Traveling with a toddler can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. Your child may want to see and touch everything but may also be feeling uneasy and anxious about the new experience.
With the restrictions on carry-on baggage, parents may not know exactly what to bring to make the flight occur with as few tantrums as possible. Here are 10 tips to help you and your toddler stay sane on a plane from liftoff to landing.
Aim for an Early Morning Flight
When booking your flight, it may not be possible to align it with your toddler's nap schedule. However, aim to book your flight with an early morning departure time. This is usually the least busy with smaller crowds.
Also, kids are generally still quite tired in the morning from waking up earlier than usual and will have an easier time falling asleep and taking a long nap during the flight. Try not to book flights with late-night connections or layovers that are more than a couple of hours long as this would extend the travel time and add to the overwhelming stress of trying to keep a toddler entertained.
Think Layers & Zippers
This isn't the time to dress your child in a Sunday best outfit. Instead, aim for clothing that is easy to put on and to take off. From diaper explosions and spills to throw-up, accidents can and will happen. You really don't want to spend even an extra minute or two trying to untie shoelaces or fiddle with finicky buttons.
Pack Only the Essentials But Don't Forget Snacks
You may feel the urge to pack your entire bag with all your child's favorite toys and stuffies, but here's a short list of the essentials:
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Diapers and wipes
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Disinfecting wipes and travel-size hand sanitizer
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Plastic bags
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Water bottles and/or sippy cups
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Child-size headphones
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Tablet with pre-loaded programs in case there is no Wi-Fi
Most importantly, remember to pack snacks that your child enjoys. Flights have a limited number of food options. Aim for snacks that are low in sugar and high in protein to keep your child feeling full and satisfied.
Entertain With 'New' & Fun Distractions
You don't need to buy new toys or gadgets for your child. Simply find a toy that hasn't been played with in a while and wrap it up as if it is a gift. Toddlers love unwrapping presents and surprises; the novelty of a "new" toy can keep them entertained for a little while.
Other things to bring to help entertain your child include mess-free coloring books, fidget toys, and board books. Some of our favorites include these:
OOLY Play Again! Mini On-the-Go Activity Kit
Crayola Nickelodeon Color Wonder Bundle Mess Free Coloring Pads & Markers
Pop Ball It Fidget Toy 3D Squeeze pop Ball
The Little Blue Box of Bright and Early Board Books by Dr. Seuss
Use a Lightweight, Smaller Stroller
Airports are huge places and it can take a lot more than a few steps to get from point A to B. Therefore, a stroller is a necessity when traveling with a toddler. Opt for an umbrella or travel stroller that is lighter than a traditional stroller. It can fold up quickly and easily before boarding and upon arrival.
We love the following strollers:
Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller
Kolcraft - Cloud Plus Lightweight Easy Fold Compact Travel Baby Stroller
Manage Ear Pressure Changes
The change in ear pressure during takeoff and landing can be uncomfortable for your child. Be sure to have a bottle or sippy cup ready and encourage your child to drink. Swallowing helps relieve ear pressure changes.
Avoid Seating Children in the Aisles
From rolling food and drink carts to moving passengers and falling luggage, there are plenty of dangerous incidents awaiting your toddler in the aisle. This may be a no-brainer, but do not put your toddler in the aisle seat.
Don't Fret About Potty Training
The last thing you want to deal with is a toddler who needs to use the potty in the middle of the liftoff when everyone is supposed to stay seated.
Although your child may have mastered the art of using the toilet, it is totally acceptable for them to use a pull-up or overnight training pants during the flight.
It prevents accidents and minimizes the stress of unbuckling, meandering through miniature aisles, and squeezing both of you in a tiny bathroom.
Try To Stay Calm
Flying can be an extremely stressful time, particularly if it is the first time you've flown with a toddler. Passengers around you may roll their eyes when your child starts to whine or cry.
It's important to remember that you're doing the best you can and it's not the time to worry about other people's judgement. It's kind of an impossible situation, so most people probably will empathize with you, especially seasoned parents who have gone through it before. Try to keep calm and carry on.
Show Gratitude for the Cabin Crew
Lastly, don't forget to show your appreciation to the flight attendants who are working hard to keep everything running smoothly. Take the time to say thank you, and if you can, offer them a gratuity or a small gift like a box of airport chocolates as a token of appreciation.
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