BubScout

1. Before You Fly

Every airline has slightly different rules for travelling with babies, so it’s worth checking the details before you book and again before you travel. This helps avoid last-minute surprises at the airport and lets you pack with confidence.

• Infant tickets and seating: Check whether your baby will travel on your lap or in their own seat, and how this affects your booking and cost.
• Baggage allowance: Ask what extra baggage is included for infants, such as a nappy bag or additional checked baggage for baby items.
• Bassinets: Some airlines offer bassinets on longer flights. Ask how to request one, whether there are weight or age limits, and when they are assigned.
• Prams and strollers: Check whether you can take your pram or stroller to the gate, how it needs to be tagged, and where you collect it after landing.
• Car seats: If you plan to use a car seat on board or check it in, ask about approved models, how to secure it, and any extra fees.
• Other baby equipment: Confirm rules around travel cots, carriers and any larger baby items you may need at your destination.

For the most up-to-date information, contact your airline directly or check their website before you fly. Policies can change, and it’s best to have answers in writing or saved on your phone.

2. What to Pack in Your Carry-On

Your carry-on is your in-flight toolkit. Aim for a bag that opens wide, with sections or smaller pouches so you can find things quickly in a dark or crowded cabin.

• Nappies and wipes: Pack more nappies than you would usually use in the same amount of time, in case of delays. Travel-size wipes or a half-full pack are easier to manage in a small space.
• Portable changing mat: A fold-up mat makes nappy changes on tiny change tables or seats more hygienic and comfortable.
• Spare clothes for baby: Include at least one full change of clothes, plus an extra singlet or bodysuit. Consider layers so you can adjust to cabin temperature.
• Spare top for you: A simple T-shirt or light top for the adult holding baby can be a lifesaver after spills or leaks.
• Feeding supplies: Pack what your baby usually needs for the length of the flight and possible delays — for example, bottles, teats, formula, expressed breast milk containers, burp cloths, bibs or feeding covers if you use them.
• Comfort items: Bring familiar comforters such as a dummy, small soft toy or favourite small blanket to help baby settle.
• Medicines: If your baby needs any regular medicines, keep them in your carry-on in their original packaging, along with any relevant letters or instructions from your health professional.
• Hand sanitiser and wipes for surfaces: Useful for cleaning your hands before feeding or after changes, and for wiping tray tables or arm rests.
• Small toys or books: Choose a few light, quiet options that are age-appropriate, such as board books, small rattles or fabric toys.
• Important travel documents: Keep passports, tickets, insurance details and any consent or medical letters together in a secure, easy-to-reach pocket.

3. Feeding During the Flight

Changes in air pressure during take-off and landing can be uncomfortable for little ears. The sucking and swallowing that happens during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding may help some babies manage this more comfortably.

• Timing feeds: If it works for your baby, you might offer a feed during take-off and again as you start to descend. Follow your baby’s cues; some babies will want to feed more often when everything feels new.
• Breastfeeding: Many parents find it easiest to breastfeed in a window or aisle seat where they can angle their body slightly for privacy and comfort. A light muslin or wrap can be handy if you prefer some cover.
• Formula or expressed breast milk: If you’re using formula or expressed breast milk, pack what you need for the whole journey, including time at the airport. Consider pre-measured formula, extra bottles and a way to clean or at least rinse teats between uses if possible.
• Checking rules first: Requirements for carrying liquids like expressed breast milk or prepared formula can vary between airports and airlines. Before you fly, check their guidelines so you know how to pack and present these items at security.
• Feeding equipment: Remember bottle brushes, teats, and any other small items you rely on. A zip bag can help keep these together and clean.

4. Keeping Baby Comfortable

Comfortable babies are usually easier to settle. Think about temperature, noise, light and how busy the surroundings might feel for your little one.

• Clothing: Dress baby in soft, breathable layers without scratchy seams or tight waistbands. A onesie or zip-up suit can make nappy changes easier in a small toilet.
• Temperature: Cabins can feel cool. Pack an extra layer, socks and a light blanket so you can adjust as needed.
• Familiar items: A favourite blanket, swaddle or toy can help the plane feel a bit more like home.
• Routines: Try to keep parts of your usual routine, such as reading a short book before a nap or singing a familiar song, even if the timing is a little different.
• Stimulation: There is a lot to look at and listen to on a plane. If your baby seems overwhelmed, you might dim the lights above you, use a light blanket to create a calmer space, or turn your body slightly to help block some of the activity.
• Movement: When the seatbelt sign is off and it’s safe to do so, a gentle walk up and down the aisle or a slow rock in your seat may help your baby settle.

6. What About Sleep?

Many parents hope their baby will sleep for at least part of the flight. While you can’t control everything on the day, a little planning can make it easier for your baby to rest.

• Work with your baby’s usual rhythm: Where possible, choose flight times that fit roughly around your baby’s normal sleep pattern. This might mean a flight that lines up with a nap or avoids the time of day your baby usually finds hardest.
• Familiar wind-down cues: Use the same simple steps you use at home to let your baby know it’s time to rest — for example, a nappy change, a feed, a short cuddle and a quiet song.
• Safe positioning: However your baby rests during the flight, keep their airway clear and supported. Follow safety instructions from the cabin crew, and use the equipment provided as shown.
• Seats, carriers and other equipment: Car seats, baby carriers and other travel gear can be helpful tools for getting around and keeping your hands free, but they are not a replacement for a safe sleep surface. Always follow the product instructions and any guidance from your airline.
• Lowering expectations: It’s normal for babies to sleep differently in a new environment. Even short stretches of rest are useful, and you can all catch up once you’re off the plane.

7. Airport & Airline Help

You don’t have to do everything on your own. Many airports and airlines offer support for families travelling with young children.

• Priority boarding: Some airlines invite families with young children to board early so you have extra time to get settled, store bags and organise your seat area.
• Stroller assistance: Ask whether you can use your stroller right up to the gate, and how to collect it when you land. Some airports also have loan strollers you can use between flights.
• Assistance at check-in and security: Let staff know you’re travelling with a baby. They may be able to direct you to family or accessibility lanes, or offer a hand when you’re juggling bags and prams.
• Family facilities: Look for parents’ rooms or family areas with change tables, feeding spaces and play zones. These can be helpful spots to reset before boarding.
• Special assistance services: If you’re travelling solo with your baby, pregnant, or supporting another family member, you may be able to request additional assistance. Contact your airline or the airport in advance to ask what support is available.

For the smoothest experience, reach out to your airline or check the airport website before you travel so you know what services are offered on your route and at your terminals.