Hello, brave parents! If you’re reading this, you’re likely preparing for the terrifying adventure of flying with a toddler. Fear not! I’ve got the ultimate survival guide to help you navigate the friendly skies with your pint-sized co-pilot. I had to do it with my 1 and a half year old and it was a 14 hour trip to South Africa, Yes I know your wondering how I survived 14 hours, well these are the things that honestly made such a difference:
NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES:
This is my Number 1 most recommended essential, it truly saved me when we were landing and lifting off. Ensure they have it on when you lift off and land, and yes they will try pull it off but try keep them distracted. I highly recommend you do not fall asleep when landing, I was asleep with Ava when we landed and I severely regret it. She screamed so badly for what felt like 2 hours.
Noise cancelling headphones I got on Amazon below:
THE SNACK SACK:
When it comes to toddlers, snacks are non-negotiable. I mean lets just be honest, plane food is not great for us, and so no its not great for toddlers especially the fussy Gordan Ramsay’s of the family so having food pouches and multiple snacks can be great when flying with toddlers. Keep them fed and you might just maintain some peace and sanity.
TIP: Pack a variety of snacks – sweet, savoury, crunchy, and chewy. Be sure to include some favourites and a few new treats to surprise them.
TOYS AND GADGETS:
Your toddler’s attention span is shorter than the in-flight safety demonstration. Keeping them occupied is key to keeping your sanity. I packed some favourites and some new toys that she had not yet seen, it really helped keep her busy. Depending on your toddlers age and interests it may be a good idea to pack in the interactive gadgets like the tablet, with headphones. Just FYI for flying with a toddler, they will likely spend more time playing with the barf bag than the expensive toy you bought.
Links below for the toys that I got: ( do not let them see these toys until you are on the plane)
PORTABLE POTTY OR DIAPER BAG:
Whether potty-trained or not, bathroom logistics are a critical part of air travel. Avoiding in-flight accidents is the goal, but be prepared for anything.
TIP: If potty-trained, a portable potty seat is great. For diaper users, pack more than you think you’ll need, along with wipes and a change of clothes. Its better to over pack then to under pack. Just as the seatbelt sign illuminates for turbulence, that’s when your toddler will decide they absolutely need the bathroom. Ava was still in nappies at the time which is so much easier when you’re travelling.
COMFORT ITEMS
A familiar blanket or stuffed animal can be a lifesaver in unfamiliar environments, that’s if your child has one. Traveling can be stressful so having their comfort item nearby can really help soothe them. You’ll spend half the flight ensuring Mr. Fluffy doesn’t end up lost in the aisle or, worse, the airplane bathroom. I was lucky enough to have a toddler that was not really attached to anything besides her thumb.
TIP: Make sure their comfort item is easily accessible. You need to pack strategically, pack the things of most importance on top, like the items you will need when you get in the plane.
CONCLUSION:
Maintaining a sense of humour, living for the moment and having patience is the best piece of advice I can give you, If you can’t laugh about certain situations you might just cry and then it wont just be your toddler having a meltdown. Go with the flow. Expect delays, spills, and meltdowns. If you stay calm, your toddler is more likely to stay calm too.
Remember, every adventure (and misadventure) is a story to tell. So buckle up, embrace the journey, and know that you’re creating memories – the good, the bad, and the hilariously messy.
Safe travels, and may your toddler’s screams be few and your snacks be many!
Happy flying!
Excellent advisce#
Well done!!
This is going to be so helpful for so many mommies. Brilliant 💖