Flying with a baby

Packing a diaper bag..

…for the flight

Autumn is the perfect time to quickly fly to the warm south and soak up some sun for the upcoming winter. But before you head off on your well-deserved vacation, it's time to plan and pack! While that may not sound all that complicated, it can be a major challenge for all moms and dads out there who are about to take their first flight with a baby or toddler. What do you need in your hand luggage, and what, or how much, can you actually take on the plane? We've put together a little checklist of what absolutely needs to be in your diaper bag for the plane, along with a few tips on flying with a baby.

Buggy, child seat and more – everything on board

Clearly, a buggy or stroller is a must-have for vacation, and fortunately, almost all airlines carry them free of charge. You can usually easily roll the stroller with your child and hand luggage all the way to the gate and have it returned to you immediately after landing.

If you plan to rent a car locally, it's also practical to bring your own child seat. Many airlines also allow this as free carry-on luggage. For babies and toddlers under 2 years of age, the infant carrier or car seat can also be used for the flight (note: check airline regulations!), provided you've booked a separate seat for them.

Hand luggage for the plane

When flying with children, you should definitely plan on bringing a large diaper bag that's still easy to carry and ideally can also be used as a backpack (we have an idea of ​​a bag that would work well ;) ). At the airport, it's a huge advantage to have both hands free to run after your adventurous little ones and to get everyone on board safely and stress-free.

But what should you pack in your diaper bag for the plane? Here's our little guide to make packing a little easier.

• Water bottle: Due to the air-conditioned air on the plane, drinking water is especially important for little ones. You often sit in the plane for a while before takeoff, and it's also good for babies to drink (or be breastfed) during takeoff so they don't notice the pressure in their ears as much. Don't worry about the liquid ban: Baby formula is allowed in your hand luggage, and bottles will be checked separately at security.
• 2-3 jars of fruit (depending on the length of the flight): These don't need to be warmed up and can easily be fed at the gate or on the plane. You can also get jars (hot and cold) from the cabin crew during the flight, but it's still a good idea to have a spare, especially if you want to keep your little one entertained before or during takeoff. Don't forget a spoon and bib!

• Biscuits, fruit and baby snacks : Also to bridge the time before and during the flight.
• Small changing clutch : Should be easily accessible and contain only the most important diaper changing essentials: 2-3 diapers (more or less depending on the length of the flight), plenty of wet wipes, sanitary wipes, trash bags for the diapers, and a changing mat. On the plane, there's a fold-out changing table in the restroom, but it's not particularly spacious.
• Books and toys : The smaller, the better. Many airlines also provide a stuffed animal or toy for younger passengers upon boarding.
• Outfit for the plane : The layered look is best! The airport and the plane are often well-air-conditioned, so a jacket and a light hat should always be with you. Wear a thin bodysuit and a thin long-sleeved shirt underneath. Plus comfortable sweatpants. If your child is already wearing shoes, pack extra socks for the flight so you can take off their shoes.
• Spare bodysuit, top and pants: In case something goes wrong while eating or changing a diaper.
• For sleeping: A thin wool blanket, pillow, or stuffed animal. A spare pacifier is also a must-have!
• Important travel documents: baby passport, vaccination certificate and proof of health insurance

Good to know – A few more little infos at the end

Many airlines allow you to check in online in advance and even reserve seats. This is a huge time saver and especially convenient with small children, as you no longer have to be at the airport hours before departure, as you used to, and you can choose your seats at your leisure. Larger airports have baggage drop kiosks, so you can get your bags in no time with your self-printed boarding pass, without having to wait long.

At the security check, strollers and other items will be placed on the scanner belt like hand luggage. It's best to completely empty the stroller before your trip to save time and stress. Baby food and drinks may be checked separately, but generally, everything is allowed.

Travelers with babies and small children are allowed to board the plane first, so they don't have to wait in long lines and have plenty of time to settle in and fasten all their seats and seatbelts. Security checks are often faster with children, too.

We hope these tips can make planning your next flight a little easier and increase your anticipation a little bit.

By the way, you can find the perfect diaper bag for your trip here.

Have a good time!