I used to love flying before having kids. I could relax, watch the latest movies, and enjoy being served. But flying with young children? That’s a completely different game!
When we first started our journey as a digital nomad family back in 2019, our initial 12-hour flight to Thailand with our then 2-year-old was chaotic. We were unprepared, and it showed—tantrums mid-flight, routines went out the window, and the long hours in the air left us completely drained.
Fast forward to now, with seven-year-old Lila and three-year-old Ruby, flying with toddlers has become quite normal for us.
In this guide, I’m sharing all our best tips and hacks on how to travel with a toddler on a plane! From keeping your little one entertained to staying one step ahead of meltdowns, I’ve got you covered.
Why Flying With a Toddler Is (Kind of) Worth It
Flying with a toddler isn’t easy—in fact, I honestly think it’s the most challenging age to travel with kids. Tantrums happen, strangers give you those looks, and sticking to routines can feel impossible. There were moments when we were that loud family at the airport gate, or the ones with the screaming baby on the plane, or the exhausted parents dragging ourselves to the hotel breakfast. I’d look at solo travelers or couples with headphones and a window seat and think, Wow, that must be nice.
No one enjoys standing out in an awkward way. We just want a peaceful trip and to make travel as smooth as possible for everyone. But toddlers? They keep things unpredictable!
And yet, those little rewards make it all worth it. Watching your toddler’s face light up as they press their nose to the plane window or hearing them excitedly talk about their “big adventure” can melt away the stress. Ruby asks us every week when we’ll finally fly again, spreading her arms wide like she’s an airplane herself.
There have been flights where she was so sweet, handing out stickers to other passengers and quietly entertaining herself for hours with activity books and the iPad. Moments like these are just beautiful—they remind me that all the effort is truly worth it and that traveling with a toddler CAN be uncomplicated.
Preparation: What to Do Before You Fly With Your Toddler
Book Smart
- Try to schedule flights during your toddlers’ nap or bedtime when they’re more likely to sleep. A sleeping toddler means less stress for everyone. Direct flights are your best friend—fewer takeoffs, landings, and layovers make the trip smoother. If a layover is unavoidable, aim for one long enough to let your toddler stretch their legs and explore a bit.
- When choosing seats, think about what works for your family. Bulkhead seats offer extra space for wiggly toddlers, while an aisle seat make it easier to take bathroom breaks or quick walks. If you can afford it, booking an extra seat for your toddler gives everyone more breathing room. Some parents swear by bringing their child’s car seat onboard for comfort and familiarity, especially for longer flights.
- Finally, check with your airline about family-friendly perks. Some airlines offer pre-boarding for families, kid-friendly meals, or small activity packs to keep toddlers entertained. The best kids’ entertainment set we’ve had so far was on Turkish Airlines—they even included super soft kids’ slippers! Emirates comes in a close second.
Pack Strategically
Packing strategically can save your sanity when flying with a toddler. Start with the essentials: snacks are lifesavers, so bring plenty of favorites like crackers, fruit pouches, or even a few treats like lollipops. Pack a mix of toys—some favorites for comfort and a few new ones for excitement. Think sticker books, magnetic drawing boards, or small puzzles. Don’t forget extra clothes for your toddler (and yourself!) in case of spills or accidents. Comfort items like a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or pacifier can help your toddler feel safe in a new environment.
While it’s tempting to pack for every possible scenario, avoid overpacking. Stick to what you’ll actually use during the flight. Skip bulky items like too many toys or oversized blankets. Instead, focus on compact, multi-use items. Remember, you’ll have to carry everything through the airport, so keep it light and manageable.
Have Backup Plans for Delays
Always prepare for the unexpected. Flights get delayed, layovers get extended, and things don’t always go as planned. Pack extra snacks, diapers, and activities—enough to cover at least a few extra hours. Trust me, nothing feels longer than a delay with a hungry or bored toddler!
