Flying with a toddler might sound daunting, but trust me, it can be a fun and memorable experience with the right preparation. As a mum who’s travelled with an 18-month-old, I’ve gathered plenty of tips and tricks to make the journey smoother for you and your little one. From navigating airport security to keeping your toddler entertained on the plane, here’s your ultimate guide to flying with a baby or toddler.

Preparing for the Airport: Security Checks

Navigating Security with Ease

Airport security can be stressful, but knowing what to expect makes it easier. When traveling with a baby, you can bring more liquids through security than usual. This includes baby food, formula, breast milk, and juice. These items are typically screened separately, so pack them in easily accessible bags.

Prepare Your Documents: Have your boarding passes and ID ready. Some airports may require a copy of your child’s birth certificate or passport, so keep those handy.

Baby Food and Milk: You’re allowed to bring baby food, milk, and other liquids through security, but they may need to be screened separately. Declare these items at the security checkpoint.

Remove Items from the Pram: Before you reach the security belt, take your baby out of the pram and fold it up. Most airports have special lanes for families, making this process a bit easier.

Wear Slip-On Shoes: This makes it quicker for you to get through the security check, as you’ll likely have your hands full with your toddler.

Separate the Liquids: Place all baby liquids in a clear plastic bag and inform the security personnel.

Stroller and Car Seat: You’ll need to collapse your stroller and send it through the X-ray machine. Car seats also need to be scanned, so have your baby in a carrier if possible.

Metal Detectors: You might be asked to carry your baby through the metal detector. It’s straightforward but always ask for help if you need it.

Security lines can be long and boring for little ones. Here are a few tips to keep them entertained:

Ride-On Suitcases: These are lifesavers. They’re fun for kids to ride and easy for parents to pull.

Pram: If your toddler enjoys the pram, use it for as long as possible. It’s also handy for carrying your bags and other items.

Snacks and Toys: Keep some small snacks and a couple of toys handy to distract them during the wait.

Baby Carrier: Wearing your baby can free up your hands and help them feel secure during the chaos of security checks.

Surviving the Wait: Keeping Kids Entertained

Fun at the Airport

Once you’re through security, there’s usually a bit of a wait before boarding. Here are some ways to keep your toddler entertained:

Exploring: Let your little one burn off some energy by exploring the terminal. Many airports have play areas specifically for children.

Watching Planes: Find a window with a good view of the runway. Kids love watching planes take off and land.

Snacks: Bring a variety of snacks to keep them occupied. Healthy options like fruit, cheese sticks, and crackers are great.

Screen Time: If you’re okay with it, a tablet or phone with their favourite shows or apps can be a real lifesaver.

Boarding: Timing Is Everything

Not Too Soon, Not Too Late

When it comes to boarding, timing is crucial. Many airlines allow families with young children to board early, while it might be tempting to get settled early, boarding last can actually be a better strategy. This way, your child has more time to move around the terminal, and you spend less time confined on the plane.

Board Last: Boarding early might sound appealing, but waiting until the last call means less time confined in the plane before take-off. Let your toddler run around and burn off some energy in the terminal.

Stroller at the Gate: If you’ve brought your pram to the gate, make sure to get a gate check tag for it. You can use it until the moment you board, which can be a lifesaver.

Take-off and Landing: Managing Ear Pressure and Seat Belts

Easing Ear Pressure

Take-off and landing can be uncomfortable for little ones due to changes in air pressure. Here’s how to help:

Nursing or Bottle: Feeding your baby during take-off and landing can help equalize ear pressure.

Pacifiers: If your child uses a pacifier, encourage them to suck on it during these times.

Sippy Cups: For older toddlers, drinking from a sippy cup or straw can also help.

Chewable Snacks: Older toddlers can munch on snacks like fruit snacks or crackers, which encourages swallowing

Seat Belts and Safety

Children under two can travel on your lap, but they must be secured with an infant seat belt during take-off and landing. Here are a few tips:

Practice at Home

Comfort Them: Bring their favorite comfort item, whether it’s a blanket or a stuffed animal, to make the transition smoother.

Stay Calm: Keep your composure; your calmness will help your child adjust more easily.

