Top Tips for Traveling with Toddlers: A Pilot Wife’s Guide

Traveling with toddlers can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. As a pilot wife, my family has had the opportunity to travel extensively, from quick weekend getaways to long-haul international flights. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tried-and-true tips to make traveling with our toddler more manageable, and dare I say, enjoyable!

In this post, I’m sharing my top tips for traveling with toddlers—whether you’re flying internationally, driving cross-country, or just taking a short trip to visit family, these insights will help make your journey smoother and less stressful.

1. Pack Smart, Pack Light

When traveling with toddlers, the temptation is to pack everything you think you might need—but that can quickly turn into an overwhelming amount of luggage. The key is to pack smart and focus on the essentials.

Essentials for the Plane: Pack a well-organized carry-on with toddler essentials like diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, snacks, and entertainment. Don’t forget extra pacifiers, sippy cups, or any comfort items like their favorite blanket or stuffed animal.
Entertainment: Bring a variety of small, lightweight toys and activities to keep your little one entertained during the trip. Stickers, coloring books, and a tablet with downloaded shows or games can work wonders on a long flight.
Snacks, Snacks, Snacks: Toddlers get cranky when they’re hungry, so having a stash of healthy snacks is crucial. Pack their favorite go-to snacks, and make sure they’re easy to grab mid-flight without making too much of a mess.

Tip: Use packing cubes to stay organized and separate toddler items from your own. It makes finding things much easier, especially when you need something in a hurry.

2. Choose the Right Flights and Timing

As a pilot family, we’ve learned that flight timing makes a world of difference when traveling with young children. Consider your toddler’s sleep and nap schedule when booking flights.

Book Flights During Nap or Sleep Times: If possible, schedule flights to coincide with your toddler’s nap or bedtime. While there’s no guarantee they’ll sleep on the plane, flying during these times increases your chances of having a more peaceful journey.
Avoid Tight Connections: When traveling with toddlers, it’s best to avoid tight flight connections. Give yourself ample time between flights for diaper changes, snack breaks, and letting your little one stretch their legs.
Direct Flights are Best: Direct flights minimize the stress of having to transfer with a toddler. While these might cost a bit more, they’ll save you time and energy in the long run.

Tip: If direct flights aren’t available, opt for layovers that offer family-friendly facilities or play areas to help your toddler burn off energy between flights.

3. Bring Comforts from Home

Traveling to new places can be overwhelming for toddlers, so bringing a few comforts from home can make a big difference in helping them feel secure.

Comfort Items: Whether it’s a favorite stuffed toy, blanket, or pillow, having familiar items from home can help soothe your child during stressful moments.
Favorite Snacks and Bottles: Keep a small stash of your toddler’s favorite snacks and drinks. Airplane food isn’t always toddler-friendly, so having their go-to items can keep meltdowns at bay.

Tip: Pack their comfort item in your carry-on bag rather than checked luggage. You’ll want it within easy reach for the flight.

4. Prepare for Time in the Air

Flying with a toddler means being prepared for various scenarios, from sudden tantrums to seatbelt struggles. Here are a few ways to make the flight itself more comfortable:

Window Seat Fun: If possible, book a window seat for your toddler. Watching the planes, clouds, and scenery outside the window can keep them entertained for a bit.
Snuggle Time: Bring a light blanket to snuggle up with during the flight. If your toddler is feeling tired or fussy, snuggling can help them feel more secure and relaxed.
Movement Breaks: While it’s tempting to keep your toddler seated the entire flight, allow for some movement. Walk down the aisle with them to give them a change of scenery and stretch their little legs.

Tip: Invest in noise-canceling headphones for your toddler. The hum of the plane can be loud, and the headphones can help block out the noise while watching shows or listening to music.

5. Plan for Jet Lag and Sleep Adjustments

Jet lag can be tough on anyone, but especially on toddlers who are used to specific nap and sleep routines. Managing jet lag while traveling with a toddler requires patience and preparation.

Adjust Sleep Schedules Gradually: A few days before departure, slowly shift your toddler’s bedtime by 15-30 minutes each day to help them adjust to the new time zone.
Stick to Bedtime Routines: No matter where you are, try to keep your bedtime routine as consistent as possible. This helps signal to your toddler that it’s time for sleep, even in a new environment.
Be Flexible: Some days, jet lag will hit harder than others. Be patient with your little one as they adjust to the new time zone, and don’t be afraid to plan some extra downtime to accommodate naps.

Tip: Consider booking accommodations that include blackout curtains and a quiet environment for naps and nighttime sleep.

6. Keep Your Toddler Healthy on the Go

Staying healthy while traveling is a top priority, especially when traveling with toddlers who may be exposed to new germs in airports, planes, and public places.

Hand Sanitizer and Wipes: Keep hand sanitizer and wipes handy for cleaning hands and surfaces during the trip. Wiping down the seat, tray table, and armrests on the plane can help reduce germ exposure.
Stay Hydrated: Airplane cabins can be very dry, so make sure your toddler stays hydrated. Pack a spill-proof water bottle and encourage them to drink regularly throughout the flight.
Healthy Snacks: Bring healthy snacks to keep your toddler’s energy up and ensure they’re getting some nutritional value amidst the travel chaos.

Tip: Pack a small first aid kit with essentials like children’s pain relievers, band-aids, and any medications your toddler might need during the trip.

7. Embrace the Adventure!

At the end of the day, traveling with a toddler requires flexibility and patience, but it’s also an opportunity to create unforgettable memories as a family. From exploring new destinations to seeing the world through your toddler’s eyes, travel is an enriching experience for both parents and kids alike.

As a pilot wife, travel is a big part of our lives, and while the logistics of traveling with a toddler can be challenging, the rewards are worth it. The key is to stay organized, keep a positive attitude, and embrace the adventure—even if things don’t always go according to plan.

Tip: Don’t forget to take plenty of photos and enjoy the special moments, even if they come with a side of toddler tantrums!

Conclusion

Traveling with a toddler may seem daunting, but with a little preparation and the right mindset, it can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. From packing light to managing jet lag, these tips will help ensure smoother travels, whether you’re flying across the world or embarking on a weekend getaway.

Have you traveled with a toddler before? Share your own tips and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to Wife on Standby for more family travel insights and advice from our journey as a pilot family.