This past weekend the toddler and I went out of town to visit the grandparents. My baby has traveled on airplanes with me ever since he was around 5 months old. He loves airplanes!
Here are a few things I have learned over our travels that may help some of you have a smooth trip when traveling with a little one:

1. Bring snacks. Children get bored and hungry regularly, and you never know when there may be a flight delay or traffic if you’re traveling by car. Snacks keep everyone sane and the kiddo happy.

2. Baby carriers are great! I used a Baby Hawk Mei Tai (Baby Hawk) when the toddler was an infant. It was a life saver for walking through the airport! And, it allows you to be hands free for carrying whatever else you have to hold (i.e. a much needed cup of coffee). The beauty of the baby carrier is that it also allows you to travel lighter because you won’t need a stroller. Now, for my toddler aged kiddo, I use an Ergo Baby Sport carrier (Ergo Baby Carrier). I feel like it’s a bit more sturdy for a wiggly, larger child.

3. Bring an already prepared cup/bottle. I know that the TSA consider us all terrorists but don’t be afraid to bring a cup or bottle already prepared with your child’s preferred beverage, even if it is over 3 ounces. You won’t get hassled because of it. It goes through a quick residue screening and you’re on your way, and the baby is happy (isn’t that what it’s all about).

4. Bring toys. In the digital age most kids are accustomed to playing games on a smartphone or iPad to stay entertained. They also enjoy watching movies from iPads and portable DVD players. But, in the age of strict air travel rules, electronic devices are only allowed to be powered on at certain times. So, to keep your digital aged kiddo happy, don’t pull out the electronics until you’re up in the air, not during the gate time. And, ensure that your flight is long enough for them to get their “fix.” Otherwise, you may experience a toddler meltdown because he/she was only allowed to power the digital device for 30 minutes and that wasn’t enough time to get through an entire animated movie. Good old fashioned toys do the trick!

5. For my breastfeeding moms, nursing the baby at take off and landing is a good way to prevent ear discomfort from elevation change. This can also be accomplished with a bottle. However, the soothing comfort of nursing may also reward you with a sleeping baby for the majority of your flight. Then, mom and baby can have a peaceful travel time.

6. Choose a window seat when traveling with a toddler. At this age, they get very “antsy” and the window seat gives a little extra wiggle room without compromising their safety from limbs hanging out in the aisle. And, my kiddo finds great joy in controlling the window shade!

7. Moms, hydrate yourself prior to getting on the plane. Don’t plan to let the seat tray down to enjoy any of the airline supplied refreshments. The “antsy” toddler we talked about in tip 6 will surely want to put the tray table back up just as you are enjoying your beverage. Just spare yourself the mess and pre-hydrate.

8. Change a toddlers diaper/training pants prior to getting on the plane. Yes, the airplane restbox restroom has a changing table but believe me, it’s only suitable for 9 month olds or younger.

9. Take advantage of the special pre boarding time given to families traveling with small children. It gives you extra time and space to get all of your essential items out of your bag and in a convenient location and it gives the kiddo time to explore a little before the plane fills up.

10. If you experience a flight delay, it’s best to allow your kiddo to burn off some steam by letting them “roam free.” We usually do this by allowing the toddler to walk up and down the concourse while we follow. He gets a kick out of having the freedom to roam and it keeps him happy. And by the time we’re ready to fly, he’s ready for a nap and so are you 🙂

Happy trails to you and your little one on your next trip!