In-Flight Entertainment: Keeping Your Toddler Engaged

Be Creative and Prepared

A well-prepared mum who knows the secret to a smooth flight is a happy, entertained toddler. Here’s how to keep your little one busy:

Toys and Gadgets: Pack a variety of toys that your toddler loves. Consider introducing a few new ones that they haven’t seen before to spark interest.

Walks Up and Down the Aisle: When the seatbelt sign is off, take short walks up and down the aisle. It’s a great way to stretch and keep your toddler engaged.

Interactive Games: Simple games like peek-a-boo, pat-a-cake, or finger puppets can be a hit.

Tablet with Headphones: Load up a tablet with your toddler’s favorite shows, movies, and games. Make sure to bring child-friendly headphones.

Sleeping on the Plane: Creating a Cozy Space

Comfortable Sleep Solutions

Helping your toddler sleep on the plane can be a game-changer. Here’s how to set up a comfy sleep environment:

On-Board Bassinet: If your airline offers bassinets, reserve one early. They’re usually available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Inflatable Seat Beds: These can turn your seat into a makeshift bed, giving your toddler a flat surface to sleep on.

Blankets and Covers: Bring a familiar blanket and some lightweight covers to shade the light. A cozy, familiar environment can help your toddler relax and fall asleep.

Feeding on the Flight: Snacks and Meals

Packing the Right Food

Feeding your toddler on a plane can be tricky, but with some planning, you can ensure they’re well-fed and happy:

Nursing: If you’re nursing, bring a cover if you prefer privacy. Nursing can also help soothe your toddler during takeoff and landing.

Baby Food and Milk: Pack enough baby food and milk for the journey, plus a little extra in case of delays. Most airlines allow you to bring these items through security.

Snacks: Bring a variety of your toddler’s favourite snacks. Small, non-messy snacks like cereal, fruit slices, and cheese sticks work well.

Hydration: Make sure your toddler drinks plenty of water. Airplane cabins can be very dehydrating.

Hygiene: Keeping Things Clean

Keeping your toddler clean and comfortable on a plane is crucial. Here’s how to handle hygiene:

Nappy Changing: Familiarize yourself with the location of the changing tables on the plane. Bring a compact changing pad and all necessary supplies.

Cleansing Wipes: Pack plenty of wet wipes for quick clean-ups. They’re essential for everything from nappy changes to wiping down tray tables.

Hand Sanitizer: Keep a small bottle of hand sanitiser handy for cleaning your hands and your toddler’s.

Packing Essentials: What to Bring

Must-Have Items for the Flight

Packing smart can make a world of difference. Here’s a checklist of essential items to bring:

Nappies: Pack more than you think you’ll need. Delays happen, and you don’t want to run out.

Wet Wipes: For everything from nappy changes to sticky hands.

Spare Clothes: Bring at least one spare outfit for your toddler and a shirt for yourself in case of spills or accidents.

Toys: A mix of old favourites and new surprises.

Snacks: Variety is key. Pack enough to last the entire journey and then some.

Managing Nappy Changes and Cleanliness

Blanket and Comfort Items: A familiar blanket and any comfort items (like a favourite stuffed animal) can help soothe your toddler.

Layovers and Transfers: Navigating the Stops

Handling Layovers with Ease

Layovers can be challenging, but with some preparation, they can be manageable:

Pram at Layovers: Use your pram if possible. It’s a lifesaver for navigating large airports and gives your toddler a place to rest.

Entertainment: Have a few new toys or activities ready to keep your toddler engaged during the wait.

Snacks and Meals: Plan for meals during layovers. Airports often have kid-friendly options, but it’s good to have backup snacks.

Waking Up Your Toddler: If your toddler falls asleep in the pram, you may need to wake them up for security checks or boarding. Try to do this gently to avoid meltdowns.

Transfers and Wake-Ups

Sometimes you’ll need to wake your sleeping child for security checks or transfers:

Be Prepared: Have everything ready before waking them. This minimizes the time they’re awake and cranky.

Gentle Wake-Up: Wake your child gently and give them time to adjust. A favourite toy or comfort item can help ease the transition.

Pram Management: For quick transitions, keep your pram accessible. If it’s checked in, ask about borrowing a pram at the airport.

