Parenting 101: Flying with an Infant

Travel is one of my favorite pastimes. I regularly traveled by train throughout my childhood; this afforded my parents the luxury of leisurely travel times, plenty of room for snacks and toys, and an overall laid back approach to vacationing. The slow-paced conveniences of family train travel are far superior to travel by plane, but nothing beats the time saved by flying.

Though I'm not a huge fan of flying, life sometimes requires quick journeys from Point A to Point B. Such was the case recently, when I had to make a quick trip to my hometown for business. My five-month old infant is still exclusively breastfeeding, so he was unable to enjoy the sleepover festivities with the rest of my tribe, who stayed behind with their grandmother. Our itinerary included a flight out on Sunday afternoon, with a quick-turnaround flight back on Tuesday morning.

Ready for Take-Off!

I am generally very organized when it comes to travel. I make lists of everything I need to pack, and my suitcase is filled to the brim with necessities two to three days prior to departure. I organize itineraries, travel documents, backup travel documents, and make sure that everything is in perfect order pre-travel.

The fact that I would be traveling with an infant didn't freak me out until one week before take-off. I had an idea of what the trip would entail, since I'd taken a cross-country flight with my daughter when she was four months old. However, that was ten years ago, and the trip lasted approximately one week so there was plenty of downtime. I was seriously out of practice and realized just how daunting the experience had the potential to be when I began to research tips for traveling with a baby. Most of the information available was directed at couples flying together with a child, which did me no good whatsoever.

All in all, the trip was a huge success!

Fortunately for me (and unfortunately for baby), I was able to maximize my time and schedule multiple meetings for the one full day I would be in town; I barely had time to slow down. For my son, who was just starting to get over his first cold, the excitement was overwhelming, and not in a good way. Each time he napped, he woke up in a new, unfamiliar place. While he tried to contain his crankiness, there were a few meltdowns that could easily have been avoided if we'd had more time to spare.

Nevertheless, our experience was so smooth that I've decided to share some travel tips and tricks that are sure to help you as you prepare to travel with your baby.

1. PLAN BEFORE YOU PACK

Seriously, plan your butt off! If you're anything like me, list-making is the best way to stay organized and avoid forgetting important items that you don't realize you need until it's too late. I made lists of everything under the sun, including which toys I would be taking and how many back-up outfits I thought I'd need. In an effort to conserve space, and since I would only be traveling for 3 days, I brought only the bare minimum. As you begin to pack, you can cross items off of your list and easily keep track of things you are missing. 
My list looked something like this:

FOR ME:
- Outfits (Layered outfits; 1 per day; 2 extra shirts in case of spit-up emergencies; 2 extra pairs of underwear as instructed by my grandmother years ago...just in case)
- 1 Multi-Purpose Pair of Shoes
- Nursing Bra + Extra Nursing Pads
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Deodorant, Lip Balm
- Phone Charger
- Small, Easily Accessible Wallet
- Business Documents

FOR BABY:
- Outfits (Layered outfits; 2 per day; 3 extra shirts/pants; 2 zippered pajamas; hat; coat; gloves)
- 3 Receiving Blankets + 1 Comfort Blanket
- Diapers
- Wipes (Pack what the travel case will hold; buy more when you arrive)
- Toys (minimal)
- Extra Pacifier
- Disposable Changing Pad
- Infant Tylenol

2. PLAN FOR THE WORST; EXPECT THE BEST

Since my little one was still suffering from the respiratory symptoms of his first cold, I planned ahead by bringing his nasal aspirator. He'd received a nebulizer treatment a few days prior to the trip because his tiny airways were a bit inflamed, so I brought a small packet of Albuterol and figured that if there were an emergency I'd act like the starring actress in a movie and shout, "Does anyone have a nebulizer?" on the plane. Honestly, I didn't think I would need it, but I wanted to have it on-hand just in case.

If your little one is teething, make sure to bring teething toys and whatever you use to ease their pain (clove oil is amazing for tooth pain, by the way).

