Travelling with a baby tagging along is always a challenge. More so when it’s the first trip for you and your baby.

With a little careful planning, even air travel can be organised into a manageable logistical mess. The word is manageable at the very best because frankly, you’d never know what to expect.

Before embarking on your overseas trip, have your baby checked for vaccinations that might be needed in the country you’re visiting, particularly third world and developing countries. A visit to the doctor a few weeks beforehand is advised as some vaccinations require separate doses over several weeks.

Never leave packing your luggage, both hand-carry and suitcases, should be packed at least 2 weeks before your trip. You have another huge checklist now, your baby’s stuff – bottles, towels, feeding utensils, infant formula (may I suggest in carefully pre-measured scoops). And last but not least, your baby’s medical kit which should consists of the following items:

• Thermometer
• Acetaminophen to relieve your baby of pain and reduce fever
• Saline drops to thin and loosen mucus in your baby’s stuffy nose
• Anti-inflammatory cream for bug bites
• Antibiotic ointment to any cuts and bruises

A baby sling will come in very handy throughout your entire trip. Put your baby in the sling so that both your hands are free. Trust me, you’ll feel like needing another pair of hands all the time when travelling.

Some airlines are what you would call baby-friendly. They provide diapers, cleansing wipes, creams and various baby supplies on the plane. Furthermore, flight attendants are trained to help service whatever you might need to care for your baby during the flight from setting up baby cots (yes, some airlines do provide cots for infants) and booster seats for kids to heating up your baby bottle upon request.

As for departure schedule, try not to pick the busiest times at the airport. Give yourself plenty of time to leave for the airport, check in early and prep your baby up before boarding the flight. A change of diapers for your baby just before boarding is highly recommended. Choose the most ultra-absorbent ones you can find. Diaper pants can be more convenient than normal diapers during the flight as changing diapers in restricted spaces is always a hassle.

Try to request for front-row seats for more legroom. It’s a lot easier to have room to maneuver when tending to your baby’s needs.

During take-off and landing, try feeding or nursing your baby to help clear your baby’s plugged ears due to changing cabin air pressure.

Most importantly, bring along your sanity and remain calm throughout your trip. Things do go wrong no matter and you find yourself in trying situations. Do not panic and always ask for help.