Here’s a controversial opinion: I think it should be mandatory for babies and toddlers to fly Business Class.
And yes, I think it should be equally affordable to do so. Wishful thinking, for sure.
Now, before you gasp in disbelief at what I’ve just said, hear me out.
If you want calm, well-rested kids on long-haul, international, flights, they need proper sleep — being stretched out helps — and space to move, both of which are far more accessible in Business Class.
Anyhoo!
It’s been a week since Little Miss A and I returned to the desert after a wonderful 3.5-month holiday in Melbourne with family and friends. The jet lag has been tough, but we’re finally settling back into our routine. Getting outside in the sunshine definitely helped reset our circadian rhythms.
Since J had to return to work early, Miss A and I flew back on our own. Despite a lucky upgrade to Business Class, I was still a bit anxious about managing a long flight solo with a baby. Flying with a baby is challenging when there are two of you—but doing it alone? That’s a whole different ballgame.
That said, it got me thinking about some of the best tips for traveling with a 10-month-old, whether you’re in Business Class or not.
1. Pack Smart:
Put as much as possible in your checked luggage. Juggling a baby and carry-on is hard, so pack light for the cabin. Keep your electronics and liquids together for easy access during security (though, to my surprise, Melbourne Airport didn’t require anything to be taken out).
2. Plan the Logistics:
How will you manage the airport with a baby and your bags? Will you use a pram, baby carrier, or both? I chose a backpack (for essentials and documents) and a small carry-on for Miss A’s things (clothes, nappies, bottles, snacks, toys). I also checked in the pram at boarding and used a baby carrier through the airport since she prefers to be up and about.
3. Zip Lock Bags Are Lifesavers:
These are key for staying organised. I used them for toys, formula, snacks, and nappies. Keeping everything compartmentalised made it easy to find what I needed without digging through multiple bags.
4. Dedicate One Bag for Baby:
It’s much easier to have all baby essentials in one carry-on. I used the small suitcase for Miss A’s nappies, clothes, snacks and bottles, so I only had to access one bag during the flight.
5. Bring the Toys!
Pack a few of baby’s favourite toys to keep them entertained. I “hid” Miss A’s toys a week before the flight, so they felt new to her onboard. It worked like a charm!
6. Ask for Help:
Remember, the flight crew is there to assist! They can help with filling bottles, fetching your carry-on, and even holding baby while you use the bathroom. Long-haul flights often carry nappies and other baby essentials, but I prefer to have my own, just in case.
These are just a few tips from my experiences flying with a baby. I’m still learning, and I’m sure this list will evolve as we go. If you have any travel tips, I’d love to hear them—feel free to share!
In the meantime, happy travels!
x G.
Feature image: Photo by Pixabay.
editor, journalist, digital content creator with a background in nutrition & dietetics.
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