How to Fly Stress-Free with Your Toddler
How to Fly Stress-Free with Your Toddler
A Parent's Guide to Packing for a Toddler's Plane Trip plus a few Pro Tips!
Traveling with a toddler can be a challenge and nerve-racking, but with the right preparation, it can also be a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family. One of the most important things to consider when preparing for a plane trip with a toddler is what to pack. In this article, we'll go over some essential items that parents should bring on a plane for their toddler to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Snacks
Pack a variety of healthy snacks that your toddler likes, such as crackers, fruits, and veggies. Airplane food can be expensive and not always suitable for young children, so it's best to bring your own snacks to keep your toddler satisfied. Pack some of their favorite snacks that they can eat with their fingers or can be self-fed like goldfish, cheerios or even raisins. Also, bring some juice boxes or water bottles to keep your toddler hydrated throughout the flight.
Pro-tip: To cut down on messes, put small snacks such as goldfish, in a collapsible cup with a catcher lid like this one from Amazon: Collapsible Snack Cup.
Entertainment
Bring age-appropriate toys and books to keep your toddler occupied during the flight. Coloring books, stickers, and travel games are great options. Some electronic devices, like a tablet or phone, can also be used to keep your toddler entertained, but be sure to download some age-appropriate games, videos, and books in advance and don't forget their headphones!
Pro-tip: A new toy or book makes a fun surprise for the trip and will keep them entertained better than something they’re used to. We bought our kids the Where’s Waldo Travel Edition a few years back and it’s still a huge hit!
Comfort items
Bring their favorite blanket or stuffed animal to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort for your toddler. These items can also be used to create a cozy and comfortable sleeping area on the plane. Also, consider packing a neck pillow if your child is old enough to use one. It will help them to sleep better, particularly on long flights.
Pro-tip: Don’t wash their favorite blanket or stuffy ahead of time. The familiar smells of home will help them feel more comfortable and safe.
Diapers and wipes
Bring enough diapers and wipes to last the entire flight (and a little extra in case of delays or other unexpected changes to the itinerary). Also, pack a small amount of diaper cream and any other items that your toddler might need for diapering, such as a changing mat and Aquaphor.
Pro-tip: Bring a whole change of clothes as well for that up-the-back diaper explosion that seems to happen at the most inopportune times!
Pro-tip 2: Don’t change their diaper in your seat. You’ll make enemies with the flight attendants and those seated around you real quick if you do. The plane bathroom has a fold down table above the toilet that works just fine!
Medications
If your toddler is on any medication, be sure to pack it in your carry-on bag, along with a copy of the prescription. Don't forget to pack any over-the-counter medications your toddler may need, such as pain relievers or allergy medicine. Keep these in sealable plastic bags for the flight as the pressure can cause them to leak!
Pro-tip: If your toddler has any kind of congestion, give them a painkiller before getting on the plane. This will help with any pain and discomfort caused by ear pressure during your descent.
Clothing
Dress your toddler in comfortable, easy-to-change clothes for the flight. Avoid clothing with lots of buttons or snaps, as these can be difficult to fasten and unfasten, especially during a diaper change. Bring a bib for food spills and don’t forget that extra change of clothes!
Other items
Pack a small, lightweight backpack for your toddler to keep all of their essentials, such as snacks, toys, and books. This will also help your toddler feel more involved and independent during the flight. Other useful items to bring include a pacifier or bottle, a sippy cup, and a change of clothes. Also, a wet bag or small plastic bags, to carry used clothes or dirty diapers.
Pro tip: If your toddler has a pacifier, make sure they use it upon take off and landing to prevent ear pressure pain. If they don’t, anything they can suck on will help: sucker, bottle, or have them drink something.
In conclusion, traveling with a toddler can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it can be a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family. By packing the right items, such as snacks, entertainment, comfort items, diapers, wipes, medication, clothing and other essentials, you'll be well-prepared to handle any situation that might arise during the flight. Remember to be flexible and stay calm, and your toddler will follow your lead.
And also remember, even when it’s hard, traveling is worth it. 🌎✈️❤️