Baby Jasmine would not sit still and wanted to touch every unsanitized things. Get lots of tricks in your bag -- favorite small toys she hasn't play for a while, snacks, baby signing time DVD (borrowed from the library) although the headphone was a little too big for her head :) change of shirt for all in case spillage. Family with kids can usually go to the faster security line. Bring birth certificate with you and passport if you're leaving the country. since we didn't have to pay for the baby seat for the domestic flight, I reserved window seat (nursing privacy) and my husband got the aisle seat (not many people want the middle seat). Once we got the last row, even more privacy next to the window and closer to the bathroom; more jet noise, but it was convenient when it was time to change poopy diaper. check seatguru.com for the best airplane seats. have a fun trip!
Airline and Fares
For Southwest Airline, child over 14 days and under 2 years of age, not occupying a seat, may be carried free when traveling with an adult. airport staff will ensure compliance with this regulation, so be sure to bring a copy of your baby's birth certificate for age verification.
boarding pass is not needed, but obtain a Boarding Verification Document to board the aircraft at the Ticket Counter or departure gate on the day of travel. If the plane is not full, you can use the car seat and occupy a seat for free. If the plane is full, you'll have to check in the car seat at the gate that count as one of your baggage allowed. If you don't want to risk it and want to reserve a seat, you can call them and request an infant fare and see if it's cheaper than your fare. Google: children ticket airline X, to see the rules applied to your airline. For international flights, depends on the airline, lap babies may cost 10% of the adult fare and infants in seat cost 75% of the fare. once they hit 2, it's considered full fare.
Pick a Seat
Use http://www.seatguru.com to check if the seat is good by mouse over the seat.Did you know only certain car seats are FAA approved? but most of the new ones are approved child safety seat.
Ears Popping!
Be sure to feed the baby during take off and landing to relieve ear pressure.
Pack Light!
Packing list for baby on board the plane
More of Baby Jetsetter's tips!
Still have to go through the Security.
TSA Info - traveling with children
From TSA - we will not ask you to do anything that will separate you from your child or children.
Medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. Click here to learn more about 3-1-1
All items including formula, breast milk, and juice will be inspected, however, you or your infant or toddler will not be asked to test or taste breast milk, formula, or juice. Our Security Officers may test liquid exemptions (exempt items more than 3 ounces) for explosives.
