First Time Flying With a Baby (Not Fun)

[@aairsick]

Emma, you asked for travel suggestions. I am a 40 year airline crew member. I've seen babies and parents on a gazillion flights. The most successful are first and foremost the ones that are NOT STRESSED and are calm and relaxed. The stress transfers to the little ones. Second, have the child suck on a pacifier, dummy, or even breast feed during ascent and descent helps to keep the pressure balanced in their ears and avoids discomfort. Your flight crew can usually tip you off as to "when" - but usually on descent about 1 hour to 30 minutes before touch down. Better to start too soon, then too late. I noticed you had the seatbelt buckled around both you and Noah. US airlines say NO to this; if there is an accident you would squash the child. US carriers suggest holding your child, obviously buying a seat for your child and using a car seat that is aviation approved is best. When you fly to the US, I highly suggest getting Noah a seat (you can always hold him for take off and landing, and use the extra seat for "room to get comfy), or use the car seat (which can be hard if he hates it as there's no where to move it to.). Most aircraft do not have microwaves. Hot water is generally available - for warming a bottle. So consider that. As Noah gets bigger, bring all the snacks. Most parents seem to pack little MINI Diaper KITS in a zip bag, change of clothes, wipe, etc, so they can just go to the bathroom with that little bit of stuff instead of dragging the whole diaper bag. Aircraft toilets have designated changing tables in some bathrooms; ask. Noah's a bit small, but when he has a lovey blanket or toy, please attach a business card or other identifier with contact information - so many are lost or left behind (the biggest disaster for any parent), so be sure if I find it on my plane I can get it back to you. Babies tend to get out of sorts, and crew know that. Be prepared for the poop blow out and the barfing too. It happens. Many parents find using Benadryl is useful for long flights - it can help with allergies as well as help sleep; ask your pediatrician. And, the noise. Consider baby ear muffs for sound cancellation ---many parents use on these on board. I don't think it's good to insulate you child from all sound but it can be a good tool; but do not try it out for the first time on board. That never goes well. You will be fine. Your air crew is your friend. Most are mums themselves and have traveled with their own kids. If you have any special questions, just DM me. Safe travels and NO STRESS EMMA!!! You've got this. Your airline crew want you to be happy and comfortable.

[@sarah-phillips]

As a mom of three who has traveled with all of them by herself, I agree with all of this! The flight attendants have always been so incredible on our flights, too.

[@lynniev]

This is an excellent reply. My only caveat would be to try the benedryl first before you fly. My kiddo got hyper instead of sleepy. My pediatrician had a name for it but definitely look into it if you're considering using it on a flight.

[@TheCityandBeyond]

Great tips!

[@Ellierua]

Wow, that's alot of info.. I guess you could get all the info from the Internet, if you weren't an air stewart and every parent will find their own way with flights. Handy tips are good though but scare info not as much.

[@aairsick]

@@lynniev absolutely!

[@donc5786]

Tip- When boarding a plane, send Alex on as soon as they call your row. Have him bring all of the carry on and get everything set up. Have Emma and baby be one of the last ones to board and all she has to do is sit down. It even saves 30 minutes of plane time for the baby.

[@bonniehollingsworth1996]

While in flight you might want to have Noah tucked securely into a pack on your chest and have the plane’s seatbelt only around yourself. That way you don’t get pressed into baby during turbulence. I even figured out a way to nurse my six month old while strapped in this way (and no one else knew). Nursing in-flight and during takeoffs and landings helps babies’ ears and gives you a snuggler to keep you comforted. He’s adorable!

[@rebeccarendle3706]

I wrote this in their last video.. nursing is best in take off and landing against pressure which hurts and causes the baby to cry.

[@ian-digitalhit]

My sister always bought a ticket for her kids and used car seats on the plane. I mean a car is travelling far slower than a plane that's landing in an emergency (e.g. broken landing gear.)

[@WarDamnEagle4]

The flight attendants in the US will NOT allow you to take off or land with a baby in the pack. I’ve been asked to remove the baby from the pack during severe turbulence. FAA requirement. Not airline specific. Though I was able to get away with it once or twice. You would think baby is safer in the pack but apparently FAA doesn’t agree.

