travel hacks for flying with baby

57 hacks for traveling with a baby/toddler on long-haul flights

You want to travel on a long haul flight of about 6.5hr for business or to go see some relatives.

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You have a baby or a toddler you need to take along.

You are worried. You don’t know how your little one will behave on the flight.

You’ve witnessed some scenarios where kids cried on planes and the embarrassment and dirty looks moms of such kids received.

You just don’t want to be in that situation.

I understand your fears.

Traveling with a baby/toddler on long-haul flights can be a daunting task. Just thinking about the journey can make your heart race. This is because it is difficult to control babies and toddlers on a flight. But if your family is international, it means flying is a large part of keeping in touch with family members or if your job involves a lot of traveling, you may need to go with your baby. But you don’t have to panic, especially when some people are not warm to screaming kids on a plane.

Whether you are planning to take your 10-month-old baby, a 1 year or two-year-old toddler on long-haul flights, you can make it enjoyable and memorable. Below are 100 hacks for traveling with a baby to help you out.

But before then, let’s take a look at “ when can babies fly long-distances “. Because a lot of parents are not sure when to take their babies on a long haul flight.

How soon can you travel with a newborn?

Many people want to know when the right time to travel with a newborn child is. The truth is, if the baby is healthy, you can travel at two days old. However, some airlines stipulate two weeks old, which is also good, especially for first time moms.  So check with your doctor and your airline to make sure you can travel with your baby.

If your baby is born prematurely, count from the date the baby was supposed to be born to know when to travel. For instance, if you gave birth to the baby at 8 months old. Ensure that the baby is at least 1 month+ before you travel.

If you deliver your baby through the caesarian section, it will take you about a month and two weeks to travel. You can also check with your doctor to ensure everything is okay before you travel.

It is good to wait for a few weeks before flying to ensure that you understand your baby before you fly together.

Can a 2-month-old baby travel on a plane?

Like it is discussed above, you can fly with your babies, however, it is not fun. Especially for a 2-month-old on a plane. But some parents have cogent reasons to travel. This stage of their lives is laden with unpredictable sleeping and nap schedules. They can be fussy or colic at any time and it is hard on parents and other passengers alike, especially if it a long haul flight.

If you are a first time mom, it is likely that you become stressed and you may still be recovering from childbirth. But not to worry, the hacks below will help to make the trip less tiring, endurable and enjoyable. Lol.

Flying with a newborn before vaccinations

You need to take precautions while flying with a newborn before vaccinations. In fact, you may need to avoid going to the part of the world where they can be exposed to diseases they are too young to get vaccinations for. For instance, babies younger than 2 months cannot take anti-malaria tablets and babies less than 6 months cannot receive vaccination against yellow fever.

So if you are concerned with traveling with a newborn before vaccinations, it is better you delay your trip after the first round of vaccines the baby will take when it is two months old. The baby will be vaccinated against diseases such as Tetanus, Pertussis, diphtheria, Pneumococcus, Polio, etc.

After you take the first round of the vaccines for your baby at two months old, it will take about 2 weeks for the baby’s body to produce all the antibodies in response to the vaccinations to create the protection.

So, ideally, you would want to wait until the baby is around 3 months before you can fly if you are concerned about the baby’s vaccinations and health.

Let’ get started with the hacks for traveling with a baby. I will start with the things you need to pack for the long haul flight for you and the baby.

What to pack for a long haul flight with baby

Now you know what to pack for long-haul flights. Let’s look at the things you need to do before the flight.

• Pack some bottles of freshly pumped breast milk or formula
• Pack two shirts for yourself, you will need it.
• Take along a copy of your baby’s birth certificate. Some airlines request for it to prove your infant is yours.
• Pack your baby carrier. It is easy to walk through the security wearing your baby. It will help you skip most security checks like the x-ray machine, metal detector and the rest of it.
• Get a luggage dolly. It will help you get your car seat through the airport.
• Get a wine bag to help you organize the stuff you want to easily access on the plane.
• Get spill -proof travel mugs for drinks on the flight. Because of the baby, your drinks may spill during the flight, you don’t want that to happen.
• Get a pacifier for your child. It will be useful during the flight.
• Get a separate diaper purse to make it easy to change your baby’s diaper on the plane.
• Get a travel bassinet to use on the airplane or check with the airport if there is one available for kids.
• Get a car seat like the CARES harness because it is easy to carry and your baby can settle easily in it and even sleep through the flight.
• Get a Snap and go strollers for travel lightweight if your child is not old enough to sit still with you.
• Get a kid iPad to keep your toddler busy loaded with educational apps and movies your kids enjoy
• Pack a diaper bag filled with diapers, disinfectant wipes, diaper cream, breast milk, a change of dress for the baby, socks, baby bottle, disposable baby bottle liners,
• Pack a few children’s books to entertain your toddler through the flight
• Get a personal handbag where you can put your belongings like mobile chargers, passports, tickets, pens, etc.
• Pack a Ziploc with crackers and chips for the baby.
• Load your mobile phone or tablet with your baby’s favorite rhymes, videos, and apps.
• If your child is under the age of 2, take two changes of clothing for you and the baby, and a few towels.
• Get a new toy that will fascinate your baby. Also, pick one or two old toys along.
• Get a flashlight to help in overnight/late flights
• Take earplugs for yourself and an extra for the next passenger in case your child is screaming.
• Get extra Ziploc bags for used disposable diapers and soiled clothing for later laundry.
• Pack band-aids
• Get a disposable changing pad you can lie on any surface in the bathroom to change your baby diaper.
• Get a blanket or duvet. The airplane air conditioner can be cold on the long-haul flights.

Hacks for traveling with a baby: Things to do before the flight

• Call and check with the airport to know what you can check for free and what items will be charged.
• Book an airplane seat by the window if you are nursing a newborn, but the aisle if you have an active infant. You can choose the bulkhead which is the most forward part of the plane. It is much more private for breastfeeding and quieter with a lot of legroom.
• If your baby is close to 2 years, buy a seat for them. It will help the baby in case of rough turbulence in the air.
• Before leaving for the airport, dress your baby in a simple onesie that will make it easy to change the diaper . Add baby leg warmers and a layer of a sleeveless dress.
• Pack twice the number of diapers and wipes you use at home for the time between leaving the home to the airport, flying and arriving at your destination.
• Take children’s Tylenol or Motrin or whatever drugs you use for fevers, gas pills, a thermometer, etc.
• Buy travel insurance
• Pack snacks for yourself to eat during the flight.
• If you have an active toddler who wouldn’t like to sleep during the day, it is better to take a day flight when everyone is awake. But if your child loves to sleep well at night even in a strange environment, it is better to take a night flight.
• Don’t let the baby sleep for a few hours before flying. It will be easy to sleep on the flight.

Next is the list of things you need to do when you get to the airport.

Hacks for traveling with a baby: Things to do at the airport

• Arrive at the airport very early to get through the processes
• Ask for help if you need it. The TSA agents can help with your stuff while you juggle with your baby as you pass through the security.
• Search for the family bathroom in the airport to help you change your baby’s diaper as you get set for the flight.
• Use early boarding, it takes time to get everyone situated
• Use a baby carrier during the security checks to keep your hands free to carry luggage and keep the baby in control
• Most airports have a play area for children. Ask for it so your child can play and expend some energy before flying.

Next is the list of things to do during the long haul flight.

Hacks for traveling with a baby: Things to do during the flight

• Nurse during take-off and landing to relieve pressure in the baby’s ears. Flight pressure causes earache. If you are not breastfeeding, encourage your toddler to keep eating and drinking to release the pressure.        
• Take a nap when your baby is sleeping on the plane
• Be prepared for a throw up during the fight. Many parents have experienced this. So you need to keep towels handy
• Be prepared for diaper blowouts, get disposable gloves and Ziploc bags.
• Get your pacifiers handy during the ascent and descent of flight to avoid ear pain for the baby
• Order a special meal if you are flying along with your baby. You will eat while everyone else is yet to eat so that if you need your neighbor to help hold the baby, they can help.
• Be prepared to change the baby on your lap because not all planes have a diaper changing table in the bathroom.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Most people understand what it means to be a parent.
• If you are breastfeeding your baby , wear a nursing top, bra, and scarf for easy feeding on the plane. If you are not, prepare the baby’s in-flight bottle as much as you need before you board the flight.
• Don’t sweat the small stuff. If your kid is yelling, don’t be alarmed. Most people will understand.
• Take the baby for a walk along the aisle and say hi to people. Talk to flight attendants and show the baby the window to lookout.
• Don’t change the diapers in your seat, use the bathroom to do it.
• Follow the normal schedule for feeding and sleeping during the flight.
• If your baby is eating porridge or baby food – take along a bib, spoon, baby food, wipes, a thermos with hot water, and fruits.

Lastly, you made it through. Below is the last thing to do after the long haul flight.

Hacks for traveling with a baby: Things to do after the flight

• Don’t rush to disembark unless you want to join a connecting flight. Take your time.

Toddler airplane activities and how to entertain them on a flight

• You can keep your toddler busy with activities such as giving them an empty notebook and pen to write or draw.
• Some airlines have a kid’s park. Check with your airline to find out if they have activity pack on board for children
• Entertain your kids with new toys or most loved toys. Useful travel toy ideas include My Busy books, Buckle toy whale, farm in a Tin, Imaginetics magnet board, etc
• Use toddler travel games such as i-spy.scavenger hunt printable game.
• Download fun apps such as Peekaboo Barn, ACN Toddler, Mouse Maze on your tablet to keep them busy.

Download the Baby Travel checklist

• Registry checklist
• Must have baby items
• Hospital bag checklist
• Baby travel checklists

The truth about traveling with Babies

Traveling with a baby is hard work. There’s no doubt about that.

But you can make it harder when you travel with no prior preparations as enumerated above.

Prepare by getting the needful baby essentials that will make the journey easier for you and the baby.

Imagine you follow all the tips above.

You boarded the flight and your baby behave perfectly well.

Sure, you will love it.

Traveling with kids can be fun when you have the right things at hand.

It is time to enjoy long haul flights with your baby using the hacks for traveling with a baby.

Click here to download the Baby Travel Checkist in PDF

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Flying with a baby and toddler: 50 clever tips and hacks that every parent needs to know

By Becky Lucas

Ask any new parent about their biggest fear when travelling abroad with their offspring. More often than not, an image of themselves trapped inside a plane cabin will spring to mind: screaming baby in arms, toddler on the rampage, covered in some sort of bodily fluid, the angry eyes of all surrounding passengers trained on them, silently asking why they cannot control their children. But then, ask them again, post first-flight together, and typically they’ll share that the worst part of it all was the sense of dread and apprehension before the big travel day. The majority of parents or carers find themselves both pleasantly surprised by the kindness of airline staff and co-passengers – most of whom have usually cared for young children themselves at some point and so can empathise and tend to look at you all with a nostalgic glint in their eye – as well as instead empowered by the experience. If you think about it: once you feel more confident  travelling with a baby , you can go anywhere in the world with them.

As a  Condé Nast Traveller  contributing editor and mother-of-two, I’ve found myself flying more often since having children and enjoying it (sometimes). Here are the canny little tips and tricks I’ve picked up in answer to some commonly asked questions, combined with words of wisdom from a whole network of people who’ve survived the ultimate, high-air-pressured parenting challenge.

Should I fly with my baby and a toddler?

• Putting aside the fact that most airlines allow kids under two to fly for free or a fraction of an adult’s price ( Skyscanner’s travel advice hub  has a handy summary of child fees broken down by airline) and the  eco considerations of flying  anywhere at all, if you’re nervous about booking that flight with your baby and toddler, try considering how your children have behaved on trains, buses and other types of public transport. If you can visualise a flight as an extension of these sorts of positive journeys you’ve already made together, it should help you hit that book button. Break it down in your mind into a series of manageable steps: the car or train ride to the airport, the walk to the gate, a stint onboard and however you’re getting to your final destination upon arrival (hopefully after being greeted by some helping hands).
• This may seem obvious, but if possible – fly with your partner, friend or another family member. Even if they’re sitting at the other end of the cabin, having someone there to tag-team the childcare or help you on and off the aircraft and psychologically be there in case of emergency will make all the difference. If you are travelling with another adult, it may make sense to separate the toddler and baby on board so you can take turns to endlessly entertain the oldest or rest a little more with the sleepier youngest.

What are the best flights to book when travelling with a baby and toddler?

• Think about the timing that would work best regarding your children’s napping habits and capacity to sleep through the most exciting experience of their lives and the length of your journey while factoring in your  budget . Some parents prefer the more expensive early daytime flights as they know their children are likely to stay wide awake throughout, some prefer the afternoon to time in with the longest nap time, and others always go for night flights as they gel with overnight sleep windows. It’s best not to get too hung up on perfectly synchronising your schedules since  flights can often be delayed or even cancelled , and children can unexpectedly buck their personal trends – and all tiredness should typically level out over a day or so anyway. Plus, any parent knows it’s challenging to coerce a child into sleeping or staying awake when their bodies tell them otherwise – you’ll all end up frustrated and fatigued. Kids can be surprisingly adaptable when it comes to sleep patterns and travel – probably a bonus of having no real concept of time yet.

What are the best seats to book when travelling with a baby and toddler?

• If you can, it’s worth flying direct and upgrading to  business class  to allow you and your clan more space, assistance and privacy. Slightly less obvious, it could be worth booking separate seats for your baby and your toddler and bringing an airline-approved car seat for them to sit and sleep in rather than your arms, which could be more comfortable for them and you. Be sure to pick one that fits into your buggy as, obviously, if you are solo and also with a toddler, you have no hope of lugging one across the airport. Some argue that this is the safer option from the get-go – you’d never have your baby in your lap in your car, so why is it permitted on a plane?
• Don’t assume you will automatically be allocated a bassinet (a cot that can be attached to a wall at the front of a row of economy seats) with your baby’s flight reservation – contact the airline and book it in advance as there are typically only two per aircraft.
• Sometimes passengers with maximum airline points get allocated these front-row [bulkhead] seats instead. Therefore, if you haven’t pre-booked your bassinet, ask at the airport check-in desk if any empty rows are available so that you could possibly lie your baby or toddler on the spare seats between you – while holding them, though at least giving your arms a break.
• As well as booking bulkhead seats for the bassinet access, they also boast extra legroom and floor (or play) space, while putting your toddler in a window seat helps stop them from running off and keeps their belongings together, out of the aisle. That said, there is often no storage under a bulkhead seat, and the armrests typically don't move, so they can be less comfortable for sleeping toddlers.
• If you are travelling with another adult, you could book one of your seats in front of your toddler so they only get to kick you or your co-carer and not a fellow passenger – if this would put your mind at ease more than having said fellow adult sitting on the other side of your little foot-thrower instead.
• Air New Zealand  offers Sky Couches in economy, which are a wonder – allowing you all to lie down flat and get a better quality of sleep in the air. The airline is also broadening to include ‘ skynest’ bunk beds from September 2024 .

What should I pack for a flight with a baby and toddler?

• Check what your particular airline allows in the cabin regarding weight per passenger and for a baby or a toddler, as this varies wildly. ( Skyscanner’s travel advice hub  also summarises luggage allowances for kids broken down by airline). Thankfully most companies seem to allow decent-size changing, food and toy bags but don’t bank on it.
• Some airlines don’t permit certain creams such as Sudocrem, so it’s worth checking that banned substances list very closely ahead of time too.
• Find out what your hotel can have ready and waiting in your room. Typically, that includes space-saving essentials such as nappies, wet-wipes, formula, etc.
• You can order items such as formula and baby food from  UK airports ’  Boots pharmacies online  to collect in-store after the security gates – as long as you type at least five days in advance. You, therefore, don’t have to factor them into liquid limits or your baggage allowance.
• The latest genuinely game-changing piece of child-friendly flying kit is the toddler flight bed. From the  Bubba Board  and the  Stokke Jetkids BedBox  to inflatable options, it’s now possible to carry onboard clever seat extenders which help turn your little one’s chair into a bed that they are far more likely to sleep and lounge comfortably on for longer. This is much easier than having a child sleep across your lap, and they tend to enjoy “making their bed”, too. However, be sure to double-check whether the airline permits them, as not all do.
• It’s worth taking a buggy even if you plan on carrying your baby throughout if you have somewhere to strap in your unpredictable toddler should you need to contain them and have your ready-made luggage trolley. Airline staff will now typically ask you if you have a buggy or a  Baby Zen Yoyo . The latter folds down wonderfully to fit into the luggage shelf in all aircraft cabins and therefore doesn’t need to be checked in, allowing you to use it immediately on and off the flight rather than having it separated from you often until the very last of the luggage makes the carousel. The  GB Gold Pokit+  also comes highly recommended.
• Flying with a baby and toddler is simply not possible without a baby carrier or sling: you otherwise do not possess enough hands. Holding tired babies in a carrier and walking up and down the cabin often also helps keep them calm (and quiet). Classics include the  BabyBjorn  and  ErgoBaby , while carriers from  Artipoppe  are more relaxed and creative.
• Put your travel documents into said baby carrier if you can, or pop them into your buggy’s back pocket to guarantee quick, stress-free access.
• Pack spare clothes for yourself and the children in case of emergency food spillages or worse.
• Dress wisely in the first place – wear something comfortable, with pockets and easy breastfeeding access if required. New brand  The Mum Collective  should have something equally practical and luxurious-feeling.
• A  snoozeshade  may be helpful to ensure darkness over your baby’s bassinet or upon arrival.
• If your baby isn’t breast-feeding, give them a dummy to suck on during take-off and landing to help equalise the air pressure in their ears. Your toddler may want a dummy too, or a water cup or appropriate suckable sweets would work.
• Pack more of everything you might need for the journey – especially those parenting essentials of wet wipes, nappies, muslins and dummies.
• To save space, take a small changing mat, such as the  Polar Gear Baby Portable , into which you can store wipes and a nappy.
• A tip that comes up repeatedly is to take as many baby and toddler snacks as possible – particularly fruit, if your airline and destination allow. Small (peanut-free) snacks such as raisins and cut-up grapes in cute Tupperware should help mesmerise your child – possibly even with each item individually wrapped to prolong the ritual of opening them up.
• Be aware: water bottles and baby foods in pouches tend to build up air pressure and may explode slightly upon opening – not something you want to happen all over your cabin mates.
• Meanwhile, book your kids’ in-flight meal ahead if you can – having it arrive before everyone else’s will make them feel special.
• You can also ask to have your meal served after your kids’ have finished – so you can focus on your meal once they no longer need your food-shovelling assistance.
• Make a grab bag. That involves putting the things you need to change one nappy into a bag that can sit by your feet or in the back of the seat in front while your main nappy bag is up in the cabin luggage rack.
• Super organised parents can put different outfits into clear bags so they can see what they’re grabbing or use  packing cubes  to divide up their suitcase space better.
• A common suggestion is to pack new or favourite toy(s) for the flight – ones that aren’t going to explode everywhere or give your fellow passengers a headache. Sensible suggestions include sticker books, peelable window stickers, mess-free wipeable colouring books (so you don’t need to worry about marks on the seats), triangular crayons that don’t roll away, interactive or magnetic books such as the Usborn Travel Activity Book, and bath fidget spinners for toddlers and babies. Some children have bags that they only use for flights, filled with wrapped-up presents to open only once they’re in the air – the strategy being that this will help keep the whole flight experience positive and exciting for them. (Others think this may then put the focus on unwrapping rather than the toy itself – but you know your child!) All parents should avoid including Lego or anything with small parts that are easy to lose, what with the minimal table space. Short on time? You can order Keep Em Quiet activity packs online, which tend to live up to the name.
• Once your more wholesome fun has run its course (if it does), your toddler will likely be happy to watch a screen for several hours, something which the vast majority of parents loosen right up on, given the extreme, high-altitude circumstances. Be sure to download their favourite shows onto a tablet and invest in some  young child-friendly headphones  for both the sake of their ears and those of their fellow passengers, as well as a tablet holder that hangs on the seat in front. Forgotten your tablet? Suggest they try any appropriate in-flight games instead, with your help.
• Remember that your baby is likely to find their surroundings fascinating enough without any new toys - they just perhaps need a familiar comforter if there’s one they’re particularly attached to.
• A pillow or blanket is a good idea for each of them if you have the space, for that comforting, homely smell.
• Don’t forget to pack some Calpol in your checked luggage, for peace of mind.

