Traveling with Kids: Chaos, Connection, and the Joy of the Journey

Jennie Vandegrift
Jun 1
18 min read

Traveling with kids isn’t always easy—but it is always worth it. Whether you’re piling into the car for a weekend road trip, navigating airport security en route to an international destination, or exploring hidden gems a few states away, family travel brings its own unique blend of unpredictability, laughter, and lifelong memories.

Sure, the snacks disappear faster than you packed them. Yes, someone will ask “Are we there yet?” before you even leave the driveway. But there’s something undeniably magical about seeing the world through your children’s eyes—whether it’s their first time dipping toes into a salty ocean, spotting wildlife on a national park trail, or trying a completely new dish in a foreign country.

Over the years, we’ve learned a lot through trial and error—what to pack (and what not to), how to keep everyone entertained on long drives or layovers, and how to plan trips that strike the right balance between adventure and downtime. We’ve figured out how to make even the most ordinary moments feel special—and we’ve definitely had our share of meltdowns along the way.

In this post, I’m sharing what we’ve learned from our air adventures—domestic, international, and everything in between—and how we’ve made flying with kids not just possible, but incredibly rewarding.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll dive into what’s worked for us on the road, with tips and tricks for tackling road trips as a family.

Flying with Kids: Tips for a Stress-Free Journey

Traveling by plane with kids can feel like a daunting challenge, but with the right preparation, it can be an enjoyable experience for the whole family. Whether you’re embarking on a short domestic flight or a long-haul international trip, these tips will help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Plan Ahead for a Smooth Start

The key to a successful flight with kids starts long before you reach the airport.

Choose Flights Wisely:

When traveling with an infant or toddler, I recommend booking flights that align with their sleep schedule. It’s always a win if you can time it so they sleep through the journey.
As our kids have gotten older, this strategy has evolved. For domestic flights, we try to avoid odd hours — anything too early means cranky kids woken up before their bodies are ready, and anything too late means exhausted kids who don’t want to walk through the airport upon landing. Always remember: whatever your scheduled landing time, easily add an hour before you actually arrive at your final destination (more if the airport is far from where you’re staying).
For international flights, the strategy shifts. Always book the red-eye. This way, you aren’t stuck entertaining kids for 8+ hours. Instead, you board in the evening, they burn off some excitement, eat a kid-friendly dinner, and (hopefully) sleep for most of the flight—waking up somewhat refreshed and ready to take on a new country.

Select Seats Strategically:

I highly recommend booking with an airline that allows seat selections—even if it means paying extra. As a family of four, we use different configurations depending on the flight. For long-haul flights where sleep is the goal, I always try to get a full row: sometimes four seats across the middle of a larger plane, sometimes three seats on one side and Dad across the aisle. This allows the kids to sprawl out however they need to stay comfortable (even if it means Mom becomes a human pillow!).
For shorter domestic flights, we usually prefer a 2-and-2 arrangement, with Mom and Dad on the aisle and the kids in the middle seats.
Having at least one aisle seat is key. Whether it’s a 40-minute flight or a 10-hour one, you can almost guarantee a bathroom trip or two. It’s much easier to manage when you aren’t climbing over a stranger multiple times.
Another tip: when selecting seats, try to leave the middle seat open. If no one snags it, you’ll have extra space. And if someone does, they’ll almost always be happy to swap for a window seat over the middle.

Check Airline Policies:

Take Advantage of Family Boarding: Many airlines offer family boarding, and opinions vary on whether you should board early to get situated or wait until the last minute so the kids can get their wiggles out. We’ve found that boarding early works better for our family. It allows us to get all our bags stowed and secure prime overhead bin space—so when it’s time to get off the plane, we’re not scrambling to retrieve a bag that’s 10 rows back while our kids are desperate to exit. Plus, because flights are the only time our kids get unlimited screen time, it’s convenient to get them settled with their iPads right away.
Pre-Select Kid-Friendly Meals: For long-haul flights, make sure to pre-select a kid-friendly meal option. If you don’t request it ahead of time, there’s a good chance they won’t have enough on board—and no one wants a meltdown at 35,000 feet because the chicken nuggets ran out and your child is staring down a tray of adult fare. Trust me, it’s a headache you don’t need mid-flight.

Pack Smart for the Flight

Being well-prepared with the right essentials can make all the difference.

Bring a Well-Stocked Carry-On:

Your carry-on is your lifeline when traveling with kids, so pack it with intention. You’ll want to include all the essentials and then some—because you never know when a delay, spill, or meltdown might hit.

