Flying with a baby for the first time? I’ve been there—sweaty palms, overpacked diaper bag, and all. I was terrified the first time I took my son on an airplane, but thankfully, I learned a few things that made the experience a whole lot smoother.
Whether you’re hopping on a quick domestic flight or gearing up for your first big international adventure with baby in tow, I’ve got you covered. These tried-and-true tips will help make flying with your baby feel a lot less overwhelming—and maybe even a little enjoyable. And to make your prep even easier, I’ve included a free printable carry-on packing checklist so you don’t forget a thing on travel day.
Pin this for later so you can come back to all the tips right before your trip!
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That Time We Took Our 1-Year-Old to Japan (and Survived)
Last fall, my husband’s side of the family decided to go on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan. It was a trip we had planned years ago but got completely derailed by everyone’s favorite pandemic and lockdown. Finally, when things really opened back up we decided it was time to make the trip happen.
There was just one little catch: we had our first baby during that couple year break. So now, instead of just packing a suitcase and hopping on a plane, we were bringing our 14-month-old along for the ride. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t completely terrified to bring a baby to a foreign country. Up until then, his only flights had been a couple of short trips to visit my parents—just two hours away. And let me tell you, international travel is a whole different ball game.
There were definitely some bumps in the road (and one very jet-lagged baby), but I picked up a lot of helpful do’s and don’ts that I hope can help you feel more prepared for your own adventure.
If you’re getting ready to fly with a baby, here are my 19 best tips to help you out. I’ll cover what to pack, which gadgets are actually helpful, and what to bring to the airport so you’re not stuck digging through your bag with one hand and bouncing a fussy baby with the other.
If you are taking your traveling with a baby by car, check out all our tips for road tripping with a baby!
Tips for Flying with a Baby
To keep things simple and easy to follow, I broke this post into three sections: before you travel, at the airport, and on the airplane. These tips cover both domestic and international travel, since honestly—many of the challenges are the same no matter how far you’re flying.
I also included a few things I’d definitely do differently next time now that I’ve been through it once. Learn from my wins and my mistakes!
Before You Travel with a Baby
The prep work you do before the flight can make a huge difference in how smoothly your travel day goes. From booking the right ticket to packing smart and choosing the right baby gear, there are a few things that are totally worth thinking through ahead of time. Whether it’s your first time flying with a baby or you just want to feel more organized this time around, these tips will help you feel calm, prepared, and ready for whatever the travel day brings.
1. Make sure you have the correct ticket for a baby
On most airlines, children under 2 years old can fly for free as a lap infant—but that doesn’t mean you can just show up without anything. You’ll still need to include your baby when booking and get a ticket issued, even if they aren’t taking up a seat.
Be sure to check with your specific airline ahead of time. Every airline has slightly different rules about what documentation you need, especially when it comes to international travel with a baby.
For our domestic flights, we didn’t need any extra paperwork. But for our international trip, we needed both a passport and a birth certificate for our son. Definitely not something you want to be scrambling for at the airport!
Also, keep in mind that your baby will be attached to one parent’s ticket. That means that same parent needs to be the one taking the baby through TSA and boarding. If you get separated from your group, this can save you a big headache (ask me how I know).
2. Make a detailed packing list
What goes on your list will totally depend on where you’re going—but whatever your destination, start your baby travel packing list several days in advance. Especially if it’s your first time flying with a baby, you’ll want time to think through everything without the last-minute scramble.
I recommend starting your list at least 4–5 days before your trip. That way, as things come up during your daily routine—like nap time or mealtime—you can jot them down. You’ll be surprised how many little things you remember when you’re not rushing.
Having a few extra days also gives your spouse or partner time to chime in with their own additions. Teamwork = fewer forgotten burp cloths and emergency onesies.
3. Pack extra of EVERYTHING in your carry on
No matter how many bags you’re bringing, make sure all your absolute essentials are in a bag that’s staying with you on the plane. That means extra baby clothes, diapers, wipes, pacifiers, medications, a swimsuit if needed, and anything else you’d be lost without if your luggage went MIA.
Most of the time, airlines do a great job getting your bags where they’re supposed to go. But delays, long layovers, and the occasional baggage mishap do happen. And when you’re traveling with a baby, you really don’t want to risk it.
