Traveling with infants can be incredibly stressful, from calming a crying baby mid-flight to finding ways to keep them entertained in a limited space for hours. As any parent knows, keeping the peace on an airplane is vital for a smooth journey.
That’s why I was thrilled to discover the Nuna Rava infant car seat is approved for airplane use – it provided my daughter with a cozy, familiar place to sit where she felt safe and relaxed.
From the moment I buckled her into the Rava on our last trip, any anxiety I had about a potential meltdown dissipated. In this post, I’ll break down the simple steps of how to install Nuna Rava on airplane so you can enjoy travel with a happy baby, too.
What Will You Need?
Before installing the Nuna Rava on an airplane, ensuring you have all the necessary equipment is essential. You’ll need:
- The Nuna Rava car seat
- An FAA approved aircraft seatbelt extender
- A locking clip (optional)
Once you have these items, you’re ready to get started.
10 Easy Steps on How to Install Nuna Rava on Airplane
Step 1. Position the Nuna Rava Car Seat:
Start by taking the Nuna Rava car seat and positioning it in the airplane seat where your infant will sit. Ensure the car seat is facing the correct direction – this is typically rear-facing for infants and younger toddlers. Be careful not to block any emergency exits or obstruct the view of other passengers.
Step 2. Attach the Seatbelt Extender:
The airplane’s seatbelt may need to be longer to secure the Nuna Rava car seat correctly. If this is the case, attach the FAA approved aircraft seatbelt extender to the existing seatbelt. Ensure the extender is safely connected and that the buckle is easily accessible. Avoid sticking the extender to any non-structural parts of the seat, such as armrests.
Step 3. Secure the Nuna Rava Car Seat:
Next, secure the Nuna Rava car seat onto the airplane seat by threading the lap belt through designated openings in the car seat base. Buckle and tighten it as you would with any car seat installation. The lap belt should fit tightly across the base of the car seat.
Step 4. Check the Installation:
After securing the Nuna Rava car seat with the seatbelt, give it a good wiggle. The seat should not move over an inch side-to-side or front-to-back at the belt path. If it does, try tightening the belt again. Your goal is to ensure the car seat is as steady as possible to ensure your baby’s safety during the flight.
Step 5. Use a Locking Clip (Optional):
If the airplane’s seatbelt does not lock, consider using a locking clip to ensure the Nuna Rava car seat stays secure throughout the flight. The locking clip goes over the overlapping part of the seatbelt and holds it in place, preventing the belt from loosening or slipping. Always double-check the seatbelt tightness after applying the locking clip.
Step 6. Adjust the Car Seat Angle:
The Nuna Rava car seat has an adjustable recline that allows you to set the perfect angle for your baby’s comfort. Once the seat is securely installed, adjust the angle as needed. Ensure your infant is in a semi-reclined position, which is best for breathing and comfort during the flight.
The angle adjustment handle is located at the front of the car seat, making it easily accessible even in a cramped airplane setting.
Step 7. Secure Your Baby:
Once the Nuna Rava car seat is installed correctly, it’s time to secure your baby in the seat. Place your baby in the car seat, ensuring they sit back. Fasten the harness, providing it fits snugly, and the chest clip is at armpit level.
Double-check that the harness is tight enough; you should not be able to pinch any slack at the shoulder. Your baby’s safety is paramount, so take the time to ensure everything is secure and comfortable.
Step 8. Check for Comfort:
Now that your baby is secure in the Nuna Rava car seat check for comfort. Ensure the harness isn’t too tight or causing any discomfort, and adjust the headrest to an appropriate level for their age and size.
This will ensure your baby can rest comfortably during the flight, alleviating some of the stress of traveling with an infant. Remember, a comfortable baby is a happy and quiet baby.
Step 9. Prepare for Takeoff:
Keep your baby buckled in the Nuna Rava car seat as the airplane prepares for takeoff. The flight staff will inform passengers when it’s safe to move about the cabin or when seat belts should be fastened. During these times, it’s essential to keep your baby securely fastened in their car seat. Providing them with toys or books can keep them entertained and calm during takeoff and landing.
Step 10. Enjoy the Flight:
Once the plane is in the air and the seatbelt sign is turned off, you and your baby can sit back, relax, and enjoy the flight. The Nuna Rava car seat’s familiar design and comfort will help keep your baby calm and relaxed throughout the journey. Remember to check on your baby regularly, ensuring their comfort and safety.
If your baby becomes unsettled, give them their favorite toy or blanket. Ultimately, the goal is to have a stress-free and safe flight for you and your baby. Congratulations, you’ve successfully installed the Nuna Rava car seat on an airplane!
Following these ten steps, you can confidently install the Nuna Rava car seat on an airplane and easily travel with your baby.
Whether it’s a short trip or a long flight, knowing how to install the car seat properly will give you peace of mind and make traveling with an infant less daunting.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Check Airline Policies: Before your flight, verify the airline’s policies regarding car seat installation. Some airlines may have specific requirements or restrictions that could affect how you install your Nuna Rava.
- Arrive Early: Arriving early at the airport gives you ample time for installation without the rush and last-minute stress. The extra time also allows you to seek assistance from the crew if needed.
- Proper Manual: Ensure you bring along Nuna Rava’s user guide. It provides detailed instructions on how to install the car seat and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
- Practice Beforehand: If you have never installed a car seat, consider practicing at home before your flight. This will give you confidence and make the installation process smoother during the flight.
- Use The Seat Belt Installation Method: Some airlines do not allow using LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) systems, so make sure you know how to install your Nuna Rava utilizing the seat belt method. This will ensure that you can properly install the car seat regardless of any restrictions on LATCH usage.
Remember always to prioritize safety when installing your Nuna Rava on an airplane. If you need clarification on any steps or need help with the installation, seek assistance from a flight attendant or airline personnel.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Forgetting the Manual: Never leave it behind, thinking you won’t need it. The manual contains vital information and guidelines on installing Nuna Rava correctly on an airplane.
- Last-Minute Installation: Avoid starting the installation process at the last minute. This can cause unnecessary stress and may result in a faulty installation.
- Ignoring Airline Policies: Pay attention to the airline’s policies on car seat installation. Non-compliance with these policies could lead to complications or refusal of installation.
- Installing on an Inappropriate Seat: Avoid installing the Nuna Rava on an exit row seat or in a position that blocks the escape path in case of an emergency.
- Ignoring Your Child’s Comfort: Remember to check on your child’s comfort once the car seat is installed. Make sure the harness is not too tight or causing discomfort.
By avoiding these mistakes and following the additional tips, you can ensure a safe and hassle-free flight with your Nuna Rava installed on the airplane.
Is It Safe to Install Car Seat Without Base?
Yes, installing the Nuna Rava car seat without the base is safe. The car seat can be installed using the seat belt method, which secures the car seat directly to the airplane seat. However, it is important to note that using the base provides your child an additional layer of stability and safety.
Using the base whenever possible is recommended, but if there are any restrictions or limitations on using the base, the seat belt installation method is a safe alternative. Follow the instructions in the user guide for proper installation without the base.
Conclusion
Installing the Nuna Rava is an easy, straightforward process that will make your flying experience much smoother. By following the simple steps described above, you will be able to rest easy knowing that your child will be comfortable and secure in their new car seat for every flight.
Not only does this ensure safety and peace of mind, but it also serves as an opportunity to connect with your child on a deeper level by enabling them to explore the wonders of the sky.
The article on how to install nuna rava on airplane has provided you with useful information and tips that will make your next flight with your child a breeze.
So what are you waiting for? Give your little one the gift of adventure – get out there and start installing the Nuna Rava today!
