Hey full feedings® fam,

Flying with a toddler doesn’t have to be a nightmare. In fact, many parents (myself included) find it easier than traveling with a newborn—especially if you go in with the right mindset and some solid prep.

Here’s our no-stress guide to flying with a toddler, based on personal experience, a lot of trial and error, and a commitment to keeping everyone relatively calm from takeoff to landing.

Set the Stage: Talk About the Trip

Before you fly, head to your local library and grab a few books about airplanes and airports. Toddlers thrive on predictability, and giving them a visual preview of what to expect can ease anxiety and create excitement. When my daughter saw things in real life that we had read about in books, it made the airport feel fun and familiar.

How to Pack Your Carry-On for Toddler Travel

The secret to staying sane on a flight? Organized pouches. Seriously. I recommend three:

DIAPERING & ESSENTIALS POUCH

If your toddler is still in diapers (no shame—I’ve been there), pack:

• • Enough diapers for the full trip plus a few extras for delays
  • Wipes
  • Travel changing pad
  • One full outfit change (at least!)

If your child is potty-trained, swap in extra underwear and pants just in case.

TOY & ENTERTAINMENT POUCH

Even if your toddler doesn’t touch half of what you bring (mine didn’t), having options helps. Opt for toys that are:

• • New-to-them (buy a couple or borrow from friends!)
  • Quiet
  • Easy to use in a confined space

Some top picks:

• • Soft activity books
  • Travel busy boards
  • Magnetic travel blocks
  • Reusable sticker pads
  • Airplane tray cover with activities

If you’re okay with screen time, pack a tablet and toddler-friendly headphones.

SNACKS & FEEDING SUPPLIES POUCH

Choose foods that take a while to eat but won’t make a mess. I like:

• • Bagels
  • Flatbreads
  • Fruit pouches

Also pack:

• • Bib
  • Toddler utensils
  • Favorite sippy cup or straw cup

Pro tip: Buy milk or juice at the airport post-security to serve during takeoff and landing. Sucking on something helps regulate ear pressure.

Toddler Air Travel Tips

• Try the empty middle seat trick: If you’re flying without purchasing your toddler a seat, book the window and aisle and leave the middle open. Most solo travelers won’t choose the middle seat, and you may score a full row!
• Diaper change before boarding: One less thing to deal with once you’re airborne.
• Takeoff = snack time: Offer a drink or favorite snack to help their ears adjust.
• Don’t unload all the toys at once: Let them explore the plane, “read” the safety card, or look out the window first. Space out the distractions.
• Let them walk (when it’s safe): A quick stroll to the bathroom gives toddlers a chance to move and explore—essential for preventing meltdowns from pent-up energy.
• Pack parent essentials too: You’ll need coffee, water, and snacks that are toddler-proof (closed containers, no spills). Take care of yourself so you can take care of them.

After You Land

Change their diaper or visit the bathroom as soon as you get off the plane—trust me on this one. Then, take a deep breath and celebrate: you made it!

Remember, the goal of traveling with a toddler isn’t perfection — it’s survival with some smiles along the way. You likely won’t make major sleep progress on the trip, but if you can keep your routine mostly intact and your expectations realistic, you’re already winning.

More Travel Support Blogs from Full Feedings

Flying with a Baby: How to Pack, Prep, and Stay Sane
Holiday Travel Tips

Want help getting your baby or toddler’s sleep on track before (or after) a big trip?
Check out our affordable, no-cry-it-out sleep programs for ages 0–4.

To sleeping (& traveling) well,
Sara