[crystalp]

We are being shown to an emom who is in a different state than we live, so if she picks us we will have to fly over then back after about a week stay for ICPC. My question is, what sorts of things do I need to think about for the flight home with the baby? I have never flown before (I know! Can you believe it?), so I have heard about all of the new regulations on liquids and such, but have never had to deal with them before. I know that they make exceptions for ready to feed baby formula, but what about water to mix with powdered formula? Would I need to buy the water after the security check point, or could I bring bottled water with me? Also, we aren't planning on buying a seat for the baby, just doing the baby on lap thing, but I have heard that if the seat next to you is free then you can put the car seat there. So is it smart to gate check the car seat just in case you can use it on the flight? We will have a connection and layover so would that make a difference? I'm way out of my league here having not flown before, plus I will be flying over with my husband, but flying back home with the baby by myself because he will need to come home sooner to take care of our other 3 kids and for work, so I'm a little anxious about that. I figure that if we aren't chosen for this baby that this info would be useful anyways, so all of your wisdom would be very helpful!! Thanks everyone!

[tondy24]

We flew home with our DD when she was 10 days old and it went very smoothly. We have since flown another 5 or 6 times with her, so hopefully I can help you out with your questions. As for what to bring on the plane with you: bottles, formula, pacifier, a change of clothes for baby and you (you never know when they will throw up). We flew with our DD as a lap baby and it worked out very well. However, like you said you can absolutely bring your carseat to the gate and if open seats are available bring it on the plane. If not, they are happy to gate check it for you. We have found that Southwest is the easist to fly with a baby because they have no assigned seating. That way if a seat is open you can bring the carseat on no problem. If you are on another airline with open seats you have to get a gate agent to try and shift people's seats to get an open seat next to yours. That can be a pain. Also, if you have a connecting flight then you will just have to get your carseat from gate check after the first flight and gate check it again at the next flight. For formula, we traveled with the little 3oz formula jars and you can bring on as many of those as you like. If you travel with powdered formula you can't bring your own water with you. You can buy some after security or the flight attendants on the plane are more than happy to get water for you. Hope that helps and good luck with this possible situation.

[aclee]

to have something for the baby for take off and landing. When they suck (either a bottle or paci) it will help regulate their ear pressure. My neice never took a paci as a baby, except when they flew she used it. Good Luck!

[mommamarci]

I have not actually flown with a baby, but I reccomend a sling. I HATED the baby carrier car seat. We moved Cameron out of his by the time he was 4 months old. It was too big, awkward, and heavy. I used a sling a lot when Cameron was little. It keeps the baby more protected from germs because people are less likely to touch (since, you know, they have to stick their hand between your breasts to touch...) It keeps your hands free. They are great and I have heard a lot of people have loved using them when flying. I have a Hotsling pouch. You might consider this. When my dh left me during ICPC, I used the sling all the time so I could be on the computer, walk around the mall, take the trash down the hall, etc. It was great! And a FABULOUS bonding / attachment item!

[crystalp]

Thanks everyone for your input! These are all great ideas. Here's hoping we use them this week!!!

[mom2justynsarah]

My beautiful daughter was born in California. We live in S. Florida. So we had an inter-state adoption. At 10 days old, she was a little angel and slept in her carseat for the ENTIRE flight home. (all 4 1/2 hours). But we also had her diaper bag on hand filled with formula, diapers, passifiers, etc.

[Okhmatov]

Using a sling or having the baby on my lap was always the best option for my infant. I found the car seat to be necessary when the baby/toddelr is already going crazy, bouncing on seats, using people's heads for drums, crawling through to the next row of seats, etc. But infants do well on laps, and I never like toting along the car seat as well as the baby and the diaper bag, etc. Pre-packaged, ready-mixed formula jars or cans would be great for an airplane, since they have a factory seal and are therefore okay to go through security. Not to mention, they're very handy. Of course, take extra clothes and diapers and a sort of blanket sleeper or blanket because planes can tend to be very chilly at times. One thing: don't be surprised when they make you take the baby out of the stroller or sling and put all the gear through the scanner separately. It always made me so angry when I would have to take the infant out of a sling to go through security, but that's the way it is. Also, just to save yourself some hassle there, you can't carry on any liquids or lotions, etc., that are more than (I think) 3.5 fl. oz. And all small bottles of liquid or lotions, etc., have to be in a plastic zip-loc. This is especially important if you're taking along diaper rash creme, baby lotions, baby shampoos - take all the travel sizes, and pre-bag it yourself, so you don't get caught up at the security counter. You'd hate to have to throw all of your bigger bottles in the garbage before going through! This also goes for nail clippers or baby nail scissors - anything sharp, or meant for cutting will be trashed. Of course, pack your handgun in the checked baggage instead of trying to carry it on, as well.
Hope you need to use this info this week!

[crystalp]

Okhmatov - LOL! Thanks!! I needed a laugh. Thanks for the info, too.

[SHD]

I agree with the others, don't even worry about a carseat. My DD hated a sling but if it works for you then do it. It is great for bonding, baby can hear your heartbeat, learn your smell, etc.

Wait until you get home to buy all the big stuff or perhaps receive it as a gift from your babyshower. The regulations for security are crazy especially if you are going to a bigger airport. No, bottled water will NOT pass security. I agree with a previous poster to use the pre-mixed, they're easy and since your mind will be preoccupied then it'll be one less thing you have to think about. A paci is a good idea since little one's ears could feel yucky on take off and landing. My DD did great. IMO when I fly anymore I carry as little as possible, which is what the airline's goal is, just to eliminate any delays.

I had to remove my DD from her carseat, fold down the stroller and send it all through the cameras, I had just spent 11 days by myself with a baby in a hotel so accomodating them was the last thing my tired mind wanted to do. Make it as easy on yourself as possible. Carry the extra clothes, diapers, blankets, and premixed bottles. The main thing is to relax since the babes can sense your frustration.

Good luck.
Helayne