Always pack more diapers than you think you’ll need—flight delays happen. Pro tip: right before takeoff, change your infant’s diaper and double up by putting a diaper that’s one size larger over the regular one. This trick has saved us from total blowouts more than once. Instead of a messy disaster mid-flight, everything stayed contained until we could deal with it on solid ground. Wipes are another non-negotiable—use them for diaper changes, sticky hands, tray tables, unexpected spills, or the occasional mystery mess.
Extra Clothes: Bring at least one full change of clothes for each child—and an extra shirt for yourself if you’re traveling with a baby. Spills, spit-up, and accidents are all part of the game. And be sure to toss in a gallon-size Ziploc bag or two for any soiled clothing, just in case.
Comfort Items: Pack any must-have loveys—blankets, stuffed animals, or pacifiers—that help soothe your child. These familiar items can make all the difference when it’s time to nap or when emotions run high.
Medications & Supplies: If your child needs any medications, make sure they’re in your carry-on, not checked luggage. If you’re traveling with an infant or a child with a medical condition (like Type 1 Diabetes), triple check that you have supplies, a cooler if needed, and any relevant documentation.

Snacks are Essential:

Kids get hungry at unpredictable times, and airline food isn’t always the best option. Pack a variety of easy-to-eat, non-messy snacks that are TSA-friendly and travel well.
Snacks for Infants: For infants, we loved bringing puffs. They’re small, go a long way, and melt in your mouth—making them a perfect, low-risk snack option that’s easy for little hands to grab without creating a choking hazard. another great option is a squeezable applesauce pouch.
Snacks for Older Kids: As our kids have gotten older, we rely heavily on granola bars, fruit snacks, and dry cereal. Other great options include mini pretzels, crackers, dried fruit, and trail mix. If the flight falls over a mealtime and meals aren’t being served, we’ll often pack a Lunchable or an Uncrustable—for a more filling, easy-to-eat option.
Don’t forget to pack something age-appropriate for your child to drink—whether that’s a bottle, sippy cup, juice box, or water bottle. One of the easiest ways to help relieve the pressure in little ears during takeoff and landing is to have them swallow. Sucking and sipping help equalize the pressure, which can save you from a fussy, uncomfortable kid mid-flight.

Entertainment is Key:

Quiet Toys for Infants: Pack a variety of quiet toys for your baby. Skip anything noisy like rattles or crinkle books. Instead, opt for soft picture books with lift-the-flap features, textured sensory toys, or teething rings. A few small, lightweight options will go a long way in keeping them engaged without disturbing fellow passengers.
Simple Distractions for Toddlers: The early toddler years are inevitably the hardest—trying to entertain an 18-month-old or 2-year-old who just wants to be on the move is no small feat. One of our favorite tricks at that age? A stack of Post-it notes. No joke. They’re simple, mess-free, and offer a decent stretch of distraction as little ones peel them off and stick them around their seat area (bonus: they’re easy to clean up after, too).
Entertainment for Older Kids: For older kids, load up tablets with kid-friendly movies, games, and music ahead of time. For non-electronic options, bring sticker books (our boys loved the Paint by Sticker series) or other activity books. One of our favorite hacks is to purchase a cheap menu cover from Amazon, print out a bunch of activity sheets, and fill it up. Bring a couple of dry erase markers and you’ll have reusable activities they can do over and over again. These also come in clutch during layovers, at restaurants, or anytime you need to stave off boredom while traveling. Some of our favorite printables include mazes, lined paper for writing stories, tic-tac-toe boards, hangman, and the classic dots-and-boxes game.

Navigating the Airport with Kids

Airports can be overwhelming, but a little planning goes a long way toward making the experience smoother for everyone.

Arrive Early:

Give yourself plenty of extra time—especially if you don’t fly often or it’s your first time flying with a baby or young child. Everything takes longer with kids: check-in, bathroom breaks, security lines, snack stops, and even walking to the gate. The more buffer you have, the less stressful the experience will be.

When we first started traveling with kids, we always gave ourselves a full two hours at the airport. These days, with all the travel we’ve done, we can usually get by with 90 minutes to get through check-in, security, and to our gate. But even now, there are times we’ll still build in two or more hours—like during peak travel seasons, if we are planning to check baggage (we typically opt for carry-ons), when flying out of unfamiliar airports, or when traveling internationally—just to be safe. It’s always better to have extra time than to be rushing with kids in tow.

