hi vickie,you can take the buggie all the way to the plane,if is a light one they might let you take it on board,for the flight take a few new toys that shes never seen to keep her interested and also a few things for her to nibble like bread sticks,biscuits etc that shes never had before,youll probably find that shes very active during the flight and falls asleep on landing thats what mine did anyway,above all dont worry about other people giving you dirty looks if shes noisy youll only end up getting really stressed out and her behaving worse,good luck and have a nice holiday!

Which airline are you flying with..and where to?

You will be able to get buggy to the departure gate on most airlines...bit random where they return it to you. Some return it as you get of the plane others with the baggage, so keep the sling with you in case you don't get the buggy back.

Also at 8 mths old, she will be no problem, its only a couple of hours flight. Get her to suck on landing if you can, bring some food, nibbles and nappies with you. Bring a changing mat as most planes don't have anywhere to change nappies except the floor and don't worry about it, both mine are regular fliers since they have been babies. If you are stressed they get stressed...and Italy is so lovely to take babies to, she will be so fussed over by complete strangers.

IOE You should be able to take the buggy to the gate, if not the plane door, depends on whether you are bussed to plane. Buggy came off carousel both ways so hope you do not have a long walk either end (Gatwick is terrible for that). Easyjet let those with under5's board first. If you are lucky the plane won't be full (ask at check in)in which case you could take a 3 seat row and hope no one needs the extra one later - you'll have to hold baby for take off / landing but might give you extra room to manouevre during the flight. Keep hand luggage as minimal sized as poss as overhead lockers are really tight.

BTW don't do as we have done and forget to pack things like baby nail scissors in suitcase for hold - they are likely to confiscate!! Take lots of nibbles and a drink for baby to have during flight.

Have a great trip,

with DD I noticed if we seat next to other children we get free entertainment and a peaceful flight!!
(at leats with ryanair wheh you board first with other children and you can choose your own seats).
Also spread out your stuff on all three seats, no one will ask you to sit there unless the plane's absolutely full!!! (I do this all the time!)