Traveling with Your Little Gazinta
Traveling with a toddler can be both a joy and a challenge. Whether you're taking a short domestic flight or a long international journey, preparation is key to making the experience smoother for everyone. As a parent, it's not just about the destination—it's about ensuring the journey is as peaceful as possible. That’s where these must-have items for flying with a toddler come in handy.
Here’s your travel guide to essential gear for flying with your little gazinta:
1. Foldie Bag
If you’ve ever tried to juggle a toddler, a stroller, and a diaper bag through a busy airport, you know the value of hands-free travel. A Foldie Bag is your best friend here. It’s lightweight, foldable, and roomy enough to fit all your baby’s essentials—from snacks to toys—while still allowing you to keep your hands free for those impromptu toddler sprints down the airport halls. Plus, it expands for extra storage should you need it for the return trip and still fits under the seat in front of you!
2. Busy Board
A Busy Board is perfect for keeping tiny hands occupied during layovers or in-flight. These boards come with zippers, buckles, buttons, and more to give your little one plenty of tactile stimulation. They’re compact and quiet and keep your child focused, which is a lifesaver when waiting for boarding or dealing with delays.
3. Aqua Art Reusable Coloring Book
While we’re all for a little mess, it’s much better when it’s contained—especially on a plane! The Aqua Art Reusable Coloring Book uses a water-filled pen to let your toddler "paint" over designs again and again. No ink, no mess, and hours of fun—what more could a parent ask for? This is perfect for entertainment without worrying about a rainbow explosion on the tray table.
4. Kids Headphones & Headphone Dongle
For any tech-savvy parents, screen time can be a sanity-saver on long flights. Kids headphones are a must to protect little ears from loud volumes and ensure they stay comfortable. Depending on your phone or tablet, you may also need a headphone dongle (such as a lightning to headphone adapter) for compatibility. Keep those nursery rhymes or favorite TV shows queued up for takeoff!
5. Suction Cup Fidget Spinners
Multifunctional entertainment! Fidget spinners aren’t just for older kids—they’re great for toddlers too. You can stick one to the window, a book, or even your phone, providing a spinning distraction during the more mundane parts of travel. These little gadgets are great for keeping little ones' fingers busy without much noise or mess.
6. Finger Puppets
Finger puppets are the ultimate in-the-moment entertainment. Lightweight and easy to stash in your bag, they offer endless storytelling opportunities. When your toddler needs a distraction (or a laugh), pull out a couple of these and you’ve got an instant puppet show. They take up no space and are perfect for mid-flight boredom.
7. Indestructible Books
Travel-friendly books can often end up ripped or crumpled, but Indestructible Books are as tough as their name suggests. These rip-proof, chew-proof books are perfect for little hands (and mouths). And here’s a bonus tip: Target offers a "Buy 2, Get 1 Free" deal on kids' books on Tuesdays, so you can stock up before your next trip!
8. Food Pouch No-Spill Valves
Feeding a toddler on the go is an adventure in itself. Food pouch no-spill valves prevent those messy in-flight food spills, ensuring your toddler can enjoy their snack without creating a post-meal disaster zone. Easy to use and even easier to clean up, these valves will quickly become a diaper bag essential.
9. Disposable Placemats
Airport and airplane surfaces can be… questionable. Keep your little one’s dining area clean with disposable placemats. Stick these to the tray table or restaurant tables to give your toddler a clean and safe eating surface. They’re easily disposed of after use, saving you from sanitizing the area each time they snack.
10. Organizer Bags
When traveling with a toddler, organization is key. Organizer bags help you compartmentalize everything from diapers and wipes to snacks and toys. They save you time and stress when trying to locate something quickly in the chaos of travel. Plus, they’ll make repacking for the return trip a breeze.
11. Milk Cooler & Waterless Freeze Pouches
If you’re still traveling with bottles or milk, a milk cooler will be your best friend! Pair it with waterless freeze pouches to keep everything chilled without the hassle of worrying about liquid restrictions at security. These coolers keep your little one’s milk fresh for the entire trip, whether you're hopping across the country or going abroad. Just remember, TSA will need to check any liquids, so pack them in clear containers to make it easier. The good news? Coolers don’t count against your carry-on limit since they’re considered a medical necessity.
Before you get settled in your seat, take out a bottle and stash the cooler in the overhead bin—you’ll want that bottle handy for takeoff to help your little one’s ears adjust to the pressure changes. Pro tip: Try to wait until the plane is actually taking off before starting the feeding, so they don’t finish too early! If your child uses a pacifier, that can help with the pressure, too.
12. Painter's tape
It might sound unconventional, but painter’s tape is a surprisingly useful tool for flying with toddlers. Stick it to the seat, the window, or even your toddler’s tray table for endless peeling and sticking fun. It’s safe for surfaces and can be used for impromptu games like creating shapes or even a mini racetrack for small cars.
Traveling with your little gazinta doesn't have to be stressful! With the right gear, you can keep your toddler entertained, fed, and comfortable while keeping your own stress levels in check. These toddler travel essentials are lifesavers that can help make your next flight more enjoyable for both you and your little one.
