Flying with toddlers can be a daunting prospect for many parents. The confined space, pressure changes, and long periods of sitting still can challenge even the most easygoing toddler. But with proper preparation and realistic expectations, air travel with your little one can be manageable and even enjoyable.
Before You Book
Choose Flight Times Strategically
When possible, book flights that align with your toddler's schedule. For many families, these options work best:
- Early morning flights when toddlers are well-rested and typically in better moods
- Flights during regular nap times if your child reliably sleeps on the go
- Direct flights to avoid the stress of connections and additional takeoffs/landings
Avoid booking flights during your child's typical "witching hour" when they tend to be fussier.
Seating Considerations
While children under 2 can typically fly free as lap infants on domestic flights, consider these factors:
- A separate seat provides more space and is safer for your child
- FAA-approved car seats can be used onboard and provide a familiar space for your toddler
- Aisle seats make it easier to get up for frequent walks or bathroom trips
- Some airlines offer family seating areas or bulkhead seats with more room
Packing Essentials
Pack strategically to ensure you have everything you need without being overburdened:
Carry-On Must-Haves
- Diapers and wipes: Pack one diaper for every hour of travel plus a few extras
- Change of clothes: At least two complete outfits for your toddler and an extra shirt for yourself
- Comfort items: Favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or lovey
- Snacks: More than you think you'll need, focusing on non-messy options
- Sippy cup: Empty to go through security, then filled after
- Entertainment: Small toys, books, and electronic devices with headphones
- Medications: Any regular medications plus children's pain reliever/fever reducer
Entertainment Pack
Create a special bag of new or novel items that you can reveal throughout the flight:
- Small toys wrapped like presents to extend the excitement
- Sticker books and window clings
- Magnetic drawing boards
- Play-Doh in small containers
- Finger puppets
- New apps or videos downloaded to a tablet
The key is to introduce one item at a time and only when needed, rather than presenting everything at once.
Airport Strategies
Before Security
- Check in online and use curbside baggage check when available
- Consider using a family lane at security if available
- Wear your toddler in a carrier through security to keep hands free
- Allow extra time—rushing creates stress for everyone
After Security
- Find an empty gate area for your toddler to move around and burn energy
- Locate family restrooms for easier diaper changes
- Board when family boarding is called—earlier for more setup time, later to minimize time on the plane
During the Flight
Takeoff and Landing
The pressure changes during takeoff and landing can cause ear pain. Help equalize the pressure by:
- Offering a pacifier, bottle, or sippy cup
- Encouraging swallowing with snacks or gummy candies (for older toddlers)
- Teaching older toddlers to yawn or "blow out the candles"
In-Flight Management
- Set realistic expectations—some fussiness is normal
- Take walks up and down the aisle when the seatbelt sign is off
- Rotate through activities every 15-20 minutes
- Use mealtimes as an activity and distraction
- Don't hesitate to accept help from flight attendants or friendly passengers
Dealing with Sleep
If your flight coincides with naptime or bedtime:
- Try to maintain parts of your usual sleep routine
- Bring familiar sleep aids (small blanket, stuffed animal)
- Consider a SlumberPod or similar cover for car seats to create a darker environment
- Use white noise via headphones
- Be prepared for shorter or disrupted sleep
Managing Expectations
Perhaps the most important aspect of flying with toddlers is managing your own expectations:
- Accept that the flight is likely to be more challenging than flying solo
- Remember that this is temporary—even the longest flights eventually end
- Focus on getting to your destination, not on having a perfect journey
- Prepare for challenges, but don't catastrophize—many toddlers surprise their parents by doing better than expected
After Landing
- If possible, wait until most passengers have deplaned to gather your belongings
- Check for left items carefully—comfort objects are easily forgotten
- Have transportation to your accommodation pre-arranged
- Plan for a low-key first day at your destination
With thoughtful preparation and a flexible attitude, flying with your toddler can be the start of wonderful family travel memories. Each flight gets easier as both you and your child gain experience with air travel.
