Looking forward to 2024 travels with your kids, but not sure how you’re going to pass the time in the air? We’re sharing our tried and true tips, toys and resources for flying with kids!

Prepare & Plan

  • Getting through TSA security: I try to mentally prepare for this portion of our travel day by organizing our carry-on bags in such a way that I can easily access what we’ll have to take out of our bags through security! Luckily your kids (under 12 yrs) won’t need to take off their shoes, which makes the process a little easier.
  • SNACKS! You can never pack too many snacks. With all the unexpected things that can happen with airline travel, I like to make sure I have plenty of my kids’ favorite foods on hand.
  • If you child is old enough to wear their own backpack, let them carry their own backpack of travel entertainment! And don’t forget a water bottle…most airports now how convenient water bottle refilling stations for right after you get through security.
  • Wear your kids out as much as you can around the airport before your flight, but make sure you take your kiddo to the bathroom right before you board. The less trips to the little airplane bathroom you have to take, the better!

In-Flight Fun

  • Did we mention SNACKS?! I love to fill a fun container like this or this with some of their favorite snacks. Not only does it pass the time, but it keeps the in-flight “hanger” at bay!
  • If you’re flying an airline that has screens or are bringing a tablet, you’re going to want to make sure to pack kid headphones! We like to buy ones with braided cords, they seem to last longer. The ear buds that the flight attendant’s sometimes hand out are not great for kid’s little ears.
  • Now for the toys that have been a big hit with our kids…window gel clings from the Target dollar spot (perfect if you’ve got a window seat or they work on the tray tables too), LED drawing/writing tablet, sticker books (we also love these ones), fun magnets (that come in tin so you don’t lose them), Water Wow books, or Plus Plus building blocks (this set even comes with a case)!

The Journey Home

  • Now that the fun is over, it’s time to restock those snacks for the journey ahead!
  • Keep their new travel goodies sparse on your actual vacation, so they’ll seem fun again by the time you’re flying home.
  • Remember that even though it may be stressful, the memories will be worth it and you will get to sleep in your own bed again SOON!

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