If you are flying with a baby it is important to let the airline know at least 48 hours before the time. Make sure to ask them about diets, services and other any other questions you might have at this point – this will help you to plan ahead.

Some parents of very little children and/or babies prefer to take a car seat with for the flight.

Make sure you ziplock items that need to be sealed and understand all flying regulations perfectly. Websites just like the Travel Match holidays search are extremely helpful and most of what you need to know can be obtained online.

If both parents fly and board together, always have one stand in line with the suitcases, while the other keeps the kids ‘in line’ nearby. Once parent no. 1 gets to the counter, the others can join him and seamlessly go through. If possible, see if you can join the business class (shorter) lines. Or better yet, go for the easiest option – some airlines allow for online checking-in. Make sure to read everything and follow instructions carefully.

Keep boarding papers, such as the tickets and passports, together in a ziplock bag, labelled Boarding. Additionally, make two sets of certified copies of every document and pack these in different bags.

When both parents travel together, send one to board as soon as possible. This parent can carry the baby gear, such as the stroller, and get it into the overhead space while there is space! This parent can also check out seating arrangements and possibly get a passenger to swap a seat or move over to an empty one.

Parent no 2, you need to speak to airline staff members and explain that you wish to board last and need assistance. Now you can stretch out the boarding until the last moments and get toilet requirements out of the way and keep your kids running as long as possible. The worst thing is to be fed up before take-off.