[@annah8380]

I used a wrap when he was very small and I was thinking the same about nursing to help with the ears. 😊

[@richardfinney5081]

Lynn here on Hubby's phone mines playing up 😏, You two are Just Fantastic 😊, You've got it so worked out , wish I'd have been like that when I was younger, hope your plans go well 😊🤞, but you'll never be the star of the show anymore Al , The Little Chaps got that roll now 😂😂😂😂, Take Care you lovely people, Happy Traveling 😊❤XXX

[@patriciamoore6492]

He's teething earlier than my sons or even my grand at just 10 weeks! My boys were happier with a washcloth I put in the freezer, kind of wadded up with corners out. The frozen result was soothing and my 2nd son looked so cute crawling around with it sticking out of his mouth! You are doing an incredible job traveling with your sweet Noah. So happy for you. ❤

[@tinydancer7426]

By younger brother cut his first tooth at 7 weeks. at 6 weeks mom took him to church the first time and used the church nursery. The church ladies asked mom why she had a bib on him and when mom said he was teething, they poo-pooed the ide with "He's only 6 weeks, that's too soon for him to cut a tooth." Boy were they surprised when he had a tooth the following Sunday.

[@joanneholliday6339]

You need to check out Mr. and Mrs. Adventure. They are an American couple that travel the world in their van but just bought a historic water mill in southern Portugal and are restoring it. It was quite the adventure for them!

[@junedimond1693]

Teething- put a water filled pacifier in freezer …. Babies love the frozen cold chewing on their gums. Really helpful when my kids were little.

[@therodg1043]

Portugal is fantastic. Traveling with children always poses its challenges, regardless of their ages. A key element of a more enjoyable time is to maintain, as much as possible, the childs normal schedule, sleep, food, and play. As our sons were growing up we never limited our travel plans. Preparation is key. We and they still have many fond memories of the times we shared.

[@martinengelbrecht5384]

Putting in a car seat at 01h17 without an argument is amazing, you guys are awesome!

[@badgerpa9]

If you can get the teething ice pack or use something you can safely freeze for him to naw on and it will help him. A corner of a cloth wet that does not have loose fibers frozen, when he is a little bigger frozen waffles work great and they even soak up the drool. Cut a strip to big for him to swallow but small enough to get in his mouth and just watch as it melts; cut off the thawed part so he does not end up with a big piece thawed out. I traveled with little ones a lot, get two chest carry devices so you can strap him to your chest (both of you can with two devices) when flying so he is not in the seat belt with you. You can use a thin blanket to cover him and you when you feed him and if you get the good carry device you can leave him strapped in but loosened so you can move him. You are actually very good parents on film so go with your instincts and keep showing your little man some love he is so cute.

[@monikastep5711]

OMG laughing at Alex's face discussing car seat install... AND of course... Emma can do it... with baby still strapped to her too :) woman power go go go !

[@markross4730]

Best advice for traveling with Noah, particularly on a long flight, is to book an overnight flight. Should be easy to do to come to the US and dramatically increases the odds he'll sleep the entire way.

[@wintergirl3298]

That little guy is going to be quite the traveler. What an awesome experience you are giving your son. And what a privilege to see so many countries. Safe travels.

[@kathleenmorrow3792]

It's good to have the first day in a new county for relaxation and recovery from the flight. 🌴🌴🥥

[@cindymerola6249]

Since you're in Portugal there look up mr. And mrs. Adventure

[@dmweisbr]

Noah’s gonna be a great little traveler. He demonstrated remarkable flexibility, able to remain sleep as you trundled him through the airport, into his car seat and so on. Getting him out early was a very good call.

[@justhay9433]

The pink noise and motion might have helped, too, but you guys are such chilled parents. Congrats, little mate for flying like a pro

[@Eric-ws1yp]

A suggestion. When flying back to AZ, book a AirBnB for at least 3 or 4 days for the days you arrive. This will give you a chance to make sure there are no unwelcome crawlies in your van or mice. It will also give you a day to clean it up because even though it was inside, the desert sands will get in everywhere. And it gives you time to get everything all set for your travels. Second invest in a traveling stroller/car seat/and high chair for eating. The one we bought for our grandchild was about $600.00 but worth every cent.

[@kirshnaegor3774]

You should connect with Mr. and Mrs. Adventure! They just bought property there and can tell you about all of the roadblocks and troubles they encountered. ❤ your videos!

