How can travelers change an infant at the airport or while traveling?

When you are traveling with an infant, you will need to be prepared for almost anything. Infants do not put their plans on hold simply because you are traveling. You will still need to feed your baby, give him naps and above all, change his diaper. Changing a diaper can be difficult when you are away from home and the convenience of your changing table. Sometimes it can be hard to find a suitable place for changing a baby but most airlines, train stations, and other travel hubs try to make this situation more convenient for parents. Beth McGregor, co-founder of www.TravelingWithKids.com tells us, "While in an airport, parents can use infant changing stations provided in many bathrooms. In some airports, large family bathrooms are also available." Family bathrooms are convenient when a father wants to change a baby or take a younger female child to use the restroom. If you cannot find a restroom with a changing table, try to find an out of the way area to change your baby on a changing pad on the floor. Be respectful of other travelers whenever you change your baby in public.

Keeping your baby safe from dirt and germs while changing her diaper in a public bathroom can also be a challenge. Beth says, "Some infant changing stations offer a disposable changing pad, but many don't. Neat Solutions offers a disposable changing pad that offers parents an alternative to bringing their own. Disposable Wrap Around Placemats by Classy Kid can double as a changing pad which we think is a great way to get many uses out of one product." Always use caution when utilizing a public changing table as they are usually high off the ground and many times the restraining straps may be broken or missing.

If you do not want to rely on being able to find a restroom with a changing table when you are traveling you can bring your own. Beth says, "Another solution for parents are portable changing stations that offer easier and cleaner changes when traveling, especially by car. The Fold & Go Diapering Station is one great choice for parents since it cradles your baby so they won't roll into or off of the front or back seats."

It is a good idea to change your infant's diaper before you get on an airplane, as it can be quite difficult to do a diaper change while in flight. Make sure you are prepared with anything you need for a quick change in your carry-on luggage including some small plastic bags to put soiled diapers in. Boarding the plane first will afford you the opportunity to make a last minute diaper change if necessary. Changing a baby on an airplane seat can be offensive to other passengers and should be avoided. Some airplanes have changing trays in their restrooms. If you speak to the cabin crew ahead of time, they may tidy up the restroom for you. If you cannot find a suitable place to change your baby on the airplane, ask the flight attendant for help.