Heading to the airport and flying in general can be stressful, especially in today's world. Constant delays, cancellations, and long TSA lines make for a challenging experience. Adding small children to the mix only increases the stress level. To make your trip as stress-free as possible, make sure to bring along these airport essentials when traveling with small children.
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The first time I flew with my son was in the middle of the COVID pandemic, and it wasn't a fun experience. My anxiety was through the roof. I scoured the internet for all the tips and tricks. Now that it's been a few years and we've taken many flights, the list has changed a bit. It's not perfect - nothing is - but it's more refined and includes exactly what we bring on the plane.

First let’s look at some FAQ’s about flying with children.
can a child bring a carry on?
Yes, most airlines allow 1 carry on & 1 personal item for each ticketed passenger. Definitely check with your airline though because some types of tickets now don't allow a carry on item. For example, if you are flying United, they don't allow a carry on item for basic economy tickets.
can you bring food onto a plane?
Yes, as long as any liquids are under the 3..4 oz. requirement. Grab this Bento lunchbox so you're able to pack some real food for the kiddos. This lunchbox is perfect for traveling because it keeps everything separate.
can you bring your own water bottle?
Yes, as long as it is empty prior to going through security. Once you get through TSA, you can stop & fill it up at any water fountain.
if you need more tips and tricks on traveling with children, check out these posts below!
What to Actually Pack in Your Child's Personal Item
Food and Snacks to Pack in that Bento Box
What to Actually Pack in Your Personal Item
Other Useful Airport Essentials to Keep in Your Bag
Flying can be a stressful experience, but it's important to stay as calm as possible. This is especially important when flying with children, as they often feed off of your energy and will react accordingly. By packing these airport essentials, you can help make your travel day as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. So, take some time to prepare and pack your carry-on bag with these items before your next flight.
What are some of your airport essentials that you never travel without?? Drop a comment below and let me know! Happy travels!