So keep all must-haves in a carry-on that stays by your side. (Translation: do not volunteer as tribute if they’re offering to check your carry-on for free—especially if you have a layover!) The last thing you want is to land and immediately have to run to Walmart to replace your entire baby survival kit.
This goes for mom and dad too! Make sure you at least have a change of clothes, underwear, and some basic toiletries to get you through just in case a lost bag happens.
4. Use your Diaper Bag as your personal item to keep your hands free
Whether or not you typically carry around a diaper bag, you will want to make sure you have one fully stocked for your trip and that it is a backpack style for ease of travel. I personally love this one but I used this inexpensive backpack diaper bag many times while traveling and it worked great.
Before your trip, take a few minutes to clean out your bag and restock it with only the essentials (and plenty of them!). The goal is to keep it organized enough that you can grab what you need fast—because no one wants to dig for snacks or wipes while holding a squirmy baby at 30,000 feet.
5. How to organize your diaper bag for air travel with a baby
Trying to dig through a chaotic diaper bag while squeezed into an airplane seat? Not fun. Save yourself the stress by organizing everything in clear, labeled Ziploc bags.
I like to use three:
One for my diaper changing kit
One for snacks
One for toys and entertainment
That way, I can just grab the category I need and slide it back in without making a mess—or needing both hands. It keeps things so much more manageable when space is tight and you’re juggling a baby in your lap.
6. Pack yourself a small diaper changing kit
Changing a diaper in public is never exactly fun—but changing one in an airplane bathroom? It’s a cramped, awkward experience that’s best handled quickly.
To make it easier, pack a small diaper changing kit that you can quickly grab from your diaper bag without digging through every pouch and pocket. I like to keep two diapers, a travel-sized pack of wipes, an emergency onesie, and a changing pad all tucked together in one little bundle.
You can either put these in a Ziploc bag, a small travel bag, or use a changing pad that snaps or zips together to hold all the other items. The goal is to make diaper changes quick and stress-free, especially in tight spaces.
And don’t forget—if you’re on a longer trip or have a layover, make sure to restock your kit so it’s ready for the next round.
7. Best sleep options for baby on long flights: Bassinet vs. travel bed
This tip mostly applies to international or longer flights—but if your baby will need to sleep (and let’s be honest, they will), having a plan can make a world of difference for everyone’s sanity.
If your baby is under 6 months, see if your airline offers an airplane bassinet. These are usually available in bulkhead rows where the bassinet attaches to the wall in front of you. It’s a total game-changer for helping your little one stretch out and get some sleep without being in your arms the entire flight. Just make sure to call the airline ahead of time—they often require advanced booking and sometimes charge an extra fee.
If your baby is a bit older and you’re willing to purchase them their own seat, I highly recommend a toddler travel bed that fits in the airplane seat. We used one of the inflatable versions that fills the gap between seats, and it was a total lifesaver. My son was able to lie flat and actually sleep on the plane, which meant we could get a break too.
Here’s what our setup looked like:
Most airlines allow these beds to be set up after reaching cruising altitude but be sure to call ahead and ask.
8. Pack a comfort item from home to help baby feel secure
Flying can be a lot for a baby—new faces, loud noises, and unfamiliar surroundings. One simple way to help your little one feel safe and calm? Bring something that smells and feels like home.
Whether it’s a favorite blanket, a well-loved lovey, or even a soft swaddle you’ve used regularly, a familiar item can work wonders in easing travel anxiety and helping your baby settle in during the flight. It can also be a lifesaver when it’s time for a nap or bedtime in an unfamiliar place.
I’ve even tossed one of my worn T-shirts into the diaper bag so my son had something that smelled like me when he was having a hard time. Sometimes, it’s the littlest comforts that make the biggest difference.
At the Airport
Getting through the airport with a baby can feel overwhelming, but with the right gear and a little planning, it’s totally doable. Here are my best tips for making the airport less stressful and more manageable when flying with an infant or toddler.
9. Wear or push your baby—do not try to carry them through the airport
Trying to carry your baby through the airport in your arms sounds doable… until you’ve been in the TSA line for five minutes and your arms start to go numb. Take my word for it—don’t do it.
Instead, always bring a carrying device. I personally love this baby carrier, and I’ve also used a soft wrap like this one when traveling with an infant. Babywearing keeps your hands free and your little one calm and cozy.
