Are you ready to embark on an adventure with your little one? Flying with a toddler can be an exciting yet daunting experience for parents. Before our first born turned a year, he had been to Vancouver and Los Angelos and from managing meltdown to navigating airport security, there's a lot to consider. But fear not! With some preparation and a sprinkle of creativity, your journey in the sky can be a breeze. So buckle up and let’s get ready for takeoff!
1. Start with a Positive Attitude: If one thing is for sure, things happen and especially with travel, even the most prepared can find themselves out of sorts. Nothing could have prepared me for the numorious amounts of twists and turns we encountered when we first travelled with our little ones. From delayed flights to illnesses - it was one thing after the other but you must allow yourself to go with the flow. Stay calm, be patient, and embrace the adventure ahead.
2. Plan Ahead: Preparation is key. Pack essentials like snacks, diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag. Don't forget favorite toys or comfort items to keep your toddler entertained.
3. Choose the Right Flight Time: Opt for flights during your toddler's naptime or bedtime to increase the chances of a peaceful journey.
Tip: carry pajamas for nighttime travel - pajamas were not only comfortable but kept within our night routine.
4. Check-In Early: At least twice we have arrived at the airport and encountered “issues” traveling with a lap infant which caused us to spend more that at the checkout counter then necessary. Therefore, when travelling with your little ones, aim to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Early check-in allows you ample time to breeze through security and ultimately lessen your stress levels considerably.
5. Request Bulkhead Seats: More legroom means extra space for your toddler to move around and play.
6. Bring Snacks and Drinks: Hunger and thirst can exacerbate tantrums. My eldest is a slackers just like his momma so I’m always sure to pack a variety of snacks and their bottles to keep them satisfied throughout the flight.
7. Utilize Technology: Load up your tablet or smartphone with age-appropriate apps, songs, games, and movies to keep your toddler entertained during the flight. For our eldest, we downloaded his favorite lullaby but has he has gotten older - Ms. Rachel is definitely his favorite and can keep him amused for hours on end!
8. Engage in Interactive Play: Turn airplane seats and tray tables into makeshift play areas. Bring along coloring books, stickers, and interactive toys to keep your toddler engaged.
9. Take Walk Breaks: Encourage movement by taking short walks up and down the aisle. It's a great way to stretch your legs and burn off some energy.
10. Prioritize Health and Wellness: A healthy toddler is a happy toddler. Consider assembling a health and wellness bag to ensure you have everything you need for any unexpected bumps along the way. Here are some essential items to include:
- Baby Panadol or infant ibuprofen for fever or discomfort.
- Multivitamins or immune-boosting supplements to support your toddler's health during travel.
- Saline solution or nasal spray to keep little noses moisturized and clear, especially in dry cabin air.
- Disinfectant wipes or hand sanitizer to maintain cleanliness and minimize exposure to germs.
- Band-aids and antiseptic cream for minor cuts and scrapes.
- Thermometer to monitor your toddler's temperature if they start feeling unwell.
- Electrolyte solution or oral rehydration salts to keep your toddler hydrated in case of vomiting or diarrhea.
By packing a health and wellness bag, you'll be well-prepared to handle any health-related issues that may arise during your travels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey for you and your little one.
11. Bring Comfort Items: Whether it's a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, comfort items can provide a sense of security for your toddler during the flight.
12. Stay Hydrated: Keep your toddler hydrated by offering water or milk throughout the flight. Dehydration can exacerbate crankiness and discomfort.
Tip: travel with a reusable water bottle and ensure to ask the flight attends for cold and/hot water immediately after take off. You can also refill your bottles after you have passed security. This helped tremendously because I didn’t need to wait until ‘they were ready” for a bottle to try to flag down an air hostess.
13. Pack Earplugs or Noise-Canceling Headphones: Loud noises can be overwhelming for toddlers. Pack earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to help block out any disruptive sounds.
14. Stay Calm During Turbulence: Your toddler takes cues from you. Stay calm and reassure them during periods of turbulence.
15. Reward Good Behavior: Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Offer praise or small rewards for good behavior during the flight.
Flying with a toddler may have its challenges, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be a rewarding experience. Embrace the journey, make memories, and enjoy the adventure together. Bon voyage!
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