3. PACK LIGHT

Nowadays, airlines charge outrageous fees for everything from checked bags to peanuts. I refused to pay an additional $30 for a carry-on bag, but I learned that Frontier Airlines (my airline of choice) allowed for a personal item at no cost. Since I would be traveling with a baby, I could also bring his diaper bag for free. Jackpot! My personal item was a very small duffel bag that I could carry on my shoulder or shove into the carrying compartment of the stroller I would be using. It may have stretched the limits a teeny tiny bit, but only because I shoved baby's thick comfort blanket inside. I was able to access my travel credentials easily, which was super important for the security checkpoint and at the gate.

Since I was traveling with important documents, I purchased a large plastic manila envelope with a bubble wrapped inner lining to store my paperwork. Nothing was wrinkled or ripped, and I didn't have to worry about spills or moisture because it was water-proof. 

For baby, it really paid off to have a diaper backpack! It had a ton of zippered compartments and despite being stuffed to the gills, I was able to wear it comfortably on my back as I walked through the airport. I recommend packing a few plastic bags in case of soiled clothing. 

When you're packing, it's easy to run out of space. Check out this cool video for a packing style called "Bundle Wrapping," that is now my go-to. There are no words to describe how perfect this is:

Keys for successful packing: 

KEEP IMPORTANT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS HANDY

BUNDLE WRAP

MAKE SURE MOST-USED BABY ITEMS ARE EASILY ACCESSIBLE

4. BOOKING YOUR FLIGHT 

When you travel with an infant (under age 2), you have two options: 
a. Pay for an extra seat and bring your carseat
b. Book your baby as a "Lap Baby," for free

Carrying your baby on your lap for the entire flight may get uncomfortable if the flight is long. It is not the safest option, since turbulence can occur at any time and your baby's only protection will be your arms. Additionally, your baby may decide to projectile vomit on your neighbor, and who needs more enemies when flying with an infant? 

I chose to bring my son as a lap baby; because: free. Also because I felt confident that I would be able to hold him comfortably for the two and a half hour flight. 

You may want to book flights that coincide with your baby's nap time, if at all possible. Although the excitement of travel may disrupt their schedule a bit.

5. BRING YOUR TRAVEL SYSTEM

My travel system was my most handy accessory while flying with my baby. A travel system is a stroller/carseat combo that allows the carseat to snap safely onto the stroller until your baby is big enough to ride in the stroller alone. 

Even if you are not going to book a seat, bring your carseat/stroller travel system! Trust me on this. 

While you're in the airport, your travel system will allow you to store your personal items below, and will make navigation so much easier. Some people bring a backpack/carrier that allows them to wear their baby on their chest or back; still bring the travel system! 

I'll provide a step-by-step guide for going through security with the contraption a little later. You can push the travel system right up to the gate, and have it gate checked by the customer service agent. They will give you a little tag that tells the crew whether to send it along to your connecting flight or take it off at the next stop. Push that lifesaver down the jet bridge and just before you step onto the plane you'll see a door where a wheelchair will likely be sitting. Unhook the carseat from the stroller, fold the stroller down, leave both by the door (if not taking the carseat onboard), and your travel system will be awaiting you at your destination. 

6. ARRIVE EARLY

Arriving two hours early is always recommended for a flight, but be careful not to become victim to unexpected delays by allowing for more time to commute to the airport and considering security wait times. 

My trip to the airport was two hours away by highway, so I added 30 minutes to the commute time just to be safe. When I got to the airport, I found that the security line was not long at all, so I used the extra time to grab a cup of coffee and a muffin. 

You can check security wait times on the TSA website, here. Just enter your airport information, and you'll be able to review recent wait times in advance. 

Getting to the airport early has it's advantages, which I'll discuss next. 

7. MAKE NICE WITH THE GATEKEEPERS

This place filled up quickly! 

