I'll admit it, I was a nervous wreck at the idea of taking my toddler on our recent trip to Florida. And I feared for all of our sanities after we made plans to fly to Orlando, then rent a car and drive to DeLand to see a friend, then drive to Jacksonville to stay with a few more friends.
Essentially, this meant that B was going to have to sit through a 2-hour flight, then sit in a car for another 2 1/2 hours. WOW.
She's at a stage right now where sitting in the same place for more than a few minutes takes a prayer and a miracle, so I had nightmarish visions of situations, like... holding her down in my lap, while she screamed and fought me for most of the flight. Dozens of fellow passengers looking at me like, "Hey, lady... Do us all a favor and get control of your kiddo!" And then going on to put her in a car seat and listening to her scream and cry, "I get out!" {her new favorite statement} for another couple of hours. NO BUENO.
Of course, I heard countless, "Oh, she'll be fine..." 's from everyone, but I think every mommy knows their children well enough to be able to anticipate the worst-case scenario, and potentially prepare for that catastrophe!
So, I did some research... Used a little "mommy-sense"... And by the time we took off, I was feeling pretty comfortable and prepared. I'm not an expert by any means, but here are a few tips that helped us dodge a little turbulence :)
(in case you luck out and get a napper)
6. PACK EXTRA DIAPERS & WIPES
these may come in handy in an emergent situation...
it also may be a good idea to make sure you dress your child for quick diaper changes!
7. MOVE & GROOVE PRE-FLIGHT
take advantage of the airport and let them burn some energy...
check out the runway and let them explore!
8. IF POSSIBLE, BOOK A FLIGHT CLOSE TO THEIR NAP/SLEEP HOURS
traveling at night would probably be the easiest way to get a sleeper, but we booked our flights at 11:30am and 1:30pm. B usually naps from 12 - 2(ish)pm.
9. TRAVEL AS LIGHT AS POSSIBLE
it's easier to have free hands to devote to an adventurous toddler in a busy airport.
10. HAVE A HELPING HAND
it's easiest to fly with someone... a helping hand is great to have!
11. HAVE NECESSARY MEDICATIONS HANDY
I don't condone drugging your child just so you can enjoy your flight... But if it happens to be the case that your teething, runny-nosed child could use some Benadryl, then by all means...
A pain-reliever might be helpful too if they are full-blown teething (like B).
12. PACK BABY'S BIRTH CERTIFICATE
I've read a few forums where parents couldn't prove their lap child's age, and they were denied boarding (on a full flight), or they were forced to buy a seat for their child ($$$). This makes for a complete travel nightmare... So, bring a copy of baby's birth certificate in case there are any questions.
13. A FEW MORE HELPFUL TIPS:
If you are renting a car or car seat post-flight, {this article} is VERY helpful!
{HERE} is another helpful packing guide for family traveling.