How do I make the airport experience smoother with a baby and toddler?

• Talk about the flight with your toddler beforehand to get them excited rather than anxious about it – you could even read kids’ books on the topic. Use role play to explain what will happen at security and once you get on board (ie, everyone will take a big nap, hopefully).
• Check in online before you arrive to save time, though it is worth going to the check-in desk to find out if your flight is full and whether you can block the seat next to you. This is particularly valuable if travelling with a toddler under 24 months without a seat.
• The second hardest part of flying with a baby and toddler (after boarding the flight, see below) is juggling yourselves and your belongings through security – as, at this point, you have to fold down your buggy. A staff member will likely hold your baby if they are allowed (some are and some aren’t), or someone in the queue behind you is likely to offer – partly from kindness and partly as otherwise you will hold them up. Skyscanner’s travel expert and experienced family traveller Naomi Hahn also points out: “Make sure to head for the priority lanes at security – most airports have dedicated lanes for families with young children, so you don’t have to wait in a queue and can get on with the start of your holiday.”
• Get a good meal at a restaurant with high chairs if you can – there’s nothing worse than hungry and emotional children if you find yourself stuck on the runway for hours pre-meal time or discover that the airline food will not cut it.
• Only boarding your flight first when families are offered this option if you are very anxious about cabin space. Alternatively, one of you could head-on with the baby while the other watches the toddler run about, using as much energy as possible.

How do I actually get on board a flight with a baby and toddler?

• The hardest part, I have found, when travelling alone with a baby, is getting on the plane; this, therefore, is the part you should plan most closely and maybe even practise if you get the time to. Put your baby in your carrier, then your backpack(s) on (I have managed to wear one over another). If you’re very nervous about your toddler running off – ensure you have one of those little bags with a (for want of another word) ‘lead’ for them to wear, or ask a staff member or kind passenger to watch them within the confined space of the boarding gate lounge for a minute. It’s also a wise idea to have some toddler currency on you (snacks again, a screen, a new or old and much-loved toy). Collapse your buggy down, sling it over your shoulder, and then slowly make your way to your seat. The chances are very high that someone will offer to help you with some of your luggage: accept it, or don’t hesitate to ask for it if you need to.

What helps keep a baby and toddler calm and happy during a flight?

• If you are breastfeeding your baby – that’s pretty much the answer to everything! They find it emotionally comforting, it levels out their blood sugar, and the sucking helps equalise the air pressure in their ears. Just bear in mind that your body is producing milk in relation to your normal eating, sleeping and feeding routine, so may be a little slower. If bottle feeding – take formula and make it up on the flight so you don’t need to worry about getting it through customs and keeping it sterile (thankfully, not something you have to consider if breastfeeding). And make sure you and your toddler drink as much water as possible.
• Travel pillows  are fun for adults, so imagine how absorbing the squidgy things are for toddlers. Bring one for them shaped like a  dinosaur  or  unicorn  – along with a matching eye mask.
• If you all need a distraction or mood change, take them both to the exciting tiny toilet, even if you don’t need to go, or the gallery areas, post food service.
• Change them into their pyjamas to encourage them to sleep, and carry out as much of your regular bedtime routine as possible to try and normalise the situation.

What should I do if one child needs changing while the other is sleeping?

• In this scenario, ask a staff member or a kind co-passenger to sit with your sleeping child while you sort the other. Needs must, and you’ll be back very soon if they wake up a bit startled while you’re gone.

What helps reduce baby and toddler recovery time after a flight?

• Fresh air and sunlight help reset one’s body clock, so try to fit in a walk to get your bearings.
• Keep them up until a normal bedtime in your destination if you can – though again, don’t get hung up on this. Often you’ll no doubt find yourselves in Mediterranean countries where supper time is later anyway, so keeping their body clock in tune with the timezone back home may do you well both there and upon your return, and you might even get a slight lie-in on your holiday mornings.
• Some parents recommend Arnica 30 for jet lag and time zone changes - though do consult your GP before trying any such lotions or potions.

Two final things…

• Smile, stay calm and try to relax. If you’re feeling – or at least acting – breezy, they will be too.
• Like childbirth, this is just (hopefully) one day of your life – and all the prep and travel will be worth it once you reach your end goal: the sort of family holiday that your lifelong memories are made of.

• Parenting Babymoon & Travel

30 Tips to Keep in Mind When Traveling With an Infant

Sure, going away is exciting—but when you’ve got little ones to account for, getting ready for a trip can feel more like work than vacation. Traveling with baby is intimidating, but it’s certainly not impossible. In fact, family travel expert Corinne McDermott believes traveling with an infant is often easier than traveling with an older toddler. “They’re not mobile, they’re not wiggling and they’re eating and sleeping around the clock,” she says. “It doesn’t really matter where you are!”

That said, whether you’re getting to your destination by plane, train or automobile, you’ll still want to prepare to ensure your journey goes as smoothly as possible. Below, experts break down all the travel-with-baby tips to know before you depart.

When Can You Travel With a Baby?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), both premature and full-term babies shouldn’t fly for the first few months of life unless it’s absolutely necessary. Flying can increase baby’s exposure to infectious diseases, so it may be best to wait until their immune system is a little more developed, or until they’ve received some of their initial immunizations , which are generally given at the 2 month visit, but can be given after 6 weeks old. Traveling by train poses the same risk. Road trips are usually the safest option for newborns and infants. Just make sure to have a properly installed infant car seat and take breaks every few hours, per the AAP . Of course, it’s always best to check in with your pediatrician before planning any kind of vacation with baby.

General Tips for Traveling With an Infant

Traveling with an infant can seem like a daunting task, but there are several ways to make it go a bit smoother. Whether you’re hitting the road, taking a train or flying, consider the following travel-with-baby tips:

Stick to baby’s schedule

Odds are baby has a naptime , bedtime and feeding schedule they’re used to. Children tend to behave better when they have a predictable sense of order, so try to plan your travel—as well as events on the trip—around that schedule (i.e. after baby’s nap or meal) if you can, advises parenting coach Tammy Gold . They’ll likely be less cranky if they’re well-rested and fed.

Keep baby’s meals handy

On a similar note, while traveling with an infant, pack plenty of formula, bottles, water (for babies older than 6 months) and other solids . Pack more than you think you’ll need in case of delays—and don’t forget to take all the essentials you’ll need for pumping while traveling .

Bring extra clothes and lots of diapers

When traveling with an infant, you’ll want anything and everything that can help clean up a messy emergency. Pack extra wipes in your carry-on diaper bag , as well as multiple changes of clothes for baby . “Bring more diapers and wipes than you think you’ll need,” suggests McDermott. Accidents happen. Stash plastic bags to hold trash until you have the opportunity to dispose of it properly. While you’re at it, keep a change of clothes for yourself handy in case of spit up or a blowout. If baby makes a mess, you might take the brunt of it. Plus, don’t forget the essentials, like travel-sized diaper cream , baby shampoo , body wash, moisturizer and other staples in baby’s daily routine, suggests McDermott. (This checklist is a great tool for packing all the baby essentials you’ll need in your diaper bag.) Gold also suggests trying overnight diapers for long travel days to prevent baby from getting uncomfortably wet.

Bring baby-safe medication

Consider also packing a first-aid travel kit in case of unexpected incidents, like if baby has an allergic reaction on the plane. It can also come in handy once you’ve landed, since you won’t want to hunt for a pharmacy in a strange place at an odd hour. You’ll also want to bring nasal aspirators , nasal saline drops, and infant Tylenol in case baby gets sick while traveling . Check in with your pediatrician for their recommendations on what medications to pack. Plus do some research before leaving on local pediatricians and pediatric hospitals in case of emergencies.

Pack baby’s toys

Whether you’re traveling with an infant or a toddler, packing books and toys to keep them entertained is key. Bring a mix of baby’s favorites, including items that offer comfort, like their favorite stuffed animal or lovey . Having that small comfort from home when baby’s in a new place can go a long way to making them feel happy and safe, Gold says. Bringing new toys or options that baby doesn’t usually play with can be a game changer too. “New situations also offer new perspectives, so that book your child loves for hours at home may not be of interest to them at all on a flight. But that other one they’ve never picked up will suddenly occupy them for hours,” Lund says. “Books, wooden puzzles, busy-boards and coloring books are great for flights because they pack pretty easily and don’t require movement to be used.” Wondering if you should consolidate baby’s books onto one device to make your bag lighter? McDermott says to do this only as a last resort: “Once you pull that tech out, it’s hard to go back.”

Go over the logistics beforehand

If you’re flying with a baby internationally, do some research beforehand to see if there are any special passport or visa requirements, or immunizations baby will need . Also investigate if getting travel insurance is a good idea. Finally, call your lodgings beforehand to see what kind of travel gear they offer. This can help save you the effort of packing baby gear .

Arrive early

Whether you’re flying with baby or traveling by train, give yourself ample time. Get to the airport or train station a little earlier than you normally would to check in, request any assistance and board when you can. The last thing any parent traveling with little ones wants is the additional stress of missing their departure time.

Don’t worry about other passengers

When traveling with an infant, one of the primary anxieties parents have is disrupting other passengers. While it can be really hard, try not to worry about what others think. “No one wants to be the stereotypical ‘bad parent’ on a plane with a screaming kid, but there’s a reason it’s so prevalent,” says Tyler Lund, founder and lead contributor at Dad on the Run . “Parents need to do what they need to do and what’s best for their children, regardless of whether it interrupts another passenger’s enjoyment of their in-flight movie.” Instead of worrying about other passengers, spend your time and energy making baby comfortable.

Be patient with yourself and baby

Another important tip for traveling with baby? Show yourself grace. Even with extra time and tons of planning, it can be challenging—with or without a child in tow. Despite all of your planning, baby may have a fit , or things may not go as smoothly as you had hoped. Accept the situation at hand and roll with it, Lund says. “Even the most epic meltdown won’t ruin the rest of your vacation.” It’s also okay not to be as strict about rules as you might be at home to make things easier on yourself and your little one. Be patient with yourself and your kiddo and know you’re both doing the best you can.

Tips For Flying With a Baby

Anxious about an upcoming flight? Check out the following tips for flying with baby to ensure you both have a stress-free and enjoyable time.

Figure out what time to fly

Chaos is inevitable around peak travel periods, like the holidays, spring break and the summer months, but you can avoid some of it by traveling early. Generally, airports are less crowded earlier in the morning, and early flights are less likely to have travel delays. “Given the choice between an early flight or mid-afternoon, I’ll take early every time,” McDermott says. “Some kids might actually go back to sleep for the ride to the airport.” As for booking the cheapest tickets, “steering clear of the weekends usually offers the best opportunity for reasonable airfare,” she adds.

Know TSA rules for breast milk and formula

Wondering what the deal is with packing formula or breast milk when flying with baby? According to TSA , when traveling with an infant, you can take breast milk, formula and baby food (like puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces for your carry-on; cooling accessories like freezer packs and gel packs are also allowed. These items are subject to additional screening though, so have them grouped together in a separate bag to make the check-in process go smoother. “It’s just easier to show security when you have all of baby’s food and drinks together,” McDermott says, adding that, while a clear bag may speed up the screening, it’s not necessary.

Gate check your stroller

Not to worry if you don’t have one of those cool micro travel strollers that folds up to fit in the overhead compartment. As you’re checking your luggage, tell the attendant at the counter that you’d like to gate check the stroller. They’ll give you a tag to attach to it, which is all the gate attendant needs to see as you’re boarding. The only stipulation: The stroller needs to be able to fold in half. With most airlines, it’ll be waiting for you on the ramp as you deplane.

Prepare baby for takeoff and landing

One of the most important tips for flying with baby? Be sure to soothe them during takeoff and landing. “Babies and toddlers tend to feel the most pain from the pressure, since the Eustachian tubes in their ears are much smaller,” explains McDermott. “The act of swallowing helps to clear them, so nursing or sucking on a bottle or pacifier can help. However, don’t be afraid to administer a dose of baby pain reliever if your child really seems to be in pain.” (Get the green light from your pediatrician first.) For older kids, swallowing snacks or drinks should help with the ear pain from the change in air pressure. Plus, while pain relievers may be okay, experts don’t recommend offering little ones medicines like Benadryl to help them “sleep better” on the flight, as it can cause adverse side effects.

Think carefully about your seats

One of the most valuable tips for flying with baby? If you have the flexibility, choose seats that work best for your family. Lund recommends the bulkhead seats toward the front. These are the rows without seats in front of them, and they often have more leg room. Some airlines may also have a pull-out bassinet in the bulkhead area too. Call your airline ahead of time and see if they’ll let you reserve the bulkhead seats, suggests Lund.

McDermott, on the other hand, prefers the back of the plane, where you can nab a spot closer to the bathroom and the service galley. “It’s easier to catch the flight attendant’s attention should you require assistance with anything,” she explains. A window seat is also usually better for baby to protect them from the service carts and any items that may fall out of overhead bins.

Consider getting baby their own seat

While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows babies and toddlers under 2 years old to sit on your lap, the AAP suggests getting baby their own seat with a car seat that’s certified for airplane use. Check in with your airline on whether baby’s gear will count as luggage and whether there are any rules and regulations to keep in mind.

Accept help from anyone you can

Many passengers or crew members will be willing to help a family traveling with an infant. Particularly at the airport, you might be surprised at how friendly and helpful TSA agents, airline employees and flight attendants can be when you ask for assistance.

Figure out if pre-boarding is right for your family

One of the biggest questions parents have when flying with baby: To preboard or not to preboard? It’s really a matter of preference and your child’s temperament . Is an extra 30 minutes of sitting on the plane a recipe for disaster—or is that additional time going to help everyone get settled? “Personally, if I let my kids run wild until the last minute, it takes them a long time to settle down,” McDermott says. “I prefer pre-boarding because it gives me the opportunity to get organized and settle the kids in their seats. You want to make sure you have access to a close overhead bin, as well as have time to install a car seat if you brought one.”

Find the airport’s play areas

Most major airports will have at least one play area for children—and this can be a great place for them to get all their energy out before boarding a flight. “It also helps to keep them from falling asleep in a stroller or on seats at the gate right before boarding,” Lund says. While it’s unavoidable at times, waking up little ones right before boarding a plane may quickly cause a meltdown.

Keep baby entertained mid-flight

“Most toddlers don’t like being restrained for lengths of time and just want to get up and explore the plane,” Lund says. Along with toys, keeping baby entertained may involve walking up and down the aisle with them when the seatbelt sign is off. Pay no mind to other passengers—as long as baby is safe and happy, that’s really all that matters.

Use bedtime as a tool for international flights

For international flights, consider overnight options, and book flights around baby’s normal bedtime. “[This] gives them a chance to calm down, get used to the setting and fall asleep. It also helps in the case of a minor delay,” Lund says. “Our boys refused to sleep on our first flight until two hours after their bedtime… Once they fell asleep though, they were out for the rest of the flight and gave us time to ourselves.”

Car Travels With Baby Tips

Keeping your little one happy while they’re strapped into a car seat for hours can be a challenge. As you gear up for a road trip with baby, keep the following travel-with-baby tips in mind:

Check the car seat

Baby will be spending the entire ride in their car seat, so it’s crucial to make sure they’re safe and secure in a properly installed car seat . While babies shouldn’t sleep in car seats for long stretches of time or overnight, the AAP notes that babies can doze off in a properly installed car seat while your vehicle is in transit.

Plan your route

Know where the gas stations and rest stops are located. Moreover, take note of any hotels along the way in case you need one, and call ahead to see if they provide a safe sleep space for baby. If not, bring a bassinet or a travel crib . Also, don’t be super-strict about arrival time. “You can’t plan around unexpected diaper changes or needing to nurse,” McDermott says. “If you go with the expectation that things will take a lot longer than usual, you’ll be fine.”

Time your departure

If you’re going to be in the car for a few hours, try timing it with baby’s nap schedule or earlier in the morning when they’re still sleeping. For longer trips, consider driving at night during baby’s normal bedtime .

Make sure everything you need is handy

Before you pull out of the driveway, make sure you have everything you and baby will need within arm’s reach. This includes extra clothes, diapers , wipes, meals and toys for baby, as well as water, hand sanitizer , sunglasses and a phone for you.

Sit in the backseat with baby

If possible, it’s smart to have a caregiver sit in the back to help with baby’s needs throughout the ride. It’ll also help keep them entertained. Whether you’re reading board books or singing a song, interaction is key when traveling with baby. “When they’re small and rear-facing, it gets awfully boring in that back seat,” McDermott says. “An engaged, safe and comfortable baby is usually a happy baby.”

Take breaks every few hours

Not only will this help you stretch your legs, but it may also keep baby from getting too restless. The AAP recommends taking a break every two to three hours during day trips and four to six hours at night. Use this time to change baby’s diapers and feed them. (The AAP also cautions parents to never breastfeed baby in a moving car.)

Pull over when you need to

Maybe baby just won’t stop crying because they threw their toy and now it’s stuck somewhere between the seat and the door, or maybe you need to use the restroom. Whatever the reason, if there’s anything distracting you from the road, pull over and take the time to deal with it. If you’re traveling with baby alone and need to leave the car, take them with you. Otherwise, work with your traveling companions to ensure everyone’s needs are met before getting back on the road.

Train Travels With Baby Tips

The train seems ideal for traveling with baby, right? You’re free to move around, baby always has a view and you don’t have to keep your eyes on the road. “For older toddlers, you can’t beat it,” McDermott says. Plus, Amtrak also offers great discounts for kids: Infants 0 to 2 travel for free, and children ages 2 to 12 ride at half price. However, there are some things to keep in mind to have a smooth ride—and many of these will be similar to our tips for flying with baby.

Tag team finding seats

If you’re traveling with your partner or someone else, have them scout out seats while you tend to baby. Many cars have four seats facing each other toward one end, and these typically have more room. Try to snag those seats if they’re available. Also, ask the conductor which doors will open at your stop so you won’t have to scramble to switch cars.

Sit by a window

If you’re able, try to grab baby a window seat. Similar to flights, it’s safer than the aisle. Plus, the view outside may keep baby engaged and entertained while you take a few minutes to yourself.

Above all else, when traveling with baby, remember to have patience. “Tantrums and breakdowns aren’t malicious; they’re a sign of frustration,” Lund says. “Remembering this might be the difference between a bad [experience] that’s a side note to an otherwise great vacation, and a bad [experience] causing a bad vacation.”

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Tammy Gold , LCSW, MSW, CEC, is a licensed therapist, certified parent coach, author and the founder of the Tammy Gold Nanny Agency. She has over 20 years of experience and received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and her master’s degree from Columbia University.

Corinne McDermott is a TICO-certified family travel expert with over 15 years of experience and the founder of the blog Have Baby Will Travel . She received her bachelor’s degree from Toronto Metropolitan University.

Tyler Lund is the founder and lead contributor to Dad on the Run , a blog dedicated to fatherhood. He’s also a software development manager, tech nerd, home-brewer, three-time marathoner and rescue dog owner. He loves traveling to new and unique places a bit off the beaten path and sharing stories from these adventures.

HealthyChildren.org, Flying with Baby: Parent FAQs , November 2019

HealthyChildren.org, Is it Safe for My Baby to Travel in a Car Seat a Few Hours at a Time? , December 2022

Head Start Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center, The Importance of Schedules and Routines , September 2023

Cleveland Clinic, Why Can’t Babies Drink Water? , September 2023

Transportation Security Administration, Traveling With Children

Pediatrics Child Health, Air Travel and Children , January 2007

Federal Aviation Administration, Flying With Children , September 2023

HealthyChildren.org, Travel Safety Tips , August 2018

Amtrak, Discount Information for Children

Learn how we ensure the accuracy of our content through our editorial and medical review process .

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16 Tips for Flying With Toddlers and Young Kids

Traveling with toddlers can be hard, at least if you're not properly prepared. Here, experienced flight attendants share their secrets for flying with young kids.