Prepare Your Toddler
Getting your toddler ready for the first flight can make a huge difference. Start by talking to them about what to expect—explain the plane, the noise, and the exciting journey ahead. Keep it fun and positive! If they’ll be using headphones for the first time, let them try them out at home. Practice together by listening to music or watching a short show so they’re comfortable with the feeling.
Don’t forget their comfort items! Whether it’s a beloved lovey, a well-worn blankie, or their favorite stuffed animal, having something familiar can help them stay calm in a new and busy environment. Preparing them beforehand helps build excitement and reduces surprises on the big day.
Create the Right Mindset for Yourself
I know this might not be the quick fix you’re hoping for, but trust me—getting your mindset right is where it all begins! Here are a few perspectives that have really helped me:
- Traveling with kids is completely normal. Embracing travel with toddlers starts by acknowledging that they’re part of society, learning, and growing—so yes, they might be noisy or emotional at times. If someone rolls their eyes or mutters about your toddler, that’s on them, not you. Don’t feel the need to apologize for your child being exactly who they are! In fact, we’ve encountered so many kind and patient people during our journeys who truly get it.
- Traveling with toddlers isn’t the same as solo travel. Let go of those dreams of uninterrupted chats with your partner, sneaky car naps, or peacefully watching a movie on the plane. Those moments are rare when traveling with little ones, and adjusting your expectations ahead of time can save you from feeling disappointed.
- Flexibility is your best friend. Long travel days with toddlers can test your patience, so it helps to keep expectations realistic. If your little one is overtired or overwhelmed, plans might need to shift. Skipping a scheduled activity or adding an extra break can make all the difference in keeping the experience positive for everyone.
- Travel days are about survival, not perfection. Our usual rules about screen time or sweet treats get a lot more relaxed when we’re on the go. While we don’t go overboard, we’ve found that loosening up can be a lifesaver on those challenging days when everyone’s running on fumes. And that’s okay!
Navigating the Airport With a Toddler Like a Pro
Time your Airport Arrival
Arrive early enough to handle check-in, security, and bathroom stops without stress—but not so early that you’re stuck entertaining a restless toddler for hours. We’ve found that arriving about 1,5 hours before a domestic flight and 2,5 hours before an international flight strikes the right balance. It’s enough time to get through the process without feeling rushed, but not so much that everyone gets bored.
Burn Off Energy
Navigating the airport with a toddler is all about timing and energy. Before boarding, find a safe spot and let them move around as much as possible. Some airports have play areas, which are perfect for burning off energy. If there isn’t one, make your own fun! Turn waiting into a game—run races between chairs or play simple games like “Red Light, Green Light.” A small balloon can also be a lifesaver—blow it up in a quiet corner and let your toddler chase it around. The more they move, the calmer they’ll be once you’re on the plane.
Ruby and Lila love having little tasks to do for us. They get so excited about things like running to the trash can on the other side of the room to throw something away. Or racing around the row of seats ten times as fast as they can.
TSA Tips
Pack liquids like formula, breast milk, or juice in TSA-approved containers and keep them in an easy-to-reach spot. These items are usually allowed in larger quantities, but you’ll need to declare them at security. Snacks are a must—think dry, non-messy options like crackers or fruit pouches. While snacks don’t count as liquids, avoid anything too sticky or gooey that might raise questions. Organize everything in clear bags to make inspections quick and easy.
Boarding Strategy
When it comes to boarding with a toddler, there are two main strategies: pre-boarding or boarding last. Pre-boarding lets you settle in early, organize your bags, and avoid the rush. However, it also means keeping your toddler seated longer while everyone else boards, which can lead to restlessness.
For us, boarding last has been a game-changer. We let Ruby and Lila move and play at the gate as long as possible. Once most passengers are seated, we make our way onto the plane, minimizing the time our kids need to sit still. It’s less stressful and keeps everyone calmer before takeoff. If your airline offers family pre-boarding, great—but sometimes, waiting is the better option! You know your child best.
