Tips For Flying With Toddlers: Let’s Remove the Worry

Traveling with toddlers can be intimidating, especially when it involves airports and long flights BUT with a bit of planning and creativity, you can make takeoff to touch down a little easier on all of you. Hopefully even fun too! Here are some ideas and items that have helped us when traveling with a toddler(s). Although, please remember, you know your child best – their schedule, what they love and what they need. 

Prior to flight:

1. Plan Ahead
   1. Choose Flights Wisely- Midwest mamas here and we know flying out of smaller airports can be a task in itself so opt for flights that coincide with your toddler’s nap or bedtime. Non-stop flights are preferable, but since those aren’t always possible, plan that second leg with nap time!
   2. Pack Smart- Bring a well-organized carry-on bag with essentials. Diapers, wipes, snacks, extra clothes for your child and you (that drink will end up on your lap), and favorite toys. This is one of our favorite bags. 
   3. Bring Your Stroller and Car Seat- Gate checking a stroller and car seat is free! Always do this. If you have a travel system (stroller that the car sear clicks into) definitely bring it. It’s useful for transporting all kinds of gear and can help free up your hands to hold them when needed. 

At the Airport:

1. Arrive Early
   1. No one likes extra time at the airport, but arriving early when traveling with children can relieve stress of missed flights. Give yourself plenty of time to check in, go through security, and handle any unexpected situations which we all know with littles is to be expected!
   2. If possible Dad takes the kids and Mom does the luggage. Dads get more sympathy when flying with kids. It’s sad but true. 
2. Keep them Engaged
   1. Explore the Airport. Let your toddler walk around and explore. The more energy they use up now, the more likely they will be content to sit on the airplane.
   2. Interactive Games. Simple games like “I Spy” can keep your child entertained while waiting at the gate.
   3. Pack Balloons. Find an empty area by the gate, blow up a balloon and let them run around and play. Sometimes other children will join in. The kids will blow off some steam and you can leave the balloon behind when you board. 

During the Flight

1. Comfort and Safety
   1. Seat Selection. If possible, book a window seat for your toddler. The view can be fascinating for them. 
2. Entertainment Ideas
   1. Screen Time. Load up a tablet with the favorite shows, movies, and apps. Don’t forget the headphones!
   2. Toys and Books. Bring a variety of small toys and books. Check out your local dollar store and stock up on new toys, to pique their interest.
   3. Snacks. Pack a variety of snacks. They will get hungry and having their favorites on board always helps. (Check your final destination to make sure you do not pack food that is not allowed)
   4. Creative Activities. Sticker books, coloring books, and magnetic drawing boards are great options for quiet play.

Managing In-Flight Challenges

1. Dealing with Ear Pain
   1. Swallowing Helps. Encourage your child to drink during takeoff and landing with ear pressure. A pacifier, lollipop or chewing gum can also be effective. 
2. Handling Meltdowns
   1. Stay Calm. Try not to stress (easier said than done) but understand that most fellow passengers are often sympathetic to traveling parents. 
   2. Distraction Techniques. Singing their favorite song, telling stories, or introducing a new toy can help divert their attention.
3. Rest
   1. Car Seat. Our kids have slept best snuggled up or in their car seat which helps for looking out the window as well. 
   2. Travel beds extend the seat into the foot space and help create a lay down space for nap or overnight sleep. We’ve seen them work well on log haul flights (think Hawaii and Europe) and recommend the Jetkids by Stokke or much more affordable inflatable foot rest. 

Traveling with a toddler may require extra effort, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. By keeping them entertained and comfortable, you’ll pave the way for many more enjoyable adventures together! Safe travels!

Fun Facts we learned with traveling with Kids:

• An agency favorite- Frequent Flyer Programs! Children can often be enrolled in frequent flyer programs, allowing them to earn miles or points from an early age, which can be redeemed for future travel benefits.
• You can bring liquids through TSA if you’re traveling with children. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) are considered medically necessary liquids. They can be in quantities greater than 3.4oz and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. Make sure you inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process. qaz
• Infants and small children may be carried through the metal detector, even in a sling/carrier.
• Children 12 and under can leave their shoes, light jackets and headwear on during screening
• Many airlines and airports offer special services for families traveling with young children, including priority boardings, and family-friendly lounges. 
• Many airlines offer additional baggage allowance for families, including the ability to check strollers and car seats for free! 
• Many airports have family restrooms with changing tables and extra space!

*Always check the TSA website for the most updated information*

Do you have a trick that makes traveling with kids a little less stressful and a bit more enjoyable? Tell us in the comments below as we would love to add it to our list!