FLY VIEW PRODUCTIONS/GETTY IMAGES

With long security lines, cramped airplane seating, and busy waiting areas, flying isn't the most pleasant experience—and all of the frustration increases exponentially when you add a toddler into the mix. Some young children simply don't have the patience for airport security. They might despise sitting quietly for hours on end, and they might be uneasy during turbulence or get upset with the ear-popping changes in air pressure.

Thankfully, though, you can have a worry-free travel day with proper preparation and planning. Whether you're jetting off to your relative's house or Disney World, check out these stress-reducing strategies for flying (and traveling) with toddlers—some of which came straight from flight attendants.

Book an Early Morning Departure

If you're traveling with toddlers or young children, you should book an early morning departure. These give you the best chance of avoiding delays at takeoff and landing, a flight attendant named Patrick explains. "They are usually less crowded, too," he says. "Plus, everyone is tired and just wants to nap—kids especially."

Save Your Upgrades for Toddler-Free Travel

Traveling in first class with kids can be more stressful than it's worth. Mom Joanna recounts the story of traveling with her loud, lively toddler and incurring the vocal wrath of her first-class seatmates for the entirety of the flight. "It's not fair, but you're just going to get more empathy and support with kids in economy," says a flight attendant.

Talk to Your Kids About What to Expect

"My experience is kids do so much better when they know what to expect," says Shireen, a mom of three from Australia who's traveled to the U.S. several times with her kids. She recommends watching a Let's Go Play video on YouTube , which goes over the entire flight experience, from baggage check-in and ticketing to onboard etiquette and safety.

Dress in Layers and Skip Shoes With Laces

Whether you are changing climates or simply dealing with in-flight heat and/or air conditioning, you can and should be ready for drastically changing temperatures when traveling with a toddler. Wendy, a flight attendant and mom, suggests you dress your kids in comfortable layers—preferably without buttons, zippers, or anything that could prevent them from getting to the bathroom in time.

The same principle applies to shoes: Avoid laces and opt for slip-ons. "There's the added benefit of getting through airport screening that much faster," she says.

Bring Surprises

When flying with a toddler, a wrapped new plaything has two advantages: Kids love to unwrap stuff, and a new toy has more attention-grabbing pull.

Consider Using a Smaller Stroller

Getting through an airport without a stroller is unthinkable for some parents, so consider switching out your regular-size stroller for a small, compact umbrella stroller or travel stroller. Also, check your stroller at the gate before boarding; the crew will have it waiting for you when you get off the plane.

If you've got more than one little traveler with you, consider a kid harness (aka leash), Wendy suggests. "I was so against them until I saw a woman with three young boys using them in baggage claim. It made so much sense," she says, "with the exit doors to outside right there. Look, flying is stressful enough. Do what you need to do to protect your kids and your sanity."

Pack Just Enough

Flight attendants urge parents to pack enough essentials for the flight. "Unfortunately, you can expect there to be zero food on a plane that would interest a kid," says Lynn. "And we are so limited in what we can offer in terms of comfort items as well."

On the flip side, parents will struggle if they zealously overpack. "Usually, when it's one parent traveling with one or more kids, they'll bring way too much stuff in an attempt to keep their kids happy," Wendy says. "They forget they have to carry all that stuff off the plane with them, along with their kids."

Plan Your Packing List

To guard against over-packing while ensuring you don't forget anything critical, consider writing out a full packing list. Star or highlight those items that will need to be packed last minute (like the lovey your kiddo sleeps with or the tablet that's currently charging) so you have a checklist to consult one last time before heading out the door.

Sample Airplane Packing List for Toddlers

When packing your carry-on for the plane ride, use this list as a starting point:

• Comfort item: Consider packing one of your toddler's favorite comfort items in your carry-on for mid-flight snuggles. If the comfort item is a pacifier, be sure to pack more than one, lest it gets flung down the aisle or on the floor.
• Sanitizer, wipes, pull-ups, and diapers: You'll want these critical items within reach at all times during your travels. Not sure how many diapers to throw in the carry-on? One diaper per hour of travel is recommended.
• Electronic devices: If there is any time to let up on strict screen time rules, it's when you're traveling. Make sure that whatever device you're bringing is fully charged and ready to go—and don't forget the chargers for the flight back. Consider pre-loading the tablet or phone with your kids' favorite movies or shows for offline viewing.
• Kid-size headphones: Be sure to follow the basic rules of travel etiquette and pack comfy headphones your little one can wear while enjoying their favorite games or shows. Have more than one kid in tow? Consider investing in a splitter so both can enjoy the show with their own set of headphones.
• Art supplies: A small box of crayons and blank paper can go a long way when it comes to entertaining your toddler on a plane. Mix things up and pack some fun stickers or even plain sticky notes to add to the excitement.
• Plastic bags: You never know when you'll need an extra bag for wet clothes, a dirty diaper, or even just for trash, so pack a few extras.
• Water bottle: Toss an empty clean water bottle into your bag to fill after you get through security. Just make sure that it's leakproof!
• Healthy and fun mess-free snacks: While you don't necessarily want to load your kid up with sugar just before take-off, consider packing a mix of healthy and fun snacks that are relatively mess-free to keep their bellies full and happy. Cheerios, pretzels, crackers, string cheese, and granola bars are good options.

Be Prepared for Security

When you pack, make sure items that need to be removed during security are easily reached. Keep in mind that traveling with snacks may mean extra scrutiny during the screening process.

Prepare for Air Pressure Changes

If your child has recently had an ear infection or a cold, get your doctor's approval before flying. The change in cabin air pressure may cause pain for your toddler. After passing through security, stock up on enough water for everyone to get through a possible delay and have enough left for the descent, which is often the most bothersome time for ear pressure discomfort. Have your kids drink some right after takeoff and during the last 30 to 45 minutes of the descent. The swallowing helps with the pressure changes and gives an added hydrating benefit.

By All Means, Use Pull-Ups

Your little one may have moved beyond Pull-Ups into big kid underwear, but pull-up diapers are a great resource when flying with a recently potty-trained toddler or young child. "I even use them on my 6-year-old," says Wendy, who adds that it's much less stressful than having to race to the bathroom or deal with an in-seat accident.

Show Some Appreciation

Flight attendants love to receive a certain gratuity for dealing with toddlers. "Any kind of chocolate found in an airport, handed over at boarding, does wonders," says Patrick. Of course, it will have zero effect on the random bad-tempered, unprofessional cabin crew member. But it's a nice gesture nonetheless, particularly when flying during the holidays when most flight attendants will be working and away from their families.

"It will be so appreciated," he says. "And we will remember you and look out for you. And not only that, you'll probably score a free drink out of it."

Seat Kids Away From the Aisle

Aisle seats can be dangerous for toddlers and potentially give them a little too much freedom of movement. For example, little hands and feet can be bumped as people walk by and hot coffee and water may be just within reach as the food and beverage cart passes by. If you can, consider the window seat, which offers the benefit of a view and puts you between your toddler and any other passengers in your row.

Beware of Germs

Toddlers tend to get sit a lot, but you can try to avoid any travel-related illness by keeping your little one's hands clean. When flying with a toddler, wipe everything from hands to tray tables down with sanitizing wipes when you're getting settled in your seats—and above all else, do not send your kids to the bathroom without shoes. "The floor is a Petri dish," a flight attendant confides. "You're in the air, things jostle. That's not just water on the bathroom floor."

Keep Your Composure

There's not much you can do to assuage that passenger who complains the moment your child sneezes or giggles. Here's what you need to remember: As long as you're trying (and what parent isn't?), you've got almost everyone on your side. "An adult having an issue with a screaming child is acting like a child as well," offers a flight attendant and mother named Patience. "Don't engage. Just worry about your own child."

Choose an Airline With Kid-Friendly Perks

There's nothing a family-friendly airline wants more than happy, occupied kiddos. As such, many leading carriers have all kinds of kid perks to offer their littlest travelers from a wide array of their favorite TV shows and movies to kid-approved headphones and snacks.

Before boarding, be sure to check in with the gate agent about whether the airline offers priority boarding for families with young children. Often airlines call special boarding for families so they can board a little early so you'll have time to settle in. Other great perks to look for are family lounges or airports with areas for kids to burn off some steam during layovers or before boarding.

Related Articles

Flying with Baby: Travel Tips for Flying with an Infant 6-12mos.

Planning on flying with an infant 6-12 month-old? We’ve flown with our kids during this stage more than any other. And just how many pictures do we have of us on board the aircraft?

Flying with an infant of this age means one thing for mom and dad and anyone else in your traveling party…

You’re. VERY. Busy.

And if you’ve got an early walker on your hands (lap)?

Even. Busier.

But this does not mean that flying has to be unpleasant. Unlike newborns and younger babies , infants of this age are even more interactive than their younger selves. They are usually well-established into a sleeping and eating routine (that will not be blown away permanently by a few disruptions due to travel. Promise!).

And, while you may be starting the exciting but nerve-wracking (and messy!) process of starting solids, you can now (or soon!) take advantage of the calming and distracting power of SNACKS.

Our Experiences Flying with a Baby 6-12 Months Old…

For us, this was a very busy but still fairly easy time to travel with baby. Ours were not yet mobile, thankfully. And they were solid eaters on a very well-established routine of eat and sleep times. In terms of getting around, although they were getting kinda heavy, they were easily carted in an infant carrier, pretty content to ride in a stroller, but sadly no longer in the super convenient  infant carrier car seat used with or without the base .

We needed to buy an FAA-approved car seat .

Flying with an Infant 6-12 Months: Biggest Concerns

Seeing as this was the age (11mos.) of our very first flight with our daughter , I had so many concerns. Would she scream the entire time? How would it be feeding her? What if she put everything in her mouth?

It was preparing for that trip that provided the inspiration for this site. I am a worrywart and control freak who frets over all the details. My issues were compounded by the fact that our charter airline, the now-defunct Skyservice , had the most miniscule seat pitch I have ever encountered. My knees dug into the seat in front of us. My husband (very tall at 6’7″) could not unfold himself at all.

Later flights with our son at this stage were worrisome to me simply because he was (and still is) SO. BUSY. Even a seasoned flyer such as myself got pangs thinking about those upcoming flights.

Flying with an Infant 6-12 Months: The Reality

As a first-timer, in spite of the ridiculously tight seating, our daughter flew well. Well enough, in fact, for us to be encouraged to create this site and hopefully inspire, motivate, and help other families to do the same. It was based on this trip that I wrote the 5 Ts to Happy Travel with Tots , which outlines in a nutshell pretty much everything we did and do when flying with an infant.

Our carry-on was full of food and toys and distractions. While it was certainly more than the magazine and bottle of water in my pre-baby flights, it really was not unmanageable. On our flights with our son at this age, I was much busier. In spite of it being nap time, on one flight home from Cuba my arms got quite the workout as I was a human jolly jumper for pretty much the entire duration. But he was cheerful and relatively quiet, save for some happy squeals, so I was grateful for small mercies.

We always used the change of clothes we’d bring with us. Diaper fails are a standard especially when it was most inconvenient. I always brought a few extras of their favourite foods and, in the case of my daughter, some extra formula in case of delays. Nursing my son on all of our journeys could not have been easier or more convenient. I’m pleased to state that we received nary a stink-eye from anyone due to nursing while traveling . For take-off and landings I usually nursed him, or he drank from a sippy of water or used his pacifier. Pain from ear pressure is a common concern when flying with an infant, but neither of my kids seemed troubled by their ears while flying (knock on wood!).

Flying with an Infant 6-12 Months: Extra Consideration

As with all of our flights, I did bring on board anti-bacterial wipes. I used them on armrests and the tray tables, as well as a quick swipe over the laminated safety card that both my kids seem to enjoy so much.  And, because I’m paranoid, I then went over those with our usual wipes because I was afraid of the anti-bacterial residue.

And also as with flying with a newborn or flying with a younger baby , changes of clothes are recommended for baby and you, as well as plastic bags to put them in. Again, your carry-on bag will be quite full of diapers (and possibly bottles) and also toys or snacks. If you’re well into solids, the foil pouches of food are so much easier to travel with than jars. If baby is bottle-fed , the weight of the pre-made formula may outweigh the convenience of not having to mix it. Personally I’d travel with the can of formula powder (easier going through security as well) and mix it with bottled water once you’re at the gate.

You’re now in or getting close to the stage of the dried cereal finger foods. Those little Os work wonders as both distraction and nourishment!

And now that your baby is bigger, for long-haul flights you may be close to the end of being able to use an airplane bassinet . You may want to consider purchasing a seat on the plane and investing in a travel car seat . This is entirely at your discretion since flying with car seats is a lot of work but worth it for obvious safety reasons.

Useful Tips for Flying with an Infant 6-12 Months:

• Get baby used to room temperature bottles and food, so you don’t have the additional hassle of heating en route.
• Now baby can likely bear weight on her legs, so consider purchasing slip-on diapers. Not all airplane bathrooms have change tables, or if they do they are only big enough to change a baby kitten on.
• A cloth carrier or sling doesn’t take up much room in your carry-on and is useful to keep your hands free – especially if you’re flying solo. Keep in mind you’ll have to take baby out for taxi, take-off, and landing.
• Get yourself up to speed with the 5 Ts of Happy Travel with Your Tots . This info now applies to you in its entirety and for the next couple of years.

You’ll be busy.

You will have your hands full.

You will be very tired at the end of your journey.

But you will have such wonderful memories of your travels with baby that the fear of flying with an infant will seem inconsequential. Take lots and lots of pictures and write down some of the more memorable stories.

Your baby will not remember these journeys, but you will never forget them. Trust me on that.

Have Baby Will Travel  is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates/Influencer Program. If you make a purchase through this site, we may receive a small commission.  Click here to check out our Amazon Store .

• Flying with Baby: Travel Tips for Flying with a Newborn
• Flying with Baby: Travel Tips for Flying with a Toddler
• Traveling with a Baby? It Gets Harder…
• Traveling with a Baby? It Gets Easier…
• Infant Travel: Planning Your First Trip with Baby
• Baby Travel Gear Essentials
• 10 Dos & Don’ts for Flying with Babies & Toddlers
• Flying with a Baby: The Ultimate Tip List
• Tips for Flying with a Baby or Toddler at Every Age & Stage
• The Mother of all Packing Lists
• Beware the Aircraft Armrests When Flying with an Infant

flying with an infant , Preferred Family , Tagged Flying with Baby

67 Responses to Flying with Baby: Travel Tips for Flying with an Infant 6-12mos.

Wow! Thanks for all these great tips! I don’t usually leave comments but these tips are just so useful for me, a first time flyer with an 11-month-old! I am especially inspired by the part where you use the usual wipes after the anti-bacterial wipes. So smart! I am always worried about the anti-bacterial residue too, but never thought of wiping it again with usual wipes. Thanks again for sharing these great tips!

Thanks for the awesome advice!

Nice article! We want to travel to France (7 hours flight) but are hesitating to take a seat for my baby boy that is 4 minths. So you said that you had your baby on your lap the all trip, how long was the flight? Was it confortable for you and your baby?

By the way, do you live in New York?

For a 7 hour flight I would definitely consider getting a seat for your son and bringing on board his car seat. It is definitely the safest option and possibly the sanest for you as well. The longest I have done with a lap infant is 3 hours, and after a couple of those flights I would have paid anything to have an extra seat! Another option for you is to see if you can reserve the bulkhead and if they have a bassinet for infants. It is not as safe as his own seat with a car seat, but you will both likely be much more comfortable!

Not in New York. Toronto 🙂

Hi ..m flying with my 9 month old baby for almost 22 hours flight ..and then 5 hours drive . My baby is very active and he don’t like solids too. He don’t like too many people and small places . I am travelling alone and this is my first experience . Any suggestions please …

Hi Minika! You will be very very busy, so definitely be organized and prepared. Try some bringing some snacks that you know he will enjoy as well as some new finger foods he can try. Magazines with pages he can rip might be fun for him. Good luck!

Thanks for the useful tips Corinne! Very much appreciated. My wife and I are planning a 6 month adventure to South America from Vancouver, so I can sure see your tips coming in handy. All the best, Paul.

Have a great trip, Paul – let us know how it goes!

Thank u very much. We are flying.out tomorrow n the snack tips helped. I was afraid of bringing too much on board i.e. food wipes changing clothes etc. But i have a feel now for what to include. Thanks again!!!

Have a great flight, Lucy–let us know how it goes!

I should have done more research. I will be flying over 7 hours one way & over 9 hours back with my 8 month old on lap. As far as snacks, would the Gerber puffs be suitable/cleared to take on flight? I am a first time flier my self as well.

*Nervous Mommy of Two*

You’ll be fine! You will also be busy 🙂 The Gerber puffs are a great idea, and any kind of cracker and/or cold toast soldiers would be great for your eight-month-old. When is your fight?

Hi Corrine, thank you for the advice I’m traveling with my 10 month old soon at midnight and have a stop over for 5 hours, I’m so nervous as I’m flying solo and going to be exhausted, have you got any extra tips please? Thank you, Samantha from Australia 🙂

Samantha! How did it go? I hope you both got some rest!

Thank you for the great advice! We will be flying with our 10 month old and I’m a little nervous.

Hi there! Thanks for sharing. I’m considering a long 18 hour flight with one transit halfway. Worried that my 7 month old baby will not be able to take such a long journey. would such a long flight be advisable?

We will be flying to St. Thomas in 2 weeks! What is your advice on strollers? My stroller is the new Chicco Tre which folds very compact for an all terrain stroller. I really want to take it but recently read US Airways rules and it states any stroller over 20 lbs must be checked at the ticket counter. I called US Airways costumer service and the lady said I would be fine to check it at the gate, that check in at the ticket counter is only recommended. I have heard a lot of airports will let it slide but that smaller island airports will make you check it with baggage. I don’t want it checked with baggage for fear of it getting broke in the many transfers. I would rather buy a small stroller than have my good stroller broken. But want my good stroller so my baby will have shade from the sun as he’s only 7 months old.

What are your thoughts on this? And are all terrain strollers really that great in sand?

How much does your stroller weigh? So long as it folds down compactly, I’m sure you would be ok. I’ve yet to see a gate agent weigh a stroller before approving the gate check. If you’re close to the 20lb limit I’d say go for it. If you’re too worried, the G-Luxe by Uppababy has a great sunshade. Maybe not the best for traversing sand, but certainly easy to transport and use for a nap.

I’m traveling from fl to ny solo with my 4yr old and 9 month old any tips

We have a 3 hr layover as well I’ve never flown before can I do this lol

You can do it, Danielle! Lots and lots of distractions and snacks for your 4yo. Enlist him or her to be your “co-pilot” for your journey. 9mo will be busy, but hopefully big sibling can help entertain as well!

Are you alloeed to take dry formula and water on the plane. Also baby food. Daughter is flying to Texas from Calufornia

Hi Marti! Yes, you can take food and liquids on board for baby, just make sure you’ve separated it all together to make it easier to present for inspection. It might be easier (and lighter) to just bring the powder and mix with purchased bottled water once through security (if baby is past three months). Have a great flight!

Hi Corinne My daughter is coming out to South Africa from new York in Dec with a 9month old. Do the airlines allow the removable car-seat on board? Can she reserve a bassinet ahead of time? Would the car-seat be placed on the airline seat, or on the floor alongside? All these questions … Many thanks regards anne

If your daughter books the baby a seat, she will be able to bring on board her (FAA approved) car seat. For a very long flight, it might be worth the investment. If she doesn’t book a seat for the baby, she will have to gate-check the car seat. I don’t recommend checking it as luggage. Depending on the airline, she may be able to book a bulkhead/bassinet. Hope this helps!

I’ll be traveling with a 10 month old for a 5 day trip. I’m concerned about the baggage the fees. Any advice

If you’re really concerned you could pack a small bottle of laundry detergent and wash while you’re there. Or get really good at compacting your stuff so you can fit it all. Luckily 10-month-old clothes are still pretty small 🙂

I will be travelling with my 9 month old by myself. Would you recommend a window or aisle seat for a 3 hour flight?

Many Thanks

Thank you for this very useful post. I will be on a 12 hr flight with my 8 month old baby. I have booked a bassinet on Emirates so will be gate checking his car seat and stroller. Do you recommend getting those gate check car seat bags? Are they useful or can I use a regular large plasic or cloth bag?

