Does Diaper Bag Count as Carry On: The Ultimate Mom-Approved Guide ?
Yes, sweet mamas and papas, a diaper bag usually counts as a carry on for most airlines. But, just like we parents need to navigate bedtime routines and food tantrums, navigating airlines’ diaper bag policies can be, well, confusing. So let’s jump in and unravel this!
Quick Look: Diaper Bag Policies of Major Airlines ?
| Airline | Carry on Allowance | Diaper Bag Allowance |
| Alaska Airlines | 1 carry on bag and 1 personal item | 1 diaper bag per child |
| American Airlines | 1 carry on bag and 1 personal item | 1 diaper bag per child |
| Delta Airlines | 1 carry on bag and 1 personal item | 1 diaper bag per child |
| JetBlue | 1 carry on bag and 1 personal item | 1 diaper bag per child |
| Southwest Airlines | 2 personal items | 1 diaper bag per child |
| United Airlines | 2 carry on bags and 1 personal item | 1 diaper bag per child |
Note: Different airlines policies continually changes.
Packing a Diaper Bag: The Mom-of-Five Essentials ?
As a mom of five, trust me, I’ve got this down to a science. You’re flying, you’ve got a wee one, and you need to pack smart.
The No-Brainers
Diapers are the bread and butter here, people. You’ll need one for every hour you’re out and about, plus some extra for those “Oops, didn’t see that coming!” moments. Baby wipes are your second-in-command. You’ll be using them for all sorts of messes, not just the ones in the diapers.
The Eatables
I remember this one time my third-born was going through a growth spurt and gobbled up everything in sight. There we were, two hours into a flight and all out of snacks. Rookie mistake. So, always pack extra formula, breast milk, or snacks. If you’re breastfeeding, toss in a manual pump, just in case.
The Just-in-Cases
Pack a couple of extra outfits for your baby. If you’ve ever had to deal with a poop explosion mid-flight, you know what I’m talking about. And throw in an extra shirt for you. Trust me, you don’t wanna be smelling like baby puke or worse for the entire flight.
Entertainment Aisle
Long flights are tough on everyone. Bring small, soft toys that won’t send your neighbor into a fury if dropped. My go-to is a set of fabric books and a teething toy.
Health and Safety First
Include a tiny first-aid kit with baby-safe items. Thermometer, baby Tylenol, and any prescription meds your child needs. You never know when a fever will hit, and you don’t want to be caught off guard.
Tips for Rocking that Diaper Bag Like a Pro ?
Let’s jump into the game plan for making that diaper bag your new best friend during air travel.
Know the Airline’s Policy
Most airlines are parent-friendly, but you still need to read the fine print. Does diaper bag count as carry on? What are the size limits? Knowing this in advance can save you from gate-check headaches.
Be a Smart Packer
The best advice I can give is to use every nook and cranny. For instance, stuff extra diapers in the side pockets, use a pillbox to store different types of snacks, and roll clothes to save space. It’s like Tetris, but for parents.
Organization is Key
Let me tell you, kids are unpredictable. The moment you’re patting yourself on the back for a well-packed bag is the moment they’ll need something from the very bottom. So, organize in reverse. Things you’ll need last, like the extra change of clothes, should go at the bottom. Items you’ll need regularly like wipes and snacks should be easily accessible.
The Right Bag Makes All the Difference
Alright, let’s get one thing straight: Not all diaper bags are created equal. I’ve gone through about a dozen of them, and my favorite has wide shoulder straps for comfort, multiple compartments, and is made of a wipeable or washable fabric. It’s like the Mary Poppins bag of motherhood!
Quick Security Checks
Yup, another perk of traveling with a baby is that most airports will let you breeze through security with that diaper bag. But make sure liquids like breast milk or formula are in easy-to-access spots for quick checks.
Dealing with the Unexpected: My Personal Tales ?
You might be thinking, “Hey, I’ve read the manuals and packed the perfect bag, what could go wrong?” Well, let me share a quick story.
Once upon a flight, my second-born managed to open a juice box all over our neighboring passenger. Yup, a complete stranger. While I was mentally preparing for some choice words, my well-stocked diaper bag came to the rescue. Out came the wipes, a dry cloth, and an apology snack I had packed. Crisis averted!
This, my friends, is why you also pack for the unexpected. Hand sanitizers, small tissue packs, and maybe an apology note (or chocolate) for the stranger your kid might accidentally kick or spill on.
Making the Most of Your Diaper Bag: Beyond the Basics ?
1. Stroller Hacks: A good stroller can be a lifesaver. Choose one that has a handy compartment beneath the seat. Pop in the items you might not need immediately but can grab during layovers or waiting times.
2. Baby Care Lounges: More and more airports now have these – a space specially designed for parents and babies. While it’s no Ritz-Carlton, it’s a good place to change diapers, feed the baby, or let them stretch out a bit.
3. Tech-Savvy Mamas: Download some baby-friendly apps or lullabies on your phone. If things get dicey, these can be a good distraction. Just remember the headphones!
4. Layering is Your Friend: I can’t stress this enough! Dress your baby in layers. Airports and planes can have unpredictable temperatures. This way, you can add or remove layers as needed.
5. Friendly Faces: This might sound cheesy, but keep a small family photo or a picture of a pet in your diaper bag. If your child gets fussy, sometimes seeing a familiar face can soothe them.
