7 Hacks for Flying with Toddlers

Murray Travel's Scott & Sarah Murray share their top tips, gained from flying with their toddler, to help you tackle the journey with ease:

Flying long haul with toddlers can seem like a daunting task for many parents. The thought of keeping little ones entertained and comfortable in a confined space for an extended period can be enough to make even the most seasoned traveller anxious. However, with a bit of preparation and creativity, you can turn your long-haul flight with toddlers into a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Clocking up a massive 60,000 air miles a year with toddler Max in tow, Scott and Sarah Murray, share their top tips to help you tackle your next journey with ease:

Plan Ahead

Preparation is key when flying with toddlers. Make sure to pack plenty of snacks, toys, books, and other entertainment to keep your little one occupied during the flight. Create a checklist of essential items, including nappies, wipes, ear defenders/headphones and a change of clothes (DO NOT FORGET THE CHANGE OF CLOTHES!!) and pack them in your carry-on bag for easy access.

Choose the Right Seat

Selecting the right seat can make a significant difference in your flying experience with a toddler. Opt for bulkhead seats or seats near the front of the aircraft, which typically offer more legroom and space for your child to move around.

If possible, consider booking a bassinet or a seat with extra legroom to provide additional comfort for your little one. You won't be able to book an emergency exit unfortunately.  Sitting them at the window means they can't easily escape, and being close to the on board toilets can be a blessing if the worst happens at 37000ft!

Stick to Routine

Maintaining your little one's routine as much as possible can help them feel more comfortable and secure during the flight. Stick to their regular meal and nap times where you can.  Eat in the airport where possible, as once the food is on those trays, it is impossible to move around. Plus they are easily "flipped",  and try to recreate familiar bedtime rituals, such as reading a story or singing songs, to help them relax and settle down.

Pack Surprise Toys

Keep your toddler entertained with a selection of new and exciting toys that they haven't seen before. Consider wrapping each toy individually to add an element of surprise and prolong their interest. Interactive toys, such as colouring books, stickers, and travel-friendly games, can provide hours of entertainment and distraction during the flight.

Utilise Screen Time

While you may limit screen time at home, long-haul flights are the perfect opportunity to relax those rules temporarily. Load up a tablet or smartphone with Miss Rachel, Blippi, Paw Patrol or educational apps to keep them engaged during the journey. Don't forget to bring child-friendly headphones to ensure they can enjoy their screen time without disturbing other passengers (especially if its Blippi!!)

Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart

Flying can be dehydrating for both adults and children, so make sure to offer your toddler plenty of fluids throughout the flight. Pack a spill-proof cup or water bottle and fill it up regularly with water or diluted fruit juice. When it comes to snacks, choose healthy and portable options, such as sliced fruits, cheese cubes or crackers, to keep hunger at bay and energy levels up.  Chocolate and crisps are always good to have in the event of an uncontrollable meltdown!

Be Patient and Flexible

Last but not least, maintain a positive attitude and be prepared to go with the flow. Flying with toddlers can be unpredictable, and there may be moments of frustration or tantrums along the way. Toddlers can have tantrums too! Stay calm, be patient, and try to distract and comfort your child as needed. Remember that this is just a temporary phase, and soon you'll be arriving at your destination ready to embark on new adventures together.

By being fully prepared, flying with toddlers can be a breeze rather than a source of stress. With careful planning, a bit of creativity, and a whole lot of patience, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your little one.

Safe travels!