Baby on board

Before travel:

• Get a passport for your baby - all individuals must now have their own
• Call a selection of airlines to check their schedules, and try to book a flight that will coincide with your child's nap times. Also, look for off-peak flights (Mondays to Wednesdays), as these are quieter and have fewer business travellers, who are often the least sympathetic to infants. These flights are usually cheaper, too
• Decide if you want to buy a seat for your child (you may be able to use your car seat, but you must first check the airline's policy on that), or carry him/her on your lap. Lap-held infants usually pay 10 per cent of normal ticket price, children with their own seat between 10 per cent and 60 per cent


• Find out if baby or toddler meals are available, and pre-book these
• Check baggage restrictions, especially to find out how many pieces of hand luggage you're allowed
• Check age restrictions. As a rule of thumb, most doctors advise no air travel before 3 months old.

Essentials: what to take



• Unless you're breastfeeding, you'll need sterile bottles, boiled cool water and formula (measure it out in advance and put it in small sealed bags). Planes don't have microwaves, so bring food that's okay cold


• Nappies: have a couple more than you think you'll need, as not all airlines carry supplies


• Wipes: keep these handy at all times


• Change of clothes, in case of puking or nappy failure. Include a spare top for yourself, in case baby gets sick on you


• A familiar toy or blanket, and a couple of new toys/books, which will keep you child's attention longer.