Travelling to the beautiful city of Paris is a dream come true for many, and we know it’s the same for you. When you are flying to Paris with your baby, it can look daunting and even more stressful. However, you don’t have to worry; we have got you covered with our infant flight travel tips. Our guide will put you through how you can have a stress-free journey.
Picture yourself strolling along the Seine with your baby, indulging in delicious pastries at a charming café, or exploring the iconic Eiffel Tower together. The amazing fact is that with proper planning and a few tips that we will share with you, your dreams of flying with your baby to Paris will become a reality without stress.
Embarking on a trip by airplane to Paris with your baby can give you a beautiful and even memorable experience, So keep reading to discover our extensive list while visiting Paris with your baby.
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14 Top Infant Flight Travel Tips To Paris
From all the things you need to pack to all the processes to navigate airport security and still keep your baby comfortable, we will share all the tips to make your journey to Paris, popularly called the City of Lights, with your infants beautiful. So, let’s get to work and guide you through having an unforgettable flight experience from your home country to the heart of France for you and your baby.
1. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Start
When you are flying with your baby to the beautiful land of Paris, there is a need for adequate and thorough planning. The first step is booking your flight early; this will give you the best chance of securing seats with bassinets for your baby if they are available. Bassinets are not always available on most flights, and even if it is available, they might have been occupied by other people if you book your flight late.
In your planning, it is also essential that you have a flight time that aligns with your baby’s schedule to avoid disruption to your baby’s routine. Packing thoughtfully is key – make a checklist to ensure you have extra diapers, formula, baby wipes, and a changing mat. Don’t forget essentials like pacifiers and a favorite toy.
Another thing necessary in your planning is arriving at the airport at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. You need to do this to avoid rushing and feeling stressed. You can check in online to save your time and also use a stroller for your baby to make airport navigation less stressful. Baby carriers or slings can also be handy for keeping your hands free when boarding. Meticulously planning your trip will minimize stress and ensure a smoother start to your Paris adventure.
2. Secure the Right Seating:
The next tip for your infant flying travel is that you need to choose the appropriate seats on the plane because this will significantly impact your comfort and that of your baby. You are supposed to enjoy a flight and not be uncomfortable, so you must strategically choose the right seat.
For your baby, it’s best to secure a bulkhead seat with a bassinet option to have extra legroom and a designated space to rest, sleep, and enjoy the flight as if you are at home. It is advisable that you choose window seats because they are preferable. After all, this will give you more privacy and help you avoid disturbance from your fellow passengers during your journey to Paris.
When booking your flight, you need to ensure the airline is aware of your baby’s age and ask if there is any preparation or availability of a child safety seat or a child restraint system. Selecting suitable seating arrangements creates a more comfortable and secure environment for your baby during the flight.
3. Prepare for Security Screening:
The third and one of the most essential tips is knowing and preparing how to get through airport security with your baby. In this case, you need to dress your baby in a cloth that is easy to remove, like onesies, because your baby will be checked by security no matter how little your baby is.
Even if you already have a stroller, prepare to take your baby out of the stroller and carry it on a machine that checks metal objects. There is also a need for you to keep your baby food in a separate bag that is different from other liquids like lotions because security personnel will inspect your bags very well.
Staying organized can make the process easier for you, the security personnel, and your baby. Ensure all your baby essentials, like wipes, diapers, and pacifiers, are easily accessible for use. All these are necessary because your baby needs to be calm throughout the check, and any noise from your baby can cause your delay. However, if you prepare ahead and cooperate with all the security procedures, you will make the airport security checking experience easy for you and your baby.
4. Keep Your Baby Comfortable:
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If anything happens to your baby, the airline will not be responsible, so you need to keep your baby comfortable during the flight. Dress your baby in clothes that adapt to the flight temperature fluctuation because airplanes’ temperature varies based on the geographical location you are in. Bring a cozy blanket or swaddle to help your baby sleep comfortably. Ensure pacifiers or bottles are within reach to help alleviate ear pressure changes during takeoff and landing.
Consider dimming the cabin lights and using a soft, familiar blanket to create a comfortable sleep environment. If your baby is a bit older, you need to pack some of their favorite snacks or drinks so as to keep them comfortable. Also, play with your baby with songs and toys; if they are still very small, you can play with them gently to keep them happy and distracted from crying. By prioritizing your baby’s comfort, you can make the flight more enjoyable for both of you.
5. Time Feedings Wisely:
Feeding your baby based on timing can help prevent uncomfortability for your baby and other passengers during the flight. If your baby is still at the stage of breastfeeding or bottle feeding, you need to offer them the breast or the bottle immediately after the flight takes off, during the flight, and when you are about to land. All these are necessary to help you reduce discomfort because the sucking action provides comfort for babies.
However, if your baby has already started eating solid food, it is essential that you pack some easy-to-chew snacks. Timing feedings to coincide with these critical phases of the flight can make a significant difference in your baby’s comfort. Make sure to have extra breast milk on hand in case the flight lasts longer than expected.
6. Be Mindful of Cabin Pressure:
Another tip during infant flying travel to Paris is to be more sensitive to changes in cabin pressure, which can cause ear discomfort. To avoid this from happening, you can make your baby suck on a bottle or pacifier during takeoff and landing. And if your baby is sleeping at these times, you don’t need to worry because the sucking action isn’t really necessary and won’t affect them in any way.
