Top tips for flying with a toddler

See my hints and tips for flying with a toddler

• Take lots of toys to keep them entertained. New ones are likely to keep them busier for longer. See my separate post on my most recommended toys. 
• Take a pack up and lots and lots of snacks.
• Pack like a pro - use packing cubes in your hand luggage (as well as your hold luggage) so you can have handy "grab bags" for nappies, wipes and travel change mat then another one for a change of clothes, another for snacks etc.
• If your child is newly potty trained, consider using a "special" travel nappy - ensure you tell them this is just for the plane and is a special nappy (similar to when you are still putting them in a nappy for bedtime). This will save all sorts of problems, particularly if the seatbelt sign is on and you aren't allowed to go to the toilet.
• Check what your airline allows you to bring extra for children on the flight - most airlines I have flown allow two additional pieces to check into the hold (like a pushchair and car seat).
• Buy a protective bag for any of the child items you are checking into the hold. We have one for the pram and one for the car seat.
• Attempt to tire your toddler out in the airport beforehand so they don't want to burn off any excess energy on the flight and will be more likely to be happy sat in their seat. 
• Try and encourage them to drink something during take off and landing to help ease the air pressure discomfort - I've seen other people recommend a lolly but realistically you don't want to add sugar to this situation!
• Get a trunki (or equivalent) for the airport and for their plane items - it kept O entertained throughout.
• You may get priority boarding but the least time onboard stuck in a seat the better so I try and board last (unless it works around timing for a nap).
• Choose the Right Time to Fly - Try to book flights that align with your toddler’s schedule. Early morning flights are usually less crowded and tend to have fewer delays. Alternatively, a flight during your toddler’s nap time or in the evening can help them sleep through part of the journey.
• Book a Direct Flight or Plan for Layovers - Whenever possible, book direct flights to minimize travel time and reduce the chance of delays. If a direct flight isn't an option, consider scheduling longer layovers so your toddler has time to stretch, run around, and take a break from sitting.