Before anything else: the three bags system
Flying with a baby requires three separate, clearly organised bags — not one large bag with everything in it. The reason: you will need specific items at very specific moments, often one-handed, while holding a baby, while other passengers stare at you.
- The nappy bag (carried on, accessible at all times) — everything you need during the flight, including one or two changes of clothes for the baby and one change for you.
- The carry-on (overhead locker) — extra supplies, entertainment, your personal items, and a change of clothes in case checked luggage is delayed.
- Checked luggage — everything else: the bulk of the baby's clothes, equipment, and anything that won't fit in the above.
The critical rule: Everything you might need during the flight — and 30 minutes either side of it — goes in the nappy bag. Not the overhead locker. Not the checked luggage. The nappy bag, under the seat in front of you, where you can reach it without standing up.
The nappy bag: what must be in it
- Nappies — at least 2 per hour of travel time (including delays)
- Baby wipes — a full pack, not a travel pack
- Nappy cream
- 2–3 changes of clothes for the baby
- 1 change of clothes for you (spit-up happens at altitude too)
- Muslin cloths / burp cloths (×3 minimum)
- Formula or expressed milk for the flight duration + 3 hours extra
- Bottles (×2 — one in use, one clean backup)
- Dummy / soother (if used) — pack two, they fall
- Small favourite toy — soft, quiet, familiar
- Baby paracetamol / fever medicine in age-appropriate dosage
- Changing mat (compact foldable)
- Small bag for dirty nappies
- Hand sanitiser
Feeding during take-off and landing
Ear pressure during ascent and descent is the most common cause of baby distress on flights. Sucking and swallowing helps equalise pressure — which is why feeding during take-off and landing is the most effective technique for keeping a baby comfortable.
For breastfeeding: time your feed to coincide with the moment the plane begins to taxi. For bottle feeding: have a bottle ready at the gate, not in checked luggage. For babies on solids: a pouch or snack works for older babies.
Book the bulkhead row if available — it has more floor space and some aircraft have bassinet attachment points for babies under approximately 10kg. Book early; these seats are limited. Also request a baby seat belt (a loop that attaches to yours) at check-in if you're not buying a separate seat.
At the airport: what changes with a baby
Airport security with a baby takes longer than you expect. Buggy, car seat, and any baby liquids (formula, breast milk) all need to be handled separately. EU regulations allow baby milk and food in quantities exceeding the 100ml rule — you may be asked to taste it. Allow at least 30 extra minutes at security when flying with a baby under 12 months.
Most airports have baby care rooms (separate from standard disabled toilets) with changing tables, warm water, and sometimes microwave facilities for formula. Ask airport staff — they're rarely signposted clearly.
The checked luggage: baby essentials for the destination
- Nappy supply for the full trip (harder to find familiar brands abroad)
- Travel cot or confirm the hotel/accommodation provides one
- Baby sleeping bag (familiar sleep environment matters)
- Baby monitor (if not staying in one room)
- Baby sun hat + SPF 50 baby sunscreen
- Baby carrier / sling (more useful than a buggy in many destinations)
- Baby food pouches / formula (bring enough for first 2 days)
- Baby thermometer
- Full baby first aid kit
Build your family holiday packing list
Our family checklist includes a dedicated baby and young children add-on — covering everything from nappy bags to travel cots.
👨👩👧 See family checklist