As a mom who loves to travel, I often find myself faced with the challenge of flying with a toddler. While traveling with a little one can be stressful, I have learned that with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, I will share my tips and tricks for keeping your toddler happy during a plane ride, from preparing for the flight to navigating the airport and keeping your little one entertained on the plane.
Understanding the Challenges of Flying with a Toddler
Flying with a toddler can present a unique set of challenges. Toddlers are energetic, curious, and easily bored, making it difficult for them to sit still for extended periods of time. Additionally, the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and sensations of air travel can be overwhelming for young children, leading to feelings of fear and anxiety. As a mom, it is important to be aware of these challenges and to take steps to prepare your toddler for the flight.
One of the biggest challenges of flying with a toddler is keeping them entertained during the flight. While some toddlers may be content to sleep or play with a few toys, others may require more stimulation to stay happy and engaged. Additionally, the limited space and lack of mobility on a plane can make it difficult for toddlers to burn off excess energy, leading to restlessness and frustration.
Another challenge of flying with a toddler is navigating the airport. From security checkpoints to boarding procedures, the airport can be a confusing and overwhelming place for young children. It is important to plan ahead and prepare your toddler for each step of the journey, from packing to take off.
Tips for Preparing for the Flight
The key to a successful plane ride with a toddler is preparation. By taking the time to plan ahead and pack accordingly, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Here are some tips for preparing for the flight:
Pack a carry-on bag for your toddler
When flying with a toddler, it is essential to pack a carry-on bag with all the essentials your little one will need during the flight. This may include snacks, drinks, toys, books, and a change of clothes. Be sure to pack enough items to keep your toddler entertained and comfortable throughout the flight.
PARENT HACK: You can pack a separate diaper bag plus your carry on. So my diaper bag had everything my baby needed in that one bag and I was still able to carry on my own bag with my stuff in it. However, just keep in mind if your flight is full and the overhead storage bins get full, you may be asked to check a bag.
Choose the right seat
When booking your flight, try to choose a seat that will work best for you and your toddler. If possible, opt for a window seat, as this will provide your child with a view of the outside world and help distract them during the flight. Additionally, consider choosing a seat near the front of the plane, as this will allow for easier access to the lavatory and overhead bins.
The best seats are the bulkhead seat (up in front), window seat, and near the toilets. Usually, you need to call the airline to request the bulkhead seat but what's nice about these seats up front is that you have space. Especially if you have a baby and need to move around a bit. With some airlines, you can request a bassinet that attaches to the front wall of the cabin. Window seats help kids keep distracted where they can look out the window and see the view. It is recommended if you have older children, to sit near the toilets or in the back. It has been noted that some older children tend to want to use the bathroom more and saves any "mad dashes" to the bathroom.
Book a direct flight
If possible, book a direct flight to your destination. This will minimize the amount of time your toddler spends on the plane and reduce the risk of delays and layovers. If a direct flight is not an option, try to book a flight with a longer layover, as this will give your toddler a chance to burn off some energy in between flights.
When I traveled with my daughter, there were no direct flights to our destination. And of course, I wasn't sure how she would react on the plane since it was her first time. We went from California to New Jersey to South Carolina. I highly recommend a red eye flight if you travel coast to coast. My daughter was able to sleep most of the way there and I was able to get a couple hours in too.
Packing Essentials for the Flight
When packing for a plane ride with a toddler, it is important to bring all the essentials your little one will need to stay happy and comfortable. Here are some items to consider packing:
Snacks and drinks
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks for your toddler to enjoy during the flight. The one thing I made sure of is that I had plenty of snacks. Choose healthy options like fresh fruit, cheese, crackers, and water to keep your little one fueled and hydrated throughout the journey. However, sometimes easier is better. So it's ok to bring a bag of goldfish crackers, or cookies. Sometimes whatever works is best. If you do bring pre-packed snacks, try to keep them in their regular wrappers as much as possible. TSA is less inclined to throw it out if the bag of goldfish is still in its original bag. With babies that are still on breastmilk and or formula, make sure to have a couple of translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches for formula and breastmilk, this will help expedite the screening process.
Toys and books
Bring a selection of toys and books to keep your toddler entertained during the flight. Consider packing small, lightweight items that are easy to pack and won't take up too much space in your carry-on bag. I suggest bring a couple of favorite toys along for the ride. Also, if you have a brand new toy you haven't introduced, not a bad time to do so! The excitement of a new toy helps keep them busy.