[@angelamouland8012]

Good luck finding a place in Portugal! How exciting. Emma's face when talking about a potential house in Portugal says it all. ❤

[@sterlingmoose9335]

'Not just some campsite in England away' Classic!!

[@TBonDc]

I remember traveling with our newborn. Mostly I remember being more stressed than anything, just for the kid to sleep through everything and pretty chill with delayed planes etc etc. We went as far to prepare little goodie bags with ear plugs for all the seats around us.

[@Kristypuff]

Emma has always been stunning but since she’s had y’all’s little angel she is absolutely RADIATING. So breathtaking!!

[@MarissatheXplorer]

Y’all did a great job flying with a newborn. My son has been on 12 flights in the past year. We haven’t had any issues so far. We always feed him a bottle during take off and landing. If it’s a short flight, we try to just give him half a bottle during each time. When you have a long haul flight, you can book a bassinet seat. It’s totally worth the extra money! We flew from Istanbul to Toronto when my son was 8 months old. He slept and played in it.

[@MarissatheXplorer]

It’s much easier on you and him if you schedule for him to nap during the flight. I’ve delayed feeds and naps for this reason.

[@susanlewis1875]

Yes! You don't want the bottle to run out when you need it most!

[@kristinbaker5437]

This is a great idea! We flew from the US to Rome in May and a couple to the right of us had the bassinet seat. Baby slept comfortably and it's parents were able to as well because they weren't holding the baby.

[@thepeacefulpack]

Portugal is a wonderful country to live in...great choice! We absolutely love living here. Before deciding on your area make sure to research the climate - lots of micro climates here and some places can be crazy hot in the summer. Happy travels.

[@sallydacre438]

My daughters first flight was to the USA at 7 weeks old. She then went on to fly 42 international flights before she was 2. Always went for the bulk head with a travel cot. Never ried once. Always used a pacifier/dummy. Very lucky mummy to have such an incredibly contented baby. So sorry can't give advice . Good luck he'll be fine as long as you are. Enjoy every minute of him . Happy travels xx

[@carlylane1351]

I absolutely love y’all!! Watching the love you have for one another and Noah makes me smile!! Norman OK

[@kaymac1140]

I think noah has his dads cheeky smile and personality already hes so cute ❤

[@gabygaedecke2411]

That you are both completely besotted with wee Noah is SO understandable - he is a delight, such a good baby! Good luck in your (relaxed) search for a home base ... the world is your oyster, take your time!

[@annah8380]

We started traveling more extensively with our son when he was 10 weeks old. He has always been an awesome traveler and he’s 17 now. Noah will be so chill about traveling as he gets older. Best decision, traveling with kids! 🥰

[@Susan.I]

My daughter had her first flight at 2 days old. I fed her a bottle at take off, and at landing. We were adopting her!

[@Katiedid1975]

😮omg Noah's smiles are absolutely everything. 😊

[@SpinnGuitar]

Useful baby seat tip... Here in the USA Most Fire Stations Will Check and make sure the seat is hooked up properly.

[@GoYvon]

How exciting to see you in Porto! My husband and I will be traveling there this summer, for the exact same reason! Can't wait to see more of your Portugal adventures!

[@heatherangellight8558]

You’re great parents!! I flew for 10 hours with my son at six weeks old and he was awesome. My Noah and your Noah were great!

[@caseysw3]

I'm excited to see what's to come. Random teething tip..freeze a wet washcloth. It helps numb the gums, and the roughness of the washcloth helps the teeth cut through.

[@alimashmihar1129]

Hi Beans, Beans and pequeno Beans. Not being biased 😉Portugal is a wonderful country to live. I moved here in 2021 and have no regrets. Bem- vindo a portugal

[@SoulWhisperCreations]

Portugal... How exciting!!! Mr and Mrs Adventure may be a great resource either through their channel or by directly contacting them. Wishing you all the best in this new venture!

[@shopgirl1231]

So happy you made your first international trip with Noah, he was a real trooper! Portugal is amazing, but wading through the bureaucracy there can be challenging! We have a second home in the Azores and you really need time & patience, loads of patience. Nothing happens quickly there in our experience ( and I have Portuguese citizenship), but in the end it’s totally worth it!