One more question was regarding putting my baby to sleep. He is habituated to me holding him on my shoulder and I rock or bounce him to sleep. I have nt sleep trained him yet and was wondering if that would be a problem on the flight? We have booked the bulk head seat with bassinet so m hoping I might have some space for this

Hi Snehal! Please consider purchasing a padded bag for your car seat if you are going to gate check it. Your stroller should be fine. You should be able to get your baby to sleep on your shoulder on the flight, although it might be a little awkward while you’re seated. Do you transfer to the crib at home? If you’re good with that, hopefully it will work for the airline bassinet as well.

Best of luck and have a great flight!

Hi we will be travelling this month going to Philippines for 14 hours non-stop we have 10 months old baby boy and me and my husband is very nervous thinking about it… Please any tips ??? Thank you

Try not to be nervous but try to be prepared. The more you have on hand to distract and soothe your baby, the better. Some babies don’t have any pain issues in their ears at all, but if you are worried be ready with something for baby to eat or drink, or even a pacifier would do. It’s the act of swallowing (not sucking) that helps keep ear tubes clear. Good luck!

Hi one more question, when the plane is taking off anything I can do to help my baby if he cry , im a bit worried with the pressure when plane is taking off… Thank you

Hello. Thanks for all these wonderful tips. I am planning a very long haul flight to Europe when my bub is 15mths. He is a formula drinker too. Any tips for the longer haul flights? Thanks, A.

Hi Angelica! Bring extra formula powder and see if baby will drink it at room temperature. That way you can just mix it with bottled water with no need to heat. Make sure you have LOTS of distractions, and don’t shy away from toddler-appropriate technology if it will save your sanity. Good lucK!

Hi! Thanks for all the great advice. I’ll be traveling on a month long sabbatical to Costa Rica next spring. Do you have any packing recommendations? Have you ever used the services that drop off rental bib baby items to the airport?

I just wrote about why I’m headed to Costa Rica in my blog!

I have never been to Costa Rica but if you’ll be there for seven months it might be worth it to bring along your baby gear or purchase inexpensive items once you arrive. Rentals for seven months will be very costly. Good luck!

Great tips!! I’ll be traveling from India to Turkey and from Turkey to Miami with a 9 month spoiled baby!!! Wish me luck

Have a wonderful trip–good luck!

We will be traveling soon with 5 month old and 3.5years old it will be 15hrs of flight time we have booked bassinet for the baby please tell me what could you recommend taking along with us! We are only going for 2 weeks can I take the Gerber baby formula water gallons like 2 of them in plane for me to use there one gallon last me little over week so I want to take 2 if they allow it?

Hi Maira! Take what you think you will need. You may need to pay to check the baggage, and a gallon of water will weigh a lot. Can you get the water (or similar) where you are going?

these tips are beyond helpful! we have our first family trip to Disney for 2 weeks coming up. we have an almost 3yr old and an 8m old….. one question….we use distilled water for our baby girls formula bottles, did you have to deal with security bothering you about bottles pre-filed with 6-8oz of distilled? thats what I’m worried about!! i can’t have them taking the bottles lol

Hi Alyssa! With that much distilled water, your best bet is to pack it in your checked luggage. Or bring what you need for the flight and have what you’ll need delivered to your hotel once you’re there. Have a great trip!

Hi v r travelling from india to Phuket next week.. My baby is on formula and I feed her 8 oz per bottle.. Will they allow me to carry 2 bottles of pre filled water and similac advanced tin in cabin luggage? Thanks a lot, this article is wonderful !!!

Hi Neah! So long as you keep your baby’s food and formula separate, they should be fine with bringing along her pre-filled bottles. If your baby is past four months you are ok to mix the formula with bottled water, in a pinch. Have a great trip!

Hi I’m traveling with my going to be 6 month old at time of travel from New Mexico to Germany, that is where my husband will be stationed I was wondering if you have any tips or advice being that it’ll be the first on a plain for myself and I’ll be alone with my daughter.

Hi Elena! You will do great. You might consider purchasing your baby a seat and traveling with an FAA-approved car seat . It will certainly give you a break having your baby safely secured during the flight(s). Depending on your airline, you may be able to reserve a bassinet instead. When you make your travel arrangements, be sure to connect with your airline directly to make sure you’re familiar with their lap-infant policies (if you choose not to purchase a seat) and what additional assistance (if any) they can provide for traveling with an infant. Good luck!

Thanks for your article. I am planning to travel in couple of weeks with my daughter who is 2.5 years old and my son who is 12 month solo, so i am already nervous. We have traveled as family before but never done it all by myself. I have to change flights as well. Any tips for traveling with two kids? Greatly appreciate any suggestions

Hi Inna! I would highly recommend a lightweight double stroller, as you may find yourself needing to but both kiddos in baby jail. Failing that, a single stroller would work for your toddler if your baby is cool with being worn. If you can swing it, a lightweight double combined with a lightweight carrier might be your best bet, because if you’re wearing your baby you can put your carry-on bag in the spare stroller seat. A backpack might be your easiest choice for a carry-on, and make sure you have enough diapers and food for both kiddos. Be UBER organized; it will help going through security and you may want to introduce your toddler to the magic known as an iPad, in case she isn’t already 😉 Good luck!

So I have a 12 month old and I am super lost on how the whole seating works! Do I bring a car seat? Does he just sit in the plane seats? Does the plane provide a seat?? HELP lol im so clueless when it comes to this and me and my baba get on the plane in 2 days!

Hi Amaris! If you purchase a seat for your son, he will need a car seat on board. If you bring him along as a lap baby, I recommend bringing his car seat and gate checking it in a padded bag, if you will need a car seat at your destination. Have a great trip!

HI, my husband and I have twins (9mo) and are flying from Germany to Taiwan. How do you recommend that we eat? The idea of trying to keep those little hands off of our food… and our food on our trays sounds very daunting to me. I enjoyed your article… It took the edge off of my worries!

Hi Bre–good luck! Maybe try to eat in shifts and when it’s mealtime for you see if there’s some finger foods that they enjoy that you can give them to work on while you’re eating. My guys liked those Mum Mum crackers and little puffs that basically melt in their mouth.

Love these tips. Such an amazing blog.

I will be travelling with my 6 month old – 9 hr flight followed by 1.5 hr flight. I have already postponed my travels. I was planning on flying with him when he was 3 months old but felt overwhelmed and too nervous and cancelled the flight. Now I am again losing sleep and thinking whether I should postpone when he is even older – 9 months. I worry I exhaust him, he might catch something, cry a lot and get disturbed. Any tips, please? If I fly now when he is 6 months I am thinking I dont start solid just yet so he gets the most immunity from me and we deal with introduring solid once we arrive at our destination where I am planning on staying for 3 months. Any thoughts or recommendations?

Hi Lena! Don’t postpone out of fear or worry. You can do this! Hope for the best but prepare for the worst and you will be ok. A few small solids would be good to start so you have some to try to distract for interest. You may both feel a bit out of sorts for a day or two after your journeys but all eventually balances out, I promise!

Hi there, I stumbled on your blog. I’m going very last minute with my six month old from New York to Europe for a family emergency and feeling very flustered. I was able to book a bassinet seat – being unfamiliar with these, do you have any tips on sanitizing them? I was going to bring a muslin swaddle to put underneath the baby but also want to be mindful of SIDs guidelines. Thanks in advance.

Hi Victoria–I’m so sorry about your family emergency. I would give the bassinet a quick once over with a disinfecting wipe and an extra muslin to use as a liner might be a good idea. Hopefully you can find some other tips here: https://havebabywilltravel.com/a-complete-guide-to-booking-and-using-an-airplane-bassinet/ Best of luck with your travels.

Hello! i just came across your blog because i am SUPER nervous! this September i will be flying with my 13 month old eeeeeekkkk and before i bought the ticket i should have done more research too! she will be sitting on my lap and i will be on a 9-10 hour flight DOUBLE EEEK! Great advice i will be hopefully calm on your flight along with baby too

You both will do great–you have lots of time to prepare!

Such a useful and detailed post for those having a baby and traveling from the flight, thank you so much for sharing your tips.

Hi, so the stroller can be put on the plane, or it has to go under?

They almost always have to go under the plane, but you can usually gate check it so you can bring it right up to the plane and it’s waiting for you when you land.

Such a helpful and itemized post for those having a child and going from the flight, much thanks for sharing your tips.

Very Such a helpful and itemized post for those having a child and going from the flight, much thanks for sharing your tips.

Thanks for the article. We traveled with a 3 month old in a longish flight and it went okish. Now we have a 7 month old baby and flying again. I am torn between a direct flight ( 4 hours) vs an indirect flight (1 hour then 4 hours with a 2.5 hours stop over in between) – since the total travel time increases by almost 3-4 hours in the direct vs indirect flight. The costs are double – so not sure if we should choose convenience over money. (The direct flight also takes off and lands at decent times but the indirect flight is red eye flight! What would you do? – baby is not crawling or walking yet but is active and eats solids.

Ooh that’s a toughie. Does double the cost affect the trip or your overall finances? If money was object I would choose convenience all the time. But money is NOT no object so in the order of fiscal responsibility I would need to weigh what I would need to manage in order to justify the extra cost. The saving grace is the stopover is long enough to feed, change, and walk a bit without rushing onto another flight and the first flight is very short.

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11 tips for making traveling with a baby easier

When my daughter was six months old, we took her to Chicago for a family get together. It was her first time on a plane and our first time with a baby on a plane. It was only a two-hour flight from New York to Chicago and yet, I frantically packed and repacked the diaper bag with multiple changes of clothing, dozens of diapers, and four meals worth of food. She slept the entire time.

Traveling and vacationing with a baby is not as bad as people make it out to be. Just prepare ahead of time, without going overboard of course, adjust your mindset, and keep your expectations low.

Here are 11 hacks to help make the unpredictable part of baby travel slightly easier.

Pack lots of snacks.

Now, I'm no seasoned vet when it comes to this mom thing — I've only been doing it for about four years. But if there's one thing I've learned on all the family trips we've taken with our two kids, it's snacks are our friends. Under normal circumstances, we obviously don't allow our kids to eat too many snacks before breakfast, but when you're traveling, especially if it's during weird hours, and your kid starts to lose it, having an arsenal of snacks ready to shove in their little face will save you. I've learned this hard way.

Bring lots of diapers and extra clothes.

Extra clothes and diapers go a long one, but don't go overboard. Pack your diaper bag like you normally do for the day plus one extra outfit and three to five extra diapers, depending on the length of your trip. That is more than enough supplies for at least two major diaper explosions.

Pack your baby's “sleep” toy or blanket, if they have one.

If your baby is not good at sleeping in other places besides their crib, this may help. My son was this exact same way and it led to some very long and exhausting nights away from home. Then a friend suggested I bring his blanket the next time we go away so that he at least recognizes something, and it actually worked. Now, whenever we travel anywhere overnight, I always pack the blue and white blanket he's had since birth and he manages to fall asleep a little bit easier.

Buy a few new toys and wrap them.

This is a great idea if you have a long plane or car ride. Buy a few small, cheap toys, wrap them up, and whip them out as you notice your child starting to get antsy. Wrapping up the toy turns it into a whole activity. This way they spend time unwrapping and then playing with it. You could probably kill at least a half hour per toy.  

Pack lots of stickers.

Besides for all the obviously art supplies of crayons and coloring books. Older babies and toddlers love stickers. I've entertained my kids on countless flights with just a plain sheet of paper and a sticker book.

My son, who's a year and a half now, is literally enamored by stickers. He loves putting them on paper, rolling them in his hand, or playing with the sticky part on his fingers. I really don't know what it is, but kids love them.

Bring some type of technology that's fully charged.

The iPad is like my hidden gem on long flights. I try to use it as a last resort after I've exhausted all of my other activities. Firstly, I'm usually energized when we first get on the plane anyway, so why not just play with the kids before starting something that I will inevitably have to stop?

Secondly, depending on what show or app they're playing with my kids can entertain themselves on an iPad for a while, which is why I'd rather have a dead iPad at the end of a trip, than a dead iPad with four more hours of flying to go.

Book a seat at the front of the plane.

The closer to the front the better. Besides for the easier boarding and getting off, there is usually some space near the front where you can let your baby explore a bit if they get too antsy in the seat. It's also good to be close to the flight attendants if something comes up. As far as which seat to sit in, I prefer the window when traveling with a baby, but it's up to you.

It's worth paying for the bassinet seat for longer flights.

If you're traveling on a long flight with an infant, it's definitely worth booking a seat with a bassinet hookup. This means your baby will have their own space and place to sleep during the flight. The bassinets do have a weight limit though, usually around 25 lbs, so make sure to confirm with the airline ahead of time.

Gate check your stroller.

Most airlines will take your stroller and car seat for free at the gate, which is a great perk you should take advantage of. This means you can push your baby around the entire airport basically up until you board the plane. This also means that when you land, your stroller will be brought back to you at the gate, so you'll have it as soon as you de-plane.

Give yourself lots of extra time.

Since having kids, I've realized everything takes longer and flying is no different. Even if it's just 15 minutes, always leave yourself extra time. Something inevitably will happen, so why stress more?

Ignore the dirty looks— you don't need to apologize for your baby being a baby.

This is the most important travel hack of all. When you're traveling with a baby on a long flight or a short flight, or a train, or bus, there is bound to be at least one grumpy person out there who's going to try and make you feel bad for your child's behavior. Ignore it. Your baby will cry because that is what babies do and people need to just accept that. No parent should feel like they have to apologize for their kids' behavior.

Obviously, if your baby is having a tantrum in a restaurant, take them outside as not to disturb others. And obviously, on a plane, you do what you can to keep them calm and quiet. But, at the end of the day, babies will cry and people will just have to deal, and that is that. Thank God for noise-canceling headphones.

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We asked, you answered: Parent-approved tips on traveling with kids under 2

Becky Harlan

Last month, Life Kit asked parents to share their go-to advice for traveling with babies and toddlers under age 2 as part of an episode we did on the subject. Over 200 folks responded with tips they wish they'd known before taking a big trip with a little one.

Reading through these responses, it became clear there's no magic hack that works for every kid. Some parents swore by sticking to their kid's sleep schedule on a trip, others said their vacation was smoother when they let the usual routine go. Some sang the praises of the overnight flight (so their child would sleep on the plane), others said their child has never slept more than 10 minutes on a plane no matter the timing.

I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

A few pieces of advice held true throughout. A hungry kid is an unpleasant kid, and children are messy. So packing lots of snacks, extra diapers and a change of clothes ranked high on the list of must-dos. Almost 40 of over 200 responses suggested packing extra outfits in your carry-on for your kid and for you. (If your charge spits up, throws up, blows out or spills it will also get on you!)

So here's a non-exhaustive, impossible-to-be-comprehensive, but-hopefully-still-helpful round-up of your top advice for traveling with little kids. These responses have been edited for length and clarity.

What to pack

A stroller that can be stored in the overhead bin. It's a game changer to not have to check clunky strollers at the gate or check-in counters. —Amy P.

A change of clothes for yourself. If the baby spits up or has a blowout, there's a high likelihood that the mess will end up on you too, especially if you're holding them. Also, be sure to bring a bag to put messy clothes in. Reusable waterproof bags are great and they keep the smell in! —Jenna Yount

Extra diapers. You think you will be fine but if something comes up it's not a good situation to be in. —Jeanna Limtiaco

Overnight diapers. Fewer diaper changes in transit makes everyone happier. —Samantha Warren

Snacks. Remember, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration allows for any size baby food [and baby or toddler beverage], so pack those pouches! —Clara W.

Meds you and your kids might need in flight. That includes chewable Tylenol, Imodium, Dramamine, Zofran, ginger chews, Band-Aids and alcohol wipes. —Paige Ellis

A dark-colored bath towel. It's a blanket, it's for tidying up, it's a tablecloth, it's a sun cover, it shields bottoms from hot slides, it dries off swings. It's a multi-tasking powerhouse. —Judith Heise

Consider what may make sense to buy, rent or borrow upon arrival. You don't need to stuff everything into your suitcase. Buy some of your diapers and snacks at your destination. See if you can borrow or rent large, bulky items like car seats or travel cribs from Facebook Marketplace or your hotel or Airbnb. —Jocelyn Newman

How to get through the flight

Get to your gate an hour before boarding. It gives you time to feed your child, change their diapers, have a cup of coffee and fill your water bottle. It can also help your kid let out their energy before they have to sit on the plane. —Shelly C.

Check the airport for family friendly spaces. Use nursing spaces or pods and family restrooms to reset as needed. Check lounges for nursing and play rooms. —Sara Conger

Take an early morning flight. Those are least likely to get delayed, which is important when traveling with kids. —Carina Ochoa

Parenthood Is A Shock To The System. These Tips Can Help You With The Transition

Board with your partner separately. If you're traveling with two caregivers, have one go on the plane first with all the stuff and do the gate-checking of the stroller while the other hangs back with the kids until the last minute. It gives kids more time to run around! —Andrea De Francesca

Get a plane seat for your kid. Even though many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly for free as a lap baby, if you can afford to get them their own seat, it is worth it. It is recommended for safety to have them in a car seat, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, and the extra space for them to move around is nice. —Nicole Shelledy

Be ready for motion sickness. We were not prepared for how easily some little ones get motion sickness on an airplane. Have throw-up bags handy at all times. —Tiff Bankhurst

Prevent ear discomfort. Sucking during take off and landing may help relieve ear discomfort. My babies have flown with me from 4 weeks onward and never had a problem as long as they had a bottle or sippy cup or straw to suck on. —Shelly Ransom

Don't plan on them sleeping on the plane. It's great if they do, but if it doesn't happen, you'll be frustrated. —Colleen Mayerhoff

Don't worry too much about your kid "bothering" other people. The vast majority of people don't care, and many have been in the same situation you've been in and feel nothing but empathy for you. As for those who do care, they are not guaranteed a child-free existence in public. Kids are part of society too, and they are also allowed to take up space. —Jenna Yount

Make friends with the flight crew. They're going to help, they've got more experience than you, and they also want the flight to be pleasant. —April Graham

Save the screens for the flight. If you're using a screen, wait until you're on the plane. While you're waiting in the terminal, let them move as much as possible. Find an empty gate and play Simon Says, see who can jump in one place the longest, do animal charades. Let them go wild. —Paige Ellis

Download age-appropriate shows for your child on an iPad. (But know that if your kid is under age 2 they'll mostly just want to push the buttons.) —Chantel Dockstader

Travel hacks

Find a lodging close to a grocery store and a park. It makes it easy to buy last-minute things and burn off their energy easily at a park. —Gillian Molina

Dress your young kids in bright, matching shirts. I once traveled alone when my kids were 2, 4 and 6. We all wore matching yellow shirts so people could see we were together. —Emily Hernandez

If you want to let your little one crawl around , bring a pair of socks that you can put over their hands. Then you don't have to worry about dirty hands afterward. —Shannon Geraghty

Hire a photographer. You'll have photos with everyone in them, maybe get to see some scenic parts of the city you hadn't seen before. Dress up, wear matching outfits, be extra! They're only little once. —Tina Doyle

Helpful mindsets

It's not a vacation. It's a trip. You're just parenting in a new place. Set your expectations accordingly. —Laura Henriquez

The airport/train/bus/car is not the time to enforce the normal at-home rules. Do you want Doritos at 7 a.m. at the airport? OK. Do you want to watch 20 episodes of Blippi on the plane? No problem. There are no rules when traveling. This also makes traveling fun for kids because they get to do something different. —Meg Houston

Build in extra time to do things. It will decrease the chances of you and your child getting into stressful situations. —Cori DeLano

You're not going to get as much done as you think with a kiddo in tow. Think about things like nap schedule, traveling with a stroller, meltdowns, diaper changes. On my most "successful" trip with my kiddo, we planned one big activity a day and left the rest of the day open with some general ideas and left room for flexibility. —Whitney Winters

They might not remember, but you will. —Nina Hartman

The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

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26 Genius Air Travel Hacks Every Parent Needs to Know

You’re excited about your destination. The journey to get there—maybe not so much. But before you start writing preemptive apology letters to your fellow airplane passengers, try some of these genius airplane hacks to keep your brood calm, happy, and organized on even thelongest of flights. From where to sit on the plane to how to pack so you can whip out the right stuff at the right time (Hello, emergency lollipops!), here are the best travel and packing tips for your next flight.

