Traveling With Toddlers: Easy Airport Carrier Hacks For Parents

Travelling with toddlers can be exhausting. They are energetic, emotionally charged, and pint-sized. However, with plenty of preparation, it is possible to make the experience smoother.

- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to slip on and off.

- Keep all liquids, including baby food, formula, and breast milk, separate and easily accessible.

- Bring plenty of snacks and meals to keep your toddler's tummy satisfied.

- Bring new and engaging travel toys and activities to keep your toddler entertained.

- Consider using a carrier or travel stroller to make it easier to carry your toddler and your luggage.

- Arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time to clear security and reach the gate.

- Take advantage of family facilities and play areas available at the airport.

- Stay calm and don't be afraid to ask for help from airport staff or fellow passengers.

Keep toddlers entertained with snacks, activities and sleep aids

Snacks

Snacks are a great way to keep toddlers happy and quiet. Bring a variety of snacks, and some new ones to get them excited. It's best to stick to small, dry foods, but these may not be enough to last an entire flight. Sandwiches wrapped in reusable food wrap are a good alternative to lunch boxes, for example. Bananas, cut-up grapes, dried raisins and compressed fruit bars are also good options.

Remember to pre-order a child's meal when you book your flight, and always pack more than you think you'll need.

Activities

New and engaging activities are key for toddlers who find it hard to sit still. Try mess-free painting, vinyl stickers, scratch-it colour books, pipe-cleaners, post-it notes, and small toys like cars, animals or people. Window clings are also a great, inexpensive option that can be easily cleaned up.

Sleep Aids

If possible, schedule your flight around nap or bedtime. A bassinet seat or a travel bed that sits on top of your child's seat can be a great help. If you're taking a long flight, opt for an overnight flight, as the lights will be dimmed and people will speak in hushed voices. If it's a short flight, try to book around nap time.

If you're taking a long-haul flight, you may want to consider purchasing a seat for your toddler, which will give you more space and privacy.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to take on and off

When travelling with a toddler, it's essential to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to take on and off. This will make your journey through the airport much smoother, especially when going through security checks. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

• Opt for comfortable and breathable clothing: Choose outfits made from soft and breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. These materials will keep you and your toddler cosy and relaxed during the flight.
• Dress in layers: Airport and plane temperatures can vary, so layering is key. Wear clothes that can be easily adjusted, such as a zip-up sweater over a t-shirt. This will allow you to adapt to changing temperatures.
• Wear slip-on shoes: Select footwear that is easy to put on and take off, such as slip-on shoes or sneakers. This will simplify security checks and make it easier to get through the airport, especially if you're juggling a car seat, stroller, or carrier.
• Prioritise comfort over style: While style is important, comfort should be your priority when travelling with a toddler. Choose outfits that are cosy, practical, and allow for ease of movement.
• Consider your footwear: In addition to being easy to take on and off, ensure your shoes provide good arch support and are comfortable for walking long distances. You may need to walk considerable distances in the airport, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Plan for the security check: Keep in mind that you will likely need to remove your shoes during the security check. Wear shoes that are easy to remove and put back on, and avoid shoes with laces or ties that require you to bend down or sit to untie.

Bring a lightweight but warm blanket and familiar cuddly toys

A lightweight, warm blanket can be a real comfort to toddlers in the sterile environment of an airport. It can help them feel secure and relaxed, and also keep them warm if the airport or plane is chilly. A familiar blanket from home can also help toddlers settle and sleep more easily.

Choosing a travel blanket

Look for a blanket that is compact and easy to carry. Some blankets come with their own carrying case, which makes them easy to transport and means they won't take up too much space in your luggage or personal bag. If your blanket doesn't have a case, simply fold or roll it up and place it in your bag.

A familiar cuddly toy is a great comfort to toddlers when they are in a strange environment. It can help them feel secure and relaxed, and also distract them if they are feeling overwhelmed or upset.

Choosing a cuddly toy for travel

Choose a soft toy that is small and lightweight, so it can be easily carried in your bag. If your toddler has a favourite toy that is large or heavy, you may prefer to leave it at home for safekeeping.

Use a carrier or Mountain Buggy Bagrider to navigate the airport

Carrying a toddler through the airport can be challenging, especially if you have to juggle multiple pieces of luggage. A carrier or a Mountain Buggy Bagrider can be a great solution to keep your hands free and make your travel experience smoother.

Carrier

A baby carrier is an excellent option to navigate the airport hands-free. It allows you to carry your toddler comfortably while managing your luggage. Some carriers are designed specifically for travel and can be quite helpful when going through security checks. Using a carrier can be a more comfortable option for your toddler, especially if they are used to being carried or prefer being close to you.

Mountain Buggy Bagrider

The Mountain Buggy Bagrider is a unique product that combines a carry-on suitcase and a travel seat for toddlers. It offers a simple and efficient solution for parents travelling with tired toddlers. Here are some key features and benefits of the Mountain Buggy Bagrider:

• Dual Functionality: The Bagrider can be easily transformed between a two-wheeled carry-on suitcase and a four-wheeled travel seat for toddlers. This adaptability makes it convenient for navigating the airport.
• Durability and Safety: The Bagrider is made with a strong and durable frame that can support a toddler up to 15 kg or 33 lbs. It includes a cushioned seat liner and a 5-point safety harness with adjustable straps to keep your child secure and comfortable.
• Maneuverability: With two sets of wheels, the Bagrider can be easily manoeuvred in both suitcase and travel seat modes. The four-wheeled travel seat mode provides stability and makes it easier to push or pull, especially in crowded airports.
• Storage Capacity: The Bagrider offers a large storage capacity of up to 35L, allowing you to pack all your essential items for your trip. It features user-friendly internal compartments, including handy pockets for passports and tickets.
• Age Range: The Bagrider is suitable for children from 9 months (when they can sit unaided) up to 3 years old. This age range makes it an ideal solution for toddlers who are too big to be carried but may struggle to walk long distances in the airport.