Change of clothes
Accidents happen, so be sure to pack a change of clothes for your toddler in case of spills or accidents during the flight. Additionally, consider packing a light sweater or jacket, as planes can often be chilly.
Tips for Navigating the Airport with a Toddler
Navigating the airport can be a daunting task for any parent, but with a little preparation, it can be a breeze. Here are some tips for navigating the airport with a toddler:
Use a stroller or baby carrier
If your toddler is still small enough, consider using a stroller or baby carrier to navigate the airport. This will allow you to keep your hands free and make it easier to get around the airport. I had to bring a car seat with me along with a stroller and I kept the car seat with me in the plane and was able to check my stroller at the gate. Just make sure all your items have your info on it so they know it's yours.
Check in online
Save time and avoid the lines by checking in online before you arrive at the airport. This will allow you to print your boarding passes and avoid the hassle of waiting in line.
Pack light
When traveling with a toddler, it can be tempting to bring everything but the kitchen sink. However, packing light is key to a stress-free journey. Consider packing only the essentials and leaving non-essential items at home.
Strategies for Keeping Your Toddler Happy on the Plane
Keeping your toddler happy and entertained during a long flight can be a challenge, but with a little creativity, it can also be fun. Here are some strategies for keeping your toddler happy on the plane:
Bring a variety of toys and activities
Bring a variety of toys and activities to keep your toddler entertained during the flight. Consider packing small, lightweight items like coloring books, stickers, and small toys that are easy to pack and won't take up too much space in your carry-on bag.
Use technology to your advantage
Technology can be a lifesaver when it comes to entertaining toddlers on a plane. Consider downloading movies, games, and educational apps to your smartphone or tablet to keep your little one entertained during the flight.
Take breaks and stretch your legs
Encourage your toddler to take breaks and stretch their legs during the flight. Take a walk up and down the aisle or do some simple stretches to burn off excess energy and reduce restlessness.
The Role of Technology in Entertaining Your Toddler
In today's digital age, technology plays an increasingly important role in keeping toddlers entertained during a plane ride. From smartphones to tablets, there are countless ways to use technology to your advantage. Here are some tips for using technology to entertain your toddler on the plane:
Download movies and TV shows
Download movies and TV shows to your smartphone or tablet to keep your toddler entertained during the flight. Consider choosing age-appropriate content that your little one will enjoy.
Play educational games
There are countless educational games and apps available for smartphones and tablets that can help teach your toddler new skills and keep them entertained during the flight.
Bring headphones
Be sure to pack a pair of child-sized headphones to use with your smartphone or tablet. This will allow your toddler to watch movies and play games without disturbing other passengers.
Snacks and Meals for Your Toddler on the Plane
When flying with a toddler, it is important to pack plenty of healthy snacks and meals to keep your little one fueled and hydrated throughout the flight. Depending on how long your flight is, fresh fruit is always best. Here are some ideas for snacks and meals to pack:
Fresh fruit
Pack a selection of fresh fruit like sliced apples, grapes, and strawberries to keep your toddler hydrated and energized during the flight. If you can't pack fresh fruit, freeze-dried fruit was a great option for us!
Cheese and crackers
Bring a small container of cheese and crackers to snack on during the flight. This is a healthy and filling option that is easy to pack and eat.
It is definitely important to have healthy snacks while you're traveling for your child, but also remember if it's going to stress you out it's ok to pack the cookies too. Every child is different and you know your child and what they like to eat.
How to Handle Tantrums and Meltdowns During the Flight
Despite your best efforts, there may be times when your toddler has a tantrum or meltdown during the flight. It is important to stay calm and handle the situation with patience and understanding. Here are some tips for handling tantrums and meltdowns during the flight:
Stay calm
It can be tempting to get angry or frustrated when your toddler has a tantrum, but it is important to stay calm and patient. Take a deep breath and try to remain calm and composed.
Offer comfort
Offer comfort to your toddler by cuddling, talking, or singing. Sometimes all it takes is a little extra attention to calm a toddler down.
Take a break
If your toddler is having a meltdown, take a break and step outside the plane for a few minutes. Sometimes a change of scenery can help calm a toddler down and reduce the intensity of the tantrum.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Flying with a toddler can be a challenging experience, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a fun and rewarding adventure. By packing the essentials, using technology to your advantage, and staying calm in the face of tantrums and meltdowns, you can help ensure a successful and stress-free plane ride with your little one. Remember to stay patient, be flexible, and most importantly, have fun!
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