Hey Snobs,
After traveling extensively as parents with our adorable 1-year-old baby boy, Zayden, we’ve learned a thing or two about packing for baby’s on-flight necessities, and what’s REALLY necessary to bring. So, to make your lives easier, here are some of our baby travel essential — some common and some maybe not so common — suggestions that we now ALWAYS make sure to follow!
1. Snacks, Snacks, and More Snacks
If there’s one thing that keeps children happy (or anyone for that matter), it’s food! Just like us adults can get #hangry, kids most definitely do too but in an even bigger and louder way! So to make everyone on-board at ease where they won’t hear screaming, be sure to pack an array of all your child’s favorite healthy drinks and snacks that’ll keep them well-nourished, but also make their tastebuds happy.
Zayden enjoys eating and drinking:
Ritz Crackers, Fruit pouches, Goldfish Crackers, and Yogurt Melts.
2. Favorite Movies/TV Shows Downloaded on the iPad
One sure way to refrain your child from crying and whining the whole flight is to keep them distracted. And when sleeping isn’t on their agenda, keep them entertained by letting them watch their favorite movies or shows that you have pre-downloaded to the iPad or laptop. This is also great as once they are settled in watching, then you can try and get in some much needed shut-eye yourself! FYI: Sometimes on-flight wi-fi can be iffy, so make sure they are downloaded before hand!
Zayden enjoys watching:
Peppa Pig and Disney Movies.
3. Child’s Reading/Picture Books
Similar to keeping them entertained via the virtual world, children’s reading books are another smart item to pack, especially if you don’t like your child watching too much television. Just an FYI, in the past we did let Zayden bring his coloring books and crayons, however, it can be a hassle having to constantly make sure your kid isn’t drawing anywhere they shouldn’t be. That being said, children books, especially interactive ones where they can touch and feel the pages, are just as fun for them and a helpful break for you.
Zayden loves reading:
Baby’s First Words, and an assortment of children’s books.
4. Cozy Blanket
A cozy blanket is a MUST for those long flights. Most airlines do usually provide blankets for travelers, however, they are super thin and not comfortable at all, not to mention, who knows how clean they are. The plastic wrapping can be deceiving! Therefore, we now know to ALWAYS make sure to bring Zayden’s favorite blankie. It is big enough for mommy and him to fit underneath to snuggle together, and it’s so soft and cozy that we fall right asleep with it. Next thing we know, we’ve landed at our destination! It’s a true must!
We love the brand:
Barefoot Dreams from Nordstrom.
5. Baby Disinfectant Wipes
It is super important to us that we wipe down all the surfaces of everything we’re touching by our seats in the plane, especially the seatbelt and tray tables. Children are so susceptible to germs, and a child getting sick while on vacation is the WORST! So, we make sure to take every precaution necessary, and disinfectant wipes are very simple and easy to use and carry. There really is no excuse to not have these packed in your carry-on.
We love the brand:
Wet Ones.
6. Change of Clothes
Honestly, no explanation is necessary as you fellow parents will know how important this is,and this includes extra diapers, baby wipes, and diaper rash cream, but seriously, do not forget to bring a FULL change of clothes or two, or three, in your carry-on.
Side note: A little handy tip for ya snobs, included with the extra clothes, also make sure to bring a large Ziploc bag for the soiled clothes! You’re welcome!
7. Baby Medicine
We always make sure to bring Baby Tylenol and Baby Benadryl, even if little Zayden shows no signs of being sick before we hop on a plane. As we all know, airplanes are prime locations for catching germs, especially for the young ones. So, just in case Zayden gets sick on-flight we always come prepared to be able to treat it straight away. Happy healthy baby = happy healthy parents!
8. Dock A Tot
We are so grateful for this portable baby bed as it is a true game changer. The size is small and it’s lightweight enough for us to bring on-flight and carry around. Zayden falls right asleep in it as it is beyond comfortable for him; so much so that he’ll often sleep right through the whole flight laying in it. Can they make an adult version, please?!
So there you have it snobs! Hopefully you mamas and papas will find this list helpful for your next family vacation!
~ Bon Voyage, Snob World