A stroller is also a great option—especially if you plan to use it at your destination—but just keep in mind that TSA will ask you to remove your baby and fold the stroller to go through screening. If it’s too large to fit through the scanner, it’ll need to be inspected by hand, so plan ahead and give yourself a little extra time at security.
Whichever option you choose, just make sure you’re not left juggling your carry-on, a backpack, AND a wiggly baby. No one wins in that scenario.
10. Gate check your stroller (and consider your options for the car seat)
Gate checking your stroller is one of the easiest ways to make the airport more manageable when you’re flying with a baby. Not only does it give you a place to stash your little one (and maybe a bag or two), but it also helps make sure your stroller actually makes it to your destination with you. You’ll use it all the way to the gate, then hand it off right at the jetway before boarding—and it’ll be waiting for you when you land.
If you’re bringing your fancy everyday stroller, you might want to use a lightweight travel stroller instead. (This is the one we use and we love it!)
As for car seats—it really depends on your situation. If you’re not using it on the plane and don’t want to drag it through the airport, you can check it with your luggage. Just know there’s always a slight risk it could get delayed or damaged.
If you want to travel lighter, here are a few other options:
Borrow a car seat from a friend or family member at your destination
Rent one through your car rental company (just check availability and cleanliness ahead of time)
Gate check your car seat using a padded travel bag for extra protection
At the end of the day, you’ve got options. Do what feels right for your family and what you’re comfortable managing on travel day.
11. Use a stroller or car seat travel bag (just trust me on this one)
I consider myself more of a minimalist when it comes to baby gear, but purchasing a travel bag for both your stroller and car seat is an absolute must in my opinion!
These bags are relatively inexpensive on Amazon and will keep your stroller and/or car seat protected while out of your hands. We learned this the hard way on our trip to Japan.
On our previous trips I thought the bags my husband purchased were more of a hassle and insisted we didn’t take them. (We had so much luggage traveling internationally it honestly seemed like an extra thing to carry in our bags that I didn’t want to deal with.) We had a layover in Seattle before we headed to Japan and somehow on that domestic flight the wheel was broken off our stroller.
It wasn’t until we were wheeling my son through to our next gate that my SIL noticed it was missing. The airline employees were so kind and tried to look for it, but the wheel was never found. So we spent our entire trip in Japan with a three-wheeled stroller. If we had just put the stroller in the travel bag like my husband wanted, we still may have had a broken wheel but at least the wheel could have been located and fixed.
So soap box over, but seriously these bags are so worth the cost in my opinion and fold up really small to make it convenient for travel. I also love that they have straps to attach the stroller or car seat to your back to make travel to through the airport much easier!
12. Plan for extra time at TSA (and pack smart for screenings)
When you’re flying with a baby, everything takes longer—and TSA is no exception. I’ve had TSA agents ask me to take my baby out of the carrier and let me leave them in—honestly, it just depends on the airport and the agent.
You’ll also likely be bringing a few items that normally wouldn’t make it through security—like breastmilk, formula, or juice in containers over 4 ounces. These are all allowed under TSA’s guidelines for baby travel, but your diaper bag will probably get flagged for a quick inspection.
Every time this has happened to me, the TSA agents have been super kind and helpful. They’ll usually look through your bag and pull out anything that falls under the exception list. I’ve also been asked to do a quick hand swab and have the containers tested. It only takes a few extra minutes, but it’s good to be prepared for the extra step.
Pro tip: Pack these items near the top or in an outer pocket of your diaper bag so they’re easy to grab when it’s your turn in the screening line. It makes the whole process go a lot smoother—for you and the person behind you trying to wrangle their own toddler.
13. Change your baby’s diaper before boarding the plane
Airplane seats are already tiny—and trying to change a diaper in one? Honestly, it’s a nightmare. The airplane bathroom isn’t much better, especially if your baby is wiggly and not in the mood to lie still on a mini fold-down table.
To avoid mid-air diaper drama, try to change your baby’s diaper right before boarding. It gives you the best shot at avoiding a change during the flight—especially on shorter trips. If your flight is longer than a few hours, diaper changes may still be unavoidable, but at least you’ll be starting off fresh.
And if you do end up dealing with a dirty diaper mid-flight, there are a couple things to keep in mind:
Always let a flight attendant know before disposing of a poop diaper.