[@beepbop9]

Mosaic flooring in portugal always blows my mind. Its so beautiful

[@beverlypoirier705]

All that worry and Noah was amazing...he's ready after all he has already been traveling while he was inside of you. I'm sure it's relaxing to him. Enjoy your trip. ❤ U guys safe travels

[@mikefrancis3550]

Yet another cracking video. Just want to say a massive THANK YOU as today we have been in sleeping bear dunes in Michigan on our quest of driving around Lake Michigan inspired by the Travel Beans. Today we head north to the upper peninsula.

[@cuddlemymicky]

Next time you might check to see if the airlines has a bassinet to use.

[@theathjr]

Oh you beans are so cute. Like a lovely cool summer bean salad

[@AndrewandMegan]

I feel like traveling to another country is one thing, then traveling to a country with a baby is a whole other thing. As first time parents I feel like you all are figuring things out really quickly along and just going for it! Well done!

[@isnoo1]

Ohhhh Emma - how I remember that feeling of - just your finger Mum!!!!! We spent a fortune on toys over the first two years only to find fingers, wood, cotton reels........ anything else!!

[@EvaVilla-pm5mv]

My maternal ancestors came to the US from Portugal 🇵🇹. My bucket list is to visit.

[@tomgraham5536]

You know my hillbilly in-laws would tell us when you have a cranky teething baby.... you should rub a bit of whiskey on their gums... LOL

[@Yvonneb_]

Awww Noah has a gorgeous smile. Great video xx

[@susanlombardo8444]

He is so Precious!!!! Enjoy! 👍

[@tramacmeg8103]

Like my mom says, I never knew I could love someone this much who causes this much trouble!!

[@outrasviagens_Traveltips]

The best country in the world!! Welcome to Portugal 🎉

[@flyndas]

Im so glad your getting back to travelling. A friend of mine, before they travelled contacted Boots, order all their baby products, nappies, feed and everything u need. Soon as you check in, all you have to do is go boots and pick it all up. Pre flight ordering.

[@KhouryNatalie]

Babies are so adaptable and can sleep anywhere. I’ve used wet wash cloths or kitchen towels twisted up and frozen for a teething little one. Take deep breaths with closed eyes and slowly breathe out when you feel the nerves coming on. Think peaceful thoughts while doing so, like being in a field of wild flowers or sitting on the beach listening to the ocean sounds. Does wonders for relaxing. Try some lavender oil on your forehead. This goes for dad too. Make sure you thoroughly check out health care before making decisions on a move. A lot of people forget to research healthcare because they are healthy.

[@pauloclemente238]

Welcome to Portugal and I really hope you find what you are looking for.

[@ptcountrybear7813]

Come live by us just south of Coimbra!!! Travel beans in PT! Yay!!!

[@traceygriffiths8919]

Lovely to see you 3 again ❤ didn’t want this blog to end x have a great holiday and can’t wait for the next one xx

[@jeffwilson9114]

Alex i feel your pain man..... i remember going thru kings cross 30 years ago with pram under one arm, a suitcase in each hand and a large rucksack with 2 full carrier bags tied to it!!! My wife was just infront of me with our son chris who is now a teacher!!!.... time flies

[@veronicabalfourpaul2288]

30 years on, I've lived in Portugal with my kids. Great decision!

[@caroledowney6908]

Noah seems to be a good travel baby! He is beautiful!

[@sft4081]

Smiling that you posted…you made my day❤️..keep traveling it gets better…

[@zipinha]

OMG! You're in my hometown and I had missed this video when it was uploaded!!!🎉 Great choice! I can tell you the history of all the places you've walked!

[@nanseaboykin9122]

Such a cute chunky monkey! Adorable

[@dadisphat6426]

Guys, no need for the clickbait thumbnail. Your baby is so sweet! We’ll watch your videos regardless. Just keep it real 😊

[@phoebus007]

Well done and an excellent idea to do a trial run. Our son lives in New Zealand, where flying is the normal mode of transport other than short journeys. His daughter is now 20 months old but first flew at 4 months. She is now a hardened air traveller, into double figures for round trips. Like you, her parents discovered how much clobber they need to take in the early months - much conveyed free - but you will be relieved to hear that life gets easier as time passes (except you have to pay for over-twos). Our granddaughter is now running and climbing at ease; her parents ensure she is "burned out" before boarding the aircraft which pretty much guarantees she sleeps throughout the flight.

