Having at least an hour or so between flights also gives kids a break from the plane and a chance to stretch their legs, get something to eat, have their diapers changed in a bathroom that isn’t the size of a coffin, etc.The ideal outcome when you’re flying with a baby is that they’ll sleep for most of the flight.
But the big downside of choosing this option is that you can’t have your carry-on bag by your feet during take-off and landing, and you’re going to be stressing if the kids are wailing and you need something but can’t get it. It’s sometimes less populated, so you have less chance of bothering others.
Plus it’s near the lavatory in case you and your kids need to use it.
Because the risks of serious adverse reactions often outweigh the benefits, over-the-counter medicines must be used with caution in babies and young children.
I recently flew halfway across the world with an infant (a 20-hour travel day), and even though I'm a a pediatrician I briefly considered the idea that sedation might be a good thing.
The engines create a din of white noise that will help knock your kids out.
It may seem loud, but the womb was incredibly loud too – they’ll think they’re back in their happy place.
Some like the bulkhead because of the extra legroom, and the fact that they can be some of the first to get off the plane once it lands.
Some planes, especially for international flights, also have bassinets your baby can sleep in that attach to the bulkhead.
Ultimately I decided that any potential conveniences were not worth the possible health risks, however rare they may be.
I try to counsel families about ways to make travel with babies a little easier without using medicine.
Many parents dread taking a baby on a plane or other public transportation for extended periods.