What do i need to fly with a toddler?

Flying with a toddler can be an insurmountable challenge. Toddlers are naturally curious, energetic and irritable at the same time, but you shouldn’t let that discourage you from traveling with them. With some preparation and careful planning, your flight can go as smooth as possible- minus tantrums.

Before You Fly

Selecting the Right Flight

Choosing the right flight means everything when flying with kids. Direct flights or non-stop flights are ideal for families since they eliminate extra stops where toddlers could get agitated or tired.

Book Early

Book early! Once you’ve decided on your travel dates, book flights early to take advantage of discounts before airlines raise their prices for family bookings.

Request Bulkhead Seats/Bassinet

Bulkhead seats give parents more legroom and space to move around which is crucial in keeping toddlers entertained throughout the flight. These seats also come readily equipped with bassinets for children under two years old.

Pro Tip: Avoid Exit rows seating while traveling/flying with children under 12 years old, it is against FAA guidelines.

The Essentials You’ll Need During Your Flight

You’ll most likely need multiple bags that have all of what one needs inside them during short/long trips; these may include:

  • Diaper Bag(s)
  • Carry-on backpack(s)/Fanny pack
  • Tablets/Laptops/Books/Magazines (for both yourself & child.)
  • Portable charger/power bank(you never know!)

Make sure each bag has essential items needed during travels like:

In-flight Entertainment

An iPad loaded up with Disney’s greatest hits

Don’t forget headphones

Snacks!

Snacks keep everyone happy – especially if you’re crossing time zones – even more snacks than usual can prevent tantrums

Some goodies/treats/snacks to bring:

  • Fresh fruits & vegetables
  • Graham crackers
  • Raisins/Fruit cups

Change of Clothes

Always carry at least one extra set of clothes for the child(ren) in case things get dirty while traveling.

Packing Tips

Well organized packing can make travel with tots ideal. The following ideas might come in handy:

Keep Snacks Separate From Other F Items

Wrap something else over them or store them separately so they don’t end up spilling all over your imoortant items

Bring Some Favorite Toys and Books For Your Toddler!

This could be a stuffed animal, coloring book(s), small puzzles, among others.

Layering Clothing Is Essential

Depending on where you are flying from and to; it is essential to plan clothing accordingly.

      Layering:
  • Lightweight cotton shirts.
  • Sweatshirt/Hoodie/Lightweight jacket > depending climate

Pro Tip: Don’t forget that toddlers also have their preferences – if your toddler has a preferred blanket, toy or sippy cup, pack those too!

Security Checkpoints

A little preparation goes a long way when going through security checkpoints.

Don’t assume what won’t set off alarms. Be prepared for re-check-ins at several points along the journey.

Furthermore;

Tell Them You Have Baby Food And Milk With You

If you’re carrying baby food jars/pouches and milk/ Formula(the number of ounces should be checked with TSA beforehand).

Wear Slip-On Shoes/Appropriate Footwear

This would help quicken anything during this crucial period

Onboard The Flight:

Once onboard the aircraft,

Buckle Up Before Takeoff

You can never anticipate how quickly turbulence may happen! Best always ready than sorry by not being buckled up

Keeping A Toddler Entertained On The Flight

It honestly helps doing this – only few moments of boredom can be painful to all parties involved onboard, so here are some ways to keep them entertained on the flight:

New Wrapped Gifts

Nothing works wonders like keeping your little one distracted with a small new toy or wrapped-inside-a-box gift that they can eagerly tear open.

Creating Home Base

Creating home base entails a workspace for toddlers featuring their favorite book or electronic gadget along an easy snack bowl.

  Remember when we mentioned layering clothing? Utilize something similar, but now is time for pillows and blankets.

Sleep Solutions

Flying in cabin class could mean less space depth-wise; therefore it’s idealto bring:

Scaptetic Sleeping Aids

For some parents- but always ensure you speak with your pediatrician before administering sleep aids; seeing as certain medications aren’t suitable enough.(we do not recommend any specific medication names.)

A comfortable neck pillow and a light blanket could also work rather than bulky ones

Pro Tip: Don’t forget baby headphones – they help minimize loud noise distractions nearby!

Arrival Tips

Never forget that kids take time to recuperate from long flights plus changes in schedules/time zones/routines.

### Pace Yourself

When arriving make plans well ahead of departure depending on accommodation arrangements/or picking up where ever next destination might lead.

If jet lag happens >> try staying hydrated plus if traveling westward, consider delaying bedtime appropriately without carrying out major routine changes.

By following these tips correctly – coupled together with planning/organization routines – one can easily have an amazing travel experience despite added child complications!

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