Traveling solo with an infant? It’s a daunting prospect but fear not—I’m here to guide you through it. The next time you’re at the airport check-in and confronted with the question, “Will you be traveling with an infant on your lap today?” I sincerely hope your answer is a resounding “No.”
Note: This advice is specifically for those flying solo with a little one. If there’s any chance to bring along a partner or friend—even someone you meet in an Uber—do it!
Making It Work
If you’re set on going it alone, here’s how to make it work:
First things first: if a direct flight is an option, book it. The convenience of flying non-stop is worth the extra cost. No layovers mean you won’t have to deal with slow gate agents or unexpected delays. Trust me; you’ll be grateful for this decision.
If a direct flight isn’t in the cards, you’ll need to choose between two options: 1) wearing your baby in a carrier or 2) using a stroller. Each has its pros and cons.
Option one allows you to glide through the airport without relying on hidden elevators to navigate. But it does mean that your little one will be eye-to-eye with you during bathroom breaks—fun times! On the other hand, option two can be tricky, especially if you have a layover. I’ve missed connections waiting for my child’s stroller to be returned, which is always an agonizing experience.
If you opt for the stroller, be prepared for a potential rush to the restroom since airport changing tables are far more spacious than those tiny airplane lavatories. My daughter, now 17 months old, outgrew the airplane changing table at just three months. Plus, navigating elevators with a stroller can feel like an endurance test, as there are often multiple floors to traverse.
Here’s a pro tip: you can check your stroller at the gate, even if you have a connecting flight! A kind gate agent shared this gem with me after I’d endured a few exhausting flights, so take advantage of it.
Boarding and In-Flight Tips
When it’s time to board, resist the urge to join the crowd of families with young children. The gate agent may try to catch your eye, but ignore them. Why sit on the plane longer than necessary? If you need to stow a carry-on, however, you might face a dilemma—consider checking your luggage instead, so you only have to manage the essentials.
Avoid sitting in the first row at all costs! Flight attendants will take your diaper bag, leaving you to juggle whatever you have on hand when the moment comes that you need something crucial. I once thought I was prepared with snacks and a tablet, but when my daughter sneezed, I realized I was woefully unready.
Once you’re seated, find a friendly face to connect with. Look for someone who seems understanding—perhaps a woman over 40 or a teenage girl. This person will become your ally, especially when nature calls during the flight.
Sanitizing wipes will be your trusty sidekick. Use them liberally to clean your area, as little ones love to explore every surface. Just a word of caution—my daughter once picked up a napkin I had just cleaned with and promptly tried to eat it. That was a heart-stopping moment!
Pack plenty of distractions! Travel cups filled with Goldfish crackers are a lifesaver during meltdowns. If you have a tablet, ensure it’s fully charged and that you’ve downloaded the airline’s app in advance. Wi-Fi often lets you down mid-flight, so be prepared with offline entertainment options.
When the flight attendant announces the descent, you’ll likely feel a wave of relief, but that’s also when your child may finally decide to drift off.
Post-Flight Considerations
Now, let’s talk about post-flight. You might think navigating the airport with a sleeping baby is a dream, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare. After hours of sitting with a tiny passenger on your bladder, the airport bathroom experience can be startling. And don’t even get me started on the elevators—there are nine of them to navigate in major airports!
As you make your way to baggage claim, remember this won’t last forever. One day, the little one you’re pushing will be the one pushing you.
Additional Resources
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Summary
Traveling solo with a ‘lap child’ can be challenging, but with careful planning and a few strategic choices—like opting for direct flights, choosing your baby-carrying method wisely, and packing plenty of distractions—you can make the journey smoother. Remember to stay calm, be resourceful, and embrace the adventure!