Tips for Flying with a Toddler

Traveling by airplane can be the fastest way to get where people need to go. However, when traveling with a toddler it can also be the fastest way to create an uncomfortable situation for everyone.

I’ve had my fair share of flying with toddlers! Over the last 11 years, I’ve flown many times with my own children. We lived hundreds of miles away from home and airplane travel was the easiest way to travel home. The amount of items you have to pack and get through security is overwhelming enough. Add to that trying to keep toddlers happy and entertained while waiting to board, plus keeping them happy while flying can be a struggle!

Before parents book tickets for their family, learning how to care for a toddler on an airplane will help make sure that the flight is a little less stressful or overwhelming.

Before Boarding a Plane With a Toddler

The first steps to dealing with your toddler happen before you ever board the airplane. Make sure that the child is well fed and rested, is comfortably dressed, and has a few special items to content her with. Toddlers can easily become miserable when forced to sit in a small seat for any length of time, and this can become more so when they have needs that are not yet met. If a toddler needs a snack, a nap, and a special lovie, parents should get them before leaving for the airport. Make sure toddlers have used the restroom prior to boarding as well.

Depending on the age of the toddler, explaining what to expect on the flight can also help ease any fears and concerns that might come up. Parents can help their toddler understand how long the flight will be, what sounds and movements she might feel on the plane, and what to expect of the people all around. A shy toddler may become very nervous from the many people all around, parents can take steps to help her by reading books about airplane travel before hand.

Dealing With a Tantrum During a Flight

Toddlers throw tantrums very easily, and dealing with one in a crowded area is much harder to do than at home. Parents can take steps to deal with a screaming toddler by watching for the warning signs that a tantrum is coming and being prepared to stop it. Bring along a carry-on bag containing snacks, drinks, favorite toys, and simple games that toddlers can do in their seats. It also helps if parents learn the keys to gentle discipline so they can calmly, and effectively, keep their toddlers under control.

A screaming toddler on an airplane can cause a serious problem for other passengers, and for the parents. Keeping a toddler calm and under control is clearly a matter of importance for everyone. Parents can pack small books, or a portable DVD player to keep their toddlers quiet and in their seats.

Check out these Airplane Travel Kids for Kids.

Active Toddlers on Long Flights

Even with the speed of air travel, some flights can be especially long. This can be hard to handle with very active toddlers who need to get up and move. The easiest solution is for parents to book long flights over night. Parents can board their toddlers’ car seats on many commercial planes, and allow their toddlers to sleep through the flight in their seats.

Flying with toddlers can be a difficult experience for parents and other passengers alike. Even the most well behaved toddler can become cranky and upset during a flight. Preparing the toddler before the flight, making sure all her needs are met, and bringing along special necessities can make the flight go smoother for everyone.

Find more tips for toddlers here.