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Flying Tips

Flying Solo with Kids: My Survival Guide

Just typing that title gives me the hot sweats. I used to dread flying solo with my kids — the looks, the tantrums, the sheer inconvenience of it all. HOWEVER, I’m now so glad my kids are well-traveled.

My 4-year-old has been on over 40 flights and knows that with that privilege comes the expectation to behave a certain way. Over the years, I’ve learned a ton of tricks that make solo travel so much smoother, and I’d love to share them with you.

1. Give Yourself Extra Time

There is nothing worse than feeling rushed at the airport — especially with kids in tow. Everything takes longer: elevators, restroom stops, security lines, stroller check-ins, you name it.

Once, when my son was 18 months old and flying as a lap child, I cut it way too close. We got stuck in security, and by the time I sprinted to the gate, boarding had already begun. No one was at the desk to tag my stroller, and I had to stand there watching the entire plane board — knowing I’d be the last one on, holding a squirming toddler, and stuck in a middle seat. It was rough.

Give yourself the gift of extra time. It truly changes everything.

2. Snacks Are Life

Always, always overpack snacks. Enough to last the entire flight (plus delays). The more the better. Even if you don’t use them all, you’ll be grateful they’re there.

Don’t forget the return trip! I usually keep a gallon-size Ziploc in my suitcase for the flight home so I can restock easily.

3. Manage Ears During Takeoff and Landing

When my babies were still bottle-feeding, I always had a bottle ready (or was prepared to nurse) for takeoff and landing. Now that they’re older, they know the drill — drink water and chew during those two times. I’ve never had an issue with ear pressure, and this simple habit makes a big difference.

4. Screens Are Not the Enemy

I’m not anti-screen, especially for long flights. We have Amazon Fire tablets, and the only time my kids get them is on planes. I download a few shows ahead of time and bring Bluetooth headphones. They’re thrilled, I get a break, and everyone wins.

Honestly, I get bored on long flights too — a few hours of movies never hurt anyone.

5. Bring One or Two “New” Cheap Toys

Before each trip, I pick up one or two small items from the Target or Walmart dollar section. Think: $2 stretchy toy, squishy carrot, mini coloring pad.

They’re cheap, exciting because they’re new, and I don’t care if they end up on the grimy airplane floor, because they’re getting tossed afterward anyway. My son once played with a squishy carrot for an entire flight. It was disgusting by the end, but totally worth it.

6. Don’t Sweat It

I’ll never forget my first solo flight with a 5-week-old. I was so nervous about every tiny cry, until I realized I was the only one who could really hear it over the white noise.

Toddlers, of course, are a bit louder 😉 but the truth is, no kid is perfect. Sitting still for hours is hard. Give yourself grace.

And if someone’s rude about it? They clearly don’t have little kids.

I’ve actually met some of the kindest people while traveling. Once, both my boys were with me and my oldest wanted more ketchup at McDonald’s in the airport. I couldn’t leave the table, so he went up on his own. When the cashier didn’t notice him, he came back in tears, and three strangers from the line brought us ketchup.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Let human kindness surprise you.

7. My Favorite Travel Toys

Here are some of our favorite travel toys and activities (scroll below for links!). But truly, don’t feel like you need to buy new things. Shop your house first. Kids love novelty, even if it’s just seeing a familiar toy in a new setting.

Happy traveling!

XOXO Chloe

PS- This post does contain affiliate links.

chloeekranz

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