We all know traveling with toddlers is not always easy. Even though Roux is such a great kid & actually an amazing traveler, he’s still a toddler! My mentality when traveling is to prepare for everything. I definitely would NOT call myself a minimalist when we’re flying as a family! I like to be ready & make it easier on me and those around me.
Since we recently took a trip to Park City, I figured I’d put together a list of what I brought in Roux’s carry on to keep him entertained for the four or five-hour flight!
- Change of Clothes – Just in case 😉 [this is especially important during the diaper days [they leak] and the early potty training days]. For the longest time, when Roux was longer – he flew in footed jammies and I changed him in the airport as soon as we landed [this was more for germ purposes, even pre-COVID].
- Headphones – So important! I linked them here.
- iPad – No screentime guilt when traveling! We download some of his favorite shows and movies beforehand so he has a lot of options to choose from. I also download a bunch of new game + learning apps. It’s surprising how much they can play on apps without any internet connection.
- Something Comfy – Don’t forget your child’s fav support thing haha! It makes them feel safe and comfortable. [for us it’s his Kippin + to my surprise Elmo]
- Water Bottle – It’s normal to become dehydrated while traveling — so don’t forget to keep your toddler hydrated. [also a challenge with bathroom breaks, but we already know this mamas]. Toddler book bags often have smaller drink holders : Target has some great “skinny” water bottles that fit perfectly if you need one.
- Snacks + Bribery Treats – Again, no shame! Bring different treats that your toddler loves. It keeps them occupied and full. For us, it’s all about the gummies. Snacks are good to bring because depending on timing of flight and length of flight – these littles may not be hungry at 5AM or be able to wait until 2PM for lunch. Most flights offer a little something – but you know, mom snacks are usually better. My friend, Niki, showed me this fun snack tower & I loved it because it fits so easily in my carry on or his!
- Lysol/Sanitizing Wipes: Now more than ever — it’s so important to keep your space clean because toddlers always touch everything. I’m a nurse by trade + germ killer for years. I have a bulk supply of PURELL wipes from Roux’s first year of life [I stock up on crazy things like this] so it’s lasted me through the COVID shortages – but get whatever you can. The airlines are actually really great about handing out sanitizing wipes too.
- Travel Activity – We love to bring mazes or a small play-dough kit — think activities that are slightly challenging that encourage them to think and take up a little bit of time. Toddlers may not stick to any one activity for long – so don’t kill yourself over this. Just some variety activities to have as options. [I avoid cars and round crayons because they inevitably just keep rolling on to the floor].
- New Small Toy for an element of surprise – I usually just one or two special new small toys from the Target dollar section. No matter how big or small — they’re always a huge hit!
- Ziplock Bag for trash or wet clothes – These always come in handy!
- Tissues and Regular Baby Wipes -100% necessity
- Busy Bag: We used to use this bag as Roux’s book bag when he was a little younger. He absolutely loved it. And actually still does. The buckles are everything. And it’s super soft. This is a great option for smaller toddlers! This blog has some fun ideas.
SIDE NOTE: your toddler may not actually carry their own carry-on bag, but at least their stuff is all in one spot!
I’ll be posting a full breakdown of the trip next week so you guys can see where we stayed, skied, ate and more!
If you have any tips and tricks for keeping toddlers entertained while traveling, leave them below. We’re always looking for new ways to keep things fun and entertaining!
You can also always check my Amazon store for our favorite toys for boating, learning, travel and more. There are some great finds that could be good for an upcoming trip!
Love you guys!!