[@alohatvn]

Thumbs up 👍 on an exciting video 📹 👍. Beans out..

[@off.grid.wannabe]

I traveled from Azores to US, with a 3 month old baby, remember to have something liquid for sucking and swallowing at wheels up take off, the pressurization of the cabin is very uncomfortable and they need to pop their ears to equalize the pressure. It's the adventure of the journey, just enjoy everything about it, and things will go smoothly. "What you focus on, you get more of." Have fun 🤗

[@jackrose7977]

Noah is such a cute baby! Cant wait for the property hunt videos.

[@GervaisingLifeOurWay]

Breastfeeding during takeoff and landing helps keep pressure in baby's ears equal. When flying with baby under 2 years of age on North American carriers you can fly with baby on lap and book the bassinets for free, this way baby can stretch out and sleep but when booking tickets, always go thru carrier directly rather than travel agency and ensure tickets are changeable and or refundable as well. Because Noah is teething, carry a few Terry cloth face cloths, get them wet and freeze them, then when he gets fussy, he can suck and chew on them to ease any itching and pain in his gums, they will conform to his mouth and it is a medication free teether for him. The Terry cloth provides a texture to ease itching on his gums but will not cut his gums when sucked on. Avoid colored towels due to dyes in them. Love watching you guys, you are such a fun couple, hoping to meet you someday, we are heading out on the road for a year very soon in our GeoPro toy hauler trailer.

[@lauraacurtis]

I am so happy that y’all went for it!!!! Welcome to the whole wide world, Noah!!!!

[@kenandcoreen7179]

So happy Noah's 1st plane trip went well. He is adorable ❤❤ Looking forward to everything to come Beans.

[@sherrismith4754]

Ahhh I loved portugal. Thanks for sharing and bringing back memories of Porto.

[@Car-f7h]

Great video , I'm travelling to Australia to visit my partners family from UK. Can't say travelling with three under the age of four is filling us with ease especially if flight is delayed. Picked up some great tips Congratulations on the birth of Noah , he is adorable.

[@mikeyesmith]

Looks like you're in the Newbys little house in your Nord VPN clip at the end of the video. Enjoy your stay there! Can't wait to see your episode featuring both families 😊

[@Zarkovision]

Portugal is also my dream destination to settle down. But first thing first: If you want to try really good Portuguese food, avoid locations with an English menu, or worse: photos of the food. The difference is not only half the price, it's also much better than those tourist-traps. Most British expats seem to settle in the Castelo Branco region, and become simple farmers. I don't see you living like that. ;) I would recommend a place not too far from one of the three airports. In the North it's raining more than in the UK, and houses became expensive. My favourite place is in the triangle between Figuero dos Vinhos, Castelo Branco and Tomar. Beautiful landscape, affordable houses and good connections to Lisbon and Oporto.

[@deborah_soulfireblue22]

Enjoy your time in Portugal & good luck. Sounds like a wonderful home-base. Love to see you light up like that Emma when talking about it ~ and that was a sweet surprise for her too Alex! The marketplace looked fabulous. Good for you for trying the Uni~it’s popular here in Santa Barbara, CA. Yay, Noah got his first travel stamp ~ such a sweet baby, he did quite well despite the teething. And, definitely a get a family car ~ LOL with the tight squeeze. You deserve some comfort & space! Peace Out Beans~ much love to you. ✨💛✨🕊️🙏

[@veeemit9719]

It was a blessing to be delayed so that the flight was during time he’d sleep

[@lindahenderson2987]

Miss ya Beans…read thru the comments and there is a lot of great advise. One thing not mentioned is allowing another passenger “granny/mom” to cuddle Noah if you can’t seem to calm him down. They won’t have nervous/stressed vibes and many would be thrilled to help out. I know it brings back great memories for me when I have done it. Also KZbin channel Keep Your Daydream has a cabin they rent out in the area of Sedona/Tucson if it gets too hot to stay in the van. Google KYD/cabin.

[@daisyb242]

So sorry to hear about your mom. But you two have each other and your zest for adventure will carry you many prayers and hugs ❤

[@DannyA3579]

You know what vehicle is great for a family? A VAN. Love the video.

