As a mom who has now flown seven times with my 10-month-old (three of those flights completely solo), I wanted to share a few things I genuinely learned along the way. None of this is perfect advice. Every baby is different, and every trip teaches you something new. These are simply the things that actually helped me.
1. Economy vs Business
A lot of parents ask about this, so here’s my honest take. Business class is optional at every stage. When my baby was younger, it didn’t make much difference, and the economy worked perfectly fine for us. Even now, with a more mobile baby, I still feel that business class is more of a nice bonus rather than something you need.
Once my baby grew to 76 cm at just 10 months, the flight attendants told me they couldn’t install the bassinet anymore for safety reasons. That’s when business class became more helpful on overnight flights, simply because it gave me more space to settle him in different positions. But again, this is comfort, not necessity.
For daytime flights, economy is still completely manageable. For overnight flights with a bigger baby, business class can be practical, but it’s never required. It really depends on your travel style and what makes you feel most comfortable.
2. Prepare for Takeoff
Ear pressure can be hard for babies. My baby always uses Alpine Muffy Baby and it works like magic for him every time. If your baby does not like ear muffs, feeding or giving water during takeoff and landing helps a lot as well. The key is to prepare before the pressure starts, so you’re not scrambling when they suddenly get uncomfortable.
3. Don’t Be Scared to Overpack
I used to worry about taking too much. Now I don’t. Every baby is different and you truly never know what they will need until you travel a few times. It’s always better to have it and not use it than to regret it while your baby is crying in your arms.
Over time, you’ll learn your child’s essentials. Mine loves any simple velcro busy book from Amazon and a spinner that sticks to surfaces, and he always needs one musical toy for distraction. He never uses teethers when we travel. He also doesn’t snack or eat solids much on flights, so now we pack extra formula instead. All of this took a few flights to figure out, and that’s completely normal.
4. Cabin Approved Stroller
This is one of my biggest travel comforts, especially when I’m flying alone. Many parents check their stroller at the gate, but I prefer taking mine all the way to the plane and using it like a little trolley. I carry my baby in the carrier and put all my bags on the stroller, so I don’t have to hold anything with my hands.
The part I love most is how much it helps during boarding and getting off the plane. I get anxious when people are lined up behind me waiting for me to organize my things, so I like being able to move quickly. I just grab the stroller, put all my bags inside the stroller, get off the plane, and then sort everything out once I’m inside the airport, where it’s calmer and not rushed.
I use the Leclerc Influencer stroller. I got it on sale and, in my opinion, it’s more reasonably priced than many other cabin-approved options. The fold and unfold is extremely easy for me, and since it’s cabin approved, I don’t have to wait outside for it to be unloaded in hot or cold weather. It just makes the whole process feel less stressful for me.
5. Pack Snacks for Yourself
When you fly alone with a baby, eating a full meal on the plane can be difficult. Sometimes I get lucky and eat while he sleeps. Other times, there is simply no chance. I now travel with a protein shake or light snacks. When you pack snacks for your baby, pack yours too. You will need the energy.
And Finally, Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Flying with a baby is not always easy. Some flights go smoothly. Some flights don’t. And that is completely okay. If your baby cries, people do understand. A baby is a baby. They are not meant to sit quietly like adults.
Be patient with yourself and embrace the imperfect moments. You are already doing amazing. Sending love and strength to every parent getting ready to fly with their little one. ✈️🤎
Best,
Hailey Yoon
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