Prior to boarding my first flight, I walked up to the desk at the gate. Nobody was around since I was so early, and the customer service agent was in a great mood. I asked if anybody had booked the seat right next to me. She took a look at her computer, then said, "I'm going to move you to another row where there are three seats available, and then I'll block out those seats so nobody will sit there." 

Can you imagine my excitement?! I hadn't planned on taking the baby's carseat since he was flying for free as a lap baby, but because of her kindness I was able to bring it aboard. I can't imagine not having brought it, since baby slept for the entire flight. 

On the way back, I figured that I would try my luck and ask the same question of the agent before departure. Unfortunately, that flight was full. There was only 1 empty seat on the plane, and the wonderful young lady blocked it for me, so I was able to bring the carseat again. The flight attendants seemed to be shocked that I had the only free seat in the house; score one for the savvy mom! 

The gatekeepers were awesome, and in turn, my flights were awesome. 

8. MASTER THE SECURITY SHUFFLE 

Backtracking a bit, let's discuss security, which was my number one source of travel anxiety. The security lines are a hassle, and have been for years. Follow these tips to make your trip through the security line with baby a success: 

- Read up on security requirements here. You'll need to know about liquid rules and prohibited items before you travel. 

- Make your liquids easily accessible. When you visit the link above, you'll learn how to properly store liquids like infant Tylenol, breastmilk, etc. Make sure that you can get to these items without any trouble. 

- Wear slip-on shoes that you can easily remove. 

- Keep baby in the travel system/carseat until it's your turn to do the security shuffle. Then, place your bags on the conveyor belt, place your shoes in the storage bin with your liquids (as required), and prepare to remove baby from the carseat. 

- Place the baby's carseat (with baby inside) on the flat surface before the conveyor belt. With one hand on the carseat, you should be able to use your other hand to easily collapse your stroller and place it on the conveyor belt. 

- Finally, remove baby from the carseat, and push the carseat onto the conveyor belt. 

You will be able to go through the metal detector with your baby instead of walking into the full-body scanner. At no time will you ever be asked to separate from your baby. 

After walking though the metal detector, I was asked to step to the side for a hand test. I was allowed to hold my baby while a security guard ran a piece of paper over my hands to test for prohibited materials. 

That was it! I was able to remove the stroller from the conveyor belt, then lock the carseat into it; return my baby to the seat and fasten his safety belts; and rearrange my bags. The process was  a lot easier than I expected. You will likely encounter some kind travelers who offer to help, and usually the TSA representatives have children of their own and exhibit compassion toward you. 

9. EASING EAR-PAIN AT TAKE-OFF/DESCENT

Prior to take-off, the airplane is being pressurized. This lessens the ear popping sensation and may help you and your little one avoid the displeasure of ear pain. However, during descent, the pressure changes are often quite painful. If your little one has an ear infection or is congested, they may experience even more discomfort. I gave my son a small dose of infant Tylenol about 30 minutes prior to take-off just to be safe. 

To alleviate as much pain as possible, your baby should be eating at take-off and most importantly, when you begin to descend. 

At take-off, you want to make sure not to feed baby while you're waiting. Ideally, they will begin to eat as soon as your plane begins to speed down the runway. 

If you breastfeed, make sure to check your airline's breastfeeding policy. Frontier Airlines is very accommodating and has a generous breastfeeding policy, but other airlines may advise passengers to cover up with a nursing cover or blanket. In any case, do what is comfortable for you. My baby does not like being covered up, so I don't cover him. At take-off, the flight attendants are buckled into their seats, so if a passenger had a problem with your boob, they couldn't immediately summon them. 

In my opinion, a mother should be able to feed her baby anytime, any place, without issue. To think that we still live in a world where people are offended by seeing a bare breast nourishing a child, is absurd. 

You will likely begin to descend before an announcement is made, so when you begin to feel the pressure change, rest assured that your little one feels it too. Start to nurse or bottle feed your baby immediately, and rub gently on your baby's ear.

