both of your hands free. Your little one can even stay put while you make your way through security. Think about your destination. The ergo or a similar carrier might be best to take if you are going to be staying in a small space, such as a hotel, that might not have room for a stroller or if you aren't planning on doing a lot of walking. The ergo is also a good fit if your baby is still little and likes to be held close
• Stroller - Easier to handle in the airport if you are traveling with someone. You can push the stroller all the way to the gate (you can gate check the stroller & car seat for free!). If you know you are going to be doing lots of walking on your trip definitely take your stroller.
• Sanitize, sanitize, sanitize! - I always carry a pack of wet wipes with me, especially if an airplane is involved. It gives such peace of mind to be able to quickly wipe down anything the baby might touch when you get on the plane. They are also great for grocery store carts and high chairs! Pacifier wipes are great to have on hand as well in case a paci or toy falls on the ground while traveling.
• Pack distractions - pack some distractions for your baby. This can include new toys, snacks, a sippy cup for water, or a book. baby food pouches are perfect for trips, long or short. Compact and portable they are the perfect snack! You can even buy reusable spoons that fit on the end for super easy feeding! The movement and noise of a plane are pretty soothing as well so its pretty likely that your little one will sleep for at least some of the flight too.
• Ears - be mindful of your little one's temperament during takeoff and landing. If he/she is crying and fussing it might be his ears. Try nursing or a bottle to relieve the pressure (sometimes a pacifier works as well)
• Don't be afraid - The hardest thing about traveling with a baby is the preparation. It is never as hard as you think its going to be! Don't be afraid to hold up the line going through security because you have to take apart your stroller, don't worry about your baby screaming during the flight, it won't last forever 

Airline tips: If you are traveling with a lap baby you will not be able to check in early via the internet. Be sure to get to the airport with plenty of time so that someone can help you check in. For some reason an acutal person has to assist in this process which can be a little frustrating if you are running late and there is a line!

• Southwest
• Bring a copy of baby's birth certificate
• Baby is allowed to sit in an approved car seat on the plane if you wish to purchase a seat for him/her
• Strollers and car seats may be checked at gate
• United
• Strollers and car seats may be checked at gate
• Infants traveling internationally (even if they are lap babies) will be charged 10% of the adult ticket at the time of ticketing
• Not able to heat bottles
• Changing tables provided on Boeing 747,767,777,757-200, and 787
• Baby is allowed to sit in an approved car seat on the plane if you wish to purchase a seat for him/her
• Frontier
• Strollers and car seats may be checked at gate
• Baby is allowed to sit in an approved car seat on the plane if you wish to purchase a seat for him/her
• US Air
• Bring a copy of baby's birth certificate
• Strollers and car seats may be checked at gate
• Baby is allowed to sit in an approved car seat on the plane if you wish to purchase a seat for him/her

xoxo-Leah