Use a plastic bag to contain the smell (these disposable diaper bags are great, or even a stash of grocery bags works in a pinch).
It’s not glamorous, but it’s doable—and a little planning goes a long way!
On the Plane with a Baby
You’ve made it through packing, airport security, and boarding—now it’s time for the main event: surviving the flight itself. Being on an airplane with a baby can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time, but with a little planning (and a lot of snacks), you can absolutely make it through.
These tips will help you keep your baby comfortable, entertained, and calm from takeoff to landing—and help you feel a little more in control, too.
14. Wait to board until the last minute (or send one parent ahead)
Babies get restless fast, and the last thing you want is to burn through their patience while sitting on the plane before it even takes off. If your airline offers early boarding for families, that’s great—but you don’t have to take it.
If you’re traveling with a spouse or partner, one of you can board early to get everything set up: drop off the stroller or car seat, store the carry-ons, wipe down the seats, and get your space organized. Meanwhile, the other parent can stay behind and let baby move around for as long as possible before takeoff.
This little strategy helps you avoid that “trapped-in-a-tiny-seat-too-soon” meltdown and gives everyone a smoother start to the flight.
15. Disinfect everything before you get settled
Airplanes are just… not clean. If you’re not already in the habit of wiping down your seat and tray table before settling in, now’s the time—especially with a baby in your lap who’s probably going to touch (and maybe lick) everything in sight.
Use sanitizing wipes to clean the seat, tray table, armrests, window area, and anything else your baby might grab. It only takes a minute and gives a little peace of mind before takeoff.
16. Ask where the nearest changing table is (before you need it)
As soon as you board, ask a flight attendant where the closest changing table is to your seat. Not all airplane bathrooms have them—some do, some don’t—so it’s good to know ahead of time where to go before you’re holding a diaper emergency at 30,000 feet.
Knowing your options early makes it way less stressful if and when you do need to do a mid-flight diaper change.
17. Nurse or feed your baby during takeoff and landing
You’ve probably heard that chewing gum or sipping water during takeoff and landing helps relieve ear pressure—feeding your baby works the same way for them.
If it lines up with a normal feeding, try to nurse or give a bottle during those parts of the flight to help your baby stay calm and avoid ear pain. If it’s not time for a feeding, offering a pacifier or anything they can suck on can still do the trick.
A full belly also means your baby is more likely to fall asleep mid-flight—which is a win for everyone. If the timing works out, try to feed them right before takeoff to help them settle in for a nice nap.
18. Use snacks as entertainment
If your baby is eating solids, snacks can double as a great distraction during the flight. I liked to give my son one puff at a time on the tray table—it kept him busy, helped with hand-eye coordination, and honestly held his attention way longer than I expected.
Think small, easy-to-clean-up snacks like puffs, yogurt melts, or baby crackers. They’re mess-friendly and take a while to eat, which is exactly what you want when you’re trying to stretch out time in a cramped airplane seat.
19. Bring a few new toys just for the flight
To help keep your baby entertained on the plane, buy a couple of brand-new toys specifically for the trip. Nothing fancy—just a few inexpensive, small items that are easy to stash in your diaper bag and pull out when the boredom starts to hit.
The novelty of something new can go a long way in holding their attention. And don’t hand them all over at once. Give one at a time and save the others for later in the flight to stretch out the entertainment.
20. Be patient with yourself and stay calm (even when it’s hard)
This really applies to every part of your trip—but especially on the plane. Whether it’s your first time flying with a baby or you’ve done it before, it can still be stressful. And even if you plan everything perfectly, things can still go sideways—and that’s okay!
I remember feeling so anxious about what other passengers would think if my baby cried or fussed. But here’s the truth: no one dislikes a crying baby more than the parents do. You might be surprised at how many people are understanding and sympathetic. Chances are, a lot of them have been in your shoes before.
And if someone isn’t kind or patient? Let it go. You’re a parent doing your best in a tough situation, and that’s something to be proud of.
So take a deep breath, give yourself grace, and remind yourself that this flight is just one small part of your adventure. Once you land and get to where you’re going, it’ll all be worth it.
Need a checklist you can actually check off? Keep reading—there’s a free printable carry-on list coming up so you don’t forget a thing.
