Keep the tantrums at bay with these in-flight essentials
After two years of postponed plans, this summer is the chance to explore the world and go on your next adventure as a family. We know it can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together our top tips and must-have products to help ensure your journey avoids any unnecessary turbulence (fingers crossed!).
What to expect
So, you’ve planned your perfect family holiday, but it’s your first time flying with a little one – don’t panic. Nobody can predict what your flight will be like, but it’s important to cover all bases so you’re well prepared.
Plan ahead
Before you consider booking your flight, check that baby is old enough to fly. Under NHS advice, it’s best to wait until your baby is over two weeks old. However, babies aged between two and seven days old can be given permission to fly with a letter from your GP. It’s best to check the age restrictions with your chosen airline too, as they may have different policies.
Travel health advice
As with any holiday, it’s always good to get covered with travel insurance before you fly in case the unexpected happens. Likewise, you should consider the travel health advice from your chosen destination so you can dictate whether any vaccines or antimalarial medicine is required prior to your trip. If you are travelling with a baby, it’s advised to avoid malarious areas but seek advice from your GP or pharmacist before travelling.
Infant and child tickets
There are a couple of ticket options available which have different baggage allowances. Generally, if the child is under the age of two, you can buy an infant ticket where they’ll be expected to sit on your lap. With an infant ticket, you may be entitled to a smaller luggage allowance, but this will vary with each airline, so it’s best to check.
If you want them to have their own seat, you can buy a child ticket. They may need their own car seat if this is the case. As they’ll have their own seat, they can get the standard hand luggage allowance too. But again, check this with your airline.
Packing and hand luggage
Although you might feel you need to pack up the entire contents of your house, it’s better not to overpack. Most things can go in your checked-in luggage and the things you do need can be organised into your hand luggage.
If you’re unsure on what to expect, we recommend keeping up to date with the latest Government guidance on travel, as well as your specific airline before you jet off.
Some airlines will allow you to bring an extra carry-on bag for your little one, as long as you stick to the 100ml liquid restrictions. It’s worth noting that there are some exceptions for these liquids so you can bring milk and food pouches onboard but make sure to check with your airline for full details.
What to pack
Your flight bag is your one-way ticket to a smooth journey, so it’s essential you pack everything you need to keep your little one comfortable and entertained. Right from leaving your house to landing in your chosen destination, we’ve covered everything you need to ensure your experience is as calm as possible.
The serious stuff
Before you can even think about how many changes of clothes you’ll need to bring, you won’t get very far without the serious documents.
If this is your first time flying with a baby, they’ll need their own passport. It’s worth sorting this a couple of months before you fly to allow plenty of time for it to arrive. Some airlines may request a birth certificate to confirm the age of your little one, so check if your airline requires this. Keep these documents in a safe and easily accessible place in your hand luggage so you can fly through airport security.
Alternatively, download as much as possible to your phone so you’re not having to faff around with paperwork when your hands will already be full.
Newborns and infants (0-12 months)
Going on holiday with a newborn is such a new and exciting experience and it’s only natural to worry about the flight. But there are plenty of things you can do to prepare so you can enjoy your holiday in no time. Don’t forget to check the hand luggage size requirements for your specific airline so you can prepare your packing essentials.
Stroller and carrier
Feeding
Aptamil 2 Follow On Baby Milk Formula Tabs 6-12 Months (120 Tabs)*
Suitable for infants between six and 12 months, feed your baby with this quick and easy follow-on formula – what’s not to like?
*Important notice: Breastfeeding is best for babies. Follow On Milk is only for babies over six months, as part of a mixed diet. It should not be used as a breastmilk substitute before six months.
It’s advisable to continue breastfeeding whilst travelling as it benefits both baby and maternal wellbeing. It’s also more practical than bottle feeding as it avoids having to sterilise equipment and water.
If you choose to bottle feed, it’s advised you bring your own bottle and steriliser as these may be unobtainable in your chosen destination. It’s also important to consider buying bottled water as the water safety can vary from country to country. Using bottled water is a safe and convenient way to feed your baby abroad.
Comfort
Change
Boots Baby Fragrance Free Biodegradable soft baby wipes, single pack = 64 wipes
Depending on the length of your flight, chances are you’ll need to change at least one nappy, so these wipes are an essential and are delicate on your baby’s sensitive skin. Oh, and they’re biodegradable too – even better!
Play
Toddlers (1-3 years old)
Flying with a toddler is a whole new ballgame. They’re more curious, wriggly, and have such a strong desire to climb and touch everything possible. So, with this in mind, here’s your list of essentials to keep your toddler calm, happy and occupied.
Travel and carrier
Feeding
Comfort
Change
Pampers Baby-Dry Nappy Pants, Essential Pack
It goes without saying that you’ll still need to carry the essential nappies, wipes and bags depending on the age of your toddler. But for those who are potty training – or just extra wriggly during changing time – these pull-on nappy pants will be your saviour onboard.
Play
LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book
Toys are the key to a happy child and although they can get bored easily, give them a couple of options to keep them happy. This interactive book features different words and languages – who knows, your toddler could utter some foreign lingo during your trip!
Wherever you choose to go on your next holiday, make it as fuss-free as possible for the whole family. Don’t forget, you can pre-order toiletries, food pouches and other essentials through Boots Click & Collect.* Simply choose your airport store and stock up once you get past security. This way you’ll save on valuable packing space and relieve the stress of liquid limitations – it’s a win-win! Now, time to relax…