[@chrystaltuckness5298]

Yay for Noah! I am researching our first trip to Porto - perfect timing!

[@travelertrome8449]

Good you are getting Noah started early with the flying. My son finally had his first flight 2 months ago. He is 6! And was very nervous!

[@msvideotime]

Glad you get to visit the newbys

[@meiraloraduncan8953]

You need to contact the Newbys who have a home in Portugal and a channel on KZbin. They bought an abandoned farm which they are fixing up. They have 2 little boys ages 2or 3 and the baby is around 8 months old. The wife is from Zimbabwe and the husband is from the UK and they have traveled all over the world in a van . Cruiso has been to 4 continents already. Their names are Tara and John.

[@karenexner6848]

So glad the flight was good. We also had great luck flying with our daughter when she was a baby.

[@leahuey5012]

Try giving a bottle for taje off and landing or if there is turbulence, you can just use water in the bottle. Cancel out earphones for him. Book a bassinet for the flight. Also if you can travel at night, babies sleep at night and by flying at night you are not going against their general pattern of sleeping. Relax, babies don't break they can really go with the flow. If your relaxed and not stress they will ge relaxed and not stressed. As Noah gets older, have little books, toys for him. Each trip change out the items you have for your trip, that makes going on a plane a new exciting event, a new place to travel and new things to play with.

[@maryanntownsend2889]

I found you at the Newbys. I’m diving into your videos and finding them refreshing. ❤

[@lisameier9980]

my best tip is to remember that the whole process will likely be less than 24hrs... just hold the perspective "it's just a day" no matter how good or bad it goes. We travelled babies

[@waynekeylock]

Love your channel guys and its great to show baby Noah the world but as a father of three i do feel its so important at some stage to have a permanent home for your children to mix with others at play groups and nurseys schools etc and build some hopefully life long friendships and to have a place on the map they feel and call home. take care guys.

[@justinlinnane8043]

Fantastic news on the portugal property hunting !! will be watching all of that for sure !!

[@j.holderbaum8066]

Saline nose drops help with the air pressure issues that some babies and kids have. Simple and safe with immediate relief.

[@rebeccarendle3706]

Brest feed while taking off and landing to stop pressure pain. Have toys, own blankets etc For the long haul to USA book the "baby cot seats" on the plane. I used this taking my oldest to Taiwan for work..a 27hr door to door trip. It was brilliant for him to sleep in during the long haul. Extra clothes fir you and baby and extra nappies... better to many than to few.

[@arielathome23]

You guys did so great! Just as an FYI, when you come to the states, you can stop by a fire station and they will (most of the time) help you install or check your install for the car seat. Most stations employee a CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY TECHNICIAN, who is set up to help you out. ❤

[@marinajebb2999]

Wow, you’ll breeze through it. Fiat 500 with 2ft 6.2 sons.. thankfully they don’t get it in much. LOVE your adventures..

[@sarahoadley3407]

Traveling with babies or children... please please remember those with children will understand and those without children will most likely never get it. Babies and children have bad days just like us but show it differently. You both are doing a great job! :-)

[@cheryl9167]

You are doing fabulous w/traveling w/your sweet baby boy ❤️! After traveling a lot when our kiddo was a baby…little goodie bags for those around you when the sh*# hit the fan really chilled out our “neighbors”. Oh, and learning not to care what others think is really helpful!!! 😘

[@kerryharder2416]

Wow good on you guys to travel with little Noah. Love love your videos.

[@MikeSmith-km9ff]

At least in the USA, all cars since 2003 have the LATCH system, never use a seatbelt to install a car seat unless the latch system is not available (car is too old).

[@snafufubar]

Learnt a lesson with our first on long distance travel. Pay for the extra seat and get a car seat to put on it. Holding a baby for 8 hours on a plane is not an experience to be repeated. I even ordered a child seat from Florida because the airline insisted it needed certain sticker on it that we couldn't get on the exact same baby seat in the UK. That's it, when you fly to America pay for the baby to have his own seat. It takes away tone of stress. And as an extra you already have a car seat when you get there.

[@kengroves49]

Great to see you out in joying your beautiful family

[@ScottishVanTrips]

Awesome news guys, what a cool life chapter! RE your sponsor deals, do you seek them out or vice versa? Interested as about to get monitised 🥳🤩