Travel Baby

On the plane

Babies under two years still travel free on the lap, though there are rumors that this perk may soon be coming to an end. Most airlines charge a hefty service fee ($100 on United) for overseas flights for the same privilege, of traveling with babies. Before you even consider buying that extra seat until they are over two, remember that the baby will probably be on your lap anyway during the entire flights. So, unless you need an expensive place to keep your unread newspaper and magazines, take advantage of this free ride for as long as possible, while traveling with your baby. Don’t forget the sippee cup, bottle and binkey. If you do, the plane ride will be a descent into hell, because little ears often can not handle take-offs and landings without sucking on something. If mom is there and still nursing, you’re in luck; you can read the paper in peace. If not, you’ll be playing hot potato with the baby for at least a half hour up and a half hour down. We lost the sippee cup one time on the way to the airport and were able to get one at Travelers Aid at the last minute.

One gadget (and we love gadgets) you may want to consider sticking at the bottom of the diaper bag, while traveling with babies, is a water bottle adapter. This small piece of plastic allows you to use a soda or water bottle as a baby bottle and includes an extra nipple. At $.99 on eBay, its value to you, while traveling with babies, as an always prepared dad, would be immeasurable. Read more…

Once you start making preparations for traveling with a baby, you may begin to have second thoughts about the trip. But, do not despair! Parents have been traveling with a baby in tow for thousands of years, and that experience is available to help you now. Here are some of the simplest tips for traveling with a baby:

1. Get a passport. You may not know that if you are traveling with a baby out of the country you need a passport. The baby cannot travel on your passport. You will need documentation such as a certified birth certificate to get the baby a passport, but the baby will not need to be present in person at the passport office to apply. You will also need proper identification for yourself to get your baby a passport. Alternative identification methods are listed on the government’s passport website.

2. Do not get caught without diapers when traveling with a baby. Whatever number of diapers you think you will need for your trip, add 3 per day more. It will not hurt and it can be a lifesaver. Bring several changes of clothing when you are traveling with a baby-both for the baby and for yourself-because accidents happen. You should also bring some plastic bags to put soiled clothing and diapers in until you can take care of them. Bring lots of wipes and hand sanitizer for diaper changes and other messes as well.

3. Bring plenty of food when traveling with a baby. You should bring formula, finger foods, etc. in individually packaged portions so that they are easy to use and accessible. Again, bring more than you think you will need. You should also bring any medication that your baby needs with a dosing spoon or dropper.

4. It is always a good idea to have some new toys or books to bring out at stressful or boring parts of the trip.

5. You can buy a seat for your infant on an airplane at up to a 50 percent discount. Although this is not required for children under two, it is highly recommended. Make sure the seat is rated safe for air travel.

6. There are many companies which will deliver diapers, strollers, wipes, etc. to wherever you are staying on your vacation if you don’t feel like packing yourself.