A Pediatric OT and Mom's Best Tips

If you’re planning a flight with your two-year-old soon, let me just say this upfront: You’re not crazy AND you can absolutely do this. Yes, there might be tantrums, diaper blowouts, delays, or all of the above. But there might also be giggles in the aisle, sweet snuggles mid-flight, and memories you’ll be so glad you made.

As both a pediatric occupational therapist and a mom of two, I’ve taken many flights with babies and toddlers in tow. And I’m here to tell you: it’s not about trying to make it go perfectly smoothly or avoid every meltdown or mishap.

It’s about setting realistic expectations, preparing thoughtfully, and remembering that just like any other parenting milestone, travel is a muscle. The more you flex it, the easier it gets!

So let’s walk through my best high-value tips for managing your two-year-old through the entire travel day – from packing to touchdown.

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1. Packing Smart = Peace of Mind

Here’s how I think about packing for a travel day with a toddler: break it down by routine.

Sleep: If you’re hoping for a nap on the flight, pack their sleep sack, comfort item (lovey, blanket), pacifier (if used), and a portable white noise machine (I love this one).
Eating: Bring a variety of snacks (WAYYYYY more than you think you’ll need!!!). I pack things like: fruit pouches, Skout bars (use code ROUTINE for 20% off!), string cheese, crackers, dried and fresh fruit, and cereal.
Play: A few small, flight-friendly toys (stickers, coloring books, reusable water wow pads, a mini magna doodle, etc.) – rotate them in and out to keep interest. (Click HERE for links to some of my favs!)
Diapering: Diapers, wipes, disposable changing pads, hand sanitizer, and an extra outfit for both your toddler and yourself.

Pro Tip: Organize each category in its own pouch or zip bag inside your carry-on. That way you’re not digging through chaos mid-flight!

2. Have Low Expectations

This isn’t the day to aim for a perfect routine. Instead:

Expect delays.
Expect a missed nap and an overtired kid.
Expect some mid-flight screaming.

If you set your expectations low, worst case is they’re met…. And best case is you are pleasantly surprised! 😝

Also, mindset is important. Expect that you CAN handle whatever happens. Kids pick up on your energy. So if you show up calm and confident (even if you’re faking it a bit), they’re more likely to ride the wave with you.

3. Getting Through the Airport

Two-year-olds love to move, but a toddler running amuck in a busy airport is grounds for chaos. The key is deciding how and when to contain them, and when to let them move around.

Here’s what helps:

Use a stroller to get through bag-check and security : It helps with containment while you’re busy taking care of business. Once you get to your gate, you can gate-check it for free, or some travel strollers (like this one) fold up to fit in the overhead luggage space.
Babywear if needed: If you’re juggling multiple kids or have a runner on your hands, a soft-structured toddler carrier is a game-changer for going through security/walking around the airport. I LOVE this one because the hip seat makes it sturdy enough to carry a heavy toddler!
Let them walk/move around once you’re at the gate: Especially right before boarding! Use that time to burn off some energy.

4. On the Plane: Routines Over Rules

Once on board, lower your expectations and lean into flexibility – but also remember that toddlers do thrive on routine! So think about what aspects of their routine and what boundaries may be helpful to uphold on the flight, and which ones are fine to let go.

Think about seating arrangements. If you booked your toddler their own seat, I recommend bringing their car seat on board (if it’s FAA-approved). It keeps them contained and taps into their understanding that "we sit in the car seat while the vehicle moves.", which they’re already familiar with. If they’re a lap-child, be prepared for them to want to wiggle and move around a lot… that’s normal! No shame in letting them stand/sit below or beside your feet (when the seatbelt sign is off).

Don’t stress about screen time rules. Whether you use a tablet or not, now is the time for whatever works. We’ve opted out of tablets so far, but many families find them invaluable on flights. Do what works for your family!

Snacks are activities. Keep them flowing at regular intervals. Grazing helps pass the time and keeps blood sugar (and mood!) stable. Bonus points for snacks they can eat more slowly, one-at-a-time, like small crackers, chocolate chips, dried fruit, or puffs (just be mindful of safety/choking hazards!).

Movement breaks: Walk the aisle when the seatbelt sign is off. Go visit the flight attendants in the back to say hi! Most people are super friendly and happy to give a friendly wave.

5. Prepare for (but don’t fear) Sleep Challenges

If your flight overlaps with nap time, try a mini-version of your normal sleep routine. Think: book, snuggle, sleep sack, white noise. Your child might nap for 20 minutes or not at all. Any amount of sleep is a win, and if there’s none, it’s okay! You will both survive, I promise. But do prioritize sleep after you arrive at your destination with an early bedtime that night and/or the following night.

6. Real Talk: Mid-Flight Tantrums Might Happen

And it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong! The combination of stimulation, new environments, and being asked to sit still for hours is HARD for toddlers. If a meltdown happens, stay calm, offer comfort, and don’t worry about what others think (I know it’s hard, but try!!!). Most people either don’t notice or have been in your shoes. And truly, toddlers deserve to be in public spaces like planes, just like the rest of us.

7. Lean into a “Travel-Day Mantra”

Going into it with a positive mindset really does help! Here are a few things to tell yourself and repeat back to yourself in the harder moments:

"I am the calm, confident leader of this family."
"This won’t last forever."
“My toddler deserves to be here just as much as anyone else.”

"It’s not my job to prevent every single challenge, but to support them through it."

8. The Joy is Worth It!

Traveling with a toddler is not relaxing. But it is meaningful! It builds their (and your) resilience, expands their world, and gives you memories you’ll treasure for years.

So the next time you're overwhelmed mid-flight with your toddler sprawled across your lap, snack crumbs everywhere, and an hour still to go... take a breath. You’re doing it!! And you’re doing a great job.

Need help with what to pack? Grab my FREE travel checklist for babies + toddlers.

And if you’re looking for ongoing support for parenting toddlers through every phase (not just on airplanes), join us inside The Rooted Crew! Learn more and try your first week for FREE here.

Flying with a Two-Year-Old