Additionally, you can feed your baby a bottle or breastfeed during these phases to help equalize the pressure in their ears. Being mindful of cabin pressure changes and taking proactive steps can keep your baby happy and pain-free during the flight. Be prepared with soothing techniques like gentle rocking or a comforting lullaby to help your baby relax during these moments.
7. Pack a Baby-Ready Bag:
One of the lifesaver tips on your flight to Paris with your baby is to have not just any bag but a baby-ready bag. In this bag, you will need to have all the essentials, not just for your baby but for yourself as well. In a situation where your baby accidentally spills something on your body, you don’t just need to clean yourself; sometimes you need to change your clothes too because you don’t want to get to Paris smelling. So you need to have an extra clean cloth for yourself and your baby.
You also need to consider investing in noise-cancelling headphones for your baby to help drown out cabin noise and create a more peaceful atmosphere. A well-prepared baby bag can be your secret weapon for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
8. Opt for Night Flights:
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One of the best flights ever is booking a Night Flight. This is beautiful and makes more sense if you are travelling with your baby because babies often sleep more during nighttime hours, which can help you reduce distractions and noise and make the journey the best for you and your baby.
However, nighttime sleep isn’t the same for all babies; some babies sleep more during the day. This is the hack; if you have observed that your baby sleeps more during the day, it’s best to book a day flight, and if your baby sleeps more during the night, book a night flight.
Having a well-rested baby on a long flight can make a world of difference in your overall experience, as a rested baby is generally a happier and more content traveller.
9. Prioritize Hydration:
Another tip is staying hydrated, which is essential for your baby throughout the flight. You can do this by ensuring you have enough bottles or spicy cups to offer your baby enough water and milk during your flight. Dehydration is dangerous and can lead to discomfort, so you must prioritize hydration for your baby at all costs.
Dehydration isn’t just essential for your baby but for yourself as well because as you travel by air, the journey can be dehydrating for you as well. Also, remember that breastfed babies may want to nurse more frequently in flight due to the dry cabin air, so be prepared to offer comfort and nourishment as needed. Adequate hydration is key to a more comfortable and enjoyable flight for your baby and yourself.
10. Maintain a Consistent Routine:
The truth and the fact is that sticking to your baby’s regular routine while travelling by air to Paris can be challenging, but following it can secure your baby a little more. Ensure you follow the same sleeping and feeding patterns as closely as possible, even though there can be little adjustments because of differences in time zones.
Taking along some familiar items from home, like your favourite blanket, can provide comfort for your baby. All these are necessary to create a sense of familiar environment for your baby and make the transition of flying smoother. The point here is that flexibility is key when it comes to travelling with a baby. By striving for a balance between routine and flexibility, you can help your baby feel more secure and comfortable during the flight and your trip to Paris.
11. Practice Patience and Stay Calm:
Traveling with a baby can be unpredictable, and there can be moments of discomfort. It’s essential to remain patient and stay calm throughout the journey. Always keep in mind that babies can stress you during your trip, so you need to stay relaxed and be composed at all costs.
If your baby does become agitated during the flight, don’t worry about the judgment of others. Most people who are parents in the flight understand how babies can be unpredictable, and they are more likely to understand what is happening than you think. So don’t feel uncomfortable when your baby is acting up; just take a deep breath, stay patient, and focus on satisfying your baby using the best technique. Remember, your positive attitude and patience can go a long way in ensuring a more pleasant flight for both you and your baby.
12. Choose Baby-Friendly Accommodations:
When you are preparing for your flight to Paris with your baby, you need to plan to stay at an accommodation that is baby-friendly. If you are going on a vacation, you need to look for vacation rentals or hotels that offer playpens or cribs. You also need to ensure your accommodation is located in a neighbourhood where you can easily access essential amenities like pharmacies and grocery stores, making it convenient to stock up on baby supplies.
In addition, you also need to consider your accommodation layout. This is essential because having a separate area for your baby to sleep can make them have a more beautiful bedtime routine. You also need to check if the rental or hotel offers room service, as this can be a lifesaver for you when you don’t want to go out or when you are tired.
13. Explore Paris at a Relaxed Pace:
While it can be tempting for you to see all the famous places in Paris, you need to remember that travelling with a baby calls you to be more sensitive. You can do these by focusing on going to places that are comfortable for your baby. Paris is a beautiful country, so take your time and enjoy the experience while you are sensitive.
In addition, you also need to consider baby-friendly activities such as visiting one of the beautiful parks and gardens in Paris to picnic. These will give your baby some fresh air. You can also visit baby-friendly museums that offer beautiful experiences for infants. By pacing your exploration and being flexible with your plans, you’ll create a more enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.
14. Seek Support and Connect with Other Parents:
The last and one of the most important infant traveling tips is seeking support from fellow parents who have traveled with infants. You can seek this support through online forums, social media groups or communities.
They can provide valuable insights, tips, and recommendations specific to traveling with babies. In addition, you can also join parent meet-up groups when you get to Paris because connecting with fellow parents will give you a sense of community and even provide you with the opportunities to see other babies with whom your babies can play with.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that the journey can be daunting, with all these top infant flight travel tips, you can navigate the challenges of flying with ease. From proper planning and securing the best seat for yourself and your baby to ensuring your baby’s comfort, all these tips ensure you have a smooth trip from your takeoff to during the flight to your landing. Even with all these, you need to know that babies can be unpredictable, so you have to be patient and be ready for anything.
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