(From a Mom Who’s Been There)
There’s something beautifully chaotic about flying with babies and toddlers. It’s the spilled snacks, screams, sometimes bodily fluids and sleepy snuggles. The airport sprint to make boarding and the joy in their eyes when the plane lifts off. I’ve traveled the world with two little ones in tow—and while it’s not always smooth sailing, it’s always worth it (even for the story later on).
As a mom of two who has flown with one baby and a baby + a toddler, 12+ plane rides under her belt spanning business class to economy, lap infant to seat infant, I think I have the process down.
Whether you’re prepping for your first flight as a parent or looking to make your next trip feel a little more magical, here are the tips I swear by for flying with babies and toddlers. These are the little things that help you feel less stressed, more prepared, and a whole lot more present as you explore the world with your family.
Pre-Flight Planning That Sets You Free
- Target nap time or bed time (it will make it way easier on you). We try to book flights in the afternoon or right before bed so we hope it’s getting more sleep than entertaining.
- Decide if you are going to alter bedtime or wake up times to help with jet lag. We tend to alter wake up times around our flight so we get either a nap or it works with the flight.
- Download shows or audiobooks ahead of time. We downloaded 20+ episodes and then 5-10 movies. We also have activity apps as well Don’t trust in-flight WiFi with your peace.
- Prep the snacks. There is nothing worst than your toddler refusing to eat anything on a 10 hour flight with 2 snack times and 2 meals (yes it happened). Snacks were the only way through
👜 Bonus tip: surprise your toddler with one new toy for the flight. I only allow them to play with it when we are sitting in our seats
What to Pack in Your Carry-On (And What Can Stay Home)
Your personal item and carry-on is your lifeline. I swear by the no reception club backpack for easy access. Keep it light, but loaded with love:
- 1–2 diapers per hour of travel (and wipes, always)
- 2 sets of extra clothes—for them and you (yes, both. I get eyerolls for carrying both, but have you ever been projectile vomited on a plane (I have 2 separate times and have never been more thankful for extra clothes. Don’t forget socks.
- Their comfort item: lovey, blanket, or “super bunny”
- Spill-proof snacks: oat bars, pouches, freeze-dried fruit
- Meals from the airport that your little will eat
- A few quiet toys or books + kid-safe headphones
- iPad loaded with whatever keeps the peace
- Pro Tip: think through what needs to be assessable to you in the flight and pack accordingly. You don’t want to have to fish through a carry on to do a change. Put it in your personal. Before I go I think through what’s for emergency (carry on) and what’s for urgent
- Want a full list? Link here
✈️ Surviving Flight Day (and Maybe Even Enjoying It)
- Go early. Travel takes longer with littles. Gone are the days of arriving 1 hour before boarding. Let the airport be a playground
- Let them run wild (within reason) before boarding.
- Contrary to online advice use the early boarding. I have a toddler and baby that needs the time to get settled. Lots of stuff does require time or send someone.
- Change diapers just before boarding to avoid turbulence trauma
- Let go of guilt. Screentime rules don’t apply at 35,000 feet. You are doing amazing.
🧳 Travel Gear That Makes the Sky Friendlier
- These MVPs have saved me on more than one trip:
- Babyzen YOYO or Amazon double stroller: folds small, glides smooth
- Inflatable foot rest + pump and or extender work great
- Compact car seat for both rental cars and the plane – try Cosco. It’s lightweight
- Lightweight baby carrier for hands-free wandering. Artipoppe is 100% worth the splurge. It’s lasted me through 2 kids
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I bring a car seat on the plane?
A: If your toddler has their own seat, an FAA-approved car seat can make sleeping easier and the flight safer.
Q: Can I bring baby food, formula, or milk through security?
A: Yes! TSA allows “reasonable quantities” of baby items. Just let them know—it may be swabbed. I have seriously packed 10 apple sauce pouches so take advantage. I did get funny looks but do it.
Q: Which airlines are the most toddler-friendly and baby friendly?
A: United and the Star Alliance is my go to and is very been friendly
Q: What if my toddler has a tantrum mid-flight?
A: You breathe. You offer a hug. You let go of judgment. Most people are kind—and if not, you’ll never see them again.
Q: What if my toddler or baby has a blow out or gets sick?
A: You roll with the punches. It’s why you packed extra sets of clothes. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. Flight attendants and other moms tend to be really helpful. I’ve had them lend a helping hand when dealing with projectile vomit meltdowns. You’ll make it through and have a funny story to look back in hindsight.
🌈 Final Words From One Travel Mom to Another
You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to show up, pack the snacks, and love your little one through the wobbly parts. Travel with toddlers is messy and magical—just like motherhood itself.
If this helped you, save it for your next trip or send it to a friend. And if you’ve traveled with a toddler recently, drop your own tips in the comments—I’d love to hear what worked for you
