How To Travel with a Toddler – Flying Edition

Airport travel is already chaotic when its just you making sure you have everything packed and at the gate on time. God forbid there is a delay or missed connection. Now add a rumble tumble toddler to the mix and it can make for a nerve-racking experience! Fear not, we have been through it several times now and have found several ways to make airplane travel a breeze. Sure you’re going to hit some bumps in your travel plan but as long as you are prepared nothing can phase you mama!

1. Try to plan your Flight around nap time!
   • When you are booking your flight, take a peak at the options and see if there are flights that are happening during nap time. There is a really good chance your little one will doze off in flight.
2. Flying with a carseat if your child is at the age of needing one.
   • Here is a link to the best travel carseat we have found with a set of wheels to make airport travel easy peasy! https://www.amazon.com/Disney-Baby-Convertible-Mouseketeer-Mickey/dp/B07DTLH4V4/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=mickey+travel+car+seat&qid=1631646285&sr=8-2
   • My sister in law recommended these awesome travel wheels that you strap onto the seat and you can basically wheel your little through the airport like a makeshift stroller and then wheel your carseat right onto the plane! https://www.amazon.com/Britax-Seat-Travel-Cart-Black/dp/B005CNEQK0/ref=sr_1_18?dchild=1&keywords=travel+car+seat+luggage+wheels&qid=1631646726&s=baby-products&sr=1-18. So this is a similar link as the wheels we used are currently out of stock but they are a lifesaver!
3. If your little likes to move, get all the moving and grooving out before the flight and during the layover! We let Griff run up and down the terminal before the flights and watch the airplanes come in and take off.
4. EARPOPPING– one of our biggest worries on take off and landing! Not to worry, pack some snacks, some drinks, and make sure to keep your little munching or drinking during these moments in flight. The swallowing will keep their ears popped and pressure equalized. No pain no problem.. but also maybe keep a little bit of emergency baby Tylenol in your diaper bag for the rare emergency!
5. Pack Your Diaper Bag For Success!
   1. Snacks Snacks and More Snacks
   2. Small cooler with an Ice pack for bottles with milk, water, juice, airlines allow it for littles. Just be sure to tell them at security!
   3. TOYS and things to keep their attention
      • Melissa and Doug sticker books are fantastic
      • coloring books
      • screen time if you are into it–we have the kindle for kids and I’m perfectly okay with it!
      • Try to pack toys your kids haven’t seen before, it will keep their interest longer
   4. Change of Clothes for you and for kiddos just in case of spills, accidents, etc.
   5. Pack some extras in case of unexpected layovers, such as extra diapers, wipes, and milk or powdered milk in case of emergency! Chances are you’ll find some at the airport but you never know If you’ll get stuck sitting on the runway for a few hours.
   6. Check EVERYTHING minus your carry on and carseat! Kids items such as pack n plays, strollers, etc. fly for FREE!

Here’s the thing, first flight, you are more than likely going to be nervous but don’t overthink it! Just go with the flow. Guess what, most people on that plane have been in your shoes or will be one day! They can judge all they want at your crying kiddo but most will be sympathetic and helpful. Most will know what its like in your shoes, and for the 5% that are just rude, forget them. You do you mama, just remember don’t stop living your life because you are nervous for the journey with a toddler! Plan the Trip!