Flying with a toddler can be worrisome if you've never done it before. The unknowns may leave you wondering whether or not it's a good idea. As Healthline puts it, toddlers aren't exactly the ideal traveling companion: they are prone to outbursts, have a short attention span, and an inability to sit still for long. Many toddlers will find traveling on an airplane to be exciting, though, and there are items that can help the experience be smooth sailing. Planning ahead to entertain, soothe and distract your toddler will make all the difference. Here's what to have on hand.
Endless Snack Supply
The number one recommendation to parents flying with a toddler is snacks, snacks and more snacks. The chewing movement may help their ears during takeoff and landing, but it also gives them something to do. Let's face it, to them, snacks are an activity in and of itself. Bring a variety that ranges from healthy, to sweet, to salty, to crunchy. Keep it interesting! Fatherly suggests remembering that pouches and liquids will be thrown out if not under the regulated amount.
New-To-Them Toys
There's not much more a toddler likes than a new toy. Parents suggest making a pre-trip visit to a low-cost store to stock up on a few toys that your toddler doesn't already have. What To Expect even suggests borrowing some, if possible. The point is that they're new to toddlers. Wrapping them in gift wrap to conceal their contents as well as provide a tired, anxious, or bored toddler to focus their attention on something non-destructive is a great idea. Distraction for the win!
Battery Charging Device
Even though you'll likely charge whatever you can before getting to the airport, a battery charge only lasts so long. Keeping a battery charging pack somewhere accessible may be the ticket to preventing an epic tantrum when the low battery signal comes on. Portable chargers can elongate the use time on electronics despite delays, flight cancelations, or other unexpected changes. As VeryWell Family puts it:
The best way to approach a flight with your little one is to show up calm yet prepared. Your toddler will pick up on any tension, which you can eliminate by ensuring you understand all guidelines ahead of your journey.
Having things lined up in plenty of time and a sense of prepared calm will do everyone some good.
Antibacterial Wipes
Let's face it, airports and airplanes encounter a lot of people. And potentially, a lot of germs. Having plenty of antibacterial wipes on hand can prevent your handsy toddler from unknowingly touching surfaces that are contaminated. You can quickly wipe down bathrooms, armrests, airplane trays, or any other surface your child might touch. At this age, we know that hands end up in mouths more often than not.
Headphones
Having games, favorite TV shows and movies downloaded to a device is a tried-and-true method for keeping toddlers entertained on a plane. The downside is that you aren't in the comfort of your own home and not everyone wants to hear Daniel Tiger's advice or the soundtrack to Moana. Your toddler will feel grown-up wearing some headphones and they'll likely block out any noise from the plane that would disrupt their concentration.
Comfort Items
Traveling can be stressful--no matter what your age is. Ease the situation for your toddler by having the things that bring them comfort. Maybe it's their favorite blanket they can't sleep without or a solid stash of their beloved pacifiers. If they need their lovey when they're scared, make sure it's in an easily accessible place. In the event you can get your little one to snooze, you don't want to be without their comfort item. It may even prevent a meltdown.
Non-Electronic Distractions
As much planning and preparing as one can do, sometimes things go awry. What if the tablet stops functioning? What if your phone loses battery, and you can't find a charger? It's smart to have backup options for entertainment that don't rely on technology, just in case. It will be a long flight if your curious toddler doesn't have anything to do. Having a few coloring books and board books in your bag is never a bad idea. Window clings are a fun way to decorate your window, or toys like pop-fidgets or Play-Doh can be a hit.
Medicine Stash
Always prepare for the unexpected. On the off chance that your toddler will start showing symptoms of sickness while on the plane, you don't want to be wishing you'd just grabbed that Tylenol out of the medicine cabinet. You'll be doing your child, yourself, and your plane-mates a favor by helping to ease their discomfort if they come down with something.
Some children are especially bothered by takeoff and landing--the pressure in their ears can be painful--so having medicine on hand could help with that, too. It's always better to have something, just in case, even if you may not use it.
With the holidays approaching, many families may be traveling with small children in the near future. Being prepared with an adequate stash of comfort, entertainment, and sanitary items will help the experience run more smoothly.
Sources: Fatherly, VeryWell Family, What To Expect, Healthline