Everything I wish someone had told me before 30,000 feet
Before I had kids, I used to see parents struggling with toddlers on airplanes and think, “That won’t be me. I’ll be prepared.”
Reader, it was me. It is all of us.
But after several flights with Kayden (including one memorable cross-country trip that I’ve mentally blocked out), I’ve learned some things. Consider this your field guide to surviving air travel with a tiny human who has big emotions.
The Week Before: Preparation is Everything
Pack Like You’re Going to War
Forget minimalist travel. You need:
- Snacks. More than you think. Then double it. Goldfish crackers have saved more flights than the FAA.
- Entertainment rotation. New small toys, sticker books, tablet fully charged with downloaded shows (download them, don’t rely on WiFi).
- Change of clothes. For them AND you. Trust me on this one.
- Headphones. Kid-sized ones for them, noise-canceling ones for your sanity.
Time the Flight Strategically
If possible:
- Nap time flights can work if your kid actually sleeps on planes (mine doesn’t, but apparently some do?)
- Early morning means they might be tired enough to chill
- Avoid the witching hour (4-7 PM) like the plague
At the Airport: The Pre-Game
TSA with a Toddler
Security is its own adventure:
- Wear slip-on shoes (for both of you)
- Have snacks accessible but sealed
- Gate-check the stroller if you’re using one
- Let them “help” put things in the bin-it takes longer but prevents meltdowns
Burn Energy Before Boarding
Find an open space. Let them run. Do NOT board early unless you absolutely need extra time-you want minimum time confined in that metal tube.
On the Plane: Survival Mode
The Ear Pressure Problem
Takeoff and landing can hurt little ears. Solutions:
- Sippy cup or bottle during ascent/descent
- Snacks that require chewing
- For older toddlers, exaggerated yawning games
The Entertainment Hierarchy
Deploy strategically:
- Window – Looking outside buys you 10-15 minutes
- Snacks – The great equalizer
- Sticker books – Low mess, high engagement
- New small toy – Save this for emergencies
- Screen time – The nuclear option. Use without guilt.
When Things Go Sideways
Because they will. And here’s what I’ve learned:
Your job is not to have a perfect flight. Your job is to get from A to B.
The businessman in 14C who’s sighing? He’ll survive. The flight attendant has seen worse. The parents three rows back? They’re rooting for you.
Do what you need to do. Walk the aisle. Let them watch the same Bluey episode four times. Hand out snacks like you’re Oprah.
The Secret Weapon: Narration
This sounds weird, but it works: narrate everything.
“Okay, now we’re taxiing. See how the plane is moving? We’re going to go fast and then UP into the sky!”
Toddlers fear the unknown. Making it a story makes it an adventure.
Post-Flight: Give Yourself Grace
You made it. The plane landed. Everyone survived.
Was it elegant? No. Was there probably a minor incident involving apple juice? Maybe. Did a stranger give you a look? Possibly.
But you did it. And that’s what matters.
My Go-To Flight Packing List
?? Snacks: Goldfish, fruit pouches, graham crackers, gummies
?? Entertainment: Tablet, headphones, sticker book, 2-3 small new toys
?? Comfort: Favorite stuffie, blanket if there’s room
?? Practical: Extra outfit (kid), extra shirt (you), wipes, plastic bags
?? Sanity: Your own headphones, phone charger, patience
Got a toddler travel tip I missed? Drop it in the comments-we’re all learning together.