1. Get TSA PreCheck status to breeze through security. True, some airports will whisk families through security to help weary moms and dads get through the lines without having to tame tantrums or retrieve runaway kiddos—but it’s not a guarantee. To help make sure your wait in the security line is a quick one, apply for TSA PreCheck status, which lets you and your kids breeze through security a little faster (PreChecked travelers use a separate line and don’t need to remove their shoes or belts nor remove liquids, laptops or light jackets). Children under 13 can use the TSA PreCheck lane when traveling with a parent or guardian who has the indicator on their boarding pass. Even better? It only costs $85 for five years.

Insider Tip : Make sure to apply for PreCheck status at least two weeks before your flight, then add your “Known Traveler Number” to your reservation.

Apply at Tsa.gov/precheck

2. Fly on a Tuesday or Wednesday . According to air travel experts, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least popular days to fly—which means not only could you get a better deal on your flight, but you may end up with a free seat next to you in the air. In contrast, Sundays are the most expensive, according to TravelFreak.com .

Related: Easy Travel with Kids? The Solution We Can’t Stop Talking About

3. Pre-order meals and snacks. Every parent knows it takes something as simple as, “Sorry, we ran out of the Pirate’s Booty” to send a cranky kid into a hangry downward spiral. To avoid this in-air calamity, pre-order any onboard snacks (besides the ones you pack) ahead of time. Most airlines will let you do this within two weeks of your flight, allowing you to prepay for meals or snacks so that you’re guaranteed your food of choice even if you’re sitting in the last row to be served (most airlines even have kids meals, which reportedly taste way better than their grown-up counterparts).

Not all airlines have specialized child or baby meals available, but many do—including Delta , American , United , British Airways , Emirates , EVA Air , Virgin Australia , Virgin Atlantic , Lufthansa , and Japan Airlines . Specialized meals (there are also allergy-friendly meals, vegetarian meals, etc.) are only available by reservation, so make sure to check with your airline long before your flight takes off.

Insider Tip : To reserve meals, go to the “Manage My Booking” section for your flight and find the option for meals and snacks.

4. Sit up front if you’re worried about motion sickness—and the back if you’re potty training. If you’ve got a kid who gets queasy easily, sitting at the front of the plane or between the wings is your best bet since this is the most stable part of the airplane. The back seats, by contrast, will be the bumpiest when the air gets choppy. That said, if you’ve got a kid who’s new to the potty, choose a seat in the back, so you’re close to the lavatory. Sitting in the rear of the aircraft also means you’re within easy reach of in-flight amenities (you can usually get cups of water or seconds on snacks), and you’ll have a bit of room to stretch your legs if you need to rock a nearly-snoozing child.

5. Use packing cubes to grab-and-go. When your wiggly tot needs to get to the bathroom, pronto, digging through your carry-on to find diapers and wipes need to be a lightning-fast feat. To prep for this inevitable moment, use a clear packing cube to make an easy-to-grab potty kit that you can whisk out of your carry-on the moment you see your wee one wiggling. Packing cubes are also great for separating snacks, spare clothes, toys, and other items you’ll need to grab at a moment’s notice. Try these EZPacking Cubes for clear plastic pouches or these compression mesh cubes that let you squish your stuff down to fit it all in.

Insider Tip: Bring extra Ziploc bags in case you need a place to put soiled or wet clothes.

6. Use a blow-up footrest to make naps happen. This blow-up footrest lets your little ones lay flat (if they’re small enough) or put their feet up to get cozy. It also works to keep toys and crayons from falling to the floor since it takes up almost all of the space in front of the seat. Blowing it up can be a little tedious—you use your mouth or a pump (sold separately)—but once it’s inflated, your tot will be the envy of your seatmates. Buy it here .

7. Use a phone wallet for easy access to travel documents and credit cards. When you’re shuffling kids through security, keeping all of your travel documents easily accessible is a must. So carry your phone and your credit cards in one of these wearable “phone wallets”   so you can whip out your tickets and pay for snacks without needing to open your purse. Not only that, but you’ll be able to quickly snap a photo or hand over Youtube Kids at a moment’s notice. Win-win!

8. Use busy boxes to keep kids entertained without screens. Sure, you can hand over your phone and let kids veg out the whole flight, but if your kids are too young for marathon TV sessions or you want to occupy them for a few minutes without a screen—airplane busy boxes are a fun way to pass the time. Make them yourself by filling a pencil case with a variety of small toys and games suitable for your child, or head to Etsy and buy one, made-to-order. Stellar seller 2Plus3EqualsWe makes magical ones that can be personalized with your child’s name.

Insider Tip: Don’t show them to your kids until you’re up in the air!

9. “Surprise Eggs” are your friends. If the wild success of YouTube channels like Ryan’s World is any indication, simply opening a toy is almost more fun than playing with it. So bring along wrapped or boxed toys that your child can “unbox” while in flight. It can be as simple as filling plastic Easter eggs with tiny toys from the Dollar Store or buying pre-made kits online, like this 30 toy-filled eggs set on Amazon. Our choice: “Surprise Balls” like Mini Brands Toys (which come with tiny replicas of popular toys and are gender-neutral) take at least 15-20 minutes to unwrap, open, and explore, and they’re relatively small to toss in your carry-on. Keep them a secret, then hand them over when your kids get fidgety.

Insider Tip: Bring Play-Doh for kids to stick to the tray table—it works great for anchoring small toys in place!

10. Listen to Stories. There are only so many books you can bring to read to your child on a plane. So leave the storytelling to this genius little gadget that makes it easy for kids to listen to stories or songs without needing to know how to read the controls. All they have to do is slide the sturdy story card into the slot and push a button. Content cards range from Disney faves like Frozen and Spider-Man to kid-lit classics like The Magic Treehouse and Ramona Quimby. There are even cards that let you record your voice so you can read a story, sing a song, or just talk to your child and they can listen to your voice on demand.

11. Bring triangular crayons. Coloring is a no-brainer way to help pass the time on a long flight. To keep crayons from slipping and sliding off of the fold-down tray, bring triangle-shaped ones that will lay flat.

12. Tether important toys. Your kid won’t travel without her favorite lovey, but you know that doll is bound to end up on the dirty airplane floor. What’s a parent to do? Strap one of these handy tethers onto your kids’ important items to keep them from falling onto the ground (or getting lost). Note: You can attach one end to your child’s wrist (or yours) if you can’t find any other place to loop it.

13. Check the car seat. Don’t feel like lugging your toddler’s car seat but need something more than the airplane seatbelt to keep your little wiggler in place? Try this airplane hack that uses a safety harness that straps onto the airplane seat to create the same sort of five-point harness your child is used to, without the bulk. Because it holds the child’s chest area as well as the waist—the same way a car seat seatbelt does—the FlySafe harness can help restless kids fall asleep more easily on a plane. It is designed for kids that weigh 22-44 pounds and is small enough to fit in your purse.

14. Use a folding travel desk to keep things within reach. If your child likes to draw or craft her way through a long flight, a fold-out desk like this one is the perfect way to keep all those art supplies within reach and off the airplane floor. There are pockets for all the things your child needs, and it folds up easily for easy carrying to and from your destination. It also works to cover that infamously dirty tray table.

15. Roll your child through the airport. When you’re rushing to make a flight and you don’t want to worry about your child toddling into restricted areas or making a beeline for the airport store, this strap-on child seat fits on the back of your rolling luggage and lets your kid cruise right along with your carry-on. It works with children up to 50 pounds and attaches to any 20-24″ rolling suitcase.  Want something a little more sophisticated? Micro’s Luggage Eazy has a built-in kid seat on the top of its roller case so you can zip through the terminal in style.

16. Get a seat with a bassinet for long-haul flights. Did you know most international flights offer bassinets that attach to the wall of the front row in coach? It’s true… and it’s amazing! To secure one of the few seats on the plane that offer this perk, book your seats way ahead of time by calling the airline directly and requesting the bassinet seats. The bassinets make a great napping and tummy time space and are available for babies up to about a year (though age and weight limits vary per airline). Check out this post from FlyingwithaBaby , which compares bassinet seats (and rules for them) for almost all major airlines.

17. Bring pain relief, just in case. The last thing you want when you’ve just reached cruising altitude is to hear the sad wail from your little one that can only mean one thing: something hurts. To help any in-flight ouchies (such as ear pain, which is common during the winter when kids have constant stuffiness), bring a bottle of infant or child Tylenol or Advil (plus the measuring cup that comes with it), just in case.

18. Use disposable mats on airplane trays. You don’t want to know what might be lurking on the tray table where your one-year-old just plopped his pacifier. One of our favorite airline hacks is to keep those yuckies covered with a disposable like this “Tray Mask .” That way, when your kids pour their pretzels out of the bags (because you know they will), you can rest assured knowing the table is clean.

19, Stash pacifiers in condiment cups. If you don’t want your extra pacifiers collecting dirt and grime, grab a few extra to-go dressing cups the next time you eat out. Each one is a perfect binky-holder.

20. Get this suitcase that doubles as a lay-flat bed. JetKids has invented what may be the coolest travel gadget for kids: The JetKids By Stokke Bedbox works as a scooter suitcase in the airport (your kids can roll themselves or be pulled by you) and transforms into a lay-flat bed for babies and toddlers in-flight. At $199, it’s a pricey purchase, but considering the peace of mind you’ll get knowing your little one will snooze the flight away, it may be worth it. Read our in-depth review of the BedBox here .

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Flying with a Baby

21. Use free printables. If the power on the tablet runs out, and you’re up for a family game, whip out a few air travel BINGO cards and start scanning the aisles for your winning items. See a beverage cart? Check!! Hear someone sneeze? BINGO! You can make your own cards or try one of these free printables .

22. Conquer achy ears. The frequent flyers over at Nourishing Little Souls picked up this hack from a flight attendant for when their little ones’ ears pop en route. Simply pour steaming hot water onto paper towels and stuff them into the bottom of two cups. Then, hold the cups so that they’re sealed over your kid’s ears; any pressure disappears in a flash.

23. Make in-flight snack time a game. Tots love to open and close things, so take a cue from Lemon Stripes by stretching out the mid-flight snack by stashing their favorite nibbles—goldfish, granola, raisins—into a days-of-the-week pill case. They’ll get a kick out of popping open each compartment and picking out the treats inside.

24. Use saran wrap or portable cup covers to minimize in-flight spills. Keep in-flight juice messes to a minimum by covering open cups (like the ones flight attendants hand out) with a piece of Press n’ Seal. Stick a straw into the top and voila! Looking for something you can use again and again? Try these ingenious portable cup covers that fit onto almost any cup.

25. Abandon screen time rules. If endless episodes of Dora The Explorer or a few hours of Minecraft is all it takes to keep your little jet-setter happy on a cross-country journey, let it happen. When it comes to screen time on an airplane, we say there are no rules. Quiet kids = Happy plane.

Insider Tip: If you’re downloading movies to the tablet, don’t forget a jack splitter so your kids can watch together. Also, don’t forget to download your airline’s app so you can watch free movies and shows in-flight (most airplanes without courtesy screens offer this).

26. Bring lots of lollipops. Hear us out: If your kids are having trouble popping their ears during takeoff and landing, sucking on lollipops can help. It also helps during temper tantrums and meltdowns (You’re on a plane: You do what you have to do). Don’t be afraid to offer them to the harried parents a few rows up—this airplane hack works like magic.

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How I've kept traveling -- even after having a baby

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Before I had a baby, I had traveled to almost 60 countries and was on a plane every other week.

A huge fan of solo travel , yoga retreats with friends and adventurous escapes with my husband, I was always on the move. Thanks to the ability to work remotely, travel was easy. Then COVID-19 hit, and shortly after, I got pregnant .

So life changed, and so did travel.

But now that travel is picking up again , I'm back at it — with my eight-month-old in tow.

Here's how — and why — I've navigated travel with a baby.

New to The Points Guy? Sign up for our daily newsletter to learn more about points and miles.

Why I travel with my baby

Because i have to, and so does he.

I live in Europe and my entire family lives in the United States . Like it or not, my child will have to constantly go back and forth between the two continents, and I want this to become second nature for him. I started flying with my child when he was three months old. He's already on his 15th flight and 4th high-speed train ride -- and has a few road trips under his elastic waistband.

Have some flights been really easy? Yes. Have some flights been harder? Also yes. But it doesn't matter all that much either way, because we have to travel if we want to spend time with friends and family back in the United States. And most of the flights, with a few small exceptions, have been great.

Even you don't need to travel with a baby, just know it's possible. It may not always be easy, but you can absolutely do it if you want to.

I want him to experience the wonders of the world instead of material things

My apartment was recently broken into. As violating and frustrating as it was, I realized that I was able to get over the things they took from me (cash and jewelry) relatively quickly, even though some of the jewelry pieces were family heirlooms.

When I'm still traumatized emotionally about having my space invaded, the robbers couldn't take from me what I most valued: my family and our shared experiences, especially the ones we've had traveling.

My hope is that my son will grow up understanding these same lessons and placing value on experiences and connections instead of things. And the best way to show this is by modeling the same behavior for him, which is often what motivates me to plan that next family vacation .

Because it's fun

Playing with my son in the peaceful Caribbean ocean waves, watching him stare at the Chicago skyline with awe or seeing him smile at the iconic Eiffel Tower are memories I'll never forget. Although he definitely won't remember these trips, we will — and we'll have lots of photos to show him one day.

How I make travel with my baby easier

Traveling with a baby isn't always easy. From diaper blowouts during landing and bleary-eyed nights with a jet-lagged infant to nasty stares from passengers if my overtired son shrieks during take-off, traveling with a baby has its downsides and complications. Here are some hacks I use to make it easier.

I bring someone along to help

I know I'll travel alone with my child as he gets older. However, for now, whenever possible, I try to have another adult in tow to help out — whether that be my partner, a family member or friend.

While I'm not expecting a friend to deal with a crying baby or his meltdowns, it's helpful to have someone along to help carry luggage, make sure I don't forget my jacket in the airport, hold the baby while I head to the restroom or help me fold up the stroller at TSA .

These little things can really make a difference when traveling. Once my child can at least walk on his own, I'll start traveling with just the two of us.

I pack as light as possible

It's true that kids — and especially babies — can need a lot of stuff. And there are things I really don't want to be stuck without on a long plane ride like diapers or snacks (more on this in a moment).

When traveling with my baby, I try to bring everything I need but don't go overboard. I swear by lightweight travel strollers and always take along a baby carrier and diaper backpack for a hands-free airport experience.

I like to book rental properties with as many baby and kid amenities already present as possible, such as a crib, high chair and more to avoid taking extra stuff along. I've also used rental companies in destinations for key items such as car seats, too.

Always bring these key items — especially when flying

What you can carry with you when flying is obviously very different than what you can lug along on a road trip, which offers you more space and added flexibility. That being said, these are key items I always take in my carry-on when flying with a baby:

• Extra clothing for both you and your baby (yes, trust me, you need a backup outfit just in case).
• Layers of clothing or blankets (plane temperatures can vary).
• Pacifier and clip (and backup).
• Comfort toy or blanket.
• Extra diapers (enough for an unexpected delay).
• Formula/breast milk/pump.
• Snacks (for you and/or your baby).
• Baby wipes.
• Sanitizing wipes.
• Extra bibs.
• Ziploc bags for soiled clothing (or a reusable, waterproof bag).
• Baby Tylenol or any infant medications.
• A basic first aid kit.
• Small toy(s).
• Anything that can help your baby fall asleep.

For more on what to pack and how to prepare for traveling with a baby, read this article .

Use points and miles for a more comfortable and affordable trip

This may be an unpopular opinion, but I love using my points and miles to fly in business class with my baby .

He's actually better behaved than other passengers in some cases. Also, having the extra space to stretch out makes a real difference for all of us, especially on long-haul flights where sleep is essential for the entire family.

I have also dipped into my stash of points and miles to buy three seats in economy, taking a car seat along so my baby can safely sit in his own seat, even though that isn't required at this age. The bassinet was once an option if I had enough points or miles for just two seats, although now my baby has surpassed the weight limit.

If you want to use the bassinet, always call the airline to see if this option is available and what the weight/size limits are, which can vary by airline or even route .

I verbally prepare my baby for travel

I'm well aware that my baby probably can't understand what I'm saying. But as he gets older, he is starting to recognize words, and I want "airplane" to be one of them as quickly as possible. Whenever we travel, I softly and carefully explain to him what's happening several days in advance each day before the trip.

I tell him we're going to fly high in the sky on a plane, that we need to be calm, quiet and happy. I tell him that we'll be spending time with many other people in a small space, so we need to not scream or kick the seat in front of us and bother other passengers.

I explain that we're visiting a certain destination or specific family members or friends, where we'll be sleeping and for how long we'll be gone.

One day, he'll slowly begin to associate these explanations with the journeys that follow them. Kids ask a lot of questions and want to understand what's going on, so I hope explaining things to him will help him feel safe and in control as he gets older, as well as excited to fly and to travel.

I fly or take a train trip at least every two months with my son

I realize that as someone who's worked remotely for more than 10 years, I'm afforded the flexibility to travel frequently and take my son along with me. I'm teaching my child how to eat properly and sleep well, and will pretty soon potty train, so I'm training him to travel, too.

With the convenience of low-cost air carriers and high-speed trains here in Europe (and a solid stash of points and miles), it's easy to get my baby on a plane or train every few months to get — and keep — him used to travel and make it part of a familiar routine.

I minimize travel stress with early arrivals, elite status and lounge access

Running through the airport with a baby and luggage is stressful and not at all how I want to start a trip.

I find the calmer I am, the calmer our whole family is — especially my baby, who tends to absorb my energy and mental state. Getting to the airport with lots of extra time helps me feel relaxed and in control — and these feelings transfer to everyone in my travel party, especially my son.

Having elite status and lounge access doesn't hurt, either, as I can avoid long lines and hang out in the lounge if I have time to kill before flying.

Both The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offer lounge access, and considering my home airport of Madrid Barajas (MAD) has several really nice Sala VIPs that are part of the Priority Pass network, I find this credit card perk a valuable one.

My Oneworld Sapphire status makes flying on airlines like Iberia much more comfortable, too, allowing me to use the business class check-in area, board first and check a bag at no added cost.

I plan flights around bedtime and nap times whenever possible

While my son sleeps fairly well on planes, I prefer to plan flights strategically at times where he'll already be fed, calm and rested. Although I can't always make this happen, I do so whenever my schedule and flight schedules permit it.

I organize sightseeing and beach days around naps, too

When traveling, I always try to organize my days so that my baby can either nap at the hotel or vacation rental, or while we walk in his stroller.

Cobblestoned European streets are particularly helpful in coaxing my son to sleep in his stroller, as the vibration is relaxing for him. I also bring everything along possible to encourage sleep while on the road — a portable sound machine in the stroller, a portable night light, his lovey, a tent for the beach , our own sheet for the travel crib to remind him of home — really anything that will help him to nap and sleep, keeping him and the whole family calm and happy.

Bottom line

While I'm not hopping on a flight every other week like I was in those pre-pandemic, pre-baby days, having a baby hasn't ruined travel for me.

I know it can be more restrictive and more expensive, but I now look at travel in a whole new way. I see it as an opportunity to bond as a family, give my son new experiences and help him grow into a flexible, excited young traveler .

My hope is that starting with these experiences while he is young will make travel a habit for him, just like going to school or playing with friends — something he is familiar with and learns to love and do with joy.

Tips for flying long-haul with a baby

By: Author Monica

Categories Family Travel , Travel Tips

Flying long-haul with a baby can be a bit daunting. Most people actually thought that we were crazy for flying with a baby but, while they can be difficult, they aren’t impossible! Today’s post is full of all of my tips for flying with a baby and will, hopefully, help to put your mind at ease about the whole process.

Many people thought we were crazy flying long-haul with a baby – especially all the way to the Maldives! But if you read my last post about how awesome it was to visit the Maldives with a baby then you’ll know it was well worth it.

