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April 2015 Moms
Manders71208
member
BF FTM Flying for the First time with Baby - Tips Needed!
Manders71208
member
I will be flying for the first time with my 3 month old. I exclusively breastfeed - which is the source of most of my anxiety. I pump, and she drinks from the bottle well - I'm just trying to think through logistics and TSA. Does anyone have any advice/tips - not just about feeding, but flying with an infant in general. I bought her a seat, which I hope helps...
Re: BF FTM Flying for the First time with Baby - Tips Needed!
So, I'm going to go with that you're feeding from a bottle & not the breast with my answer. However, if your baby does both I highly recommend feeding from the breast as it is just easier because you don't need all the extra stuff.
Getting through TSA is really not a big deal. Have your bottles ready to go & in a cooler bag. They will open each bottle and wave a strip of paper over each one to verify that it isn't an illegal substance. Allow a little extra time a) because you're traveling with a baby & b) incase there are any questions. I'd probably plan on having the usual amount of feedings plus an extra should you experience a delay. Is someone traveling with you? If not, you can ask for a companion pass which will allow another person (DH, other family member, friend) to accompany you to the gate. Call ahead to make sure the airline has all the needed info.
When I needed to pump at the a airport I would just find a spot put on my cover & do it. I had the Freestyle so it didn't need batteries like other pumps. I would definitely make sure to have plenty of batteries (in original package - not sure if they'd hassle you) as I've heard the battery pack with the PISA doesn't last more than a couple pump sessions. Not sure what pump you have though. And you probably already know this, but they make wipes to clean pump parts for when you don't have access to a sink. I'd pack some of those too.
I think it is very good that you bought LO a seat. Those kids get heavy plus it is safer. I'd just carry LO in the carseat to get on & off the plane. You may want to bring a carrier like an ergo or Moby too.
You'll have the option of checking your stroller at check in or at the gate. If you are alone or have a layover I'd gate check. Otherwise, I'd check it with your other luggage.
Dress baby in their easiest diaper access outfit & pack extras that are easy to change.
Other than that there is the obvious pacifier/feed during take off & landing.
The first time I flew with my oldest DD I way overpacked things to carry on. Make sure to just bring necessities.
Hope you have a safe & smooth trip!
Since you bought a seat, you obviously will bring a car seat. Having the stroller makes things much easier. You can gate check it right at the end of the jetway and it will be waiting for you when you get off.
I also breastfeed and pump and feed. I would say bring your bottles. When I went through security they did not open any of my bottles, they put them in a machine that I assume somehow tests them without needing contact with the milk. Since you have the car seat, airlines prefer that the baby is in it for takeoff and landing. This is why I say bring the bottle, you can feed baby while they are in the seat. Now if baby is crying and BF is better, then you can take them out and feed during landing and take off.
Also ignore the looks people will likely give you as you board. I was surprised by the dirty looks, and my baby wasn't even crying at all. Some people are ridiculous and don't let it bother you.
Good luck!! I did both those flights with my husband. I have an upcoming trip that is just me and LO and it is definitely completely different.
It was a little painful carrying the car seat around the airport as we had to constantly take her in and out through security and to gate check the car seat. Plus you might want to check with the airline.
Typically you have to buy a seat for the baby if they will be in a car seat on the flight (usually 20% of the ticket price) but having LO on your lap is free.
On the way back DH and I checked the stroller and car seat through to our destination and carried the LO with the ergo baby. (Checking stroller and car seat are free on all airlines) Made it much easier than lugging everything around and waiting for gate check.
I BF on the ascends and defending LO just used the pacifier. I also bottle fed on one ascend on our way back home. As long as they are sucking, there should be no issues with their ears.
TSA told me that any water/formula/powder is allowed through security for children under two. They just place it in a scanner quickly and you are in your way.
Good luck and safe travels!
don't wash bottles or pump items on the plane as the water is not safe for baby. I bought the wipes that are safe for cleaning.
if you get stuck having to change a diaper at your seat cause you can't get to the bathroom, having those scented baggies to tie them up in helps.
Bring a hat for your baby on the plane as it gets cold and it protects them from germs circulating. I always wear a hoodie zip up.
Carry more diapers than usual in case you get stuck on a layover. I carried a day and halfs worth and actually had to use most of them as we got delayed and stranded with cancelled flights and bad weather.
Safe travels!