Tips for Tackling Security:

Use Family-Friendly Lanes: Many airports—especially international ones—have designated security lanes for families, which can make the process far less stressful.
Consider TSA PreCheck: Security lines can be long and unpredictable. If you fly often, consider signing up for TSA PreCheck. It allows you to keep your shoes, belts, and jackets on and leave electronics in your bag, speeding things up significantly. Many credit cards—especially travel-focused ones—offer reimbursement for the enrollment fee, so be sure to check your benefits. Bonus: children 12 and under can accompany a parent with TSA PreCheck without needing their own membership.
Make a Security Reservation: If you don’t plan on purchasing PreCheck, look into reservation-based security lines. Airports like Denver International offer scheduled security appointments to cut down on wait times—huge when you’ve got wiggly kids.
Bathroom First, Always: Whatever line you’re in, make a bathroom stop before getting in it. Trust us—there’s nothing worse than hearing “I have to pee” just as you hand over your boarding pass.

Pre-Boarding Routine:

Once through security, we make sure we’ve left enough time to:

Grab food from a fast food spot
Pick up a few snacks for the plane
Fill water bottles
Hit the bathroom one last time
Pro tip: if traveling with a stroller or car seat that you are planning to gate check, ensure that you leave enough time to speak with a gate agent before boarding to tag your item.

Then we evaluate our timing. If we’re close to boarding, we head to the gate. If we have extra time, here are a few ways we’ve passed it:

Quick Meal Break: If time allows, we’ll skip the fast food and opt for a quick-service restaurant instead. A sit-down break can be a welcome reset.
Airport Lounges: We’re United Club members, so we use those lounges when available. Even if you don’t have an airline membership, check to see if your credit card offers access to other lounges—Capital One, Chase Sapphire, and others now have airport lounges that cardholders can use.
Walk It Out: Walk the terminal and let the kids ride the moving walkways back and forth—it’s fun for them and helps burn off some energy before the flight.
Gate Entertainment: If all else fails, grab seats at the gate and pull out those tablets or activity kits early. Our boys are always thrilled when they get early iPad time—win-win.

In-Flight Survival Tips

Once you’re on board, the real challenge begins. Here’s how to keep things running smoothly:

Set Expectations:

Before boarding, take a moment to remind your kids what the flight will be like so they’re mentally prepared. Setting clear expectations makes a big difference. This is especially important with toddlers or first-time flyers, and for those longer international flights.

Explain the Boarding Process: Boarding often involves waiting in line, showing tickets, and then walking down a long jet bridge to the plane, to then wait in line again. Let them know that you’ll need to be patient while people get settled, and that it may take a few minutes to find your seats and put bags away. You can also let them know it’s not unusual to sit on the plane for a bit before it takes off, especially if you boarded early with family boarding or an earlier zone.
Talk Through the Timeline: Let them know how long the flight will be, when meals or snacks will happen, and when they can expect to use screens or sleep. Even with our kids who are frequent fliers and know the routine, this becomes even more important when we have a flight that breaks that routine so that they don’t have a complete meltdown that they don’t get to do what they typically do. Red eyes and long hauls are a perfect example where we need them to get some sleep during the flight.
Prepare for Rules: Explain why they need to wear a seatbelt, use indoor voices, and stay in their seats when the seatbelt sign is on. Reassure them that they’ll get breaks to move around when it's safe. We also find it helpful to remind them that because of these rules, there will be specific time where we have to go to the bathroom so that we don’t end up needing to go at a time when we can’t get up (take-off, landing, turbulence).
Set Screen Time Boundaries (If Any): If you're pacing out screen time, let them know when and how long they’ll get their device. Giving them a heads-up avoids arguments mid-flight.
Explain Unfamiliar Sensations: Tell them ahead of time about ear popping during takeoff and landing, engine noises, or turbulence so it doesn’t catch them off guard. Reassure them that it’s all normal.
Create Predictable Moments: Consider creating a mini in-flight “schedule” just for them (even if it’s loose). For example, we might tell our kids on a long haul that we’ll board the plane, use our iPads until dinner is served, then we will use the restroom and get cozied up for some sleep. When we wake up we will use the restroom again and have a snack and a bit more screen time as we land. It gives them a sense of control and structure.

The goal is to minimize surprises and meltdowns by making the experience feel safe, predictable, and even a little exciting.

Encourage Rest:

Helping your child rest during the flight can make the journey smoother for everyone—especially on long-haul flights or any flight that falls during nap or bedtime.

For shorter, domestic flights, we always bring a familiar blanket and any comfort item they typically sleep with—like a stuffed animal or lovey. Even if they don’t fall asleep, these items help signal that it’s quiet time.

For long-haul flights, we come much more prepared. We always pack a neck pillow or small travel pillow, an eye mask, and an inflatable foot pillow. That last one is a game-changer: for our youngest, it creates a flat surface between his seat and the seat in front of him, so he can curl up and lie down almost as if he’s in his own bed. It’s made a huge difference in helping him get solid sleep in the air.

