Flying with kids is not easy. It can feel like you’re packing for a week, running a race, and solving a puzzle all at once. I remember my first flight with my toddler. I was nervous, overpacked, and had no idea what to expect.
We had diaper changes in tiny airplane bathrooms, snack spills, and tears (mine and hers). But with each trip, I’ve learned little things that make a big difference. So here I am, sharing what helped me, dedicating these tips for flying with kids, from one mom to another.
And yes, I’ll tell you how the Bébé Voyage community helped me feel less alone and more ready for this kind of journey.
Here are 20 Tips for Flying With Kids
Okay, so no more delays! Let me share these super important tips for traveling with a toddler on a plane.
1. Pack Smart for the Plane (Keep the Important Stuff Close)
One thing I’ve learned after a few flights with my little one: don’t overpack your carry-on, just pack smart. You need things that are easy to grab in a moment, especially when your baby suddenly needs a diaper change or gets fussy mid-flight.
Here, the Swaddle Tote Sidekick diaper bag helps me a lot. It’s small enough to keep right under the seat or beside me, so I don’t have to open the overhead bin every time I need something.
I keep two or three diapers, a small pack of wipes, diaper cream, and a spare outfit for my little one in there. This bag even has a foldable changing pad, which is super helpful when you’re dealing with those tiny airplane bathrooms.
Once, my baby had a messy diaper right after takeoff. I grabbed the Sidekick, walked into that tiny bathroom, and everything I needed was right there. Because you obviously know that airplane bathrooms are so small, you really don’t want to carry a giant bag in there.
Also, the front pocket makes it easy to grab what I need quickly. I keep our passports, boarding passes, and papers in one pocket, so I don’t fumble at check-in.
Plus, I can wear it crossbody or sling it over my shoulder, hands-free, so I can hold my baby and still grab a snack or boarding pass. And when I don’t need it on me, I can just clip it to my stroller or Parent Bag.
One more thing, it doesn’t even look like a traditional diaper bag. It has modern, stylish features, so I can carry it as my personal bag too.
2. Tell TSA About Baby Food
Now, this is one of the most important tips for traveling with kids on a plane. If you’re carrying milk, formula, or baby food over 3.4 oz, that’s okay! Just let TSA know before they scan your bag. Put these items in a separate pouch so they can check them quickly.
If you’re flying from or within the U.S. with a baby or child under 12, TSA has special rules to help make security easier. You can check these guidelines before your trip.
3. New Toys or Surprises Help
Pack a small surprise. A sticker book, a new toy, or even a wrapped snack can help keep your child busy and happy. I keep these in the outer pocket of my bag so I can grab them fast.
4. Use a Baby Carrier at Security
If you have a baby carrier, use it. You can carry your baby through the security scanner. You don’t have to take them out unless something beeps. It makes the line much easier.
5. Bring Your Own Wipes and Hand Gel
Airplanes and airports can be dirty. I always bring wipes and hand sanitizer. I use them to clean the seat, tray, and even toys. I keep them in the front pocket of my Swaddle Tote. Super easy to grab.
Oh, you can check out this detailed guide on diaper bag essentials to learn what to pack in your diaper bag. This is super helpful.
6. Change Diaper Before You Board
Changing a diaper on the plane is really hard. I always do a fresh change right before boarding. The changing pad that comes with the diaper bag I use is soft, clean, and fits right back in my bag.
7. Dress in Easy Layers
It gets hot, then cold, then hot again. That’s why you must dress your child (and yourself) in layers. Choose soft clothes that are easy to change.
8. Keep Snacks Close
Snacks fix everything. Seriously. Pack your child’s favorite dry snacks and maybe a small treat. I use a small box to keep crumbs under control.
9. Keep All Papers Together
Please don’t skip this part. Birth certificate, passport, boarding pass — put them in a zipper pouch. It saves so much stress when you’re asked to show them.
10. Let Kids Move Around Before Flight
Find a quiet spot near your gate and let them walk or crawl before boarding. Trust me, it helps burn energy, so they’re calmer on the flight.
