1. Book the aisle & window seat (if the plane seats 3-across) . Then call the airline to let them know you will be traveling with a baby, the airline will take note and if it's not a full flight will leave the middle seat available.
2. Pack enough formula/food on your carry-on for 24 hours. It's best to be prepared in case your plane gets diverted or you are stuck on the tarmac for a long period of time.
3. Bring an empty pillowcase on the plane. Ask the flight attendant for pillows and blankets. Stuff your empty pillowcase with the pillows and blankets. This creates your own boppy for breastfeeding and a nice comfortable cushion on your lap where your baby can sleep.
4. When loading the plane, do not immediately sit down. Typically parents traveling with small children are in the first group of people to board the plane. When you board, stand near the back of the plane holding your baby. If you sit down too soon, by the time it's time for takeoff your baby will have ants-in-their pants.
5. When the plane is ascending or descending make sure your baby is sucking. Sucking can be on a bottle, pacifier, etc. The "sucking" should begin once you personally feel the plan ascending/descending.
Bonus: Bring fun-size chocolates to pass out to those sitting closest to you. A great way to break the ice and help ease they pain of a screaming baby. Everyone loves chocolate!!
