Five Tips Friday: Traveling with a toddler

This is the first in my new weekly series called Five Tips Friday, in which I'll share five quick tips on a range of subjects, from parenting, blogging, social media, travel, or whatever catches my fancy!

I know that the mere thought of traveling with a toddler makes parents break out into a sweat. We never traveled when Little Dude was a baby, so taking him on holiday as a toddler was an adventure, to say the least! We've managed a few trips since then, so heading on a flight with him doesn't sound like a mad plan to me anymore.

Here are five tips for traveling on an airplane with a toddler:

1. Carry a separate backpack

Don't try to stuff one handbag with everything you need on the flight. Have a separate trolley bag for your toddler. Not only will he or she have fun pulling it along, it will be easier for you to take out things they need quickly.

2. Take lots of dry food

Long waiting periods can make kids hungry. Carry food and snacks that won't get soggy or stale over time. Dry cereals, crackers, raisins, granola bars, and such are good choices. Don't worry too much about nutrition when traveling, just stay away from too much sugar.

3. Don't be afraid to ask for extras

When on board the plane, feel free to ask the staff for extra blankets, different meal times, or a large bottle of water. In my experience, most flight attendants are helpful with kids, and if they aren't, don't bother with that airline again (and be sure to leave feedback too)!

4. Keep a change of clothes

A full set of extra clothes for toddlers is essential, but you must also pack an extra shirt or top for yourself. Everyone knows that most 'accidents' happen on Mom or Dad! And while we are on the subject of messes, keep loads of tissues and wet wipes.

5. Pack a surprise

The one thing that has always worked when traveling with my toddler is to surprise him with a new toy or book at the airport or in the flight. This is enough to keep him distracted for hours. It doesn't even need to be an expensive gift. You know it's going to be hard to get it from under an airline seat anyway!

Feel free to add your tips below.

Five Tips Friday is a series of posts on five quick tips about parenting, blogging, social media, travel, or just about anything!


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