The Mountain Buggy Bagrider is a practical solution for parents travelling with toddlers. It simplifies family travel by eliminating the need to bring both a buggy and carry-on luggage through transit. While some customers have noted minor design flaws and durability concerns, overall, it is a popular choice for families navigating busy airports.

Check ahead for play areas to keep toddlers entertained

Travelling with toddlers can be a handful, but there are ways to make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your child. One way to keep your toddler entertained is to check ahead for play areas at the airport. Here are some airports with play areas to keep your toddler entertained:

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

The DFW airport is one of the biggest and most widely used airports in the southwest and has an extensive play area for children. The play area includes Gameway, a game lounge for all ages that parents and older children can enjoy. There is also the McDonald's Play Area at Terminal D-D8, a foam-soft playscape, and a seating area with charging outlets for parents.

Boston Logan International Airport, Massport (BOS)

The BOS airport has Kidport, a kid-friendly area designed by the Boston Children's Museum. Kidport includes climbing structures, a kid-sized replica of the airport's control tower, slides, and soft-foam play areas. There are three Kidport locations throughout the airport, making it convenient for parents.

Portland International Airport (PDX)

The PDX airport has a toddler zone with LEGOs, a slide, toys, and a flat-screen TV constantly showing kid-friendly films and shows. There is also the Hollywood Theatre, a miniature version of Portland's favourite theatre, adding an imaginative element to the play area.

O'Hare International Airport, Chicago (ORD)

The O'Hare airport has a unique play area with an F4F Wildcat fighter plane from WWII that has been fully restored. Children can learn about the plane and its design, making it a great spot for parents and children who are interested in history.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

The LAX airport features a beach-themed playground inside the Tom Bradley International Terminal. The play area includes soft and sculpted foam pieces that create a beach scene, various toys, and fun play options. LAX Beach is a great spot for children aged 2 to 8 to enjoy.

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

The SLC airport has three different play areas spread throughout its terminals, including sections in Concourses A, B, and E. These play areas offer a variety of fun opportunities, such as kid-friendly floor designs, soft play options, toys, and imagination areas.

LaGuardia Airport (LAG)

The LaGuardia airport has a play area in Terminal B that includes small toys, decorations, a soft floor area, and small slides. There are also benches nearby for parents to relax while their children play. Terminal B also has a water feature with coloured lights and designs that runs throughout the day.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

The PHX airport includes four play areas across terminals two, three, and four. These play areas have soft and padded climbing gear, as well as kid-friendly art to engage children's imaginations. There is also a free art gallery in terminal four with beautiful decorations.

Dulles International Airport (IAD)

The IAD airport has a kids' play area in Concourse B that was developed by NASA. The play area includes interactive games, slides, and aviation-themed play. Parents can also enjoy comfortable seats and charging stations nearby.

Miami International Airport

The Miami International Airport has an interactive play space near Concourse E security checkpoint and post-security Concourse D. Children can listen to real pilot conversations, learn about flying, explore Miami from an airplane cockpit, and enjoy simulated hot air balloon rides. There is also a Toddler Play Space for younger children to crawl through tunnels and engage in tactile-learning activities.

Minneapolis−Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

The MSP airport has two children's play areas with a mock airplane, an air traffic control tower with slides, and comfortable seating for adults, with electrical outlets nearby. Terminal 1 also has popular pay-kiddie rides.

Portland International Airport (PDX)

The PDX airport has two play areas to keep toddlers entertained. One play area, designed for children aged 1 to 6, features parent seating, shoe holders, and a soft floor. The other play area has an airplane-themed play space for toddlers and a small cinema showcasing all-ages films.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

The SEA airport has a 1,400-square-foot play area that is aviation-themed, with all play equipment made of soft foam. There is a landing airplane, control tower, baggage cart, and a smiling ladybug to climb and explore. There is also a family restroom and a nursing room nearby.

Cincinnati International Airport

The Cincinnati International Airport has a play area at Gate 4 with a variety of soft-surface climbing toys and a cushioned floor, making it ideal for toddlers and young children.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

The JFK airport has a pirate-themed playground at Terminal 5, near gate 12, for children to enjoy. There is also a JetBlue aviation-themed play area near gate 26 for aviation enthusiasts aged 2 to 12. Additionally, there is another play area in Terminal 8, near the American Airlines Admirals Club.

Pittsburgh International Airport

The Pittsburgh International Airport has Kidsport, a creative and fun space for families. Silly Faces features a captivating video wall, while Motion Machine uses cutting-edge technology to make you the star of the show. There are also see-saws for younger children.

Reagan National Airport

The Reagan National Airport has a dedicated play area near the north security checkpoint exit in National Hall. This play area provides a safe and comfortable space for children to explore aviation-themed interactive games, a slide, and motor skill activities. There is also seating and charging stations available for parents.

Fort Lauderdale International Airport

The Fort Lauderdale International Airport has a play area at Terminal 1, between Concourse A and B. The play area features a cloud-inspired installation with climbing areas and a slide. Concourse A is just a short five-minute walk away, offering a variety of dining options.

Harry Reid International Airport

The Harry Reid International Airport has a delightful kids' play area in Terminal 1, situated on level 2 above the rotunda, at Gate D. This engaging space allows children to burn off energy before their flight.

In addition to these airports, many others offer alternative entertainment options, such as exploring shops, checking out terminals, visiting art galleries, and participating in various activities. When travelling with toddlers, it is always a good idea to check ahead for play areas and entertainment options to ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience for both you and your child.

Frequently asked questions