Tips for Flying with Toddlers and Young Children
Flying with toddlers and young children can feel overwhelming, I mean lets not beat around the bush, it can be hard and stressful but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
Whether it’s your child’s first flight or they’ve traveled before, I’ve put together some much needed tips that will help you navigate hectic airports, keep little mentalists entertained, and make the journey as smooth as possible.
1. Book Smart: The Right Flights Make a Difference
When traveling with young kids, not all flights are created equal. A little planning when booking can make the journey much easier. AKA do not book with Ryan Air.
Best Flight Strategies for Parents:
✅ Choose flights during nap or bedtime – If possible, book flights that align with your child’s sleep schedule. Sleep on flights equals easy life for parents.
✅ Go for direct flights – Layovers add extra stress, so minimise them when you can.
✅ Consider seat selection – Bulkhead seats provide more space, and window seats can keep kids entertained. Happy parents also make the flight more enjoyable.
✅ Check airline policies – Some airlines allow free seat selection or extra baggage for families.
2. Pack a Perfect Carry-On for Kids
A well-packed carry-on can make or break your flight experience. Yes a dad can pack for a hooliday…believe it or not. Make sure to include essentials that keep your child comfortable, entertained, and well-fed.
Must-Have Items for Flying with Kids:
✅ Snacks, snacks, and more snacks – Pack a variety of their favorites to avoid hunger meltdowns, unless you want to pay silly money for dodgy airline food.
✅ A spill-proof water bottle – Fill it up after security to keep them and ourself hydrated.
✅ Comfort items – A favourite blanket, stuffed toy, or dummy can help soothe them.
✅ Headphones & tablet – Load up with kid-friendly movies, shows, or apps for quiet entertainment. You can pre download movies on Netflix.
✅ Colouring books & small toys – Stickers, reusable water colouring books, and magnetic puzzles work well.
✅ Change of clothes – Accidents happen, so always have an extra outfit (or two).
✅ Baby wipes & hand sanitiser – Essential for messy hands, spills, and tray tables.
3. Arrive Early, but Not Too Early
You don’t want to be rushed at the airport, but arriving too early can also lead to restless kids waiting at the gate.
We have done both, obviously arriving early is far less stress but equals a lot of waiting around and grumpy energetic kids.
Time-Saving Tips at the Airport:
✅ Use family-friendly security lanes – Many airports have priority lines for families. We felt like A lists when we skipped the queue
✅ Let toddlers burn energy – Find a play area or let them walk around before boarding.
✅ Board early (or last!) – Some families prefer early boarding for extra time; others wait until the last minute to minimise time on the plane. we are the latter type, let everyone else pointlessly rush for no reason.
4. Keep Kids Comfortable on the Plane
Comfort is key for a smooth flight, especially on long-haul trips, Something that took us a while to actually realise.
How to Keep Kids Happy on the Plane:
✅ Dress them in layers – Airplanes can be unpredictable in temperature.
✅ Use a travel pillow or blanket – Helps them get cozy for naps. This is an actual godsend.
✅ Encourage sucking during takeoff & landing – This relieves ear pressure (pacifiers, bottles, or snacks work). Also blowing your nose
✅ Have a screen-time plan – If using a tablet, set expectations about when they can use it. Aka not all the time.
5. Manage Expectations (for You & Them!)
Flying with young kids won’t be perfect, and that’s okay. Accepting that there might be meltdowns, delays, or unexpected challenges makes it easier to handle when they happen.
Final Parent Survival Tips:
✅ Stay calm and flexible – If you’re relaxed, your child is more likely to be.
✅ Don’t stress about other passengers – Most people are understanding. Ignore judgmental looks! Usually from kidless adults.
✅ Take breaks when possible – Walk the aisles with restless toddlers to stretch their legs.
✅ Have a backup entertainment plan – If their favourite toy or app fails, switch to something new. Double check #2.
Final Thoughts
Flying with toddlers and young children is all about preparation, patience, and flexibility…Oh and meltdowns, waiting around and then pure excitement BUT with the right mindset and a few key strategies, you can make the journey smoother and actually even enjoyable. Remember you’re flying to go somewhere nice, enjoy the moment.
Where’s your next flight with your little mentalist? Let me know in the comments!
Read more
How to Keep Kids Entertained During Long Road Trips
8 Tips on How to Travel with Kids on a Budget