What to Do with Strollers and Car Seats
Having the familiar car seat your toddler is used to always feels worth it. It’s one less thing to worry about when navigating a new destination. Over the years, I’ve tried a few approaches, but here’s what’s worked best for us:
1. Gate Check for Convenience
We almost always bring the stroller and car seat through the airport and check them at the gate. This makes it so much easier to transport little kids and all the luggage. Plus, if you’re flying with a lap toddler, you’ll have the car seat with you in case there’s an empty seat on the flight. (Pro tip: Ask the airline staff at check-in or the gate—sometimes they’ll let you use the extra seat for free!)
2. Check at Baggage Drop
If you prefer traveling light in the terminal, you can check both at the counter when you first arrive. Babywearing is a lifesaver here, keeping your hands free and your little one cozy while you move through security and boarding.
3. Bring on Board
If your stroller folds small enough to fit in the overhead bin, you can bring it onboard. This isn’t always practical, but it’s a great option for those compact, lightweight travel strollers.
4. Rent at Your Destination
Some families swear by renting strollers or car seats at their destination. While I haven’t tried this, there are plenty of options online if you’re looking to pack light and skip bringing your own gear.
Stroller and Car Seat Packing Tips
To keep your gear clean and safe, invest in protective travel bags for your stroller and car seat. There are also padded versions if you want extra protection, especially for checked items. Just be sure to bag everything before boarding and grab a gate check tag in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
👉 These articles could also be interesting for you:
– How to Travel With a Toddler – Best Tips and Hacks
– 50 Must-Try Beach Activities for Kids of All Ages
– Ultimate Beach Packing List: Family Essentials
– Car, Plane, Train: The Perfect Travel with Toddler Checklist
In-Flight Survival: Keeping Your Toddler (and Yourself) Sane
Comfort Essentials
Plan for changing temperatures by dressing them in layers—planes can be chilly one minute and warm the next. Lightweight jackets or sweaters are easy to take off or put on as needed.
Ear pressure during takeoff and landing can be tough on little ones. Pack a pacifier, snacks, or a sippy cup to help them swallow and ease the discomfort. If they’re old enough, chewing gum or sucking on a lollipop works wonders too. I always have 2-4 lollipops in my bag. They are my emergency weapon.
Entertain, Entertain, Entertain
Keeping a toddler entertained on a flight takes a bit of planning and creativity. Start by packing a mix of entertainment—some favorite toys for comfort and a few new ones to spark excitement. Sticker books, magnetic boards, or small puzzles are fantastic options.
Here’s a good idea: wrap the new toys like little presents. Unwrapping them during the flight adds a layer of surprise and keeps your toddler engaged.
Sticker books are a huge hit with my girls. I hype them up days before the trip as something special, and then we bring them out during tricky moments—like long layovers or the endless wait to board.
Create a “Mary Poppins bag” filled with treats and toys your child doesn’t usually get at home. Things like slime, fidget toys, or a brand-new book can hold their attention for longer time. Give each child their own backpack packed with snacks, activities, and small toys. It keeps them busy and makes them feel in charge of their own fun!
While we use screens frequently on flights, we try to save them for when we really need them—like during long stretches or delays. Preload your toddler’s favorite shows and apps so they’re ready to go.
Toddler Travel Toys: Tried-and-True Favorites
Keeps toys, snacks, and activities in one place. It’s machine washable and prevents items from falling off. Ideal for long-haul flights or road trips, especially for toddlers who love playing with cars or blocks. Look for a tray with pockets for extra storage.
Engaging and screen-free, these books are perfect for flights, layovers, or car rides. Titles like Bluey Search and Find or Where’s Spot? keep little hands and eyes busy. Start with these before diving into screen time!
A mess-free way to draw and practice shapes or letters. Lightweight and perfect for the car, plane, or even restaurant wait times. Choose one with a clip-on pen to avoid losing it mid-trip.
4. Water Wow!
No-mess painting fun! These reusable water-filled brush books keep toddlers entertained without any cleanup. I wish I had known those earlier.
