Flying with kids: Tips for traveling with babies and toddlers
Traveling is one of my favorite things to do and I knew becoming a mom would change my ability to pack a bag and hop on a flight. But when we had kids, we vowed we’d do our best to show them the world. Now, as a mom of two toddlers who’s taken them on more than a dozen flights from age four months through three years, I feel like I have some tips and tricks to help other parents fly with more confidence and fewer meltdowns (for kids and mom!). Here we go!
Flying with a baby doesn’t have to be scary as long as you prepare.
FLYING WITH BABY
Let’s start with what feels like the scariest age but what might actually be the easiest! Traveling with a baby under six months can feel challenging because of feeding, diapers and allll the stuff they need. But if you can time it right, they often just sleep and you can watch a movie.
When booking your flight: Consider their sleep schedule and their feeding schedule. If possible, time it during nap or bed time. For babies, I prefer an aisle seat in case you need to get up for diaper changes or to walk the aisle to sooth your little one.
Lap child: Babies under two fly free on the majority of airlines. The safest option is buying baby a seat and putting them in a car seat. But that’s not always an option for families. You can always ask the ticketing desk if it’s not a full flight and you can bring on your car seat. Remember - the car seat has to sit in the window seat. I’ve done both and did find it easier to have baby in a car seat and have my hands free. But have flown many times with a child in my lap. The bigger and more mobile they get, the harder it is…
At the airport: Babies need a lot of stuff! But on most airlines, car seats and strollers do not cost extra for luggage. Check as much as possible so your hands can be free to deal with baby. Don’t forget a car seat cover and a bag for your stroller. This will protect them from getting dirty or damaged.
Remember: Don’t forget a copy of your child’s birth certificate. I’ve only been asked once but you are supposed to have it.
Baby wearing is your best friend: But just in case, I like to bring our light weight stroller through the airport and check it at the gate. You’ll just need to grab a tag from the gate agent.
TSA: Know your rights when it comes to what you can bring through TSA. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks (including milk or water), even pureed pouches greater than 3.4 ounces are all allowed in carry on bags. If flying with breast milk and ice, make sure the ice or ice packs are completely frozen. They will likely need to test it. Always make sure they change their gloves. Print out the information from TSA on your rights, it helps if anyone tries to argue (this can happen if flying with breast milk without baby). I love this chiller for traveling with breast milk. Lots of airports have designated mother’s rooms if you need a place to feed or pump.
Get the wiggles out: Bring a blanket and allow baby to do tummy time before flight.
Prep bottles: If you need to make a bottle, grab hot water from a cafe. They will have some on the flight but I find it easier to make it before and have it ready for take off
On the flight: Feed baby on take off and landing. A pacifier can help with ear popping as well. Bring a cover if you need to for breast feeding. Always pack an extra set of clothes for you and baby in case of spills and blowouts. Pack a small bag with diapers and wipes so you don’t have to carry the full diaper bag into the tiny bathroom. Many planes have a changing table inside the bathroom, otherwise you have to get a bit creative. I always bring puppy pads to use for diaper changes and don’t forget a plastic bag in case of any soiled clothes.
Entertainment: In my experience, babies will sleep most of the flight. Otherwise bring some toys to entertain them. Here are a few of my travel toy favorites.
FLYING WITH A TODDLER
Depending on your toddler, they could be easier or infinitely harder to fly with than a baby. If they are over two, they will need their own ticket. But consider your and your child’s comfort level even if they are under two when choosing whether or not to fly them as a lap child. With a toddler I prefer the window seat for them to look outside.
Before flight: Bring a collapsible stroller to help navigate the airport but I highly recommend letting them walk, run, dance or skip to get all the wiggles out. Find a less crowded section of the airport and let them move. Many airports have a kid play area! Those are the best. Always use the bathroom before the flight. Nothing like cramming into an airplane toilet with a toddler.
During flight: A lollipop can help with the ear popping during take-off. Snacks are your best friend. Bring a variety and bring a lot. We love a fun snack tray like this or like this one which doubles as a fun game.
Entertainment: Bring quiet toys with few parts to help entertain them during the flight. A tip is to buy a few new items, even from the dollar store. The surprise in itself helps pass the time. If you bring markers to color, get the ones that click to open (less caps to chase down!) If you are a screen time family, don’t forget your head phones.
Tip: Ask the flight attendant for a drink with a lid and straw if you didn’t bring a toddler cup. If you did bring a toddler cup, watch out! The change in pressure can make the liquid squirt out the straw like crazy.
REMEMBER!
Babies and toddlers cry and fuss and it’s ok. They have every right to travel and fly on an airplane. Take a deep breath. You’ve got this.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Flight attendants and other moms and parents on flights have been so helpful. From playing peek a boo to lending extra napkins.
REMINDER:
Take a deep breath. You’ve got this. The destination will make it all worth it. Happy Travels!