I’m not going to lie, long flights with babies can be difficult. I’m one of the rare people who actually loves long-haul flights. I love being disconnected from the internet and being able to sit back and relax for 10 hours without worrying about emails and clients and social media. I wrap myself in a blanket, order a G&T and sit back to a marathon of movies. It’s bliss. I honestly don’t know why people hate it so much.

And then along came George and I already know it’s going to be a fair few years before I can enjoy relaxing plane journeys like this again. Ahhhh, sigh.

Our flight to the Maldives

We travelled with Turkish Airlines to the Maldives. We flew from Birmingham and began with a 4-hour flight to Istanbul. There was a 2-hour layover before a final 8-hour flight to Male, the capital of the Maldives.

We experienced the short-haul European flight with Turkish Airlines and then the long-haul transatlantic flight – which is important to note because they were very different.

Turkish Airlines have been awarded the best airline in Europe and it’s not hard to see why. The food is amazing (yes, I just said plane food is amazing!), the staff were lovely and the whole experience is simple and enjoyable. For the Istanbul to Male leg of the journey it felt like a different airline. The food was still delicious and we still had some very tasty Turkish Delights but the service just wasn’t the same.

Flying out to the Maldives was an absolute dream. George was awake for the first leg of the journey and spent a lot of the flight watching films, eating and playing with the couple sat behind us. The lovely lady who checked us in made sure we had 3 seats between us – even though we hadn’t paid for George to have his own seat. There weren’t many free seats on the flight so we really appreciated this. I’d asked to have a bulk head seat so we had the extra leg room but we actually found that having a spare seat was better than leg room.

On this second flight we had the bulk head seat with the extra leg room and space for a bassinet. George was brought a bassinet but he wouldn’t settle in it at all. He realised that he could poke his head out and look at everyone on the flight. This was a fantastic game – especially because the other passengers found it funny and were laughing at him. So eventually I just held him and he fell asleep on my lap. He slept for the entire 8-hour flight and woke up just as we landed. See – I told you it was a dream!

Flying home from the Maldives was a very different story and George barely settled for the entire flight.

He whinged and wined and niggled for virtually the entire 12 hours. (OK, that’s an exaggeration but that’s what it felt like).

To my surprise, everyone sat around us was amazingly lovely. No one was rolling their eyes, no one huffed and puffed and no one groaned whenever he made a noise. People did their best to make him smile and would play peekaboo with him from behind their seats. I am so grateful for all of those people.

Read more: What to pack for a toddler on a plane

My tips for flying long-haul with a baby

Babies pick up on our feelings so if you’re feeling tense and anxious then baby is going to feel it too. I know, it’s not easy to relax and enjoy the flight if you’re nervous about having a screaming baby but if you can, it will making flying with a baby so much easier. I found the thing I was most nervous about was what other people would think – but I quickly realised I didn’t need to worry about the other passengers at all…

Most passengers will be really nice

Our flight was full of couples on their honeymoons and I didn’t want to ruin their flight. It turned out that I didn’t need to worry at all about what others thought because almost everyone was really, really nice – on all 4 flights! We always seemed to latch on to a kind, elderly couple who had lots of stories about their own children and grandchildren on holidays.

A lot of people will have been in your shoes before and will only be too happy to help – or at least give you a kind smile to reassure you that they’re not mad about your crying child.

Of course, there might be a few people who are mad but reassure yourself that you’ll never see them again – and if you do, let’s hope it’s in 10 years time and they’re the ones squished in a seat with a screaming baby on their lap.

Speak to the air stewards as soon as you get on the plane

When you get on the plane, have a cheeky word with the air stewards and let them know you’d really appreciate a heads up if there’s a spare row anywhere on the plane. I’ve seen a family do this before and they were lucky to get two whole rows between them.

Passengers are usually asked to sit in their allocated seats until takeoff so they’ll then come and get you and let you know you can move.

Give baby a drink for takeoff and landing

If you can, encourage your baby to drink during takeoff and landing. The swallowing action when they’re drinking will help them to equalise their ears.

Having said this, I’ve had a couple of flights where George just didn’t want a bottle during takeoff and he was absolutely fine. Flying with a baby will be different each time you do it, so don’t worry if your baby doesn’t want to drink.

Take enough food to feed a small army

I really like the Munchkin Fruit Feeder  for travelling. It’s basically a little net that you fill with fruit. It has a large handle so little hands won’t drop it and you don’t need to worry about chocking.

It can get a bit sticky if you fill it with juicy fruit so this leads me to my next point…

Pack a bib with sleeves

If your little one is at the phase where they want to stick their hands in everything and then smear it all over themselves then you’ll definitely want a bib with sleeves . I like the plastic ones that are like painting bibs because you can wipe them clean. Disposable ones are even better so you can chuck them away before you land.

A spare set of clothes – for everyone!

This is probably one of the most easily forgotten tips for flying with a baby but it’s also one of the most important. A spare outfit for your little one is probably a given – but don’t forget spares for yourselves too. You’ll at least want a spare top for all of those inevitable spills and sticky fingers.

Breastfeeding

There is no better way to keep a baby quiet than by breastfeeding. If there is and you have some other tips for flying with a baby, please tell me about it as I’d like to know!

I’m proud to say that I’m now totally comfortable breastfeeding in public, but I get really nervous about feeding on a plane. I use a big coverup if I have a window seat but otherwise I tend to express and give George a bottle.

While I’ve been breastfeeding I’ve been working with Medella on the Medella Mums campaign. It’s been awesome and I thoroughly recommend all of the Medella products – but I’ll be talking about this in more detail soon.

Use a baby carrier

When you’re at the airport you can nearly always take your pushchair all the way to the gate – but I just find a baby carrier so much easier. Provided you have no metal on your baby carrier, you won’t need to remove the baby when you go through security. George usually falls asleep in his baby carrier when I’m walking around so I’ll stroll around the airport to encourage him to nod off. There was one awesome time when I was able to keep him asleep in there until more than an hour after takeoff.

We usually choose to take the pushchair through the airport anyway and use it as a trolley to push our hand luggage.

I recommend the Pao Papoose by We Made Me . You can check out my review of the Pao Papoose here.

If you’re taking bottles

Be aware that if you’re taking bottles of formula, breastmilk or bottles of water ready to add formula to – you’re allowed to take more than 100ml. But the bottles will be taken to a special machine to be tested. This will add an extra 5-10 minutes onto your security check time.

Make sure your hand luggage is well organised so you can easily remove all the bottles that need testing.

Work as a team

If you’re travelling with an extra adult then work as a team to make it easier for both of you. Sam and I tend to take it in turns where one of us looks after all the bags, passports and tickets while the other focuses on George. It just means you only have one thing to worry about at a time.

Don’t worry about changing nappies on a plane!

I’m so surprised by the amount of people who ask what it’s like to change a nappy on a plane. Honestly, it’s not a problem. There’s a large changing table that usually folds out above the toilet and there’s plenty of space to change your little one so that’s one less thing that you need to worry about when it comes to flying with a baby.

Use a backpack

The easiest bag to use for your hand luggage is a backpack so you can always have both hands free. I really like the Babymule as it has 6 pockets for keeping everything organised and it’s easy to switch between a backpack, a messenger bag or clipped to the pushchair.

Keep your hand luggage small

You might feel like you need to pack everything AND the kitchen sink when you’re flying with a baby but you actually don’t need that much. For myself, all I pack is a spare top and my Kindle so the rest of our luggage is totally dedicated to George. I have the Patchwork Flight Bag from Spiral which is a perfect little travel bag for the essentials.

Don’t over-do it on the toys

Every baby is different but before George was 6 months he wasn’t too fussed with many toys. He had his favourite Lamaze pirate but other than that he didn’t care. He had just as much fun playing with the in-flight magazine and staring at people on the plane. (Yes, this makes some people REALLY uncomfortable but it kept him quiet!)

Board the plane last

You’re usually given the chance to board the plane first when you have a baby – but this is usually the last thing I want to do. It can take ages to get everyone on the plane so I try to board last. The only problem with this is that sometimes there’s no where to put your luggage and you need to put it in an overhead bin at the other end of the plane. This is why I have a small backpack for my hand luggage as the Babymule is small enough to slip it under of the seat in front of me. If the air stewards take it away then that’s fine, I’ll just press my button and ask them to bring it back later on.

So, there you go, those are my tips for flying with a baby. If you’ve got any others to add, then I’d love to hear them!

Everything you need to know about your baby’s first flight

Tuesday 11th of July 2017

[…] from booking it, to what to take with you, boarding the plane and feeding your baby. I have more tips for flying long haul with a baby which focuses more on the actual flight than the booking and organising the […]

What it's really like to travel to the Maldives with a baby - The Travel Hack

Monday 10th of July 2017

[…] all of my blog posts from the Maldives here, including tips for flying long haul with babies and a packing list for travelling to the Maldives with a […]

Flying with a baby - Dadism

Tuesday 27th of June 2017

[…] Tips for Flying Long Haul with a Baby – TheTravelHack.com […]

What it’s really like to travel with a baby: The good, the bad and the ugly

Monday 8th of August 2016

[…] Tips for flying long-haul with a baby […]

Saturday 16th of July 2016

Hey! Can you comment anything regarding the leg room on the row with the bassinet? Isn't it limited because of the bulkhead? Thanks

TheTravelHack

Sunday 17th of July 2016

No you actually get a bit more leg room when you're at the bulkhead. It's not like an emergency exit but it is a bit more space.

22 Tips For Surviving Long Flights With Kids

Senior Reporter, HuffPost Life

Flying with kids is generally not an easy, breezy experience ― especially now. But there are ways to alleviate the stress.

We asked the HuffPost Parents Facebook community to share travel tips and hacks that have made long flights with kids more bearable.

Naturally, many parents offered some funny joke responses like “Put your children on a different flight”; “Buy the middle seat between two strangers” and “Vodka!” But others shared their real kid-tested wisdom.

Here are 22 travel hacks that have helped parents survive long flights with their children.

1. Get The Kids Involved In The Process

“Treat it as an adventure and get them involved and excited. Brainstorm on fun things they would like to do on the flight and then have them pack their backpacks accordingly.” ― Marie Nicole Feanny

“We had our daughter pick out her own activities. ... I truly think if the child is old enough to participate in the preparation, that gives them ownership and buy-in of the process.” ― Patty Bucklin

2. Use A Foldable Wagon Or Travelmate

“Get a foldable wagon for the airport. You can check it at the gate. It’s awesome for carrying all the stuff and the kids.” ― Colleen Turner

“ Go-Go Babyz so their carseat doubles as a stroller to get through airports easier.” ― Courtney Mae Klaus

3. Choose Your Seats Wisely

“When flying on Southwest or another airline where you get to choose your seat as you board, I try to sit next to a ‘grandma’ who makes eye contact and smiles when she sees my kids. They are usually a lot more likely to not mind if your kids cry at all, and are often even willing to lend a hand with helping (which is especially useful when flying solo with your kids).” ― Amanda Couture

“Try for the front row, so your kid doesn’t kick the seat and can sit on the floor and play.” ― Lauren Elizabeth Metzel

4. Take Care Of Their Ears

“Make sure they are suckling, drinking or chewing something during takeoffs and landing, to avoid ears hurting.” ― Isa Yosoyesa

“Depending on age, a pacifier, bottle for taking off/landing, lollipop, throat lozenges or gum can help relieve pressure.” ― Beth Spiegel

“For babies, have bottles and pacifiers for take off and landings (or nurse).” ― Marc Strawderman

5. Carry On Extra Clothes

“Always have an extra change of clothes for everyone, yourself included.” ― Victoria Acosta DeFelice

“When my daughter was younger we used to pack changes of clothes in Ziploc bags. In each bag was a nappy, a change of clothes and socks. Then, if there was an accident I could take out the Ziploc, change her and put the dirty clothes straight in the Ziploc and seal. It was also easier to grab hold of when in a hurry or in a confined space like an airplane.” ― Ellie Henry

6. Don’t Board Early

“We find it’s harder to keep them entertained on long flights when you sit for an additional 30 minutes while others board, so we wait towards the end of boarding to get on.” ― Heather Heavlin

7. Pack All Of The Snacks

“You can never have enough snacks.” ― Victoria Acosta DeFelice

“We pack a lunch box (minus the drink) so she has an actual ‘meal’ ― sandwich, chips, fruit. A few treats are also good.” ― Patty Bucklin

“For toddlers, bring plenty of snacks such as puffs.” ― Marc Strawderman

8. Engage In A Little Bribery

“Bribe them for good behavior. Granted this doesn’t necessarily work for babies. With that, just pack what you need, cross your fingers and hope for the best.” ― Marie Nicole Feanny

“Buy a new special small toy and tell them you have a surprise for them, but they only get it halfway through the trip, and only if they behave.” ― Jessica Kohoutek Behzad

9. Pick Up New Toys And Books

“I liked to pick up fun things, like small toys/games, stickers, books, etc., leading up to the trip. I would pack my son’s favorite stuffed animal and a blanket in his travel backpack, along with all the new things he had never seen before. We usually had enough fun things in there to keep him happy and occupied both to and from our destination.” ― Julie Turnbull Syers

“For my toddler, I always make a trip to the dollar store and buy $15-$20 worth of throw-away toys that she’s never seen before. Each time she’s getting restless, I pull out something new. I almost never make it through the whole stash.” ― Erin McDaniel

“Save prizes from Happy Meals or pick up some silly cheap ones from the dollar store.” ― Erin Columbare

“Activities and toys that haven’t been seen before or in a while are good.” ― Lisa White Polakowski

10. Try The Raisin Trick

“We use lots of little things in plastic boxes or wrapped up in wrapping paper. One of our favorite things has been a small pot of raisins ― it can be a shaker as long as lid is secure, you can use it to count the raisins, you can give a few at a time to last longer, and smaller children will have fun taking the lid off and putting it back on again. We had this as the only entertainment for our 2-year-old on a very delayed flight which was only supposed to be a 79-minute flight and it kept her busy for hours!” ― Lorraine Calvert

11. Find Toys That Interact With The Plane

“ Window clings are great to play with on the windows.” ― Erin McDaniel

“ Toys that have to do with the airplane itself are great.” ― Colleen Turner

12. Invest In Mess-Free Coloring Books

“ Melissa & Doug’s Water Wow books are great for travel.” ― Lisa White Polakowski

“ Crayola Color Wonder is great as it doesn’t mark on anything but the special paper.” ― Molly Kilkenny

13. Break Your Screen Time Rules

“Let them watch the video screens or tablets. It’s fine.” ― Jamie Martin

“Download movies on their tablet and bring their own headphones.” ― Victoria Acosta DeFelice

“Make sure your electronics are fully charged! Otherwise, you risk having an exhausted, whiny kid in a 3-hour customs line! ― Tatyana Fisher

14. Bring Simple Yet Dynamic Toys

“ Pipe cleaners are good for at least an hour of fun ― making sculptures, inventions, and jewelry.” ― Cindy Rathgeber

“Fan favorites with our kiddos are painter’s tape and dollar spot Band-Aids ― fun to play with and they don’t damage anything when it’s time to clean up!” ― Julie Eberhart Morrow

“My son loves tape and string and things to attach. It keeps him busy and creative and within his seat.” ― Beth Spiegel

“Toys with buckles and clips are awesome.” ― Colleen Turner

15. Buy Sticker Books

“I bring sticker books (wrapped as presents).” ― Claudia De Alba-Larios

“ Melissa & Doug has reusable sticker books.” ― Jamie Martin

16. Use Pacifier Clips To Avoid Losing Toys

“ Paci clips for all toys for babies and toddlers.” ― Sarah Samad Callton

17. Give Your Kids Small Backpacks

“Let each kid carry a small backpack with the things they would want most so they can easily access their stuff ― books, stuffed animal, blanket, snacks, etc.” ― Victoria Acosta DeFelice

“Each kid should have in their own backpack a change of clothes, snacks, headphones and toys.” ― Aruna Radhakrishna

18. Forgo The Lap Seat If Possible

“No lap children. Transatlantic and transpacific flights have turbulence that’s hard to predict and prepare for. Don’t let your baby’s head hit the ceiling and risk injury. Arrange for them to have a carseat and their own seat.” ― Rachel Mace

19. Don’t Forget About Sleep Schedules

“Try to get them to the airport well rested, so they don’t get overtired and wired up during the boarding process. Then protect their ears during take off and hopefully they fall asleep quickly.” ― Isa Yosoyesa

“Try not to skip or delay naps because that’s when babies and toddlers are most likely to have meltdowns.” ― Erin McDaniel

“If your kids don’t sleep on planes, try to fly in their normal waking hours, and pay more for flights that are more convenient, with less stops.” ― Aruna Radhakrishna

20. Make A Peace Offering To Your Neighbors

“Funny little gifts for your neighbors on the flight, like a pair of ear plugs and some chocolate.” ― Colleen Turner

“I bought the lady in front of me a drink!” ― Tracy Deakin

21. Manage Expectations

“I feel like you need to prepare as much as possible and then go into it with the right attitude. Go into it thinking that it very well may be an exhausting rough day, and since you know that you are going to keep your attitude and mood positive and steady no matter what. And then if all little ones do well, you will be pleasantly surprised.” ― Jessica Kohoutek Behzad

“Don’t ever expect them to sleep on a plane, even if it’s a red eye or their normal nap time. If they fall asleep, FANTASTIC, but you don’t want to be unprepared on a super long flight because you thought they’d be sleeping most of the time. Make plans for what you’re going to do if they stay awake the whole time. That goes for babies too.” ― Tina Schumacher Gess

22. Breathe

“Relax. Know that other parents have done it and survived. ... And even though you want to be aware of the other passengers, your child has as much right to his seat (and space) as any other passenger. Staying calm is essential.” ― Claudia De Alba-Larios

Quotes have been edited and condensed for clarity.

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21 Hacks for Visiting Disney World With Kids, According to Travel Experts

Whether you're traveling with toddlers, preschoolers or elementary-aged children, these insider tips will help you plan a stress-free trip with lifelong family memories.

Consider booking a hotel room with more space

Sleep is essential for kids (and parents!) while visiting Walt Disney World, so a suite or villa is a great option if you're worried about having the whole family share one sleeping area. Villas are located in the Deluxe Resort category (i.e., the most expensive hotels) and have full kitchens, living rooms and dining areas. Suites are available within all hotel categories (including Value Resorts, the least expensive).

If you're looking for the best bang for your buck, check out Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort (pictured here; it's a Deluxe Villa Resort with tons of kid-friendly amenities, but isn't located adjacent to any of the theme parks) or Disney's Art of Animation Resort (a Value Resort that has family suites with pull-down beds, a kitchenette and impeccable Disney theming throughout). If you're willing to splurge and want to be closer to the parks, I recommend villas at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort (near Magic Kingdom) or Disney's Beach Club Resort (near EPCOT).

RELATED: The Best Hotels at Walt Disney World

Don't feel like you must wait till kids are "old enough"

I get the appeal of wanting to wait until elementary school for the first visit because it's easier to travel, and they'll remember more. That being said, I first took my kids to Disney World when they were 6-months and 3-and-a-half-years old, and I am so happy that I did. My 6-month-old didn't require a paid ticket, and everything was pure magic to my 3-year-old. From a developmental standpoint , preschool-aged children typically don't understand the difference between fantasy and reality, so I got to experience the magic of believing through my daughter's eyes. And while they don't remember everything firsthand, they love looking at the photos from the trip.

Ask questions on PlanDisney.com

This Disney-owned question-and-answer forum provides advice from a panel of experienced Disney guests. Unlike social media groups where you'll get a wide range of answers to your questions, you can trust these responses to be accurate and up-to-date because each panelist has been selected by Disney. You can also browse answers to other questions that have been asked.

RELATED: Major Updates Are Coming to Disney

Be flexible with dates

...especially if you want to save money (on both park tickets and hotel rooms) while also avoiding crowds. Holiday school breaks are going to be the most expensive and busiest times to visit Walt Disney World. If your kids are young enough that they can easily miss a few days of school without added stress, it's worth prioritizing an off-peak travel time. Check out the Disney website for special offers on park tickets and hotels, which are sometimes available during off-peak times.

