Flying with infant??

Question

Im flying in a couple months with my infant daughter. She'll be almost 3 months. I noticed many websites have the infant on lap option. Does anyone actually do this anymore?? I haven't seen any when I've flown before. Do I actually have to purchase a full price ticket for my daughter?? If I do that can i use the Graco Snugride carseat with base on the plane?? Also what documents do i need for her to be allowed on the flight? Do they allow ready to feed formula bottles on the flights? And finally, any tips on flying with a young infant?

Answer 1

You don't have to purchase a seat for the child you can have her on your lap.  If you wish to give her a seat you will pay for it.  Each airline charges different amounts for children under 2.  You can use a car seat but it must be FAA approved, so check the tags on the seat.

You can take formula but it is better if it is dry and then request water on the plane.  Liquids aren't allowed through Security in the US so it can be a problem if that is what you have.  Check with the airlines.  Make sure you have changes of clothes in a carry on for the baby along with plenty of diapers because you never know if you will be delayed or not.  

For documents a birth certificate is enough for the child if you are staying in the same country.  If you are going out of the country then you will require a passport and a POA from the child's father allowing you to leave the country.  

Answer 2

Yes, you can fly with your infant as a lap child without having to pay for a second seat.  If you want a guarenteed seat for her to ride in her car seat you will need to purchase one for her.  Overbooking is becomming more and more common these days so an empty seat next you you is not as common as it once was.  

If you choose to purchase a ticket for your daughter, shop around.  From my understanding some airlines still offer discounted tickets for children although I don't know which ones still do.

You can only use her car seat if it is approved for air travel.  There should be a sticker or an embossed logo on the bottom of the seat/base saying that is is approved by the FAA.  If you decide to use the seat on the plane you should review the instruction/owners manual for the proper installiation on an airplane seat.  

Having your daughter fly secured in her car seat is the safest way for her.  If the flight is longer than 3-4 hours you and her will be more comfortable if she's in her own seat.  If getting her her own seat isn't possible look into purchasing a baby sling or Baby Bjorn for her.  This way you can have your hands free and still have her secure.

You will need to have her birth certificate.  If you are flying without her father you will need a certified letter from him stating that you have permission to take her with you.  It's best to check with your airline on what documentation they require.

You are allowed to take formula in excess of 3 ounces.  You must declare it when you go through the security check point.  For more info on the rules regarding formula visit http://www.tsa.dhs.gov/travelers/airtrav...

You should pack more formula, diapers and clothes than you think you will need in the event of an unexpected delay.  Zip top bags are great for putting dirty diapers in for disposal and soiled clothing.  You may also want to pack an extra pacifier in case one gets lost.  You may also want to pack an extra blanket as the airplane or terminal can get cool.

Babies ears aren't effected as much during flight as an adults due to their anatomy.  This doesn't mean that they don't have some discomfort.  Having her suck on her bottle or pacifier during take off and landing can help ease the pressure change and make her more comfortable.  If she is prone to ear problems you should consult your pediatrician for more ideas on how to lessen any discomfort she may expierence.  

Answer 3

people do ride with babies on their laps , it is still done.

I saw a baby my last flight. sometimes people get away with not having to buy a ticket but havng a seat for their child, if the flight has empty seats.

You can play it by ear. bring a car seat and you might be able to get  the baby her own seat, and gate check it if there isnt any room. you might be holding her anyway if she fusses. you wont have to waste the money.

I would not do this if its a very long flight anything over 4hours if your alone / 5 hours if your flying with someone who can help you.

you car seat will fiit if you have the armrest up. You dont to but, I would bring a copy of her birth certificate if it's a domestic flight. for a international flight you will need a passport.

you can take formula but only in 3oz sizes. If you use enfamil, they sell it online @ enfamil.com. that is the only place I have seen it. they have free shipping.

the best advice I can give you is to feed during take off and landing.  the baby should sleep most of the flight if you feed her.

Answer 4

If you take the carseat I would check the base, only take the carseat on the plane.

As for formula I have not had any problems taking it liquid on the plane, even on international flights (between US and UK, and UK and Europe). I have been asked to taste it before but I know they will ask so I'm not offended by it. Your other option is to take the powder and buy bottled water once you go through security, I have done it that way too.

When you book your ticket you will need to say you have a lap child, they will give her a boarding pass too. I have not taken a birth certificate along except when my older son was close to the age of 2 and he was a lap child (he's always been tall, I didn't want any problems with them thinking he was older than he was). Like others have said though, if it is international you will need her passport.

Since she is young you won't need much in the way to entertain her, maybe pack a blanket in your carry on in case it is cool on the plane. Pacifier if she takes one (and a spare) and a change of clothes just in case. I also always pack more diapers than I will really need for the flight just in case of delay.