What to Pack for Airplane Travel with a Baby
Packing for the actual travel day is half the battle when you’re flying with a baby. This list focuses on what you’ll need during the flight, not once you arrive at your destination—since that part can vary a lot depending on where you’re going.
I didn’t include specific quantities, because how much you’ll need will depend on your baby’s age, how long you’re traveling, and how many surprises your little one has in store for you that day.
To keep things easy to manage, here’s everything broken down by category:
Diapering and Baby Care Essentials
These are the items you’ll want to keep easily accessible and well-organized in your carry-on or diaper bag:
Backpack-style diaper bag – Keeps your hands free and evenly distributes weight (this one is my go-to)
Diapers (double what you think you’ll need) – For peace of mind during long delays or layovers
Travel wipes + diaper cream
Portable changing pad – Foldable versions take up less space
Grocery bags or wet bags – For soiled clothes or used diapers
Multiple outfit changes for baby – Accidents will happen
Extra shirt (or two) for mom – Think spit-up, spills, or breastmilk leaks
Bibs or burp cloths – For feeding time and drooly babes
Sanitizing wipes + sanitizing spray – For tray tables, armrests, and anything baby will touch
Feeding and Snacking Essentials
Whether you’re nursing, bottle-feeding, or doing solids—make sure you have these on hand:
Breastmilk, formula, or juice – Pack in accessible spots for TSA checks
Snacks in zip-top bags or snack containers – Think puffs, crackers, yogurt melts
Nursing cover or lightweight blanket – For nursing, naps, or a little privacy
Sippy cup or bottle – Especially helpful during takeoff and landing to relieve ear pressure
Sleep and Comfort Items
Helping baby settle down mid-flight can make your experience way smoother:
Favorite lovey or stuffed animal – Something that smells like home
Pacifiers (bring extras!) – In case one drops or disappears into the airplane abyss
Small blanket or swaddle – Great for layering, cuddling, or nursing
White noise app or portable sound machine – Especially helpful for longer flights or naps (We cannot survive any trip without this sound machine)
Travel Gear
These are the items that help you get through the airport and onto the plane with (some) sanity intact:
Lightweight stroller – Easy to fold, and gate-check friendly (we use this one for travel)
Baby carrier or wrap – Great for hands-free travel through TSA
Stroller or car seat travel bag – To help protect your gear in the cargo hold
Toys and Activities to Keep Baby Busy
Screen-free doesn’t mean boredom! Pack a few small, quiet toys to help keep your baby entertained during the flight.
Cloth or crinkle books – Lightweight and great for curious little hands
Teething toys or rings – Easy to clean and soothing during the flight
Suction toys for the tray table – These stick and spin for a fun distraction
Small sensory or fidget toys – Great for exploring textures and staying occupied
A few new (inexpensive) toys – Save them for the flight to hold their attention longer
Favorite comfort toy – Something familiar to help them feel safe
Just rotate one toy at a time and keep extras tucked in your diaper bag for when you need a backup!
Parent and Emergency Must-Haves
Don’t forget about you, mama!
Medications for baby – I always pack infant Tylenol or Motrin, just in case
Hand sanitizer – For before feedings or after diaper changes
Snacks and water for you – Hangry doesn’t travel well
Grab the Free Flying with Baby Checklist
Let’s be honest—traveling with a baby can feel like prepping for a full-blown expedition. And while you could wing it, having a solid checklist for your carry-on makes everything so much easier.
To help you feel totally prepared, I put together a simple, printable checklist with everything you’ll want to have packed for the airport and flight—all in one easy-to-check format. It’s the same list I use when I fly with my own babies, and it includes only the essentials (no overpacking here!).
Whether you’re traveling for the first time or just want to make sure you didn’t forget the pacifier stash (we’ve all been there), this is for you.
(No email required—just a helpful freebie from one mom to another.)
You can print it or screenshot it right to your phone for easy packing. Don’t forget to save it for your next trip, too!
Final Thoughts on Flying with a Baby
Flying with a baby might feel a little overwhelming at first, but with the right prep and a well-packed bag, you’re going to do great. I hope this guide (and the printable checklist!) makes your travel day smoother and helps you feel more confident before takeoff.
Every trip will teach you something new—but you’ve already taken the biggest step by getting prepared. Safe travels, and don’t forget to give yourself grace along the way. You’ve got this!
