What to Know before Flying with a Baby

The first time I flew with my infant, I did it alone, and I was stressed. I spent far too much time researching everything from how to get breast milk through security to what paperwork I’d need for my baby. Doing anything with a baby for the first time feels hard, but once you get through it, the subsequent times are easier. If you’re getting ready for your first flight with a little one, here’s what I wish I’d known.

Lap Infant or Ticketed Seat

Airline tickets have gotten pricey, so flying with babies under two as lap infants is an easy way to save some money. It’s a great option when they’re small, but as they get closer to two, those tiny economy seats get really cramped.

• You can add a lap infant to your reservation at the time of booking or as late as day of.
• Many airlines technically require proof of age through a physical copy of the birth certificate for a lap infant, though it’s rare to be asked.
• Buy yourself the aisle seat. You’ll be getting up a ton for diaper changes and to soothe baby.
• If you can swing it, buying a seat for long flights (and optionally bringing a car seat onboard) is worth the space.

Packing & Bags

Expect extra luggage when traveling with a baby. Every airline has its quirks, so check the rules before you pack, but usually you don’t get extra carry-on bags if your child is a lap infant. The airline does accommodate extra baby items though.

• Pumps and breast milk/formula don’t count towards your carry-on limit
• Gate check your stroller and/or car seat. You roll right up to the plane, then pick them up at your destination. Get a gate check tag at the desk before boarding! Not sure which travel strollers or car seats are worth it? We reviewed them here.
• If you check a car seat and the airline loses it, the baggage office has loaner car seats. If the airline is out of carseats, rental car companies often have them as well. 
• Sort carefully: keep anything you might need mid-flight (diapers, bottles, changes of clothes) in your carry-on.

Give Yourself More Time

Everyone has their own airport routine whether it’s arriving early and taking your time or showing up to the gate as the flight boards. Take your usual routine and add about 30 minutes when flying with a baby. See the breakdown below and build in enough room so that you’re not panicked.

• The breastmilk/formula will likely get pulled by TSA for additional screening (5-10 minutes)
• Waiting for elevators with a stroller (5 minutes)
• Diaper change before boarding (5 minutes)
• Pumping or feeding before boarding (20 minutes)

Traveling while Breastfeeding

I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how accommodating airports and airlines are to breastfeeding moms. Yes, you can bring breast milk and formula through security, and TSA is used to it. And, yes, you can nurse or pump on the plane. Some airports even have designated mother’s rooms. Some details to note:

• If traveling with breastmilk and/or formula
  • You can also bring an ice pack through security.
  • Put the liquids in a separate bag as it will likely get pulled for additional screening by TSA.
• If nursing or pumping throughout the trip
  • Many airports have lactation rooms (Mamava can help you find them).
  • Most airlines allow nursing or pumping in your seat or the bathroom. 
  • Bring a battery powered or manual pump because there’s no guarantee your seat will have a charger.

Boarding Strategy

Take advantage of pre-boarding or family boarding. It’s not about cutting the line; it’s about having a few extra minutes to get settled and:

• Tuck less-needed items overhead.
• Get your must-haves organized at your feet.

In-Flight

Getting settled and into your seat is a big milestone in the journey, but you still have to survive the flight. Here are a few tips to get you through:

• If the timing aligns, feed during takeoff/landing. It helps to relieve ear pressure.
• Look for signs on the bathroom door to indicate there’s a changing table. When in doubt, feel free to ask a flight attendant.
• Wear your baby in a front carrier so you can be hands free.
• If your baby cries: take a deep breath. Almost everyone has headphones these days.

When it comes to flying with a baby, I live by the Boy Scout motto: Be prepared. Pack a little more than you think you’ll need because you never know when you’ll get hit with a delay or an extra night away from your final destination. Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself too. As the airlines say: put on your oxygen mask first.

_{Disclaimer: Airline policies can vary and may change over time. The tips above reflect common practices, but always double-check the specific rules for the airline you’re flying before your trip.}

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FAQs About Flying With a Baby

Can I bring breast milk or formula through TSA?
Yes. TSA allows formula, breast milk, and pumped milk in “reasonable quantities.” They don’t count toward your liquid limits. I like to put these items in a separate bag or cooler because it will likely get pulled for additional screening. 

Do I need an ID for my baby?
While I have never been asked to prove the age of my lap infant, technically airlines can ask for this. Some of them are strict and require the physical document; not a photo of it from your phone. Check your airline’s policy, but know that you are unlikely to be questioned.

Can I board early with a baby?
Most airlines offer pre-boarding or family boarding. Take advantage of it so that you can get settled before you’re packed in like a sardine.

Is it worth buying a seat for a baby under 2?
Financially, lap infant tickets are cheapest. If your child is one or younger, I don’t think it’s worth buying a seat for them, but as your child grows and wants to move around more, the lap infant space can get tight. If you have the means, an extra seat makes for a more comfortable flight.

What counts as a carry-on?

Breastmilk or formula plus any pumping supplies do not count towards your carry-on and personal item allotment. If your child is flying as a lap-infant they do not get their own carry-on items, but if you have paid for a seat, they do.

Do you need a carseat to fly with a baby?

While the FAA encourages a child restraint system or device for children under 2 for safety measures, this is not required.