Tips for flying with my 1 year old?

Question

I'm flying from seattle to omaha, ne. we only have one connection in salt lake city, and the layover is only 35 minutes so we got lucky there! But both planes are about a 2 hr trip. I know it probably won't be all that bad since it's not a super long trip, but do you have any advice or suggestions on foods or toys or anything to bring for her to keep her entertained? My mother will be with us, so I'm sure having her there will help a lot. Also, should I even bother with the umbrella stroller? Or should I just take my soft carrier and put her in there when we are in the airport? It would make it a lot easier to carry my bags, also! Thanks for any advice! :)

Answer 1

My mom & I took my 18 month old neice on the airplane last summer. Forget the stroller and use the soft carrier. Check as much of your luggage as you possible can. You need free hands to handle the baby, but on the other hand she may get heavy after awhile, use your best judgment.
Just hope that she sleeps on the flight or she will be lap jumping.
Bring plenty of snacks and water for the baby.

Answer 2

You are lucky to have your flights to only be 2 hrs long. That makes everything that much easier for you.

As far as snacks, I would suggest taking your childs favorite snacks. Make sure you have enough, never think that you'll have too much. You'll never know how much your child will want, during the flight. Keep in mind to look for things that's individually packed.

For drinks, you can find juice juice boxes, which makes it very convenient for you in the flight. You should be able to find that at any grocery store. It makes it easier when you need to clean up too. I made sure I had a bunch of these, for a ten hour flight that I had recently.

As for entertaiment, I would suggest a portable dvd player. This came in handy, when my husband and i had to fly our 10 hour flight. It kept our son from crying the entire trip and everyone around us, not to irritated. If you do that, try to pack several of your childs favorite movies.

To have less worry or stress, I would not suggest an umbrella stroller. Especially if you'll have other help with you. You all can take turns carrying your child. Know that it's one less thing you'll have to carry around the airport and through the planes.

I hope that this helps in your decision on what things you'll need. Just keep in my what things will keep your child happy, anything that he/she loves...will make everything easy on all of you.

Answer 3

Just bring lots of little things to entertain her. Little baggies of dry cereal, raisins, goldfish crackers, etc.

Little toys that aren't too noisy, books to read to her, and maybe some crayons and paper.

Try and see if you can get her to take a nap during that time as well. Bring a blanket and a small pillow and see if she'll take a quick cat nap.

I wouldn't suggest bringing the stroller unless you'll be needing it when you arrive in Omaha. The carrier should be good enough. Have a nice trip :-)

ETA: Someone suggest Benadryl to make her drowsy. I don't know about you, but I don't agree with drugging your kids just to get them to sleep.

Answer 4

Hey..Well take plenty of juice/milk whatever she likes. Maybe her favourite teddy, colouring books, teething toys, sweets, a soft blanket. Just don't take too much as you will have to carry it around the airport all day. Make sure on the day that you are flying, she is wearing something comfortable, i made that mistake, my daughter was wearing jeans and a cardi and stuf and she just wouldnt settle so I changed her into some pyjamas and she was fine. Lol. Good luck on the flight anyway x

Also feed her before you get on the plane.
And maybe wear her out before you go to the airport and she might sleep on the plane. Thats what I do. Lol

Good luck xxx

Answer 5

Make sure that you have a drink, pacifier, or bottle for take off and landing so that her ears will pop. I know that people get their undies in a bundle over people who give a dose of Dimetapp or Benadryl, but it really does work and helps with the pressure in the ears. Before Dimetapp was over the counter my mom had in prescribed for my brother and I for plane trips. In the end it is your kid and your call. As far as the stroller goes, you might need it on the other end for trips out so think about that before leaving it behind. Good luck!

Answer 6

We traveled with my daughter when she was 15 months for the first time and the best thing was a few new toys/games. Something we saved until we got on the plane. she was so excited to have something new and it kept her busy until she fell asleep. Also, make sure that you are as relaxed as possible because young children can really pick up on our stress which in turn stresses them out. Sing new songs and read new stories as well as be prepared with the old stand bys.

Answer 7

Check with your peditrician first but i suggest giving Benadryl about 20 minutes before flight. We went to Disney with my son when he was 1 and that is what we did based on his pediatrician's recommendation. He said it would make him a bit drowsey but have no ill effects. we also scheduled the flights to coincide with his regular nap times. We also booked with Jet Blue so when he woke up before landing he was pacified by watching TV. Perhaps these aren't the best suggestions b ut it's what worked for us. I would go with the umbrella stroller. You can take it on the flight and they'll check it as carry on. Your daughter may fall asleep or get tired of being held during the flight so having a safe place to put her after the flight will help.

Answer 8

Try this website for some great tips. http://www.flyingrugrats.com/

I personally traveled 10hrs on flight to/from England with my little ones. I brought a bag of snacks, juices and toys. What worked the best for me was to walk around with them. They loved it and so did people on the plane. It got them tired and amused them on the flight. Best wishes to you.

Answer 9

Nyquil!