11. Download Shows Before You Go
Don’t rely on in-flight Wi-Fi. Download a few shows or games on your phone or tablet. Don’t feel guilty — it’s survival mode.
12. Keep Baby’s Favorite Item
Blanket, teddy, or pacifier: whatever is your baby’s favorite item, please try to bring it. Their comfort item can help calm them if they’re scared or tired.
13. Sit in an Aisle Seat & Bring Your Car Seat on the Plane
I used to think the window was better, but the aisle makes it easier to stand up for bathroom breaks, diaper changes, or a short walk. Also, I know carrying a car seat is heavy, but bringing your own car seat is safer for your little one.
The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) suggests that kids should be in car seats on the plane. Holding them on your lap isn’t as safe, especially if the flight gets bumpy.
Plus, when you arrive, having your own seat is better than renting one. Rental seats aren’t always safe, and checked seats can get damaged. If your seat is big, try a smaller travel car seat that’s FAA-approved.
Booster seats can’t be used on the plane, but bring one for the trip.
14. Don’t Rush to Board
Some parents like to get on the plane early, but I prefer to get on last. That way, my child doesn’t have to sit still for too long, which helps avoid crying or getting upset.
15. Talk to the Flight Crew
Let the flight attendants know you’re traveling with a small child. Most are very helpful and understanding. They might even warm a bottle or bring extra napkins.
16. Gate-Check Your Stroller
You can use your stroller in the airport and give it to the airline staff right before you get on the plane. They’ll put it under the plane and give it back when you land. This is great if you don’t need the stroller during the flight.
17. Keep Calm (Even If They Cry)
Kids cry sometimes. It’s okay. You’re not a bad mom. Most people understand. Take deep breaths, hold your baby, and do your best.
18. Dress Comfy Too
Wear something soft, simple, and easy to move in. I also pack a clean shirt for myself, just in case of spills.
19. Trust Yourself
You know your child better than anyone. If they need to nap, walk, eat, or snuggle, follow their cues. It’s okay to break the rules a little while traveling.
Oh, another important thing. You know that tired, weird feeling after a long flight? That’s jet lag. It happens when your body clock gets mixed up by new time zones.
Babies feel it too, and it can make traveling really hard. I’ve been there. That’s why I found the tips on how to handle baby jet lag from the Bébé Voyage community so helpful.
They helped my little one feel better after a trip.
20. Find Support from Other Moms
This is a big one. The parents at Bébé Voyage helped me so much from choosing baby travel gear to learning what to expect in other countries. Their advice, city guides, and warm stories made me feel like I could actually do this. And now, I can. And so can you.
International Travel with Kids Checklist
Here are some quick checklists or tips for flying internationally with kids so that you don’t have to waste time wandering around thinking about what to pick during travel.
- Passports and visas ready
- Copies of important documents
- Child’s favorite snacks
- Plenty of diapers and wipes
- Change of clothes for everyone
- Comfortable clothes for the flight
- Car seat or travel-friendly seat
- Toys, books, and tablets for entertainment
- Baby formula, breast milk, or toddler drinks (extra for security)
- Medications and a small first aid kit
- Lightweight stroller or carrier
- Travel-size toiletries and baby care items
- Headphones for kids
- Blankets or favorite comfort items
- Plan for naps and sleep on the plane
- Download kids’ shows or games offline
- Chargers and portable batteries
- Travel insurance documents
- Emergency contact info saved
- Check airline rules for kids and luggage
- Stay flexible and keep calm!
Wrapping Up
So, coming to this point, I can hope that you now know how to fly with kids. Of course, flying with kids isn’t always easy. Things can go wrong. Your baby might cry, snacks might spill, or you might forget something important. I’ve had all of that happen too.
But little tips and kind advice from other moms really helped me. That’s why I love the Bébé Voyage community. It feels like a group of friends who truly understand.
So take a deep breath. Hold your baby close. It might feel hard now, but you’re making sweet memories.
You’re doing great, Mama. Safe travels.
Did you like this article on flying with kids? You might also be interested in the following:
The Ultimate List of Travel Toys for Entertaining Toddlers and Babies on a Plane
