Traveling with Baby

So if you've followed me at all, you know that Molly and I have done our fair share of traveling.

The car trip is probably the easiest method of travel with a baby. You're in control of your environment and can tend to baby's needs easily.

However we're planning an upcoming trip to Ohio by plane. Thank goodness my sister will be coming along to help but here's some information I've found helpful.

1. If you're flying with an infant under the age of 2 you can decide to fly them as a "lap" traveller. This way you don't have to buy an individual seat. However airlines offer an "infant fare." These however are a percentage of the normal fare and may not be worth purchasing. You can always buy a discounted fare for the car seat, this would most likely be the same price as your ticket.

2. If the child is under 2 you have to call the airline after you've booked your ticket to let them know that you will have an infant with you (this is if you're traveling with them as a lap traveler). They will ask for their name and add them to the flight list.

3. You must also have their birth certificate and/or a shot record with their date of birth. You must present this to the check in counter when you arrive at the airport for age verification.

4. The baby can have the stroller/car seat checked for travel as checked baggage but this does not count towards the number of bags checked. These are taken when you board the airplane and are ready once you're getting off the plane as well. Don't go to baggage pick up and expect them to be there.

5. When you arrive at the gate, make sure to talk to an agent about seating arrangements. You may be able to board early to avoid the crowd. You'll most likely want to wait until the plane is nearly empty to leave as well so that you, again, avoid the crowd. You can also see if there is a seat with an empty seat next to you so that you can have some extra room for the baby.

I'll let you know how it goes after we fly!