All babies will experience ear pain differently. I breastfed my son at take-off on our departure, and he slept right through descent until we had landed, at which time he let our a piercing scream and I was able to nurse him before de-boarding the plane. On the return flight, my son slept through take-off and then I nursed him right when descent began, and he slept until we were outside of the airport. 

Respond to your baby's needs calmly. Do not panic or feel embarrassed if your little one cries. Just do what you do best and provide comfort. 

10. IN-FLIGHT DIAPERING

The airport that I flew out of had an amazing perk for traveling babies, called the "Mother's Room." It was a clean, quiet space where mothers could nurse their babies or prepare them for take-off. I used the changing table to make sure that my baby was nice and clean prior to boarding the plane. 

Try to change baby before boarding, but if there is a diaper emergency mid-flight, make use of the changing table in the lavatory. Be warned, it is very small and not fun to navigate. It might help to have a diapering clutch that contains a diaper, a small baggy with wipes, and a disposable changing pad. This will allow you to avoid bringing more into the bathroom than is absolutely necessary. Keep one hand on baby at all times in case of sudden turbulence. 

11. HAVE FUN!

When you arrive at your destination, make sure to keep your baby hydrated. Changes in altitude can dehydrate your baby if you're not careful. 

Travel can be stressful to infants; if your little one seems fussy or over-stimulated, try to make arrangements for down-time or relaxing naps where it is quiet and peaceful. Your baby may cling closely to you since they are in a new environment and have been overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of air travel. 

...And there you have it. Those are my tips and tricks for making travel with baby easy breezy! 

Attitude is Everything

LET'S TALK ABOUT IT:

Let me know if you have traveled with your infant! 

Do you have any more suggestions for air travel with a baby? 

Did these tips and tricks work for you? 

Quick, Easy, Cheesy Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole is a classic, comforting casserole dish that works perfectly as a mid-week meal for your family or as a potluck meal for large groups.

This recipe combines the familiar goodness of the classic casserole with a few small additions that kick up the flavor! 

While not the healthiest meal out there, the tuna is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart health and brain development. I don't generally cook with "cream of anything" soup, but using reduced sodium options and partaking in the gooey goodness in moderation are the keys to enjoying comfort foods the smart way. 

This is the perfect meal for families on-the-go. It is fast, cheap, and easy! The ingredients for this meal can be purchased for less than $25, and if your family is like my family of 5, you can enjoy the leftover casserole on the following day, or even freeze it for later. 

Tip: When cooking with a glass dish, never use a cold metal spoon or serving utensil! If the cold metal touches the hot glass, it can explode!  

Trick: Use packaged tuna instead of cans for quicker and cleaner preparation!

Quick, Easy, Cheesy Tuna Casserole

Prep Time: 15 Minutes   |   Cook Time: 40 Minutes   |   Total Time: 55 Minutes

Serves Everyone! (Party Size)

Ingredients: 

• 12 oz package Wide Egg Noodles
• 2-10.5 oz cans Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (Low Sodium)
• 1 cup Frozen Green Peas, defrosted
• 1 small Yellow Onion, chopped thin
• 6 oz jar Sliced Mushrooms
• 3-6 oz cans Tuna, drained
• 3 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1/2 set aside)
• 4 tbsp Butter (salted or unsalted)
• 1 cup Garlic & Herb Bread Crumbs
• 1/2 tbsp Garlic Powder 
• 1/2 tbsp Onion Powder 
• 1 tbsp Black Pepper 

Directions: 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. In a large pot, heat 8 cups of water to a boil. When boiling, add egg noodles and cook until al dente as instructed. 

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained tuna, peas, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir. Add cooked noodles, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and cream of mushroom soup. Stir. 

3. Pour noodle mixture into a 9x13 dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top. 

4. Melt butter. Add bread crumbs to melted butter and stir until all of the bread crumbs are moist. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly across the top of the casserole.

5. Bake 30-40 minutes, or until bread crumbs are golden brown and cheese is bubbly. Remove from oven. Serve while hot.