Our oldest has outgrown that setup, so he’s had to master the art of sleeping upright. Still, having a pillow, eye mask, and—of course—the human pillow known as Mom, helps him stay comfortable enough to get some rest.

Stay Calm and Flexible:

And with all that said—be completely prepared for nothing to go as planned. Air travel is unpredictable, and so are kids’ moods. Delays happen. Meltdowns happen. Spilled snacks, missed naps, and forgotten toys all happen. The key is to stay calm, adapt to the moment, and roll with it.

You may get side-eye from a fellow traveler who sees your child (screaming or not) as the biggest inconvenience of their day. Let it go. You and your child have just as much right to be on that flight as anyone else. Keep your focus where it matters—on your child, your family, and what you can control.

You’ll have flights where everything goes sideways—where the baby cries from takeoff to touchdown, or your toddler chooses that moment to unleash a next-level tantrum. But you’ll also have flights that are smooth, joyful, and even relaxing—where everyone’s happy, and you might even get a moment to read, nap, or enjoy a hot coffee.

Embrace every version of the journey. It’s all part of the adventure—and you're doing great.

Bonus Tips for International Flights

Adjusting to New Time Zones:

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to time zone transitions, especially when traveling with kids. You know your child best, so choose what works best for your family.

Option 1: Gradual Adjustment

In the days leading up to your trip, you can slowly shift your child’s bedtime by an hour or two to better align with the new time zone. This strategy often works well for babies and toddlers, who may not have rigid schedules yet. It’s a bit trickier with older kids who have school, after-school activities, or evening commitments that make an earlier bedtime tough to manage. It can also be more taxing on the parents—adjusting your child’s schedule without adjusting your own can leave you exhausted by the time your travel day arrives.

Option 2: Rip the Bandaid Off (Strategically)

This is the method we use—and we plan for it carefully. As mentioned in earlier planning tips, we try to select international flights that overlap significantly with our kids’ natural sleep schedule. That way, aside from maybe an hour on either end, they’re sleeping through the flight. By the time we land in Europe and make a connection to our final destination, it’s usually close to local bedtime. Since the kids got some rest on the plane but not a full night’s sleep, they’re ready to crash again and usually sleep through the night—waking up fairly well adjusted to the new time zone.

That said, there can still be lingering effects of jet lag. For our kids, it sometimes shows up as mood swings or behavior that’s out of character. We try to roll with it, offer extra grace, and remember that they’re adjusting in the best way they can.

One Last Note:

We do choose to use a child-safe form of melatonin to help ease the transition—both in the first few nights at our destination and again when we return home. Of course, always consult with your doctor to ensure this is the right option for your family.

Bring Important Documents:

Before any international trip, double- and triple-check that you have all essential travel documents—not just for yourself, but for your kids too. Always carry both electronic and printed copies as backups, in case anything gets lost or delayed.

Passports: Remember that children’s passports expire every 5 years (compared to 10 years for adults), so check expiration dates well in advance. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, so if you’re close to that window, it’s best to renew before your trip. And if you need to apply for a new passport, start early—processing times have been longer in recent years, and even finding an appointment can take weeks or months.
Global Entry: If you plan to travel internationally often, consider enrolling in Global Entry. It allows you to bypass long customs lines when re-entering the U.S.—a huge help when you’re wrangling tired kids after a long-haul flight. Unlike TSA PreCheck, however, every traveler (including kids) must have their own Global Entry membership. You’ll need to submit an individual application for each family member. Many travel credit cards offer reimbursement for the enrollment fee, so be sure to check your card benefits.
Reciprocal Programs: Some countries offer expedited entry programs for partner nations, including the U.S., though eligibility often starts at age 13+. This isn’t something we’ve been able to take advantage of yet, but it’s worth exploring if you’re traveling with teens.
Parental Consent Letters: If you’re traveling internationally solo with your child(ren), it’s highly recommended—and sometimes required—to carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent. This is especially important for entry into certain countries or when passing through immigration checkpoints. Check the specific requirements of your destination in advance.
Destination-Specific Requirements: Some countries require or strongly recommend certain vaccinations, health forms, or travel authorizations. These may need to be completed days in advance of arrival, so do your research early and make sure all documentation is in order before departure.

Prepare for Long Layovers:

Long layovers are often unavoidable when traveling internationally, especially when flying to destinations that require a connection through a major hub in Europe or Asia. The good news is that many international airports are far better equipped for families than you might expect—if you know what to look for.

