Between birth and two years old, your baby will develop at an extraordinary rate, and each milestone will be a new source of wonder for you. Discover with us the major stages of their development. development and how to interact with him to help stimulate his awakening.
This summer, you might have the opportunity to fly for the first time with your baby. It's a mode of transport suitable for toddlers, provided you're well-organized! Discover our tips for stress-free family travel.
From what age?
Babies are allowed to fly much earlier than you might think. If they are healthy and born at term, newborns are accepted by most airlines from the age of one week for a short-haul flight, and from three weeks for a long-haul flight.
However, if you can postpone your trip, it's best to wait until your baby has received their first vaccinations before flying: the confined atmosphere of cabins is conducive to the transmission of viruses. It's also not recommended to take your baby to regions of the world affected by diseases against which they are too young to be vaccinated (malaria, yellow fever, etc.).
Finally, if your baby was born prematurely or has a health problem, always seek your doctor's advice before flying with him/her.
Prepare well for the trip
To avoid any unpleasant surprises at the airport, be aware that your baby is subject to the same regulations as you: they must have their own identity card to travel within Europe, and their own passport (as well as any necessary visas) for the rest of the world. Obtaining these documents can take several weeks, so be sure to start the process well in advance!
When booking your tickets, be sure to inform your airline that you will be traveling with a young child. This will allow you to benefit from a more spacious seat, a bassinet, or even a bed for your baby on some airlines. Most airlines also accept babies in their own bassinets or in a Maxi-Cosi car seat. If you would like a separate seat for your child, remember to request it: by default, babies under 2 years old travel on their parents' laps. An economical solution, but not always very comfortable…
Finally, check the rules regarding strollers: folding models are sometimes allowed on board, while larger strollers are always placed in the hold. Consider bringing a baby carrier, which will be very useful after you've checked your luggage.
Tips for a smooth flight
Most often, your baby is entitled to his own hand luggage Take this opportunity to pack a large supply of diapers, wipes, and spare clothes, for him as well as for yourself. This will prevent you from having an unpleasant trip if he spills a glass of water on you or spits up on your shoulder.
Also, be aware that the security rules regarding liquids on board the plane do not apply to infants: you are allowed to bring powdered milk, mineral water, or baby food jars. However, be careful: security agents may ask you to taste them before allowing them! It's therefore best to pack everything in resealable containers. Other liquids, such as cleansing water, baby lotion, or saline solution, must not exceed 100 ml to be allowed in the cabin: samples and travel-sized doses are perfect for this purpose.
During takeoff and landing, the change in altitude causes decompression, which can be painful for your baby's ears. The only way to unblock their ears is through sucking, whether at the breast, with a bottle, or with a pacifier. If their nose is blocked, clean it as well before takeoff and before beginning the descent upon arrival.
Finally, on board, the air conditioning is constant and the temperature rather cool. Dress your baby warmly and bring an extra blanket and hat in addition to their clothes. A little cold can happen quickly!
Keeping your baby occupied on board
While infants sleep for a good part of the journey or are content to stay in your arms, older children often struggle to remain seated quietly for an entire flight! There's no magic solution, but a few tips can help.
First and foremost, for long-haul flights, always choose night flights: your baby will sleep and you can rest too. Also, remember to bring some essentials on board. Pack your child's favorite toys , avoiding those that might disturb other passengers – especially noisy or musical ones. Depending on your child's age, opt for books, soft toys, toy cars, drawing materials, and other quiet activities. Draw your child's attention to everything around them: the people passing by, the flight attendants, the sky and clouds visible through the windows… A plane flight offers many opportunities for discovery! Cartoons are often shown on the screens as well: a good way to keep your baby occupied for a little while. Finally, if the cabin crew allows it, get up with them for a short walk in the aisles: the change of position will help calm them down if they get upset.
