In general, the fewer layovers, the better. Direct flights are much easier to deal with when you have a baby on board.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) doesn’t require a safety seat for your baby, but they strongly recommend one. [3] X Trustworthy Source Federal Aviation Administration U. S. government agency responsible for monitoring and setting guidelines for civilian aviation Go to source

Unfortunately, you and your baby can’t sit in an exit row, because airlines don’t allow children in those seats.

Experts recommend using a rear-facing seat until ages 2 to 4. [6] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Before you get on your flight, measure the width of your child’s seat. It will fit on most standard airplane seats if it’s 16 inches (41 cm) wide or less. A lot of airlines require that child seats must be in the window seat. If you aren’t sure, call your airline to check before booking a ticket.

Try not to let your baby sleep during takeoffs and landings, since they could wake up in pain.

You can also bring water and powder formula separately in your carry-on bag.

You can also bring some hand sanitizer to use while you’re on the plane.

You can also pack a changing pad to lay your baby on when you change them.

If you roll up your baby’s clothes, they’ll take up less space in your carry-on bag.

For instance, you could bring a soft cloth book, a teething mitten, or a stuffed animal. Try not to bring anything that makes noise, as it could disturb the other passengers around you.

You can buy a soft-structured baby carrier for around $80.

If you need to bring any large items with you, like strollers, you can check them at your gate and then retrieve them when you land. Check in with your airline for more information. [15] X Research source

If you do bring a stroller on board the plane, it will have to go through an x-ray screening just like your carry-on bags.

Your happiness is just as important as your baby’s! If you’re stressed, your baby is more likely to be stressed, too.