airplane travel with 15-month-old
 

Any tips to make a cross-country flight (one stopover) with a toddler easier, aside from buying him a seat of his own?

We traveled from the East Coast to Hawaii with our 20 month old which involved 3 flights each way, one of which lasted 9 hours. Definitely get a seat for your child (bring the car seat!) and wheel him/her to the gate with your stroller. The flight attendants will check the stroller for you and then bring it back up for you when you de-plane. On board, pack lots of new little things to play with - we brought stickers that my daughter put on her seat and tray table (we removed them before we left). Also, lots of little books, a walkman and tapes with her kids songs (place the headset earphones behind, not directly on the ears). Also, there is a lot to look at on the plane which serves as a great distraction. Bring lots of snacks your child enjoys and keep milk /other beverage available for take-off and landing. We travel with Parmalat milk packs that don't require refrigeration before opening, a real life saver. Good luck!

Request the bulk head seats, the ones at the very front of coach. They have the extra leg room , and no seats in front of you. Your child can play on the floor at your feet. Get her own seat!!! Bring lots of snacks, and especially liquids. Don't forget toys. The stewardess are great for heating bottles, food etc. Most airlines will let you request child sized meals as well. Good luck!!!

Great advice from above. Also dont forget to bring along at least one extra outfit and diapers w/wipes. Always plan for those accidents! I know a car seat seams bulky but its very important safety wise.

Young children are especially bothered by the altitude, the pressure on their ears is painful. One suggestion is to bring a pacifier that the child can use on take offs and landings to help avoid the problem.