Determine how long to stay

It's no secret that park tickets are pricey, but keep in mind that the cost per day decreases as the length of your visit increases. The price varies based on dates, but a one-day theme park ticket can cost well over $100. However, the cost of going from a five-day park ticket to a six-day park ticket could be just around $20 extra.

Familiarize yourself with the My Disney Experience app

This do-it-all app is going to be your guide throughout the trip, so it's a good idea to get used to it before you go. Use it for everything from making dining reservations, checking attraction wait times and accessing your family's photos to getting directions within the parks and checking showtimes. When it comes to your Disney hotel, you can even open the door with the app and check bus times when heading to the parks.

Prioritize the right dining reservation

If you're staying at a Walt Disney World hotel, you can book dining reservations for your entire stay 60 days prior to your check-in date. That means you get early access for dates that are more than 60 days away, so try booking the hard-to-get restaurants towards the end of your trip. One of the most high-demand meals is the character breakfast at Topolino's Terrace at Disney's Riviera Resort (pictured here). Others include Space 220 at EPCOT and Cinderella's Royal Table at Magic Kingdom.

Find the unobstructed backgrounds for your photos

Though it can be tempting to take your family photos in front of the iconic backdrops right when you enter the parks, you'll find that it's nearly impossible to get a shot without a crowd in the background. Instead, look for the spots that Disney refers to as "hidden gems," including an overlook between Asia and Africa in Animal Kingdom for the Tree of Life (pictured here) and the bridges to Fantasyland, Frontierland and Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom for Cinderella Castle.

RELATED: How to Take the Best Photos at Disney World, According to Cast Members

Bring a stroller to the parks

Even if your kids are past the stroller phase, it'll make your visit so much easier. Not only will you be walking several miles each day, but it also allows you to have some extra storage space to carry the essentials. Most airlines allow you to check a stroller for free; just note that it needs to be collapsible if you plan to bring it on Disney transportation. If you prefer not to travel with a stroller or rent from a third-party platform, you can also rent one at the Walt Disney World parks.

Optimize Genie+

If you're willing to spend extra for Genie+ , Disney's service that lets you access Lightning Lanes (i.e., shorter lines for certain attractions), make sure you learn how to use it before you go. Some kid-favorite rides book up quickly and have consistently long wait times — like Remy's Ratatouille Adventure , Slinky Dog Dash and Peter Pan's Flight — so make sure to prioritize these attractions when you book your first Genie+ reservation of the day.

Stop by the Baby Care Centers

They're not just for babies. While they do have facilities that make traveling to Disney World with an infant easier (like changing tables and nursing rooms), they're also great for young kids. You can find a Baby Care Center in each of the four parks for when your toddler needs a break, and there are quieter restrooms (sometimes even with smaller toilets!) if the public restrooms feel too overwhelming.

Use the Rider Switch feature

If your child is too short or too scared for certain attractions, Disney offers a Rider Switch option so everyone else can ride without having to wait in line twice. And if you don't want to ride alone, you may bring one guest from the party on with you after you switch (e.g., if you have an older child going on the ride, they can ride with each parent while the other is supervising the younger one). Make sure to tell a Cast Member when you're in line that you'd like to use this feature.

Mobile order your food

Trust me on this one. Even if you're already in the dining location, ordering from your phone is going to save you a ton of time, especially during peak meal times. You can find mobile ordering at a handful of quick-service restaurants and snack kiosks throughout the parks. The menus have pictures of the food, and you can choose between ordering in real time or scheduling for a later pick-up.

If you've got early risers, take advantage of the morning hours in the parks. It's calmer with fewer crowds and the weather is cooler, which is especially helpful in the spring through fall. I personally prefer to prep outfits and pack our bag the night before so we can get to the park before it opens. Even if you don't plan to "rope drop" the most popular rides, you'll find lower wait times throughout the parks. Plus, there's a fun welcome show at Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom with favorite Disney characters right before the park opens.

Stay organized

It's hard to pack light when you're spending a day at the parks, and it can be difficult to find what you need in a fully-packed bag. Zippered mesh pouches like this one on Amazon have been a total game-changer for my family, separating out snacks, sunscreen , autograph books , accessories and more.

Save time for the playgrounds

Believe it or not, there are spaces at Disney World where kids can run free. Though it may feel like you want to stick with the can't-miss attractions, young kids will love the opportunity to let loose at these sites. Pictured here is The Boneyard at Disney's Animal Kingdom, a shaded complex of slides, bridges, climbing areas and a dig site. Other favorites include the circus-themed (and air-conditioned!) indoor playground in the Dumbo The Flying Elephant queue at Magic Kingdom and the Green Family Landing Play Zone at EPCOT.

Take advantage of Disney's (free!) PhotoPass Studios

This is one of my kids' favorite activities and, in my opinion, one of the most underrated experiences. There's no reservation required, and we've never had to wait in line, plus there's no cost for the session itself; the images are included in Disney's Memory Maker packages. Pictured here is the Royal Portrait Studio inside of Sir Mickey's at Magic Kingdom (right behind Cinderella Castle); it has plenty of props for kids to pose with. If you head to Disney Springs, check out the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs , which offers virtual backdrops, including scenes from theme parks or favorite movies.

Choose Entertainment Wisely

Walt Disney World offers a variety of daytime shows and parades along with nighttime spectaculars to pick from. If an evening show is on your wishlist, but you're worried about the late night with a young child, I recommend opting for Fantasmic at Disney's Hollywood Studios. It takes place in an outdoor theater so you get a seat, there's a concession area for snacks, and it's easy to exit at the end. It was also more engaging for my young kids than the fireworks at other Disney parks.

Don't overlook the kid-friendly hits

You've probably heard about a ton of "must-do" attractions at Walt Disney World — especially thrilling rides and nostalgic experiences — but some of the most memorable attractions for kids aren't talked about as much. Pictured here is the Affection Section at Disney's Animal Kingdom, where kids can interact with animals. Also check out Living With The Land at EPCOT , a boat ride through greenhouses that's filled with plenty of hidden Mickeys in plant form.

Research your favorite characters

One of the most common questions I get asked by first-timers with young kids is how they can meet characters from favorite movies and TV shows. The characters vary by park (and some even by day and time), so if there are any that your child is eager to meet, make sure to plan in advance. You can find the characters available for meet and greets at each park on the My Disney Experience app, as shown here for Magic Kingdom.

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27+ Clever Plane Hacks To Make Life Easier

Posted: March 8, 2024 | Last updated: March 8, 2024

Plane Hack for Packing

Although some people prefer to pack light, others argue that packing smarter is better. This neat trick is ideal for ensuring everything fits easily and is organized. To do it, simply lay flat heavier items like sweatshirts or jumpers. Next, roll shirts and pants and place them side by side on top of the heavier, flat articles. It should be noted that this method won’t prevent wrinkles, so articles likely to wrinkle should be folded instead. Additionally, packing similar clothes or two colors that go well together will minimize the number of outfits needed because clothing is “mix and match.”

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Plane Hack for Ensuring Comfort

Temperatures change from location to location, as well as in the airport and on the plane. Wearing layers is a great way to ensure you never get too cold. Plus, you can save some extra space in your bag by choosing clothing that you’ll want to wear like a tank top or extra sweater. If you get too hot, you can always put it in or tie it to your carry-on.

Help Stave off Germs

Although the air vent above can feel chilly, keeping it open and blowing directly on you can help keep germs away. The vent always circulates fresh, clean air and prevents germs from flying around you.

Make a List

It seems cliche and maybe even tedious, but keeping a to-do list will help eliminate a lot of the angst of traveling. Make a list of what to pack, things to do or eat, and confirmation numbers for hotel or car reservations. Most importantly, make a checklist of all the important documents you’ll need, like an ID and/or Passport and proof of vaccinations. (Some countries require things like yellow fever vaccinations before entry to the country will be permitted.)

Scan Important Documents

It goes without saying that keeping track of our ID, Passport, and other necessary documentation is the most important element of travel. However, misfortune does happen on occasion. Therefore, scanning a copy of your Passports and ID and sending them to your email is a great way to ensure you still have proof in case your important documents are lost or stolen.

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Sanitizing Wipes

Sanitizing wipes come in large packs and travel packs, so they’re convenient for on-the-go. They can be used to wipe down the tray table and seats to minimize exposure to germs. Moreover, they’re great to have on hand in case a beverage spill or your snack is messier than you anticipated.

Carry Essentials

Sometimes, travel plans get delayed, but getting to your luggage isn’t an option. Therefore, it’s a good idea to have essentials like your toothbrush or extra underwear in your carry-on or personal, just in case.

Be Prepared for TSA

TSA has a number of requirements, and meeting them can be stressful, particularly during peak travel times. However, one travel expert by the name of Allie Phillips shares useful plane hacks, including one that applies prior to boarding. "Packing your carry-on bag with easy access to anything that needs to be scanned separately helps ," she said.

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Plane Hacks for Freshening Up

Traveling can be dirty, sweaty, and eventually odorous, especially if things don’t go according to plan. A great way to combat unwanted odor is to place a few dryer sheets in luggage, helping keep articles fresh during travel.

Store Stuff in Plastic

There are thousands of styles of toiletry kits on the market that make travel easier. Travel-size soaps and other everyday essentials like toothpaste, a place to keep all your makeup together, and so on. However, these little bottles can spill and leak into travel bags, as well as in suitcases. Luckily, putting them in something like a Ziploc bag then in the reusable travel kit will help prevent any unwanted leaks or spills, from seeping all over everything.

Plane Hacks for Entertainment

Load up on downloaded movies on your phone or computer before traveling, and use noise-canceling headphones for an undisturbed flight. Ensure everything is fully charged or you have a charger on hand. It might also be a good idea to plan other activities like Sudoku, journaling, reading, and even coloring, as they’re fairly compact and easy to travel with.

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Drink Water

There are a couple of reasons for this plane hack. The first is that the body dehydrates quicker at higher elevations. So, water is ideal for helping stave off dehydration or elevation sickness. Second, fizzy drinks often cause our bodies to release more gas. Pair that with the elevation and you’ll likely be burping constantly.

Bypass the Cost of Water

The law for travel is that liquids can’t be in containers that are larger than around 4 oz. As a result, numerous people have had to toss their beverages along the way, thereby paying outrageous airport prices for beverages. However, according to the TSA if your tea, water, or coffee is fully frozen when you go through security, it fits within the guidelines for traveling. Note that it must be completely frozen. Another cost-effective option is to travel with an empty reusable water bottle and fill up after you’ve gone through security.

Take Snacks

Although beverages aren’t allowed through security, food is generally acceptable. As a result, you can pack your own snacks from home, saving money and ensuring you get the quality of food you desire. Note that there are limitations on traveling with certain fruits or vegetables. Still, in many cases, this is a healthier and more cost-effective solution to a subpar and overpriced meal or snack.

Download Apps

While some people prefer not to have too many things on their phones, downloading apps from the airlines will give you the option of having a boarding pass directly on your phone, saving time and paper. Plus, passengers have access to real-time updates regarding gate changes of flight delays.

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Plane Hacks to Minimize Waiting

When going through security, go to the left as most people instinctually go to the right, their dominant hand. Also, avoid travel by timing your travel around rush hour, wherever you’re headed. “It's a pointless and stressful way of missing a flight," explains Geroge Morgan-Grenville, CEO of Red Savannah, based in the U.K. Have essential documents ready, check in ahead of time on the app, and allow yourself time to compensate for things like returning the rental car.

Set the Clocks

For those traveling to different countries, or even minor time zone changes, it might be a good idea to change all clocks ahead of time to the time zone of the destination to avoid any schedule conflicts like a missed appointment.

Adjust Connection Speeds

For a stronger phone connection while traveling, it’s recommended to use a local sim card. "Uploads of photos go faster; if you need to be on a conference call, the quality is always better, as you are connecting locally to the provider's point of presence, and there's no need to buy any add-on bundles from your USA carrier," explains Andy Abramson, the CEO of Comunicano.

Chance at Cheaper First-Class Ticket

“If you want cheap(er) first-class seats, book a normal economy ticket and then check the airline's website, and most of the time, you can get a first-class upgrade for $150–$200. I do this for myself and even did it today for the flight I booked for my boss. I went back to check and compare for first-class tickets, and this method was over $1,000 cheaper. Seriously. Book a normal ticket first and then look for a separate upgrade. Best value you can get for great seats.” Explains Molly French.

Read More:  Man Forces Mom And Two Children To Move Out Of Plane Seat – So He Can Take A Nap

Keep a Picture of a Baby and Dog

While we all know the importance of keeping track of our wallets, sometimes we misplace them, or they’re stolen. However, people are seemingly more likely to return a found wallet if there is a picture of a baby and/or a dog in them, as it gives the owner and finder of the wallet some possibly relatable ground.

Wait to Check a Bag

In many cases, airlines announce the need for more overhead storage space. As a result, they offer to check bags for free. This is a great way to save money and still not have to keep track of your luggage for the whole trip; it is especially beneficial for connecting flights and layovers. However, avoiding the checked bag fee may mean you’ll have extra to dump at security, so weigh your options thoroughly.

Take Pictures

People always think of taking pictures of the fun they had while traveling, but rarely do they think of taking pictures of their luggage before they check it. However, doing so will be advantageous if the airline employees damage the luggage en route.

Keep a Little Cash

When traveling, having at least a little cash on hand is always a good idea. While most things today are electronic, systems can go down, preventing businesses from running cards. Moreover, keeping the cash in your shoe minimizes the threat of theft. Additionally, it’s a great place to keep your ID while out on the town.

Read More:  How Ricky Nelson saved the lives of his twin boys on the mysterious plane accident that led to his own death

Location Matters

Some experts suggest staying somewhere on the 3-6 floor so as to avoid theft but still be close enough to the ground to escape a fire. Not all hotels have that many floors, in which case, request to be off the ground floor.

Always Make Sure There’s Gas

While traveling, it’s not uncommon for people to rent a car to get around. However, a few problems arise. First, the roads and gas station locations are unfamiliar in a new place. Second, the car is likely to be unfamiliar, meaning that the safest bet is always to ensure there is at least anywhere from a quarter to a half tank, depending on how far the destination is and whether an impromptu detour may occur.

Read More:  Traveler refused to swap plane seats so mom can sit her toddler: ‘Hell To The F–k No.'

• “ 14 Airplane Hacks That Will Change the Way You Fly .” RD . Danielle Braff. January 7, 2024.
• “ Put A Photo Of A Baby And A Dog In Your Wallet”: 16 Plane Hacks That Are Borderline Brilliant. ” Buzzfeed Audrey Engvalson June 24, 2023.
• “ 12 lifesaving travel hacks .” Smart Traveler . Ed Hewitt. February 14, 2028.
• “ Be It A Long Or Short Flight, Here Are 40+ Hacks To Make Any Trip More Comfortable. ” More Hackz Ruby M.

The post 27 Clever Plane Hacks To Make Life Easier appeared first on Secret Life Of Mom .

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This Summer’s Secret Travel Hack: Klarna

• June 4, 2024

Summer is here and it is predicted to be another record-breaking year in terms of the number of people traveling.  I feel like I’ve been hearing this for the last three years! And yet what is different is how consumer preferences have changed: all that pent-up demand of overly zealous travelers has calmed as people are being more thoughtful in their choices, looking for more flexibility and spontaneity, and the travel industry is about to see that shift. 

Klarna , the AI powered global payments network and shopping assistant, conducted a survey focused on consumer travel habits and trends, and according to the findings, 97% of people will travel this summer (th e majority of these travelers will be Baby Boomers and Gen X), but the cost of living crisis is affecting summer travel plans with consumers being more sensitive when choosing where to spend their money. As such, consumers are planning to travel to locations closer to home with 71% planning to vacation in their home country, 22% will take a shorter trip this year, 32% will look for cheaper accommodations, and 25% will look for more affordable transportation options.

Beyond that, other trends I’ve noticed are that travelers are looking to escape the heat by heading north and planning “coolcations,” while also looking for more “quietude” destinations to escape the hustle and bustle of typical hot spot destinations. Scandinavia has seen a surge in bookings this summer because of its “quietude” and more moderate climate.  For instance, Norway is one of this summer’s hottest…I mean coolest destinations.

So this summer I’ve partnered with Klarna , a game changer for smart shopping and interest-free payments, to help you travel smarter and make the most of your travel budget. From booking flights and accommodations to travel essentials, Klarna is a one-stop-shop for traveling this summer – Klarna works with over 500k+ merchant partners like Airbnb, Expedia, Bookings.com, Hotels.com, and Uber to provide flexible payment options, making travel expenses more manageable.

Fun fact: With Klarna, travelers can split their payments into four interest-free payments over 6 weeks, alleviating the burden of paying for travel-related purchases. Klarna’s Pay in 4 flexible payment option is a great alternative to traditional credit cards when booking travel, which typically accrue high interest rates.   Additionally, Klarna’s Search & Compare feature allows travelers to compare prices on all their travel needs and get the best available deal before making a purchase – it even has a money manager tool that enables consumers to set a personal limit on their spending to stay within their budget! 

Given the findings from Klarna’s travel report and current travel trends, I’ve curated a summer travel itinerary featuring the best on and off-the-beaten-path spots to eat, experience, and stay on Route 2: the Great Northern, which is the perfect answer for all travelers’ current woes.

I’ve also curated my list of top essentials to take on any trip which you can easily shop for in my collection on Klarna . 

Klarna transforms the way we think about booking travel by offering interest-free payments when you pay in 4 and empowering adventurers to book spontaneously AND responsibly. It’s the ultimate travel hack!

And now for your next “coolcation” with quietude.    

U.S. Route 2: The Great Northern Road

You could start East in Maine and head west or start West in Washington and head East.  I’m starting west as the state of Washington really kicks off what is going to be an automotive odyssey driving through stunning landscapes from dense forests, mountain peaks to an expanse of high desert.  Washington is one heck of a way to start!

Travelers note: In every state you travel through, always make certain all your luggage or anything valuable is in your trunk or cannot be seen by looking in your car. 

• Seattle – This is most likely the city you will be flying into to begin your journey.  Here are a few of my favorite spots to enjoy that will make a great bon voyage!
• Walk the Waterfront Park – Walk along Elliot Bay with views of Puget Sound and the snowcapped (even in summer) Olympic Mountains.  Start at Pikes Place Market and just keep walking you’ll encounter busy public piers, quiet lawns, playgrounds, and outdoor sculpture parks. 
• Ivar’s Acres of Clams – This is the last you’ll see of seafood from the source until you hit Maine so make the most of it.  Ivars has been a Seattle institution since 1939. Their Waterfront location and wild caught seafood makes for a perfect celebratory meal. 
• Big John’s PFI – Family owned since 1971. Stock up on international and eclectic road snacks you know you won’t see for at least four states. 
• Inn at the Market – The hotel feels  like a secret and peaceful hideaway with quick access to most of Seattle’s top attractions including Pikes Place Market and the Waterfront.  
• Snohomish – Great town to stop and stretch those legs.  Snohomish is a treasure-hunting mecca, home to more than 150 stores! Star Center Mall is the largest at 5 floors and 200 dealers. 
• Stevens Pass Greenway – Part of Route 2 this 90 mile National Scenic Byway allows you to “Pass” up to an elevation of 4,000 feet.  All along the way are soaring mountain peaks, waterfalls and old growth forests.  
• Leavenworth – An international twist to a classic American road trip, Leavenworth is a small village located in the mountains where all the buildings are Bavarian in architecture.
• The Nutcracker Museum – This charming quick stop has 9,000 nutcrackers, or 20 more than your mom.  Some go back centuries. 
• München Haus  – The Big Bobs Bratwurst and a soft Bavarian pretzel. Vegans will be happy to know they have Beyond sausage. 
• Cave B Estate Winery in Quincy – Makes sense to enjoy a winery in a state known for them. At Cave B All 25 of their wines are 100% sourced from their Cave B vineyard, super local. In 2023, Winemaker Freddy Arredondo was awarded “Top 4 WA Winemakers” by the Seattle Wine Awards. 
• Spokane – The place to be is Riverfront Park no matter what your age or ability is.  It has a carousel, a SkyRide over the Spokane River, and a waterfall – a 40,000 sq feet playground with a three story slide tower and splash pad as well as the Providence Playscape, an all-inclusive playground that supports physical, social and sensory needs. 
• Montvale Hotel – Spokane’s oldest and most historic hotel.  Centrally located in the arts and entertainment district and walking distance to the Riverfront.  The unique second floor lobby has a cozy old world feel with leather club chairs, go over your itinerary and map with a glass of wine and call it a night.  

