There are many ways to travel with a baby. It is important to pack a few essential items that will keep your baby happy and healthy on the plane. A few examples include breast milk, formula, juice, and noise-canceling headphones. You can also bring a small cooler filled with ice packs. Some babies also need some medications, so make sure you pack these as well.
Airplanes are a breeding ground for germs
In the United States alone, 2.8 million people fly on airplanes each day, which means airplanes are a constant source of germs. These germs can be spread by unsanitary habits and can lead to severe illnesses. Luckily, there are ways to reduce your chances of contracting a disease while flying on an airplane.
Germs are abundant on airplanes, especially in the lavatory, where hundreds of people share space with one another. The small, boxy space provides a natural breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. The door handle and seat back tray tables can harbor hundreds of germs, which are passed from passenger to passenger. In addition, the volcano-shaped toilet flush also releases harmful bacteria into the air. In fact, the CDC identified the lavatory as one of the most dangerous areas to be in during the recent outbreaks of the H1N1 flu and SARS.
While airplanes are known to be a breeding ground for germs, many travelers still ignore them. Despite advances in air filter technology, air on an airplane is still a breeding ground for germs. In addition to the overhead air vent, there are also a variety of other places where germs thrive, such as the seat-back tray table, the lavatory flush button, the seatbelt buckle, and the drinking fountain buttons. Some studies also find that airports and airport bathrooms are not disinfected enough between flights.
Another important way to keep germs at bay is to avoid consuming in-flight beverages. These drinks can be unhealthy, and flight attendants may use tap water for brewing the beverages, and continue to use this water for the duration of the flight. This means airplane tap water isn’t sanitary for human consumption. It also passes through a number of channels and through holding tanks, which aren’t always cleaned.
Cloth carriers and slings are useful
Many parents choose to carry their babies in baby carriers or slings on airplanes for a variety of reasons. First, they save money by not needing to purchase a seat for their baby, and they can also provide a break for both parents. Many parents find that carrying their baby on their lap releases the love hormone oxytocin, which helps them tune into their baby’s needs.
These lightweight slings and carriers come in different materials and designs, and you can find one that best suits your style and travel needs. For example, the Tula wrap carrier is a lightweight, adjustable wrap that covers your baby from newborn to preschool age. It also features a waist belt to help keep your baby close to your body.
Another advantage of baby carriers is that they free up both of your hands. This allows you to take care of other things, such as grabbing documents and making last-minute phone calls. You can even use your hands for selfies. If you have a large baby, you may want to use a sling rather than a carrier.
Boba Wrap is also a great option if you want to nurse your baby while traveling. It allows you to nurse your child on the go, and reduces the number of times you have to stop during the day. Another advantage of Boba Wrap is its adjustable straps, which means you can breastfeed your child wherever you want. It’s also machine washable, made of 95% cotton and 5% spandex.
If you are unsure about whether or not a carrier is right for your baby, there are baby carriers workshops and libraries to help you make a decision. Many of these places have loaning baby carriers, so you can try a few out before purchasing one.
Noise-canceling headphones can help with baby’s sleep
Noise-canceling headphones for babies can help reduce stress in babies, and can also help them sleep in loud environments. However, before choosing a pair of these headphones, make sure they are appropriate for your child’s age. Some are too big for little heads, and others have an excessively high sound range that can harm a child’s ears.
Noise-canceling headphones are also useful for traveling outdoors. These headphones can be used in loud concerts, stadiums, and other events that could wake up a baby. However, it is important to supervise your child when they are using these devices. In addition, make sure they fit properly.
Noise-canceling headphones are ideal for infants up to two years old. They do not connect to any electronic devices, but they help keep out the loud noises and help your baby sleep during travel. However, these headphones are expensive compared to other types.
If you want to buy baby headphones for airplane travel, you need to choose the ones that are safe for your child’s ears. The most popular headphones for babies are Baby Banz ear muffs, which have a soft head strap and soft cushions to protect baby’s ears from loud noise. These headphones reduce noise by four to six times.
Noise-canceling headphones are an excellent investment for your child’s safety and comfort. These headphones are easy to use and have a comfortable, padded headband that fits around their head. Choose a pair that is insulated and padded, and choose the right size for your child.
Packing toys
To keep your child entertained on the plane, you can pack a variety of toys. Choosing toys for your baby with rhyming words and vibrant images will help your baby develop hand-eye coordination, and they’ll also enjoy activities that are safe for people and animals. Soft crinkle books are a wonderful way to keep your baby entertained and engaged. You can also choose to read books aloud to them.
When packing toys for your baby to travel with, try to avoid any screens that require sound. Most one-year-olds are too young for headphones. Keeping a few stuffed animals will keep your baby entertained and occupied. Also, consider purchasing a toy cell phone, which is small and has a high play value for your baby.
Toys for your baby should be soft, lightweight and safe to chew. If your baby is a toddler, choose toys that are more challenging. Toddlers love puzzles, building blocks, and other things with movement. Choose toys that feature multiple textures and sounds, and avoid ones that involve screen time.
Documents to bring
When traveling with a baby, it is important to keep all of the necessary documents on hand. Even though you are not likely to be asked for identification while traveling with an infant on a domestic flight, it is best to be prepared in case it comes time to show up at the airport. The best way to do this is to document your child’s age and make sure the airline has the right paperwork.
Besides proof of identity, you should also bring a birth certificate. A passport is important for international travel. In Canada, you must also get a consent letter from the other parent, even if you are traveling alone. The Government of Canada strongly advises parents to fill out a consent letter if they are traveling alone with their children.
A notarized letter stating your child’s consent is important as well. The note should be signed by both parents. You should also bring proof of your child’s vaccinations if the plane you are traveling to requires them. Some countries require proof of PCR tests to travel. Having copies of these documents ready at the airport will make things easier at check-in. It is also vital that you pack your bags carefully. There is nothing worse than being stuck with an overstuffed bag because it’s too heavy. A luggage scale is cheap and can save you a lot of frustration.
When traveling with a baby, it is important to keep in mind that the changes in cabin pressure can make breathing difficult for preemies, or for people with respiratory infections or chronic conditions. For this reason, airlines might refuse to allow preemies to board.