Research the Airport Ahead of Time: Not all layovers are created equal. Some international airports offer incredible amenities for families—think indoor play zones, interactive kids’ areas, family lounges, and even quiet rooms for naps. Airports like Amsterdam (Schiphol), Singapore (Changi), Zurich, and Doha are known for being family-friendly. Look up terminal maps and amenities in advance so you know what’s available and where to go when you land.
Pack Accordingly: For longer layovers, pack a small “layover kit” in your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, extra clothes, and comfort items. If you’re changing time zones, this might also be a great opportunity for a quick nap or to freshen up with toiletries and a change of clothes. A small travel blanket and inflatable pillow can go a long way in keeping kids comfortable between flights.
Know the Rules for International Connections: In some countries, even if you’re only transiting through the airport, you may still need to go through security again or even clear immigration. This can add unexpected time and stress, especially if your layover is short. Do your homework ahead of time and allow for buffer time in your itinerary.
Accessing Lounges: If you have access to an airline lounge (through status, ticket class, or a travel credit card), take full advantage—especially in international airports where lounges often include showers, family rooms, and meal options. Even if you don’t typically splurge on extras, some lounges allow day passes and are well worth the cost on long-haul itineraries with kids.
Get Everyone Moving: After a long flight, kids will need to burn off some energy. Look for play areas or simply go on a walk through the terminal to explore. Even just riding the moving walkway back and forth can make a big difference.
Don’t Forget Local Customs: Depending on the airport, shops or amenities may be closed during certain hours (especially overnight layovers), and food options may be limited. Check in advance and plan accordingly—especially if you have picky eaters or dietary needs.

Long layovers aren’t always easy, but with the right prep and mindset, they can be a chance to reset, refuel, and re-engage before the next leg of your journey.

Special Considerations for Flying with Babies

While many of the family travel tips above apply to infants, there are a few baby-specific considerations worth calling out. With the right prep (and a little flexibility), flying with a baby can be smoother than you’d think—and often easier than flying with toddlers or older kids!

Bring Extra Supplies:

Always pack more diapers, wipes, formula, and/or breast milk than you think you’ll need—in case of delays, cancellations, or lost luggage. A good rule of thumb is to bring enough for at least 24 hours. If you do run out, don’t panic—chances are high another parent will be more than willing to lend a diaper or wipe (we’ve been on both sides of this!).

Pro tip: U.S. airports are required by TSA to have emergency infant formula available at select medical stations or through airport support staff, but it’s not guaranteed and can vary. If you’re in a pinch, ask an airport or airline employee for help—they may be able to assist or direct you to a store in the terminal.

Use a Baby Carrier:

A hands-free baby carrier is a game-changer for navigating the airport, especially at security checkpoints and boarding. It keeps your baby close and content while freeing up your hands for luggage, documents, or snacks.

Keep the Stroller Close:

We recommend using a compact, travel-friendly stroller. These strollers still offer many conveniences—like under-seat storage and reclining seats—but fold up small enough to fit in most airplane overhead bins. We prefer them over umbrella strollers because they’re easier to push, offer more support, and hold the many extras we cart through airports or on outings.

That said, if your destination includes lots of uneven terrain (think cobblestone streets), we opt for our jogging stroller instead and check it at the ticket counter. While bulkier, it handles rugged ground better and makes outings much smoother.

Pumping & Breastfeeding Considerations:

If you’re traveling with a breast pump, it is considered a medical device and does not count toward your carry-on allowance.
Breast milk is allowed in any quantity through airport security, even beyond the standard liquid limits. It will need to be screened separately, which may involve visual inspection or testing for explosives. This can add time at security, so plan accordingly.
If you’re traveling with frozen milk, make sure your ice packs are fully frozen and TSA-compliant. Semi-melted ice packs can be flagged and may be subject to disposal.

Request a Bassinet:

On long-haul international flights, many airlines offer bassinets for infants under a certain weight (usually around 20–25 pounds). These are small, crib-like attachments that connect to the bulkhead wall in front of your seat, allowing your baby to lie flat and (hopefully) sleep.

You must request these in advance, and availability is limited—so book early and call the airline to confirm the request has been added to your reservation. Note that parents seated in bassinet rows typically must hold the baby during turbulence or when the seatbelt sign is on.

Traveling with kids—whether across the country or across the globe—comes with its challenges, but it's also one of the most rewarding ways to make lifelong memories together. With the right planning, flexibility, and a sense of adventure, flying with children can be smoother than expected. From navigating airports to keeping little ones entertained at 30,000 feet, these lessons have helped us turn travel days into part of the fun. But air travel is only part of the story! I’ll be back soon with Part 2, where I’ll share all of my favorite tips for making road trips with kids just as enjoyable (and maybe even a little less chaotic).

Stay tuned!