Flying with Toddlers: What You Need to Know Ahead of Time

Traveling with a toddler can be a challenge especially when flying with your children over a busy travel period such as Christmas, Thanksgiving or spring break. Most of the airlines are struggling to make a profit and have cut back on such extras as children’s meals or other special services, so it’s often a little harder to keep a toddler occupied and happy, especially if you are not prepared.

Be sure to check in at the airport with plenty of time before your flight departs. Flying with a toddler is going to slow you down a little at the ticket counter and the security checkpoint. You do not want to be rushed, as this can likely be stressful for both you and your child. Most airlines still offer pre-boarding to those who need it, including anyone traveling with a small child. Take this option if it is available because it gives you a chance to board the plane and get settled in before the cabin becomes crowded.

Nobody likes delays; and if you are flying with a toddler, they can be even more tiring. Plan for unexpected delays and pack accordingly. Most airport restrooms offer changing facilities for babies, but they can become crowded and cramped to use. Be sure to bring along toys and books to occupy your children, both at the airport and on the plane. A portable DVD player is a wonderful investment; most children can watch quietly for hours or at least until the battery runs out.

Take off and landing can be scary and uncomfortable for a small child as the changes in cabin pressure can cause their ears to hurt. Make sure that your child has something to eat or drink; this can help make them feel more comfortable. A baby should be given a pacifier to suck on, which not only helps to minimize the popping of the ears, but also has a soothing effect.

If you are flying with children, seating is especially important. The farther ahead you book your flight, the better chance you have of getting seats together, although contrary to popular belief, pre-reserved seats are never actually guaranteed. If you are unable to get seats together, arrive at the airport a little bit earlier and ask at check in – airlines block certain seats up until flight time, which they then give out to families traveling with small children, disabled passengers and last minute bookings.

If your toddler is under two years of age, you do not have to purchase a seat for him or her, although if you do not, the child may have to sit on your lap unless there is an empty seat next to you. It may be worth paying for the extra seat, based on the cost and the length of the flight. Check with your airline to see if there is a children’s fare; if you are booking your ticket online, this is not always apparent.

If possible, try to get seats on the front row (the bulkhead) if you are traveling with a toddler. These seats have several advantages and they are often close to the lavatories and offer a good view of the movie screen. With no seat in front of you, children can stretch out their feet and they may even fall asleep. Many long international flights depart at night making it easier to adhere to normal sleep times.

Airlines have cut back on serving meals in order to save money and even if you are served a meal, there is no guarantee your child is going to enjoy it. Pack some healthy snacks in sealed plastic bags, including such things as granola bars, raisins and pretzels. Depending on the age of your child, some warm milk or formula is a good idea too; do not assume that the airline can provide you with these items.

Your carryon bag should also contain enough spare diapers and wipes to last for the duration of your flight, as well as enough to use in the event of a delay. Try to organize the items for your child in an easy to locate fashion, this can help make it much easier to find a diaper if the need arises. It is also a good idea to have your carryon bag under the seat in front of you rather than overhead, for easier access.

So if you are reluctant to fly with your toddler, think again. With some planning, a little bit of patience and a spare battery for that DVD player, the experience can be an enjoyable one. When flying with a toddler, a delay in the flight can be very stressful. If you bring enough toys or games to keep your child busy, you can have a stress free trip.

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