# Packing And Timing That Actually Works When Flying With Toddlers

- Link: https://lifeandwork.blog/packing-and-timing-that-actually-works-when-flying-with-toddlers/
- Published: 2026-08-03T06:44:55-05:00
- Author: Bert Swope

Imagine seeing a child’s eyes light up with joy at watching their hand-made airplane
fly across the room! Such engaging creative play is irreplaceable in an era where
kids spend most of their time staring at screens.

Toddlers will love this flight-themed board book with its catchy rhymes. Plus, early
learning benefits from its promotion of vocabulary development and motor skill acquisition!

## 1. Pack Your Bags Early

Plan ahead when traveling with children! Pack your bags early, as well as providing
everyone with change of clothes should an unexpected incident arise. Roll or fold
clothing rather than stuffing it in to save space and reduce creases that could 
make long flights uncomfortable.

One useful tip is bringing extra snacks for longer flights, since plane food might
not appeal to your children. Furthermore, bring activities that your children might
enjoy like crayons, paper and stickers or books – these could all come in handy 
during their flight experience!

If possible, it’s wise to arrange your layovers through airports that offer hotel
rooms within their terminal. This will give you time for rest before and after each
flight, while possibly helping children adjust to new time zones more easily. And
keep in mind that most airplane passengers understand when traveling with kids!

## 2. Don’t Overdo It

Pack only essentials when traveling with toddlers – make sure your carry-on bag 
contains diapers, wipes, food, water and extra clothing – bring any new or rarely-
used toys that may keep them engaged during flight. If possible bring something 
that has not been played with for some time – they might find this fun!

Mindful of how hungry and thirsty children may become during a flight, ensure you
feed them prior to boarding and throughout the trip – don’t rely solely on in-flight
meals as these may not meet your child’s dietary requirements.

Finally, don’t be shy to seek assistance when caring for your children during flight
and on the ground. While fellow passengers might stare and judge you for this behavior,
remember your main goal should be ensuring their safety and happiness on this journey–
something a travelling helper can help with more easily than you alone!

## 3. Keep It Simple

Keep your children entertained on an airplane can be difficult and stressful for
parents, particularly when faced with an unhappy toddler or baby. Remembering these
moments will pass quickly is key; bring snacks, hand sanitizer, wipes for changing
diapers and surface cleaners for long flights as well as potty accidents, bathroom
breaks or food and liquid spills may occur on board the plane.

Bring activities that are quick to set up and easy to clean after use, such as magnetic
games or erasable coloring books for maximum entertainment on board your plane.

Finally, when flying with children it can be helpful to bring along a helper as 
part of the trip. This gives both parents a break while still being accessible for
your child – just make sure everyone involved understands who their responsibilities
will be in advance!

## 4. Make It Fun

Are You Judging the Parents Who Board With Children on Flights? I know, it can be
distressing seeing little ones sitting close to or next to us on long flights – 
especially with young ones that act up or just seem bored and unruly!

Prep ahead with snacks and activities to keep your toddler engaged during a flight.
A compartmentalized plastic box can help organize snacks such as granola bars, nuts,
raisins and more in an accessible fashion; adding crayons, magnetic play or coloring
books could also prove helpful in keeping their attention.

Bring along books, stickers or activity books for your child to keep them occupied
during takeoff and landing to alleviate their ear pressure changes, while water 
can help ensure dehydration is avoided on your journey.

Arrive early at the airport so you can breeze through check in, security screening
and boarding without hassle or risking missing your flight. Doing this allows you
to keep an eye on your schedule without risking being late for your flight!

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