Yes, babies cry
Traveling with a baby can be very difficult, and it can be stressful for parents when your baby starts crying while you’re on a plane. Even though it’s understandable to think about how others might react to your crying child, you have to understand that crying is how your baby is trying to tell you something. If you know why he/she is crying, you may be able to soothe them.
Ear discomfort is a common reason for children being fussy or crying on an airplane. When there are changes in cabin pressure (during take off/landing), the middle ear develops pressure – this can be uncomfortable. Sucking is a good way to release this pressure. So if your baby wants to nurse, bottle feed, or suck on a pacifier during take-off/landing, it may help alleviate some of this pressure.
To make traveling with a baby easier, prepare as best you can before the flight. Take all the items you think you’ll want with you in a small easily accessible bag. These include: extra diapers, wipes, a change of clothes and a comforting item such as a blanket or a toy. Also, if possible, try to time your flight according to your baby’s regular sleep patterns. It won’t always be possible to do this, though. Babies who get enough rest tend to be less irritable. Walking through the aisle with your baby can also help soothe him/her.
Even with planning, your baby will still cry sometimes. Yes, some passengers may be annoyed by a crying baby, but realize that most people on airplanes are sympathetic. Just smiling at someone who is giving you “the look” or acknowledging their presence with a nod usually eases the situation. Don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Traveling with a young baby is hard work and nothing goes exactly right every single day.
Always put safety first. Use an approved car seat for your baby whenever you can, and follow the rules set forth by the airline. Consult with your pediatrician before flying if your baby has difficulty breathing because of congestion or extreme ear pain from flying. They may give you advice or offer suggestions.
You don’t necessarily have to dread taking your baby on a plane. Preparation and patience can really help you manage the process. Being prepared, remaining calm, and knowing what your baby needs to be comfortable can make air travel less chaotic for everyone.
