22/07/2026
Flying with a little one soon? Swipe across for my advice, and my carry-on packing list at the end ❤️🌴
Ask for empty row at bag drop. Make sure baby is with you when you do! This has worked 100% of the time for us but ofc depends on how full the flight is.
Best age? Younger the better! Flying overseas with a 4mo (we waited for 2 weeks post vaccinations) was easier than domestic with a 7mo, and I’m sure that one will be easier than our next at 9mo!
Baby Spa or swim the day before you fly to help tucker baby out 🥱
Look into ways you can access an airport lounge, they’re perfect for before an international flight with a baby. However, Melbourne airport does have a brilliant family room!
Early flight = less chance of delays. Trust me you don’t want to be delayed with a baby at the airport. Especially one that is crawling!
Book the window seat, it offers great privacy for breastfeeding and is the most comfortable to be nap trapped in.
Feed at take off/landing to soothe baby’s ears. The sucking motion helps equalise the pressure in their ears, which can make the flight more comfortable.
We find it easiest to take the pram as carry-on and use it right up until we board (90th percentile baby).
Baby ear muffs are a must. These are from Amazon. Lmk if you want the link 🎧
Personally, we’d avoid the red eye again. We were nervous that he’d keep everyone awake through the night, but he slept the entire flight. However, we barely got a wink as we were watching him, so got home absolutely exhausted!
Bring your village with you, if you can 🫶🏼 Sharing the load helps so much.
Use disinfectant wipes on the back of seats and side of plane. Wipe as soon as you’re seated. Your baby is going to want to touch/mouth everything and there’s SO much grime!
You don’t need to bring much entertainment as baby will just love taking everything in. We have found just a favourite toy and snack is enough.
Flying in off-peak/wet season is cheaper and the occasional rain is actually perfect for naps and relaxing indoors - you won’t get as much holiday FOMO.
My go-to list for our carry-on luggage. Airline specific, but in our c