Flying with Baby Question

LtlAngL

We plan on taking a trip for DS's 1st birthday rather than throwing a huge party. We would like to go to the Caribbean, which would be about a 5 hour flight from the NY area. We are debating whether it would be better to do just one long flight or do a connection at about the 3-hour mark (in Miami.) Any insight or suggestions? The places we were looking into going don't seem to have any overnight flights from my area, but it would be possible to fly during naptime or to take an evening flight that would be during the first few hours of bedtime. TIA!

lavet22

I fly multiple times per year with my kids and have since they were born (and just flew with my 1 yr old today and yesterday).  I would want a direct flight if I was buying the tickets.  I would schedule it during nap time, not at bed time.  After the flight is over, you still have to trudge through the airport, get your baggage, get a cab or bus from the airport, check in to the hotel, and all that you will have to wake the baby up for, or they will wake up on their own and be cranky pants.  Traveling with a 1yr old can be tough.  They are too old to just be content with looking at you or sleeping all day and they are not old enough for movies.  Bring a few new toys and lots of snacks to keep baby happy during the "awake" times.  By snacks, I mean a sippy cup and healthy fruits or veggies or something they really like (healthy!).  There will be more crap and treats to feed them than you can imagine, so having something healthy will be wonderful for both of you!!  The toys should be new, but similar to ones they like already.  Like a ball that plays music or lights up or blocks they can put together.  Wear walking shoes and be prepared to sing, dance, and walk up and down the isles.  Have fun!!!!

alithebride

if by 'ny area' you mean jfk most of the caribbean is less than 5 hours.

i wouldnt' do a layover in miami (or another airport in the US) because of the return=you ahve to get your luggage and go through customs and immigration, recheck and then get the connection. PITA.

cun is just about 3.5 hours each way. puerto rico is the same. 5 hours would be more about the aruba area. grab a short non-stop flight.

MommyLiberty5013

Don't bring toys that do not have an "off" switch. Keep your wipes and diapers in multiple places so you have easy access no matter which bag you're grabbing. Have back up clothing, wipes, diapers and food for the child in case something does not go as planned.

Tamdan

My little man just traveled to Cuba for his first birthday and the flight was 3 hours 20 minutes He slept both ways the whole time!!! I couldn't believe it considering I prepared for the worst! Lol Most babies love the plane and you may get a wing seat which has great vibration and helps them sleep I say connecting would be more hectic then a straight flight Take off and landing is the tough part on the ears so the least amount of up and down the better I think Safe travels