Flying with a newborn for the first time: Travel tips for new parents

Flying with a newborn for the first time can feel overwhelming. Questions like ‘should I travel with a newborn?’ or ‘when is it safe to fly with a newborn?’ are common and completely natural for new parents. While travelling with a newborn may seem daunting, with the right planning and mindset, even a long-haul flight can go surprisingly smoothly.

Whether you’re visiting family, going on holiday, or relocating, it’s absolutely possible to fly with a baby and feel confident doing so. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common concerns and share expert-backed tips for flying with a newborn to help you prepare for take-off.

When can you fly with a baby?

There’s no universal rule, but most airlines allow newborns to fly as early as 2 weeks old.¹ However, it’s always wise to check with your GP or health visitor and the airline’s specific policy.

Here are some key considerations before flying with a baby:

• Health check first: Newborns are still building their immune systems, so it’s important to check with your baby’s doctor before making plans.
• Airline requirements: Some carriers have minimum age limits and require medical clearance for very young infants.
• Recovery time: Postnatal healing is also crucial, especially for those recovering from a C-section or complications. So make sure to consult your gynaecologist and midwife as well.

So, if you’re wondering ‘when can I fly with a newborn?’ or ‘when is it safe to fly with a newborn?’, the answer depends on your baby’s health, your own post-birth recovery, and your travel needs.

Common challenges of flying with a newborn

Before looking at how to fly with a newborn, it’s helpful to understand the typical challenges parents face. Preparing for these in advance can make all the difference.

1. Feeding during take-off and landing

Changes in cabin pressure can affect your baby’s ears and cause some discomfort, especially in young infants with smaller eustachian tubes, which are important for maintaining proper air pressure.²

2. Crying and fussiness

Newborns can get overstimulated by lights, sounds, and changes in routine. It’s perfectly normal for a baby to cry on a flight – don’t feel embarrassed.

3. Sleep disruptions

Unfamiliar environments and turbulence can make naps more difficult.

4. Nappy changes in tight spaces

Most aeroplane toilets do have fold-down changing tables, but they’re cramped. Being prepared makes nappy changes less stressful.

5. Concern from other passengers

While it’s natural to worry about judgment, remember that most people are sympathetic. Staying calm and attending to your baby’s needs is more important than trying to keep everyone else happy.

Practical tips for flying with a newborn

Now for the reassuring part: travelling with a newborn can be smooth and even enjoyable with the right approach. These tried-and-tested tips for flying with a newborn can help reduce stress and make the journey more manageable.

Before the flight:

• Choose flight times wisely: If possible, book flights that align with your baby’s nap schedule or overnight flights when they’re more likely to sleep.
• Select seats strategically: Bulkhead seats (seats that are directly behind a partition wall of an aeroplane) offer more legroom and may allow for a bassinet that can be attached to the wall. Contact the airline early to reserve one.
• Pack smartly: Keep baby care essentials in your hand luggage, such as:
  • Nappies, wipes, and a portable changing mat
  • At least two full outfit changes
  • Muslins and bibs
  • Pre-measured formula (if needed) or breastfeeding supplies
  • Your little one’s soother or teething toys
  • Blanket and extra layers for varying cabin temperatures
  • Hand sanitiser and baby-safe disinfectant wipes

At the airport:

• Arrive early: Give yourself time for feeds, changes, and security.
• Use a baby carrier: Helpful for security and boarding, especially if your hands are full.
• Gate-check your pram: Most airlines let you use your pushchair up to the gate, then collect it upon landing.

On the plane:

• Feed or use a soother during take-off and landing: Breastfeeding, sucking on a bottle, or giving your infant a soother can help relieve ear pain due to pressure changes. And if you’re unsure about breastfeeding on the go, check out our guide to breastfeeding in public for tips and reassurance.

If a soother is part of your travel toolkit, the Philips Avent Ultra Soother offers the same trusted quality, safety standards, and successful design as our current soothers – now redesigned to be kinder to the planet, while keeping your baby comfortable in the air.

• Follow your baby’s lead: Let them feed, sleep, and play as they normally would. Don’t worry about strict routines.
• Keep calm: Babies pick up on your energy. Staying relaxed helps soothe them, even if they’re unsettled.
• Accept help: Don’t be afraid to ask flight attendants for assistance – most are more than happy to support parents travelling with a newborn.

So, should I travel with a newborn?

Yes, you can travel with a newborn on a plane. It might take extra preparation and patience, but many parents successfully fly with a baby and even enjoy the experience. The key lies in managing expectations, staying flexible, and being kind to yourself.

If you’re still wondering ‘should I travel with a newborn?’ or ‘how to fly with a newborn without stress?’, the answer is: with the right support, a well-packed diaper bag , and a bit of confidence, you’ll do just fine.

Flying with an infant for the first time isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely doable – and could be the start of a great time away as a new family.