Lifestyle Magazine issues Travel Tips for young mothers

In2town Lifestyle Magazine knows only full well that travel with a baby it not an easy task especially when you are travelling on a long haul flight. Travel experts have said that travelling with a baby is one of the most stressful things you can do but it can be less stressful if you plan your journey properly.
 
Flying on a plane with your baby can seem like a great idea on paper but when it comes to reality it hits home as being very stressful especially if you are going on a long haul flight which means you have to feed your baby on board, change your babies nappies when needed and make sure that your baby gets as much sleep as possible leaving you the mother with lack of sleep causing you to be more irritable as the journey progresses.
 
You can however make your journey less stressful by being prepared
 
1. Make sure you have a passport for your baby and that the airline know they are travelling with you. Some companies let infants travel for free while others charge 10% of an adult ticket for children under 2 years of age.
 
2. If travelling extra long distances, consider going premium economy or business class if at all possible. Not having to queue and having more leg room or a flatbed might seem like expendable luxuries, but the extra cost will be worth every penny if it makes your life easier with a baby.
 
3. Check with the airline to see if you can be given a bulkhead seat and ask for a bassinet. The bassinet may not automatically be provided especially if there are other families flying. It's better to do this when booking your tickets rather than at check-in to save any last minute confusion or holdups.
 
4. If your baby is formula fed, take as much milk as you think your baby will need and then double it.
 
5. Take baby Paracetamol and a thermometer just in case.
 
6. Don't feel guilty or apologetic towards other passengers if your baby is crying or distressed during a flight. It's an unavoidable fact that babies cry and you obviously can't leave the plane so there's no point in fretting about it. You might just be pleasantly surprised by the kindness of strangers and airline staff especially if you are travelling alone!
 
7. Babies are not immune to jet lag and dehydration on a flight. Try to ensure they get enough to drink by keeping a sipper bottle of water with you and offering it as often as they will take it. Sucking on a dummy during takeoff and landing can help equalize little eardrums and help them 'pop'. Finally, be aware that you will usually be asked to hold your baby in your lap with a seat belt every time the seat belt sign is switched on during turbulence. (even if it means waking them up!)
 
By following these tips, it will help you and your baby have a more enjoyable flight experience