10 Airport Survival Tips for Parents Flying with Babies or Toddlers

• Save time at security with TSA PreCheck and scope out your terminal map ahead of time for a smoother airport experience.

• Pack smart with extra snacks, changing supplies, babywearing gear, and light layers for comfort.

• Let little ones burn energy before boarding, take advantage of pre-boarding privileges, and don't stress over screen time rules on travel days.

Flying solo with a baby or wrangling multiple littles through security? Airport travel with young kids is no joke, but it doesn’t have to be chaos. These 10 tips will help you keep your cool (and your carry-on)!

1. Save Time at Security With TSA PreCheck

If you can swing the application time and cost, TSA PreCheck can be a lifesaver—no need to struggle with bins or wait in lines inching forward at a snail’s pace. And it’s free for kids! Just make sure any children ages 13-17 in your group have the TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass to avoid getting split up (this indicator should appear if a PreCheck-enrolled adult is on the same reservation).

2. Scope Out Your Terminal Ahead of Time

Flying to a new airport or unfamiliar with your own? It can be helpful to look at a terminal map to familiarize yourself with the layout and nearby amenities. See if your terminal has a nursing room or play area for kids (try checking Reddit or travel influencers’ pages for “secret” places to play!). And it’s never a bad idea to locate the nearest restrooms for potty emergencies!

3. Stow Baby Food and Formula in Your Carry-on

Formula, breast milk, other baby and toddler food… whatever you need to keep Baby’s belly happy, make sure you have easy access to it! And guess what? You can forgo that 3.4-ounce-liquid-in-a-quart-sized-bag rule—babies and toddlers get a free pass! Just be sure to store their food in clear containers and let TSA know you’re carrying it to make screening smoother for everyone.

4. Pack Changing Pads and Plastic Bags for Diaper Changes

Changing pads can save you from having to wipe down dirty diaper changing stations before and after a diaper change. Plastic bags can come in handy after sudden blowouts when you need to put those dirty or wet clothes somewhere. A few extra diapers and wipes can’t hurt, either!

5. Bring More Snacks Than You Think You Need

…for your toddler and you. Because you know they’ll want what you’re eating—and to avoid a meltdown, it’s sometimes easier to just give it to them. You’ll avoid overspending on airport snacks, and you’ll have plenty of your kid’s safe foods in case they decide to change their mind (again) about what food they’ll accept that day.

6. Dress in Layers for Changing Temperatures

Sometimes airports can be frigid, while other times they can be stuffy. Same with planes. And running around with a kid or two can turn into a sweaty situation for you both. Dress everyone in comfortable clothes with light layers that can be easily removed and stashed in a carry-on. A light blanket is also a good idea to bring for naps if the plane is cold.

7. Use Babywearing Gear Through Security

It’s stressful enough going through security without a tot on your hip. Babywearing can help keep your baby or toddler secure while you follow those sometimes confusing (and often impatient) TSA orders. Most airports let you babywear through metal detectors, as long as the carrier doesn’t have metal in it.

Babywearing at the airport is especially helpful if you decide to check your stroller or car seat before you get to your gate (which you can usually do for free!).

See our guide on babywearing to find the best carrier for you and Baby!

8. Help Your Toddler Burn Energy Before Boarding

Toddlers are energizer bunnies, so to get that coveted in-flight nap, try to burn their energy off while they have the space to roam free. Walk around the food court, ride the people movers back and forth, or check out the play area if your terminal has one.

For babies, get Tummy Time in while you sit in the lounge. You can lay down an old blanket and toys to recreate floor time at home. If you’re lucky, they’ll be ready for a snooze once you get on the plane!

9. Take Advantage of Pre-Boarding Privileges

Many airlines allow families with babies under 2 to join the pre-boarding group. Plan to get to your gate early enough to board with them. This can help you and your little one get situated on the plane before things get too chaotic and crowded.

If you’re traveling with another adult and multiple kids, it can sometimes be easier for one adult to board early with the youngest kid while the other stays back with the rest. This way, the bigger kiddos can enjoy the freedom while it lasts, and you can focus on helping the smallest one get comfortable with the transition.

10. Don’t Feel Guilty About Screen Time on Travel Days

Screen time rules? What rules? Air travel with toddlers is survival mode, so don’t feel guilty if things go south and screens are your only savior. You can get ahead of the game by downloading your kid’s favorite shows or movies at home. It’s totally okay if it’s not educational content, but here are some tips if you want to make their screen time a little more intentional.

We hope these tips give you peace of mind as you plan your next flight with a tot or two. Bon voyage!

Check out this blog for even more parent travel tips!