Here Are Eight Suggestions for Putting Your Infant to Sleep During Flight
Flying isn't for the easily nervous. Patience, adaptability, and forethought are required. Flying can be difficult enough without adding a newborn to the mix. It will be challenging to fly for the first time with a baby, but it's not impossible. What you need to know to put your baby to sleep on a plane is outlined here.
Tips for Putting a Baby to Sleep on a Plane:
- Work your flight into your baby's nap time.
If you can, book flights at times when your baby is likely to be sleeping. A couple of examples would be the evening or nap time. The first step in getting your baby to sleep on an airplane is to board the plane with a sleepy baby. Of course, even the best planning on your part can't prevent bad weather or a delayed flight.
- Make sure your infant isn't too sleepy for the flight.
There's a middle ground between a baby who's too tired to sleep and one who's too awake and fussy to go to sleep. Make sure your baby gets enough sleep the night before your flight to avoid a fussy, irritable toddler the next day.
- Dress your infant in loose, soft clothing.
Choose ease of mind over cuteness (although there are plenty of perfectly adorable pajamas you can buy for your little one). Wearing soft pajamas or a onesie will make your baby more at ease during the flight. Make sure your baby has on footed pajamas or socks to keep their toes toasty (and don't forget to bring a spare outfit in your diaper bag, just in case) because airplanes tend to be chilly.
- Choose your seat wisely in a four.
If you want to make sure your family is seated together on the flight, the extra fee most airlines now charge to choose your seats is well worth it. You won't be able to get a front-row seat with extra space for the "extras" needed when traveling with children, but children aren't allowed in the exit row with the extra legroom.
If not, the rear of the aircraft is where you'll have the most room to stretch out (if the flight is not full). If you're going to be needing any assistance from the flight attendants or want to be near the restrooms, it's best to get a seat in the plane's rear.
- Feed the infant before takeoff.
The value of this advice lies in two areas: Baby's little ears will have a better time adjusting to the altitude if you feed them during takeoff, and a full baby is a sleepy baby. If you prefer to wear a cover-up while nursing, remember to bring it with you in your carry-on or personal item. Buy a scarf or shawl that can be used for breastfeeding to keep you and your baby warm during the flight.
- Keep the baby busy and entertained.
Even though every parent hopes their newborn will sleep through the entire flight, unless it's a very short trip, expect your baby to be awake for at least some of it. Toys, teethers, and rattles are great for keeping babies occupied on long flights, and they're small enough that they won't disturb other passengers. Specifically, stay away from any musical or noise-making playthings.
- Don't forget to make some room in your bag for your baby's favorite toys and blankets.
A baby flying for the first time might benefit from some gentle white noise. Make sure you bring the basics, like a lovie, a portable sound machine, and a soft soother, so your baby can feel at ease even when you're away from home.
- Prepare yourself for the truth
Even with meticulous preparation, there is no way to ensure a stress-free flight with a baby who sleeps through the entire thing. Don't expect a peaceful flight; instead, prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Although you may have heard horror stories about babies crying on planes, with these tips in place, you can make your flight less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone involved.