Flying with your baby after surrogacy

Traveling with your baby can be overwhelming and stressful.  Especially if you are doing it a lone like I have been.  Most pediatricians recommend keeping your newborn at home to establish a routine and avoid sickness; however, travel is sometimes necessary.  I have found several ways to make the trips safe and easy for my baby and I.  

A common question when it comes to babies flying is, how young is too young?  When your baby is born in the state of Tabasco the law states that you cannot fly with a newborn until they are over a week old.  During this time you will be waiting for your ministry appointment (birth certificate) anyway so you cannot go anywhere without that.  My sons pediatrician advised me to wait until he had his first round of vaccinations to travel by plane.  There are also airline policies that require passengers be at least 2 weeks old before boarding.  You will need to carry your baby's birth certificate, passport (if you have it) and shot records with you in your carry-on or diaper bag.  The airline will definitely check the birth certificate and sometimes they check the shot records…it's a small booklet. 

Pack plenty of formula, feeding supplies, diapers, wipes, ointment, at least 2 pacifiers & the clip for the clothes, 2 changes of clothes for baby and 1 for you (you will get puked and peed on, I promise!), baby shampoo or wash in case your little one has a poop explosion, hand sanitizer and hand cream, blankets and burp cloths.  The planes and airport are cold for a baby so dress he or she warm.  Wait until you go through security to purchase bottled water for the formula.  

Book and aisle seat for the legroom and space for your diaper bag.  You will also have easy access to the restroom.  Check your bags curbside…especially if you are a lone with a baby, diaper bag, stroller/car seat, and 2 suitcases!  

Keep your stroller with you in the airport.  The agent will give you a sticker for it and you can literally walk with your baby in the stroller right onto the plane and a ramp agent will take it for you.  It's usually free.  This is a huge help for solo travelers!  

Good to know:

You will have to pee at some point during the flight…unless you are wearing a diaper, kindly ask the flight attendant to hold the baby so you can relieve yourself.  They are usually happy to do this and it's a much better idea to ask them rather than your sleeping neighbor.  

Be sure to change your baby's diaper right before boarding.  

If you do not want to bring your stroller use a baby carrier/wrap.  This usually keeps the baby pretty calm being so close to mom.

Pack some healthy snacks for yourself and stay hydrated. 

If your baby starts to cry…and he or she will at some point.  Don't worry about what the people around you think.  They'll get over it.  Sing quietly to your baby.  This will soothe he or she and everyone will be calm again.  

Use your miles.  If you have the extra miles or money book first class.  The extra room and service is worth it!

People will help you!  Other mom's and dad's.  You'd be surprised who will lend a hand.  

Safe travels!

Peace, Love and CARE,

Carmela