Traveling with little ones is an adventure in itself, and taking my two-year-old, Zoey, and four-year-old, Max, to Disney World was no exception! From navigating airport security with a stroller to keeping them entertained on the flight, I learned a lot about what works (and what doesn’t) when flying with young kids. If you’re planning a trip with toddlers, a little preparation can go a long way in making travel smoother—for them and for you. Here are my best tips to help keep everyone happy (including yourself).
1. Talk About What to Expect
A week before our trip, we started prepping Max by walking through what travel day would look like—driving to the airport, checking in, going through security and boarding the plane. He’s naturally curious and loves to know what’s coming next, so this helped ease any uncertainty. Plus, talking about the plane ride in advance got him excited, turning it into an adventure instead of something unfamiliar.
2. Pack Yourself First
I always save packing for myself until last, which makes it feel like an afterthought. This time, I packed my own things first, which made the entire process way less stressful. And moms—don’t forget your book. You might just get lucky and have a peaceful moment to read on the flight!
3. Pack Smart: The Personal Item Hack
Each of my kids gets a personal item (since they have their own tickets), so my husband and I pack them backpacks Mary Poppins style—filled with all the essentials to keep them happy.
Must-haves:
- Tons of snacks—especially a “special treat” they don’t get often (for us, that’s M&Ms) as an incentive to get settled on the plane.
- Empty sippy cups to fill after security, plus milk purchased near the gate (my kids are big milk drinkers).
- Small, inexpensive toys like fidget spinners and coloring books—things they’ll enjoy but won’t be devastated to lose.
- A pro tip: Bring out one toy at a time, and keep the next one a surprise to maintain excitement!
4. Pack an Emergency Kit
In my carry-on, I include:
- An extra change of clothes for everyone (if you’ve ever experienced a blowout at 30,000 feet, you get it).
- Essentials we’d need within 24 hours in case checked bags are delayed (medicine, pacifiers, thermometer and blankets).
5. Burn Off Energy Before Boarding
Once we get through security, our goal is to let the kids move as much as possible before being confined to a seat. If we find an empty space, we let them run around. I’m also that parent who lets my kids play on the airport floor if it means burning off energy before takeoff—no shame!
6. Understand the Power of Screens
Before our trip, I downloaded a mix of new and favorite shows onto the iPad. Max was extra motivated to behave when I told him he could watch a brand-new movie on the plane. He stayed locked in for 90 minutes—every parent’s dream! Pro tip: Don’t forget the headphones!
7. Give Yourself Grace
Traveling with kids is unpredictable, so patience and flexibility are key. There will be meltdowns, surprises and moments where you question why you ever left home. But stay calm—your kids feed off your energy. Ignore the judgmental glances from other passengers and remember: “You’re doing your best, and that’s enough.”
8. Plan a Post-Trip Recharge
Traveling with kids is exhausting, so schedule some downtime when you get back. Whether it’s a solo hour to decompress, an afternoon to unpack in peace or even a massage, make time for yourself.
Happy travels, mamas! You got this.
Cassidy Vineyard Pflanz
I’m originally from North Platte, NE, and Lincoln has been my home for more than a decade. My husband, Justin, and I have been married for almost ten years. We welcomed our first child, Maxwell, during the pandemic, and our youngest, Zoey, arrived in a much calmer chapter of history.
Justin and I are both small business owners—his in the motorsports industry, and mine as a personal trainer and social media manager. Our flexible schedules have allowed us to prioritize family life. When I have a spare moment, you can find me diving into photography, a good book, a favorite podcast, or the kitchen. Motherhood may not be as glamorous as social media makes it out to be—it’s demanding, exhausting, and often messy—but I can’t wait to share the beautifully messy journey with you!