Prams: To Check-In or Carry-On?

Pram Policies

Each airline has different policies regarding prams. Here’s what you need to know:

Check-In Pram: Most airlines allow you to check in your pram for free. You can usually keep it until you reach the gate, where it will be tagged and stowed away.

Carry-On Pram: Some compact prams can be carried on board and stored in the overhead bin. This can be a lifesaver during layovers and at your destination.

Airport Prams: Many airports provide prams for use within the terminal. Check with airport services upon arrival. Many larger airports offer loaner prams free of charge. Here’s what you need to know:

Availability: Check in advance if the airport provides prams and where to find them.

Convenience: Using an airport-provided pram can be a great backup if you decide to check yours in.

Choosing the Right Pram

Selecting the right pram for air travel is essential:

Lightweight and Foldable: A lightweight pram that folds easily is ideal for travel. It should be easy to maneuver through airport crowds and fit into tight spaces.

Durable: Air travel can be rough on prams. Choose one that is sturdy enough to withstand some bumps and knocks.

Comfortable for the Child: Ensure the pram has a comfortable seat and adequate support for your child, especially if they’ll be spending a lot of time in it.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Journey

Dealing with Jet Lag

Travelling across time zones can be challenging for both you and your toddler. Here’s how to minimize jet lag:

Gradual Adjustment: If possible, start adjusting your child’s schedule a few days before your trip.

Exposure to Natural Light: Once you arrive, spend as much time outside as possible. Natural light helps reset the body’s internal clock.

Stick to Routine: Try to maintain your child’s regular bedtime routine, even if it’s adjusted to the new time zone.

Health and Safety

Ensuring your child’s health and safety during travel is paramount:

Visit the Paediatrician: Have a check-up before your trip and discuss any concerns with your pediatrician. Ensure your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date.

First Aid Kit: Pack a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications.

Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts and local medical facilities at your destination.

Handling Tantrums

Tantrums are a part of toddler life, and they can happen during travel. Here’s how to handle them:

Stay Calm: Your calmness will help diffuse the situation.

Distraction Techniques: Have a few tricks up your sleeve, like a new toy or a favourite snack. Comfort and Reassure: Hold and comfort your child, reassuring them that everything is okay.

Comfort Items

Don’t forget the little things that provide comfort and familiarity:

Favourite Toy or Blanket: Bring along a beloved toy or blanket to provide a sense of security.

Night Light: If your child uses a night light at home, bring a portable one for the flight and your destination.

Documentation and Identification

Ensure you have all the necessary documents for both you and your child:

Passports: Make sure they’re valid and up-to-date.

Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa for your destination and apply well in advance.

Birth Certificate: Some airlines require proof of age for lap infants.

Staying Calm and Positive

Traveling with a toddler can be stressful, but staying calm and positive can make a big difference:

Stay Relaxed: Your child will pick up on your stress. Stay calm, and remind yourself that it’s okay if things don’t go perfectly.

Accept Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from flight attendants or fellow passengers. Most people are understanding and happy to assist.

Be Flexible: Things might not go exactly as planned. Be prepared to adapt and go with the flow.

Preparation is Key: Being well-prepared can make a huge difference. With the right planning and mindset, flying with your toddler can be a fun and rewarding adventure.

Enjoy the Journey

Remember, the journey is part of the adventure. Make it enjoyable for your toddler:

Make Memories: Take lots of photos and make a travel journal with your child. This can turn travel into a fun and memorable experience.

Explore Together: Use layovers and delays as opportunities to explore new places, even if it’s just the airport.

Celebrate Small Wins: Celebrate every small victory, whether it’s a smooth security check or a successful nappy change in a tiny aeroplane bathroom.

Final thoughts:

Remember, every family’s experience will be different. What works for one might not work for another. But with these tips, you’re well on your way to making your flight as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment of your journey!

Flying with a toddler might seem overwhelming, but with a bit of preparation and a positive attitude, it can be a wonderful experience. From navigating airport security to keeping your little one entertained and comfortable during the flight, each step of the journey is manageable with the right tips and tricks.

Take a look at our Australia Travel Guide page for all the inspiration and information you need to kickstart your travels and hit the road more frequently!