Lightweight and easy to carry, these reusable stickers are perfect for toddlers sitting in window seats. Create scenes, or just stick and peel.
Combines snack storage with a fun, spinning toy. Keeps snacks fresh and minimizes spills by only allowing access to one section at a time. Choose a spinner with a loop for attaching to bags or strollers.
Designed for toddlers aged 1-3, these books have push-and-pop buttons that are irresistibly fun and help develop fine motor skills. Ideal for toddlers who like hands-on toys but aren’t ready for screens.
Contained and portable, these tins come with magnetic pieces for building, creating scenes, or even practicing letters and numbers.
Combining coloring, stickers, and interactive pages, these books are great for long journeys. Options like Bluey Sticker and Activity Book or Melissa & Doug Sticker Pads are perfect for toddlers. My girls are the biggest fans of dress-up sticker books where they can choose what little ferries or ballerinas should wear.
Perfect for restaurants or planes, these reusable mats offer a creative distraction. Use washable markers or crayons for easy cleanup. You can also laminate free printables for a DIY version of a placemat.
11. Free Printables
Affordable and customizable! Print out coloring pages or activity sheets featuring your toddler’s favorite characters or themes.
Small and lightweight, these fidget toys are perfect for keeping little fingers busy. They’re quiet, mess-free, and entertaining.
Compact and educational, these mini puzzles or flashcards with magnetic pieces are perfect for toddlers who love matching and building.
14. Kid’s Tablet
The ultimate backup when all else fails. Preload it with toddler-friendly apps, games, and shows for screen time during long trips. Use kid-safe headphones for peace of mind (and quiet).
Soft, lightweight, and easy to pack, these blocks let toddlers build and play anywhere without taking up too much space.
Snacks Save the Day
Pack a variety to keep them happy and distracted during the trip. Some of our go-to options include fruit pouches, crackers, and granola bars—easy to eat and low on mess. Lollipops are my secret weapon for longer flights—they’re great for ear pressure during takeoff and landing and keep little mouths busy for ages. Don’t forget to bring a spill-proof cup for drinks and a reusable water bottle.
Handling Meltdowns
Meltdowns are part of flying with toddlers, but staying calm is your best strategy. Take a deep breath and remind yourself—it happens to everyone, and it’s not the end of the world. Use distractions to shift their focus. Pull out a favorite toy, offer a snack, or start a simple game like “I Spy.” Sometimes a quick walk down the aisle can help break the tension.
In our experience, we’ve found much more understanding from fellow passengers than we ever expected. Many have even tried to interact sweetly with our kids or help distract them. Some have shared their own stories of flying with babies and toddlers, reassuring us that they’ve been through the same thing.
I’ll never forget one long haul flight when I apologized to the passengers in front of us after Ruby, then one year old, had cried so much. Their response? “That’s what noise-canceling headphones are for! Anyone who still gets upset about a crying baby clearly has their own issues!” Moments like that remind me that most people are kinder than we think. Stay calm, and remember, you’re not alone in this!
Special Tips for Long-Haul Flights
Sleep Hacks
- Stick to Bedtime Routines
Try to replicate your toddler’s usual bedtime routine as much as possible. Change them into pajamas, read a favorite bedtime story, or play a soothing lullaby on a device with headphones. Familiar routines can signal to your little one that it’s time to sleep, even in a new setting. - Use Travel Pillows and Blankets
Bring a comfortable travel pillow and your toddler’s favorite blanket to make their own seat as cozy as possible. These familiar items can help them relax and drift off to sleep. - Block Out Light and Noise
Consider using a child-friendly sleep mask and soft, comfortable headphones or earplugs to minimize distractions from cabin lights and noises. This can create a more restful environment for your toddler. - Create a Comfy Space
If the airline allows, use an inflatable footrest to extend the seat and give your toddler more room to lie down. Always check with the airline beforehand, as some have restrictions on these devices.
