PREP
I start packing a few days to a week beforehand, depending on the trip. I know that it might sound crazy, but it helps cut back on the stress of wondering what I’m forgetting, etc. I start laying out what I can, and then I make a list of things that I’ll need, but that I can’t pack beforehand - such as my son’s stuffed animals and sound machine.
I also start to get mentally prepared for the day. Traveling with younger kids might not be easy, but it can be manageable!
TIMING
Some children will sleep on planes, and therefore it works for some parents to fly early in the morning or later at night. My son won’t sleep on a plane or in a carseat unless he’s so tired he physically can’t keep his eyes open - so I try to fly in the middle of the day, after he’s had a good night sleep. He’s on a relatively set sleep schedule, and usually still naps - so during the travel day, we power through the no nap and then try and get him to bed at a reasonable time, either at his usual bedtime (if in the same time zone), or around the time we’d like him to adapt to if he’s in a new timezone. With all of the airport stimulation and the lack of a nap, he tends to get some sleep that night and after a day or two of waking him up at the desired time the next morning, we (knock on wood) haven’t had too much of an issue with jet jag. Check out my upcoming post on baby sleep for more on this!
STROLLERS
After gate checking a larger stroller a few times, I’ve found that it’s been helpful for me to have a stroller that folds up small enough to fit on a plane. No need to drop it off at the gate, or wait for it upon landing. There are many options, but we use the GB Pockit - they usually ask to tag it when we board, but I let them know that it folds up small enough to go under the seat or in the overhead compartment, even on the smallest planes.
If you’re going to gate check, every airline has different stroller policies, so make sure to Google them before you leave! American Airlines seems to be the most strict about weight limits of gate checked strollers. If you’re going to check a stroller, I recommend using a padded bag - or wrapping your stroller in in a blanket in a gate check bag.
As a side note - my son is now at the age where he wants to walk (run) on his own, and that can be stressful. I try to find safe places he can run before getting on the plane, like at an empty gate!
CARSEATS
When it comes to traveling with a carseat, the age of your child can help determine what’s best.
For babies and infants up to approximately one year old, the Doona was one of the best products ever. It goes from car or plane seat to stroller with the click of one button. We were so sad when Max grew out of his.
Now, we like to use the Cosco Scenera Next. Weighing only 6.8 lbs, I can easily carry the it through the airport if I don’t want to check it, alone or in a carseat bag - and it’s very easy to install in any car. It’s currently $50-$60 at Walmart depending on the color you’d like. It’s convertible and best for children over the age of 1.
Another option for kids (if they’re ready to be front facing) is the WayB Pico. This carseat folds down and fits in a suitcase, and it’s easier to bring along if you’re going to be taking taxis or Ubers. The install is also quick and easy. It’s significantly more expensive, but a great, compact option that fits in both airline seats and carseats.
TOYS & SNACKS
When it comes to toys and snacks, what is going to keep his attention is a crapshoot. I try to bring a few Matchbox Cars or other small inexpensive toys that he’s never seen before, and we’ve had some success with WikkiStix. If you want to buy yourself even more time, you can wrap them in wrapping paper for your kids() to open!
I also always bring lots of simple snacks like lollipops, crackers and dried fruit. Bento boxes can also be a great way to contain snacks, give your child options, and make it fun for them to choose. Most airports also have water bottle filling stations past security, so don’t forget your child’s water bottle!
Depending on your child’s age, and your comfort level, charge up your tablet and make sure there’s a few activities or shows available to you. We like Kiddopia, ABCMouse and toddler puzzles (where the child drags a shape into the appropriate slot). Most airlines will let you use your own device for free entertainment, as well - but you’ll need to have appropriate children’s headphones on hand. We use BuddyPhones, which are volume limiting for safety purposes, and come with stickers for your child to decorate them (and a carrying bag).
ZIPLOCKS!
I always bring a few Ziplock bags - they come in handy in unexpected ways. They’re great to hold half-eaten snacks, trash (like snotty tissues, etc) until it can be thrown away, or a stinky diaper if you don’t want to smell up the airline bathroom. On this note, it’s also helpful to bring changing table liners, as airports and airline bathrooms can be extra dirty.
