How can I survive 11 hrs flight with 13 mths old baby?

Question

I can realize babys at this age are very active and just learned how to walk and they don't understand that they have to simply freeze for 11 hrs and don't move. How to make this trip possible to survive?

Answer 1

I agree with trying to sort a different routine a few days before you go. Think about when you will feed baby and when baby will sleep etc..... Ideally plan this so that your baby will be asleep for most of the flight. So try not to let baby sleep or eat too close to before the flight. Once you have sorted baby sleeping, plan meals around this, nappy changes, then maybe a wipe down and change of clothes, then play time.... Don't give in straight away if baby looks like he/she is going to start crying and pacify them as much as possible before picking them up/taking them to the toilets to change etc... Take toys that arent too noisey but that will occupy baby.
Also, think of things you would do if you were at home.

As well as keeping baby occupied you need to keep him/her as comfortable as possible. Let them drink when taking off and landing to help stop thier ears popping. Make sure they drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Also make sure they wear loose clothing and layers incase it gets hot or cold... Also, did you arrange the seat for baby for onboard?

I also agree that actually letting the baby walk up the aisle needs to be a last resort otherwise you will be up and down that aisle for the whole journey.

Only you know what your baby likes, how well they sleep etc.... think about this and just change it to fit around the flight. Plenty of planning ahead and organization and you'll be fine.
Good luck x

Answer 2

Don't expect the baby to "freeze" for 11 hours. There are plenty of web sites that give tips on traveling with kids. I have listed some ideas here:
1. Take as much of the routine stuff (favorite soothers, blankies, toys, bottles, finger food) as possible.
2. Take some bribes that the child loves but doesn't get too often.
3. Get the bulkhead seat with bassinet for the child to sleep in.
4. Take off and landing - if the child is awake, he will not like the sensation in his ears. Give him something to suck on at that time.
5. It's okay to take him and have him walk the aisles a bit - hold both his hands from behind so he doesn't stumble and doesn't have a chance of pulling stuff from other passengers.
6. Treat the flight as nothing unusual... try to keep his routine as much as possible.

I hope you have a seat for him - it makes life much easier even though it's a big expense. A good web site: http://www.flyingrugrats.com/

Answer 3

It's going to be tough, but I'd start by bringing a couple old favorite toys, and a couple of new things that might intrigue the baby for a while. Start several days ahead of time, and try to get their night sleeping schedule to occur during the flight. Plan a "potty walk" every couple of hours when they are awake.

It sounds like you already realize it's going to be a trying trip, but with your planning it will go by quicker than you realize.

Good Luck, and enjoy you time away.

Answer 4

1) Dont fly air trans (the ones that tossed the toddler and family)
2) Bring some new and some favorite toys
3) Some medication to help clear the ears and calm the child
4) Dont walk them in the aisles till you have to, they will take advantage and squeal fot this prividlege after they know they can.
5) favorite travel snacks (fruit bites, cereal, etc)

This will be tiring unless the tot decides to sleep. Most people are understanding.

Answer 5

I am there with you. My son just turned 2 and we are taking a 14 hour flight to hawaii on thursday. I wrapped him up a bunch of presents and also wrapped up mini sweedish fish in alumunion foil. I bought him a dvd player with a charger for the airplane with all of his favorite dvd's. I am bringing plenty of books. Also playdoh with tools, a cars book with magnents, and some other favorite toys. I am bringing plenty of snacks, and his car seat too.
My girlfriend is bringing her 12 month old son as well. It should be interesting. I am also bringing the child strength benadryl with me and giving him a half dose. It is supposed to help with cabin pressure and help them sleep. You must try it at home first b/c it makes some kids hyper. I tryed it with my two year old and he went right to sleep. Good luck

Answer 6

I think the question is, how can the other people on the plane survive? I commend you for your foresight and thoughtfullness. I flew to Brasil last Christmas, 13 hours, screaming baby both ways. Worst flights ever. Do whatever you have to, coloring books, toys, whiskey (j/k) etc. Remember, other people have paid money for the flight also. I wish you Good Luck.

Answer 7

Valium helps. ; )