1. Book a sky-cot before flying. When you book a flight for the infant it is not guaranteed that you will get the sky-cot so you need to call up and reserve it.
2. If you are going NY --> London take the night flight over if possible. We flew night flight on the way out and day flight on the way back; the day flight was harder as its a. longer and b. the baby is awake most of the time and requires entertaining in a VERY small and boring space!
3. Eat before getting on the plane. Eating on the plane is a pain at best and with a squirmy child its almost impossible.
4. Breastfeed at take off and landing (this is a tip from a lot of sites and Moms). It does seem to work as our baby has not had any issues at take off or landing. In fact, she has been asleep each time we have taken off!!!
Note: Breastfeeding on the plane is not a comfortable experience. Aside from being in close proximity to lots of strangers the seats are just NOT made for it!!! It is exceptionally uncomfortable and actually quite tricky with a larger baby. I managed to sit slightly sideways on which was the most comfortable position for me. I used my bebe au lait cover but a lightweight baby blanket was also a good shield.
5. Bag packing tips:
> LOTS of diapers (more than you think you would ever need, who knows what can happen!)
> Wipes
> Diaper cream in a tube
> A disposable changing mat (huggies do some). Invaluable as the plane & airport changing tables are not pristine.
> Spare outfit or two depending on length of flight. We actually had to use ours due to a blow-out just before take-off!!!
> Toys - maybe even some new toys as well as favorites to keep baby occupied. Take plenty of small ones to avoid boredom and also in case they get thrown on the floor.
> Basic medecines such as tylenol, gas medecines and teething gel if appropriate.
> washcloth
> burp cloths x 2 (SO useful)
> Light weight blanket for putting in the sky cot, can also double as a shield for breast feeding.
> Pacifiers if used.
> Alcohol based antibacterial hand gel.
> Plastic bags for diapers.
6. Don't expect any special treatment on the flight itself - the air hostesses are pretty busy. We needed to ask both times for the sky cot to be brought. Don't be afraid to speak up.
Its not terrible travelling long distance with a baby but it does require some planning and also being realistic about the trip. Don't expect to get a minutes peace on the plane (even if baby is sleeping you may need to stay awake; for example our baby could easily sit up and roll out of the crib at 6 mths old so I stayed awake in case she awoke and fell out).
Safe flying!
