Our Experience Flying with a Toddler
Flying from New York to Chicago is quite an easy trip, unless something unexpected happens. We arrived at LaGuardia before 4 PM for a 5:00 PM flight that did not take off until 12:55 AM! After boarding the plane and sitting in our seats for an hour, we deplaned because of severe, unexpected thunderstorms in the area. While we waited by the gate, the pilot made an announcement every 20 minutes explaining that he was trying to get a safe route approved. Eventually, the flight departed and took a detour through Minneapolis before arriving in Chicago at 3:30 AM. We checked into the hotel at 4:45 AM New York time!
I’m honestly just so glad my husband was traveling with us this time, because it’s usually just me and my daughter. And, of course, being pregnant adds another layer to the adventure! As parents, we really have to be prepared for anything – especially when traveling with little ones. You never know what kind of travel day you will have!
This was us at LaGuardia at 11:00 PM, after 6 hours of waiting for a new update from the pilot about our flight to Chicago. By that point, our daughter had fallen asleep!
SHOP: Lightweight Travel Stroller
And this was at 4:15 AM at Chicago O’Hare Airport, on the shuttle heading to pick up our rental car. At that point, we were exhausted and just happy to be in Chicago!
Tips for Flying with a Toddler
When flying with a toddler, bring more diapers (and wipes!) than you think you’ll need, dress your child comfortably because airplanes are usually cold, pack a change of clothes, lower your expectations, and expect the unexpected!
Packing List when Traveling with a Toddler
When traveling with a toddler, you should, at a minimum, always pack:
Snacks or a Snack Container Box: My daughter is obsessed with these snack puffs.
Lightweight Cotton Blanket: My most-used “everywhere” blanket for the past 2+ years!
1 or 2 Extra Outfits for your child: It’s always cold in planes and airports, so I love these for my daughter.
1 Extra Outfit for yourself: These scoop-neck tops are my go-to 7 days a week, so I bring one in my tote bag.
Reusable Sticker Book: I always have these fun sticker books at the bottom of my city stroller.
Crayons and Sketch Pad: I carry packs of crayons in my bags!
If traveling with older kids, these are a must:
This is a photo from one of my very first flights with my daughter.
Tips for Flying with a Baby
When traveling with a baby, nursing during takeoff and landing is usually recommended. Nursing or offering your baby a bottle can help keep your little one calm. I also suggest bringing enough milk/formula in case of unexpected delays.
I remember when my daughter was little, I always made sure to pack: a set of wet bags, a baby carrier, and a nursing shawl.
Packing List when Traveling with a Baby
If you are traveling with a baby, consider bringing these items:
Wet Bag Set: The perfect bag to carry wipes, cream, and diapers. I love the handle!
Baby Carrier: I have two baby carriers I personally use and recommend: this one is great for winter and older babies, and this one is perfect for summer or babies under 12 months old (use this code ANAF for a 10% discount on yours!).
Nursing Shawl: The best nursing shawl on the market (in my opinion), elegant and machine washable.
For long flights, consider taking an inflatable nursing pillow and this on-the-go manual breast pump.
A final note!
Traveling with kids is fun, exhausting, and incredibly rewarding. I promise you that once you arrive at your destination, you will forget about the flight and start creating core memories you will always look back on. So book your flight, pack your bags, and enjoy!
