Essential Tips for Flying with a Toddler
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Our family does not shy away from traveling with our kids no matter what the age. Flying with a toddler can be an exciting yet challenging experience. Toddlers are curious, energetic, and sometimes unpredictable, which makes navigating airports and airplanes a unique adventure for families. With the right preparation and mindset, air travel can be smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. Here are expert tips to help you fly stress-free with your little one.
Plan Ahead
If there are multiple options of times for flights pick the one that works for you best. I find with a toddler the best time is in the afternoon when your toddler would be napping, or late morning. In the late morning they have been up long enough and walking through the airport that after a bit of a snack on the plane they may fall right to sleep for their afternoon nap.
Flying in the evening works well too but keep in mind when you land your little one is going to be very tired. They won’t be used to waking up late at night to be awake to go through airport security and getting into the car. If you do opt for the night time cruise make sure you have a stroller waiting at the gate that you can get them into quickly and hopefully they will drift right back to sleep.
If your child is over 2 and you have to buy a seat consider bringing their car seat. If your child is under 2 consider buying one anyways. If you bring the car seat the child may feel more comfortable and think they are just on a car ride.
Pack Smart
One of the ways that we happily embrace travel with our kids is always being prepared. If you prepare for all things that you think of then you will have what you will need. This helps to decrease any stress from the trip. Important things to pack are:
- Dry Snacks in a spill proof cup https://amzn.to/42G38r7. Spill proof is key. There is nothing worse in the middle of the flight that your entire cup of cheerios dumps onto the floor. Keep them in a ziplock bag in your bag.
- Spill proof Water Cup https://amzn.to/476LYEe. These work great for the same reasons as the snack cups. When it falls (which it will) you won’t end up with a big mess.
- Toys to keep your little one entertained. These ones work great and are mess free;
https://amzn.to/475wuAC, https://amzn.to/4q9nBOY - Books
- Your Child’s favorite blanket or stuffed animal.
- 1-2 extra pairs of clothes
- Lots of Diapers and Wipes
Ear Pressure
My kids have all had different reactions to the ear pressure changes during take off and landing. All of my kids took a pacifier so I made sure that we had multiple in the bag incase they fall onto the ground. We really encouraged them to suck on them at takeoff. If they were still on a bottle drinking a bottle is really helpful too.
If they aren’t interested in drinking then chewing a snack will help them a bit too. When they are in their own seat with or without the car seat either myself or husband are very close to them and holding their hands to help try and keep them call.
Stay Calm and Be Flexible
Most importantly try to remain calm. If you stay calm your child will feel more at ease. Flying is stressful for everyone- including your toddler. It is a new and scary environment that is loud with so many strangers around them and probably talking to them. If they are content then let them sit and let them be content. When we fly all our routines are out the window if they are sleeping longer just let them, and if they miss their nap and are happy then that is okay too!
You may need to take them for a bit of a walk but be cautious with this. Sometimes with toddlers once you get them out of the seat they won’t go back in willingly. So better to keep them in their seat if possible. It is okay to ask for help. Flight attendants know what they are doing and can help you out!
Final Thoughts
Flying with a toddler doesn’t have to be daunting. With careful planning, patience, and the right supplies, you can turn air travel into a positive experience for your family. Embrace the adventure and get ready to create new memories on your next trip!
For more family travel tips and tricks be sure to check out Blog – Together We Can Travel.
