Does tsa allow breast milk and baby food?

Yes, breast milk, formula, and baby food are exempt from liquid rules, but TSA might test them and add 15 to 30 minutes to security.

How do i handle boarding with a baby?

If two adults are traveling, send one on early to load bags while the other stays off the plane with the baby until final boarding.

Should i buy a separate seat for my baby?

Buying an extra seat for their car seat is a good investment if your budget allows, because the familiar space helps them nap.

What if my baby cries on the flight?

Do not stress about it. Most passengers wear headphones and are understanding when a baby fusses or cries.

First Time Flying with a Baby Survival Tips

Feed your baby or give them a pacifier during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure.

Wear your baby through the airport to keep your hands free, and gate check your stroller and car seat.

Pack extra clothes for you and the baby, bring plenty of snacks, and introduce a brand new toy on the plane.

First Time Flying with a Baby Survival Tips — infographic

Feed your baby during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure and discomfort.

Airport and Security

Wear your baby through the airport: Babywearing makes navigating the airport easier and keeps your hands free for luggage. "I wore the baby to get through the airport. This was really helpful to have my hands free."

Plan for TSA screening of liquids: While breast milk, formula, and baby food are exempt from liquid rules, TSA might test them, adding 15-30 minutes to your security process. "The liquid rule doesn’t apply to breast milk, formula, and baby food... TSA might want to test which can add 15-30 minutes to security depending on how busy they are."

Gate check strollers and car seats: Most airlines allow free gate-checking of strollers and car seats, which can be convenient for getting through the airport. "Always gate check the stroller... Plus i’ll use it to carry our bags and car seat. Takes a load off."

In-Flight Comfort and Entertainment

Time feedings with takeoff and landing: Feeding or offering a pacifier during ascent and descent helps babies equalize ear pressure. "Nurse, bottle, or paci for takeoff and landing helps with ear popping."

Pack ample snacks and new toys: Snacks and new, quiet toys can provide crucial distraction and entertainment during the flight. "Books and snacks. ALL the snacks. If you think you have enough, buy more. 😉 Also a new toy that baby sees for the first time on the airplane."

Bring a change of clothes for everyone: Be prepared for blowouts or spills by packing extra outfits for both the baby and yourself. "Bring a change of clothes for baby, and one for yourself/husband, too. It's a terrible place for a blowout."

Managing Expectations

Don't stress about crying: Most fellow passengers use headphones and are more understanding than you might expect. "Babies cry and that's ok. Most people have headphones in so don't stress about fussing or full on crying."

Utilize early boarding strategically: If traveling with two adults, one can board early with bags, while the other waits with the baby until the last minute to minimize time spent on the plane. "If there are 2 adults going, send 1 on the plane at family boarding to load in all your stuff. Other one can stay out with baby until the last set of passengers board, thereby cutting their wait time down on the plane before takeoff"

Consider buying a separate seat for baby: If your budget allows, a separate seat for the baby and their car seat can provide a familiar, safe space and make longer flights easier. "If you can buy the extra seat for your baby and use your car seat in it, it’s a good investment... the familiarity of a car seat did wonders for getting naps for us."

Are you planning to travel solo with your baby, or will you have another adult with you?

Best for: parents flying with an infant for the first time who want practical advice to make the trip smoother.