Traveling with Toddlers and Babies: 12 Tips To Make Flying Easier

Traveling with young children, especially toddlers and babies, can often feel like navigating a minefield. The unpredictability of little ones combined with the constraints of air travel can test the patience and ingenuity of even the most seasoned parents. However, with some preparation and a few tried-and-tested strategies, flying with your little ones can become a manageable, and even enjoyable, adventure. Here are 12 tips, inspired by real-life experiences from parents like John, Jason, Gabriel, Kylie, Nicole, and Lauren, to help make your next flight smoother.

1. Pack Smart

Nicole learned the hard way that overpacking can be as problematic as underpacking. She recommends packing a separate bag for your child’s essentials, including snacks, diapers, a change of clothes, and small toys. This bag should be easily accessible throughout the flight.

2. Board Early or Late

While some parents, like John, swear by early boarding to get settled without the rush, others like Kylie prefer boarding last to minimize the time their toddlers spend confined. Consider what works best for your family’s temperament and needs.

3. Bring New Toys

Lauren discovered that new, small toys or books can keep her toddler engaged for longer periods. The novelty of the item makes it more interesting, so consider picking up a few inexpensive new toys for the journey.

4. Prepare for Ear Pressure

Jason found that having his baby suck on a bottle or pacifier during takeoff and landing helped alleviate ear pressure. For older toddlers, chewing on snacks can have a similar effect.

5. Dress in Layers

Airplanes can be unpredictably hot or cold. Gabriel dresses his children in layers, so he can easily adjust their comfort without fuss.

6. Reserve Seats Strategically

If possible, reserve a window seat for the visual distraction and a seat near the front of the plane for quicker disembarking. Some families, like Nicole’s, prefer aisle seats for easier access to the bathroom.

7. Use a Child Harness

For toddlers prone to wandering, a child harness can be a lifesaver in busy airports. John found this particularly useful during layovers.

8. Stick to Routines

As much as possible, stick to your child’s routine. If your flight coincides with nap time, like Kylie’s did, try to mimic the nap routine to encourage sleep on the plane.

9. Pack Snacks

Snacks can be a great distraction and help with ear pressure. Lauren packs a variety of healthy, mess-free snacks to keep her toddler happy.

10. Prepare for Messes

Accidents happen. Jason always packs extra clothes for his children and a shirt for himself in his carry-on, just in case.

11. Practice Patience

Patience is perhaps the most crucial tool in your arsenal. Gabriel reminds himself that most passengers understand the challenges of traveling with young children and are more sympathetic than you might expect.

12. Remember the Big Picture

Finally, Nicole emphasizes the importance of focusing on the adventure and the memories you’re creating. A few hiccups along the way are natural, but they don’t have to define your travel experience.

Traveling with toddlers and babies requires a blend of preparation, flexibility, and a good sense of humor. By incorporating these tips from parents who’ve been in the trenches, you can make flying with your little ones a smoother and more pleasant journey for everyone involved.