Break It Up
Take short walks up and down the aisle whenever it’s safe to move. Let your toddler stretch their legs and explore a bit—they’ll love the change of scenery. If there’s space near the back of the plane, stop for a quick “wiggle break” to burn off some energy. These little moments of movement can prevent restlessness and make the long hours more manageable for everyone.
Divide and Conquer
My husband and I always work in shifts during international flights. One of us takes care of the toddler while the other gets a chance to truly relax—whether that’s enjoying a quiet meal, reading, or watching a movie. This system gives us both a chance to recharge, which means we have more energy and patience when it’s our turn with the little one. Each shift typically lasts about 90 minutes.
Adjusting After Landing
Landing can be tricky for toddlers, especially with the change in air pressure. To help, offer something for them to suck or chew on during the descent, like a pacifier, a sippy cup, or their favorite snack. For older toddlers, encourage them to drink from a bottle or straw, or try chewing gum if they’re ready for it.
After a long flight, toddlers are often cranky and overwhelmed. Be patient—it’s completely normal. Our first stop is always the hotel. The kids get to hop into the bathtub or the pool (depending on the time of day). Then, we all sit down for a meal together. This routine is the best way for us to keep everyone’s mood up after a long journey.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
Flying with a toddler is never going to be perfect—and that’s okay. Even when things go sideways, you’re creating memories you’ll cherish for years.
What always helps me is the thought that it gets easier with the little ones every year. One day, they’ll be teenagers, and we’ll be lucky if they even want to sit next to us on the plane!
Do you have your own toddler travel tips or funny stories? I’d love to hear them! Please share them in the comments below!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
FAQ About How to Travel With a Toddler on a Plane
Do airlines require a birth certificate for lap infants?
Yes, most airlines will ask for proof of your child’s age if they are traveling as a lap infant (under 2 years old). A birth certificate or passport is usually sufficient. It’s a good idea to check the specific airline’s policy before your travel day.
What does the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommend for flying with toddlers?
The FAA strongly recommends using an approved car seat or child restraint system for your toddler, as it provides added safety compared to holding them in your lap. Some airlines also allow seat extenders or inflatable devices but check their rules first.
How can I make diaper changes easier on a plane?
Most airplanes have changing tables in at least one of the lavatories. Bring a travel-sized diaper bag with only the essentials—diapers, wipes, and a disposable changing pad—to save space. Having an extra change of clothes for both you and your toddler is always a great idea in case of unexpected messes.
Are bassinets available on long-haul flights?
Many international airlines offer bassinet seats for infants, but availability is limited, and they’re typically assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. When booking your flight, it’s best to request one and confirm with the gate agent on travel day.
Is it worth paying extra for business class or first class with a toddler?
It depends on your budget and priorities. Business class or first class offers more space, better service, and a quieter environment, which can be helpful on longer flights. However, toddlers are unpredictable, so the added cost might not feel worth it if they’re restless. I also often heard that other business or first-class passengers have low acceptance of babies and toddlers. So it might be even more stressful.
How do I handle jet lag with a toddler?
To minimize jet lag, try adjusting your toddler’s schedule slightly in the days leading up to your flight. On arrival, expose them to natural light and stick to their usual bedtime routine as much as possible. Pack familiar comfort items like a blanket or stuffed animal for night flights.
Are travel strollers allowed as carry-on baggage?
Many airlines allow compact travel strollers as carry-on baggage if they fit in the overhead bin. Otherwise, you can gate-check your stroller.
Can I bring ice packs for keeping snacks fresh?
Yes, gel or ice packs are generally allowed in your carry-on as long as they’re frozen solid when passing through airport security.
Should I bring a booster seat for older children?
If your child has outgrown a car seat but isn’t ready for the airplane seat belt alone, a compact booster seat might be a good option. Some models are FAA-approved for air travel and can also be used in rental cars at your destination.
What’s the best time to fly with a toddler?
The best flight time varies by child, but I think that night flights or flights scheduled during naptime work well, at least for our girls.
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