6. Ziplock Magic: Pack individual outfits or sets of items in ziplock bags. Not only does this save space, but in the event of a spill, you’ve got a handy place to store the messy clothes.
Air Travel with Older Kiddos: Transitioning Out of the Diaper Bag Phase ?
As your kiddos grow, the diaper bag will evolve. Here’s a quick run-through of how I made the shift:
The Transition Phase
As they hit the toddler years, you might not need as many diapers, but trust me, snacks become the ultimate currency. Along with that, crayons, small notebooks, and puzzles became regular fixtures in my bag. And always, always, an extra pair of undies, because, well, accidents happen!
School-Age Shenanigans
With my older ones, the diaper bag transitioned to a backpack. A couple of books, some card games, and headphones became essentials. I also threw in a travel pillow and blanket for those longer flights.
Teen Trepidations
Ah, the teenage years! While they’ll likely pack their own entertainment (hello, earbuds and smartphones!), don’t forget chargers, travel-sized skincare items, and maybe a travel journal for them to document their adventures.
Wrapping It Up ?
There you have it, lovely folks! Whether you’re jet-setting across the globe or just hopping over to the next state, being prepared is the name of the game. And when someone asks, “Does diaper bag count as carry on?”, you’ll not only know the answer but also how to pack it like a seasoned pro. Safe travels, and may your journeys be filled with cooing babies, minimal meltdowns, and a well-stocked diaper bag! ?✈️??.
Key Takeaways: Does Diaper Bag Count As Carry On?
- Diaper bags typically count as a carry on for most airlines.
- The TSA doesn’t set size or weight limits for diaper bags; airlines do.
- Each airline has its unique policy; always double-check before flying.
- Packing a diaper bag requires balancing necessities with unexpected needs.
- As children grow, the diaper bag’s contents evolve, reflecting their changing needs.
FAQs
? Do all airlines allow diaper bags as carry ons?
No, while most major airlines do permit diaper bags as carry ons, it’s essential to check specific airline policies. Some airlines might count it against your baggage allowance or even charge an additional fee.
? How should I store breastmilk or formula for a flight?
When flying, it’s a good idea to keep breastmilk or formula in clear, sealed containers. While the TSA does allow these liquids in reasonable quantities for babies, you may be subject to additional screening. Ensure they’re easily accessible in your bag for quicker checks.
? Are there any restrictions on the kind of toys I can bring in a diaper bag?
While there are no specific restrictions on toys, it’s wise to avoid toys that could be considered security risks. For example, avoid toys that closely resemble weapons or have sharp edges. Soft toys, books, and electronic devices with headphones are generally safe bets.
✈️ Is it a good idea to bring a blanket for my baby on the plane?
Absolutely! Airplane temperatures can be unpredictable. A blanket can keep your baby warm, act as a privacy shield during feeding, or even offer comfort in unfamiliar surroundings.
? How do I deal with diaper changes during a flight?
Many modern airplanes are equipped with changing tables in the lavatories. Pack a changing pad, and ensure you have a sealable plastic bag for used diapers. It’s courteous to avoid changing diapers at your seat, especially if the flight is full.
? Should I bring an extra pair of shoes for my child?
It’s a great idea! Little accidents, from spills to stepping in something unpleasant at the airport, can happen. An extra pair ensures your child won’t have to go shoeless or wear uncomfortable, wet shoes.
? How do I handle nap times during a flight?
Timing is everything. If possible, schedule flights around your child’s nap times. Bring along familiar items like a favorite blanket or soft toy to help them get comfortable. The white noise of the airplane often helps babies sleep.
? Are electronic devices safe for babies during a flight?
While it’s a personal choice, short periods of screen time, especially during long flights, can be a lifesaver. Just ensure the content is age-appropriate and always bring headphones to avoid disturbing other passengers.
? Do I need to book a separate seat for my baby?
Many airlines allow infants under two years to fly for free if they sit on a parent’s lap. However, for safety (especially during turbulence) and comfort, you might consider booking a separate seat and bringing an FAA-approved car seat.
? Can I pack medications for my child in the diaper bag?
Yes, medications, including liquids, are allowed in carry on bags. It’s smart to keep them in their original packaging, and you might need to declare them during security checks.
? What if I need to use the restroom and I’m traveling alone with my baby?
This can be tricky! If the baby is asleep, some parents feel comfortable asking a nearby passenger or flight attendant to keep a quick watch. If you’re uncomfortable with this, wait for a suitable time and bring the baby with you.
? Can I bring my stroller all the way to the aircraft door?
Most airlines allow parents to push their strollers all the way to the boarding gate. From there, the stroller can be gate-checked and will be waiting for you as you disembark the plane.
? Is it okay to bring snacks for my older child in the diaper bag?
Absolutely! Just be mindful of the TSA guidelines regarding liquids and gels. Solid snacks like crackers, dried fruit, or granola bars are usually safe bets.
? How can I help my baby with ear pressure during take-off and landing?
Sucking and swallowing can help. Consider nursing, offering a bottle, or giving a pacifier during these times. For older children, chewing gum or sucking on hard candy can be helpful.
? My child is out of diapers. Should I still carry a bag for them?
Certainly! Even if they’re out of the diaper phase, kids require stuff – snacks, toys, extra clothes, and more. Transition to a backpack or tote bag, but keep essentials handy for a smooth trip.
