Air travel for a 4 month old

Hi All,

Does any one know how I can stop air pressure with DD on an aeroplane? or anythign else I should be aware of taking her on the plane?

Is she too young?

Thanks in advancce!

It is the change in air pressure that upsets infants as the plane climbs or descends as it can cause a painful pressure build up in the inner ear.

Sucking on something will help to equalise the pressure and avoid any pain.

Breastfeeding is always a good option as you will probably have bubs on your lap and the sucking will relieve the pressure build up.

I took my DS on the plane at 4 months and he loved it (well, he slept the whole trip so I loved it!).

Some tips that worked for me are:
- ask for an aisle seat so you can get up to walk her if needed
- give her a feed during takeoff and landing as this forces her ears to equalise the pressure and should stop the crying. Sucking lollies works for older kids.
- ask for a seat to be left free next to you if they have room so you can put her down if you need to
- only take one bag so put purse etc in nappy bag
- take a couple of bright but small toys to keep her distracted if she stays awake and other kids cry
- be aware that the change table in the toilet is miniscule so only take what you need when you go there
- take a spare shirt/pants as you can guarantee you will get peed on (Murphys Law. This has happened every time I go on a plane with DS but never any other time LOL!)
- take a light blanket/extra clothes for bubs as the plane is usually to cold for them
- oh and a sling is a godsend otherwise your arms may be very sore after the plane trip and I found it made my DS feel more secure in a strange environment

That is all I can think of.

HTH

We too are travelling (1.5hr flight) end of August so this thread has been helpful to us too! Our DD is almost 7 months old. Thanks Courtney, good post :dance:

You have been given some great answers....and I can second the sling....an absolute must. As bubs is still small enough it will be great & you should be able to have at least a drink or something if bubs is asleep & your hands are free.

Not all bubs act the same, in Charlie's first 12months he flew a total of 10 times due to living remote & didn't cry once taking off or landing. I would also take a few wraps for quick clean up of un expected messes & to keep bubs warm & covered. The planes do get cold. I found Charlie slept through most flights. Also if not long flight pray that a no 2 is left for after you have landed or before taking off....the change tables are not much chop.

Exactly what Erin and Courtney said, but if you've got a chucker, try a dummy instead of a feed on take-off/landing.
Nothing worse than being covered in spew the whole flight...

I agree with everyone. I have given mine a dummy too which helped.

Thanks for the advice ladies! greatly appreciate it =)