If you’re flying with a toddler soon and are worried about allllll the things, breathe. You’ve got this 💪
The thought of being stuck in a confined space with loads of strangers and your tiny human can feel overwhelming. But it’s rarely as bad as you think it’ll be. And with a few smart hacks? You might even enjoy it. (Okay, “enjoy” might be a stretch, but you’ll definitely survive it).
Here’s everything I’ve learned from flying with a toddler.
✈️ Double nappies on flights.
Seriously. Two nappies, one on top of the other. It makes things SO easy if you have to navigate that tiny airplane loo with a wriggly toddler.
✈️ Teething gel only works if it’s actually IN your bag
Not in the suitcase you checked in. Not at home on the kitchen counter. IN. YOUR. BAG. The second you’re in the air, those gums will start hurting and you’ll be thanking past-you for remembering it.
Ashton Parsons Teething Powder is the BEST I’ve found that works for Roman.
I dip the Matchstick Monkeys head in the powder and let Roman chew away!
✈️ One silicone bib is all you need
Forget packing seven cloth bibs that’ll end up soggy and gross. One good silicone bib. Wipe it clean with a baby wipe. Done. Less stuff… less stress.
This Moonkie silicone bib has been round the world with us and still looks brand new.
✈️ My nappy formula: one per two hours + two spares
This has literally never failed me. Count your travel time, divide by two, add two extras!
✈️ Board early for luggage space, board LAST with active toddlers
If your toddler is a runner, a climber, a tray table latch loving “sit still for 0.5 seconds” kind of kid? Board LAST. Let everyone else get settled, then swoop in at the last minute. Less time strapped in a seat means less meltdown potential.
✈️ Landing hurts little ears
Milk, snacks, a dummy, a pouch – literally anything they can suck or chew will help with the pressure. Have it ready BEFORE descent starts.
I always pack a spinny snack wheel full of chewy and crunchy options (fruit, cheese, crackers) Romans face lights up as soon as I get it out.
✈️ Fly as close to nap time if you can
I mean, we can’t always control flight times, but if you CAN? Book that flight around nap time. A sleeping toddler makes for a peaceful flight. End of story. Oh and always book the window for extra back support!
✈️ ALWAYS take that GHIC card
That’s the UK Global Health Insurance Card for anyone wondering. Just pop it in your bag. Hope you never need it, but you’ll be so glad it’s there if you do.
✈️ Flight attendants are literal angels. Use them.
Need help? Ask. Need the loo? Ask. Need someone to hold your baby while you wrestle a nappy bag out of the overhead locker? ASK. They’ve seen it all and most of them are SO lovely.
✈️ Ask at check-in for an empty seat. Sometimes magic happens ✨
“Hi, are there any empty seats near us?” That’s it. That’s the question. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and get an extra seat for your toddler to sprawl across. Worth a shot every single time!!
✈️ Pack a few new little toys or snacks they’ve never seen
This can buy you at LEAST 20 minutes of peace. Hide them until you desperately need them. A Pringle box is my go to when I run out of options!
Roman is just obsessed with this switch and light sensory busy board!
These Melissa & Doug Water Wow books are mess-free, reusable, and absolutely amazing on long flights.
✈️ A good changing bag makes ALL the difference
You need something compact for airport loos but with good compartments, easy access, and ideally clips onto your stroller handle.
I use this one from Tiba & Marl and honestly can’t imagine life without it now.
✈️ Chat to your seat neighbours
A quick smile, a “sorry in advance if it gets a bit loud,” goes such a long way. Most people are SO much more understanding when you’ve been warm and human with them. And if your toddler does have a moment, you’ve already broken the ice.
✈️ Toddlers cry sometimes. You’re not a bad parent.
You are not a bad parent if your toddler cries on a plane. It’s literally what toddlers do. They’re little humans with big feelings and zero coping mechanisms. You’re doing your best. That’s enough.
✈️ Feeling overwhelmed? Head to the loo for a minute.
Take a breath. Calm mama, calm baby.
Safe travels. You’ve absolutely got this!🤍
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