TRAVEL
How to fly cross-country with a newborn By Dr. Marguerite Barnard
So how do I take a flight with my newborn? I sat across the table from my paediatrician, nervous but naturally curious as to how we were going to make this work. My husband had business out of town and I had the opportunity for much needed extra 'hands on' with my parents who live in the Garden Route. My parents had graciously volunteered to help me out if I could make my way to them from Pretoria. When I got the go-ahead from the paediatrician to fly with my tiny two-week-old, it was time to start planning the big day. I’d done a lot of research about how to approach the flight, but ultimately nothing quite tops experience. Here are my suggestions on how to make flying with a newborn as pleasant as possible.
1. Choose a morning flight
Newborns are less fussy in the morning because they are rested, so 88 | September 2021
aim for a 10am flight. It's not peak time so you’ll also end up saving on the ticket cost. Because this flight is less popular you might find yourself with a less crowded plane and perhaps even an empty middle seat.
2. Enquire about your airline’s minimum age rules
Every airline is different and has different rules, including the minimum age of a passenger. For us the minimum age was two weeks – so we just made the cut. The last thing you want is to arrive at the airport and have a dispute with a flight attendant.
3. Document readiness
You won’t be able to board a plane without a valid and certified birth certificate. Needless to say you should apply for this at your hospital/
local authority in plenty of time as it takes time to finalise. Make at least 10 copies and have them certified to keep on file. Lastly, make sure you always carry one in your diaper bag.
4. Splurge on an airport lounge entry The calm music and relaxing environment of the premium airport lounges will help you and your newborn relax before you board your flight. Some bankcards offer complimentary entry, so find out if yours does and use it. The comfy couches are less crowded so you’ll have space to stretch out with your luggage. Baby changing facilities in the elite restrooms are also more spacious – you won’t struggle for a space to www.rovesa.co.za
