Having to change a diaper on a plane is not an ideal situation. However, often times it is unavoidable. It’s not easy, and there won’t be much space, but we’ll go over the ways to make it work out for the best in these 6 steps.

Step 1: Research your plane.how to change a diaper on a plane

When booking your flight, do a quick google search to see if the plane has a changing table. Most larger international planes will have them, but only some smaller domestic flights will have one available.

Step 2: Pack a smaller on-the-go diaper kit in your larger diaper bag.

You won’t have much room to work with on the plane. Having a smaller bag packed inside your diaper bag with just the immediate diaper essentials will make it a whole lot easier. Your smaller bag can hold a single diaper, cream, small pack of wipes, ziploc bag and a disposable changing pad.

Step 3: Do a last diaper change before you board the plane.

Airport bathrooms typically have large changing room areas for parents. This is a great last stop before getting on your flight. You can also do a clothing swap to make sure any future diaper changes can be as seamless as possible.

Step 4: Ask a flight attendant for recommendations.

Once you board, the best thing to do is to ask the staff onboard where they would suggest for diaper changes. They know the airplane’s layout the best and have likely run into many diapers needing to be changed on their flights. Sometimes only one of the bathrooms will have a changing table, or there may be a bassinet area you can utilize. So it is always best to just ask.

Step 5: Always keep one hand on your child.

Sometimes we get wrapped up in the chaos of a messy diaper in a cramped bathroom and forget where we are. Planes can experience turbulence unexpectedly, so keeping that front of mind is important.

Step 6: Ziploc the diaper and throw away in the lavatory.

You will want to go the extra step of putting the soiled diaper in a Ziploc or airtight bag immediately. This will make you a hero to fellow passengers on the flight by cutting the smell. Then, if it is a disposable diaper, you will want to throw it away in the airplane bathroom. Do not try and keep it to hand off to a flight attendant collecting trash.

With all that being said, bravo to you for traveling with your child. Though it can be exhausting and messy, you are providing them with wonderful new experiences. And hopefully with these airplane diaper changing tips and tricks you will be inclined to travel even more.