23 Proven Tips for Flying with Young Children: Expert Advice from a Seasoned Mom

Flying with young children often feels daunting—navigating security, keeping them seated and content for hours—but with preparation and the right mindset, you can manage it successfully and even enjoy the experience. As a mother with extensive travel experience, supplemented by insights from five top parenting bloggers, here are 23 practical, battle-tested tips.

Before the Flight

1. Long-haul flights? Two key strategies: Book early for bulkhead seats, offering space for kids to play on the floor without aisle interference. Also, pre-order children's meals—airlines like KLM serve kid-friendly options (e.g., chicken nuggets, mac and cheese) first, often with activity bags.

2. Passports: Required for all ages, even infants. Passport photos with babies can be challenging!

3. Car seat bags: Invest in or borrow one to protect your car seat, check it free, and pack extras like diapers or toys (though airlines may limit additions).

4. Ziplock bags: Organize carry-ons for food, electronics, clothes, and toys to keep everything clean and accessible.

5. Baby carrier: Essential if not buying a seat; frees hands while keeping baby secure.

6. Muslin swaddle blankets: Lightweight, versatile for snuggling, seat covers, or picnics.

At the Airport

7. Curb-side check-in: Ideal for car seats, strollers, or pack-n-plays to enter baggage-free.

8. Airport as a playground: Let kids burn energy pre-boarding (some airports have play areas), though balance to avoid overstimulation.

9. Allow extra time: Triple pre-kid buffer—3-4 hours door-to-board.

10. Security essentials: Bring baby food, formula, etc. (subject to screening). Kids keep shoes on; use family lanes or TSA PreCheck.

11. Early boarding: Settle in, organize, sanitize, and connect with crew.

12. Empty seats: Politely ask for extra space, especially off-peak; enabled car seat use for one flight.

Takeoff

13. Timing for ears: Wait until runway acceleration for nursing/bottles to avoid delays.

14. Lollipops: For older kids; options include organic or sugar-free to ease pressure.

In-Flight

15. Screen time: Relax rules briefly for peace—iPads work wonders.

16. Headphones: Prevent soundtrack bleed for fellow passengers.

17. Deodorant in carry-on: Combat travel sweat.

18. Creative toys: Household items like tape, straws spark imagination longer than expected.

19. Bedtime routine: Replicate at bedtime flights for comfort.

20. Diaper changes: Use plane tables or disposable pads; nighttime diapers add protection.

21. Wipes: Multi-purpose for sanitation.

22. Layers and spares: Extra clothes for all handle spills or accidents.

Overall Mindset

23. Embrace excitement: Kids' wonder reminds us flying is magical. Stay calm, proactive—passengers appreciate efforts. You're giving your children the world.

A Bloody Mary can help too!