For the rest of the 9 states and their places to see, experience and stay along the famous Rt. 2,  follow this link. 

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18 Travel Hacks You Probably Haven't Heard Before, Straight From People Who Swear By Them

"I once racked up over 20,000 Capital One travel points in a very, very unconventional way..."

BuzzFeed Staff

If you love to travel or travel often, you've probably picked up some tips and tricks to make jet setting more seamless, enjoyable, and cheaper. So redditor u/tomsawyertravels asked, "What's your best obscure travel hack ?" Here's what people said (and I can't wait to try some of these out on my next adventure).

1. "southwest airlines starts drink service at rows 1, 8, 15, and 22. if you have a choice of row 9 or 15, go to 15. you get your drink first and have a better chance at getting more than one.".

— u/enfranci

2. "Always carry a sarong with you when traveling. It’s basically an all-in-one lightweight tool. You can use it as clothes, a raincoat, a rope, a bandage, a beach towel/picnic rug, a bag, or a blanket."

— u/PurplePiglett

3. "Use the bathrooms by the baggage claim. They’re always clean and empty."

— u/holy_cal

4. "I always try to have an extended layover (like 10 hours or more) to visit the layover city. This way, I've visited Tokyo, Abu Dhabi, and Singapore without going on a specific trip to those destinations. It takes some fiddling to book those flights (airlines present you with the 'most convenient' flight), but it's worth it."

— u/frugalacademic

5. "A lot of flights are not allowing carry-ons these days with a basic ticket purchase (JetBlue 🤨), so I've been using my fishing vest I got from Japan to carry all of my clothes I can't fit into my personal items. Styled right, it looks super cool with my outfit, AND I can fit eight shirts, five pairs of socks, and an entire laptop (storage on the back) in it—and snacks and water. When traveling to places where it's inconvenient to bring my fishing vest, I'll bring my jacket with deep pockets and my Costco dad cargo pants. I can fit 2-3 shirts per pocket. And before anyone complains about the extra weight I'm bringing into the plane, I can promise you my extra clothes and snacks weigh less than 5 pounds."

— u/tomsawyertravels

6. "Most flights won't give you a refund on basic tickets. Upgrade them to a higher class ticket then cancel for a full refund. I've done this with United and JetBlue, but I can't speak for other airlines."

— u/Ace-O-Matic

7. If you must cancel a hotel less than 24 hours in advance, call and tell them you need to bump the reservation back a week. Then call the next day and cancel it penalty-free."

— u/Blu3fin

8. "We once racked up over 20,000 Capital One points in a very unconventional way. We were in Paris and rented Velib bikes to get around the city. The catch was that every time we'd rent a bike, a hold was put on our credit card in case of damage to the bike. I believe the hold was close to $400 for each bike, and it took a couple of days for the hold to be lifted. For some reason, the hold would go through as a purchase on our card, and with the travel multiplier, we were getting about 1,600 points every time we rented a bike. The best part was that the bike rental was free if you rented it for less than 30 minutes. So we'd just rent two bikes, ride to the next station in less than 30 minutes, drop them off, and rent two more bikes. We did this an absurd amount of times and got rewarded handsomely."

— u/robcampos4

9. "Consider using an eSim card. You can shop online for the best deal on a temporary sim before starting your trip. I paid 30 CAD for a 1-month, 12 gig, unlimited, and everything else plan; it's good for all of Europe. I installed the eSim before heading to the airport. As soon as the plane landed, I could fire up my eSim without the hassle of finding a physical SIM card. Was in my Uber 10 minutes after leaving customs, it was great. Not all phones support it, but for those that do, they are extremely convenient and cheap."

— u/pentox70

10. "If flying between the US and Canada, ALWAYS look at buying separate one-way tickets in each direction. More often than not, you'll save $100+ due to their strange exchange rate and tax calculations. It doesn't work on every single route but is always worth a check, and I've been amazed how often it's been much cheaper."

— u/Dorkus_Mallorkus

11. "I get rid of old clothes on my travels, which helps me empty my carry-on for more souvenirs. I bring old shirts, pants, sweaters, underwear, and socks for travel to get rid of them as I go. I hate checking in luggage and I will have plenty of extra room to bring things back."

— u/fitDEEZbruh

12. "I use hotel room hangers to clip the curtains together to black out the room."

— u/rand0m_g1rl

13. "If you’re flying internationally into the US and are a US citizen, do the mobile passport option if the airport has it. It’s an app and takes 30 seconds to do. It’s just as fast as global entry. I’ve passed 100s of people waiting at passport control."

— u/Inpleinsite

14. "If you're not sure of the neighborhood you're booking your hotel or rental stay in, go to Google Street View and 'walk around' in the neighborhood. You can see if it looks pleasant, has nearby cafes or local grocery stores, etc"

— u/ThaneOfCawdorrr

15. "I always create a Google map list and save items to populate my map. It makes it easy to plan out your days and see what sites/restaurants/attractions you are near in a new city."

— u/macedaace

16. "Requesting a special meal (for example, vegetarian) on an international flight will ensure you get served first."

— u/soniclaura

17. "I always bring baby shampoo and an entire unopened box of ziploc bags. The baby shampoo is great for washing yourself (obviously) but is also perfect for washing things like lightweight shirts, underwear, and socks in the sink."

18. "One of my favorite obscure travel hacks is to use Google Maps offline. Before my trip, I download the maps of the areas I'll visit. This way, I can navigate, find attractions, and even search for restaurants without an internet connection. It's beneficial in places with spotty Wi-Fi or when I want to save on data usage. Plus, it relieves stress and helps me feel more confident exploring new places."

— u/Known-Astronomer8660

What's your favorite travel hack that most people haven't heard before? Tell us in the comments or submit it in this anonymous form.

Share this article.

Traveling With Neurodivergent Children? A Caribbean Resort Leads The Way

This hotel in the Caribbean is certified to provide curated experiences for families with neurodivergent children.

Sarah Rand • Jun 4, 2024

Families with neurodivergent children face unique challenges, particularly when planning travel. Neurodivergence encompasses a range of sensitivities and considerations, making travel in new environments complicated.

While some accommodations cater to disabled travelers, support for neurodivergence is often lacking. The emergence of an autism-friendly  resort  in the Caribbean has, therefore, sparked much interest and joy among travelers, signaling an improvement in inclusivity. With the Caribbean’s vibrant, popular, and  luxurious reputation , families can now plan the trip of a lifetime. This  unique hotel  offers an enjoyable experience for families seeking inclusivity and support.

Where Can Families With Neurodiverse Members Be Accommodated?

The Beaches Resorts in Turks and Caicos is a tropical getaway boasting a stunning beach, water park, and much more. Promising an inclusive experience for everyone, Beaches Resorts is the first to complete the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) training and obtain autism certification. This means the resort offers special services for families with children who have autism, making it a welcoming destination for all.

More on the Hotel’s Certification

Families with special needs members can enjoy exciting activities, curated service, and custom dining at Beaches Resorts. The certified staff are trained to provide catered care in areas such as sensory awareness, communication, emotional awareness, and motor skills. This training has established the hotel as an advanced-certified autism center, ensuring a high level of competency and care.

The resort’s certification benefits travelers in many ways, particularly through the Kids Camp. This camp offers a nurturing environment for infants, toddlers, pre-teens, and teens. As an advanced certified autism center, the care team possesses the required skills, knowledge, and temperament to cater to  children  of various ages, providing all-inclusive attention and support.

How Do Families Access Accommodations?

To utilize the benefits of the special needs training, families simply need to indicate their needs before visiting. Travelers can complete a form detailing their child’s requirements to ensure a comfortable stay. Accommodations can include sensory sensitivities, dietary needs, and meetings with the kids’ camp manager to arrange special support. This level of customization and care makes the resort an ideal choice for families with neurodivergent children.

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Woman shares little-known ‘cheat code’ to find cheap flights anywhere in the world

The tiktok hack could save you a fortune.

Rhianna Benson

With summer officially around the corner - and apparently zero prospect of sunny weather hitting the UK (*cries*) - it's no surprise that countless holidaymakers are hopping online in the hope of arranging a last minute sun-soaked trip abroad.

But with flight prices having seemingly sky-rocketed since the Covid-19 pandemic, and accommodation costs increasing by staggering amounts by the day, we can't blame travellers for feeling hesitant about jetting off this year.

That said, however, one TikTok -using superhero has this week blown the minds of their followers by dosing out a neat hack when it comes to saving money while booking a trip overseas.

In fact, the woman's little known 'cheat code' has proven absolutely foolproof when it comes to sorting cheap flights to anywhere in the world.

The woman, who goes by the handle @aroundtheatlas online, took to TikTok to share the money-saving 'hack'.

She began by saying that she needed to 'show you something'.

"So go onto Google and type in 'Google Flights' and click on 'Google Flights'," she continued.

And once you're in, the TikToker says, type in your departure city and put in 'anywhere' and tick 'round-trip', along with the number of passengers flying.

She also advised viewers to leave the dates 'blank' and 'press explore'.

"Does anyone else know about this because I feel like the world is gatekeeping how insane this is," the woman went on to say.

She then explained: "So literally, it gives you fight prices for like ridiculous prices."

Such flights included £26 return flights to Barcelona, £34 return flights to Vienna, and a £54 round-trip to Budapest when the TikToker had a look last year.

And it's not just Europe.

The 'cheat-code' also works for long-haul flights too with £336 return flights to New York and a £507 return to Singapore.

She captioned the travel ' hack ' video: "How to get super cheap flights!!"

This is all part of a new feature that Google announced back in August this year, which allows users to find the cheapest flights possible.

And the short clip has since gone viral after clocking up more than 8.6 million views on the social media platform, with thousands upon thousands rushing in to share their reactions.

Many couldn't get over the bargain deals with one TikTok user writing: "Did I just see £250 flights to Dubai."

A second added: "I could fly back and forth to Europe a couple times for less than it cost to get a train to London."

"Going to Manchester is more expensive than Barcelona," quipped a third.

Others were beyond thankful of the TikToker for broadcasting the information with one viewer praising: "Thank you so much for sharing this!"

"Thank YOU! Sincerely thank you," penned another.

A final TikTok user echoed: "I’ve been looking for something like this for yearsss. Thank you ma'am!"

Topics:  Travel , Money , Hacks , Life Hacks

Rhianna is an Entertainment Journalist at LADbible Group, working across LADbible, UNILAD and Tyla. She has a Masters in News Journalism from the University of Salford and a Masters in Ancient History from the University of Edinburgh. She previously worked as a Celebrity Reporter for OK! and New Magazines, and as a TV Writer for Reach PLC.

@ rhiannaBjourno

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Woman, 74, almost buried alive after nursing home pronounced her dead

Nebraska-local constance glantz was declared dead two hours before she was found breathing.

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Carry-On Luggage Essentials to Pack for Smooth Summer Travel, According to TikTok

Save yourself from the headache of checked luggage by following these TikTok travel hacks.

Everyone can use some good rest and relaxation, and we're more than looking forward to getting away for a stress-free summer vacay this year.

But between airlines losing luggage , long waits for picking up checked baggage and  general travel woes plaguing our airlines, it might be time to simplify your travel this season by packing all of your belongings in a carry-on bag. Not sure how you'll fit a week's worth or more of essentials into a TSA-approved 22x14-inch suitcase? TikTok is here to help. 

The video-sharing app is chock full of travel hacks for condensing your clothing and other must-haves into your carry-on luggage . Convenient and affordable products such as packing cubes, refillable toiletry bottles and shoe bags make it easier than ever to pack small. We've also found plenty of little luxuries for making even the longest flights bearable: compact neck pillows, noise-canceling headphones and packable footrests, to name a few. Of course, smooth summer travel starts with a great suitcase, so we've included our favorite carry-ons to shop.

Below, we've rounded up the best TikTok-approved travel products to shop on Amazon and from around the web to help you skip the dreaded check-in line and avoid bag fees, from vacuum-sealed travel bags to the internet's favorite carry-on suitcases. 

The Best Packing Essentials for 2024

It's not really about the luggage, it's about how you pack your luggage that makes the difference. We've found all kinds of nifty packing gear that will make you more organized and more streamlined than ever. 

OlarHike 6 Set Packing Cubes for Travel

These packing cubes are a best seller on Amazon for keeping all your essentials organized, especially for carry-on luggage. 

Vonpri Leak Proof Squeezable Refillable Travel Bottles

Bring your favorite products on board with you using these carry-on-approved silicone bottles.

Yamiu Travel Shoe Bags Set of 2 Waterproof Nylon with Zipper

These zippered bags keep your dirty shoes from touching the rest of your luggage.

Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

This travel bag can hold all of your essentials in one place, helping you save space in your luggage. Plus, it's water-resistant and can hang on the wall using the hanging hook for easy access to your toiletries. 

Travel Sunglasses Organizer

There is finally a solution to keeping your sunglasses from breaking in your travel bags. This sunglasses organizer can store up to five pairs for your next trip.

Shappy 2-Piece Large Travel Laundry Bags

Separate your dirty laundry from your clean clothes with this two-pack of waterproof laundry bags.

Apple AirTag

Keep an AirTag in your carry-on for security just in case you become separated from your luggage. 

Dagne Dover Frankie Jewelry Case

Keep necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more safe and secure with this jewelry travel case from Dagne Dover.

Best Travel Accessories for 2024

Now that you've packed your carry-on, here's everything you'll want nearby to make your day of travel go as smoothly as possible.

Perilogics Universal in Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

For planes without a built-in screen in the seats, enjoy your entertainment without straining your neck using this versatile phone holder and mount.

Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder

In for a long layover? TikTok users love this foldable pouch that can be pulled onto luggage to work as a drink carrier (and it has extra pockets on the back for your phone or boarding passes).

Perfuny Silicone Makeup Brush Holder

Don't worry about damaging your makeup brushes while traveling with this silicone holder. It also grooves inside to work as a brush cleaner.

Tessan Universal Power Adaptor With 4 USB Ports

Don't worry about losing charging power during international travel with this adapter that works in 150 different countries.

Toovren 2-in-1 Luggage Straps

Jealous of travelers who can hook their bags on top of their suitcases? Now you can do it with any type of tote bag that fits on top of your luggage with this highly-rated strap.

With Coupon

Highwind Cruise Luggage Tags for Suitcases

TikTok Cruise travelers love these durable and waterproof luggage tags that will secure your paper luggage tags provided by the cruise line to better ensure your bag makes it to your cabin.

Travel Inspira Digital Hanging Baggage Scale

Never worry about overpacking again. Unlike standing on the scale with your luggage and doing math to figure out the weight, simply loop this around your bag handle and lift it off the floor to see how much your bag weighs.

Saucemoto Dip Clip (Pack of 2)

Dipping fries in ketchup when you're driving can seem impossible, but these sauce holders, seen on Shark Tank , are here to save the day. They attach to the air vent and can hold ketchup in the removable white tray, or the tray comes out to hold bigger sauces that already come in a container with a peel off top.

Beautural Mini Travel Steam Iron With Dual Voltage

If you've been thinking of a travel iron, just read this customer's review: "I originally bought this to use for traveling as I was getting sick and tired of using the irons that come in hotels that are cheap and spill water everywhere. This little iron was such a good buy, very small, easy to travel with, not heavy at all. Heats up pretty quickly and easy to use. I have also started using this for day to day use. Because it is so small, it stores well as well."

Miroposs Rechargeable Slim Makeup Mirror

Airbnbs and hotels are notorious for having dark lit rooms where getting ready can be tricky. This makeup mirror that unfolds to stand up while offering a backlight will stop the dreaded fight for the single bathroom mirror. 

Body Glide Foot Glide Anti Blister Balm

Those prone to blisters know that all the extra walking during your trip can lead to some painful sores, but Body Glide's Anti-Blister Balm can cut down on friction and help prevent blisters from forming. You can also bundle this product with their anti-chafing skin cream.

LokiStashed Velvet Hair Tie Scrunchies (3 Pack)

These work just like your average scrunchie, except they have a hidden zipper so you can hide away cash, lip balm or a single key. You can also choose from a variety of colors. 

Twelve South AirFly SE: Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter for AirPods

Whether traveling for work or play, many flyers use wireless headphones these days — meaning there's no way to plug in to listen when they want to watch the in-flight entertainment on the built-in screen. The AirFly connects via Bluetooth with preferred wireless headphones, including the popular AirPods, and plugs into the screen for seamless listening.

iWALK Small USB C Portable Charger

Keep phones alive throughout the day with the help of this compact and portable phone charger.

MZOO Sleep Eye Mask

Get some shut-eye in style with a classic sleeping mask complete with cozy contoured cushions.

Everlasting Comfort Airplane Footrest

This ergonomic memory foam footrest hangs from the tray table for a much more comfortable flight.

Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

Apple's premium headphones offer crystal-clear clarity with a lightweight rubber headband, spacious and comfortable earcups, and excellent noise cancellation.

$549   $500

Jergens Cloud Creme Hand Cream for Dry Hands

Dry skin can happen anywhere, including in the air. Appropriately named Cloud Creme, this hydrating lotion from Jergens is the perfect size for airplane travel.

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

This TikTok-approved belt bag is perfect for anyone on the go. It keeps essentials such as keys, wallet, passport, plane ticket and phone handy.

Trtl Travel Pillow

Avoid waking up with dreaded neck pain when you use this top-rated travel pillow that's easy to slip into your personal item.

Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Eye Masks

These foil patches from Wander Beauty give tired eyes a refresh with hydrating ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Best Travel Entertainment for 2024

If you're in for a long flight or cross-country drive, you'll need some on-board entertainment. Here are our top choices.

ProCase iPad 10.2 Anti-Spy Tempered Screen Film Guard

Before we suggest awesome shows and films for your trip, we recommend securing this iPad protector on your tablet that will black out your screen to those sitting next to you. 

Disney+ Subscription

There are a lot of streaming services you could watch during your travels, but Disney+'s offerings of Marvel, Star Wars and classic movies and shows means you'll have countless hours of content to keep you occupied. Plus, you can bundle it with Hulu for even more hit shows and movies.

Plans start at $8/month

First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston

A Reese's Book Club Pick, First Lie Wins  is a thriller that centers around Evie Porter, who is actually someone else and was given her identity by the mysterious Mr. Smith. Evie wants a new life, but one slip-up will change her future forever.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Tablet

For a smooth flight, keep your kids entertained with the Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet. This product includes a year subscription to Amazon Kids+, so your little ones can stay engaged with the content they love.

$190   $150

Winning Moves Games Scrabble to Go Board Game

The classic board game Scrabble has been miniaturized and modified to be the ideal trip companion. All you need is a travel buddy or some kiddos to play along with you. 

Time To Chill: Coloring Book for Stress Relief and Relaxation

Focus your attention on the beautiful pages of this whimsical coloring book during your downtime for a relaxing activity. 

Best Carry-On Suitcases for 2024 

Now that you have all your other essentials, it's time to get a carry-on suitcase that's ideal for your specific needs. Here are some of the best carry-on luggage options from around the web.

Away The Carry-On

This Away bag boasts flashy features such as a durable polycarbonate hard shell, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved, ejectable USB charger. The classic rolling hardside luggage with a retractable handle is designed to fit in most major airlines' overhead compartments, making it a great go-to Carry-On bag for travel, regardless of your destination.

Samsonite Centric 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage Carry-On

With over 6,000 positive reviews, this lightweight carry-on will ease your overpacking worries.

$151   $139

iFLY Hardside Luggage Fibertech 20"

The internet-famous suitcase features 360-degree rotating wheels, an inner lining pocket and elastic straps for keeping clothes in place.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite softside luggage has spinner wheels and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver airport terminals and your flight's overhead storage bins. 

$170   $144

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage makes traveling easier by being extremely lightweight. While protecting your items, the wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth and seamless stride in the airport. Although it is compact, this carry-on luggage has the ability to hold everything you need for a short vacation.

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