Because children require more attention, especially the young ones like a toddler, it’s important to include a few items to help prevent any unnecessary issues. Remember that a child may not be used to traveling on a plane and (depending on the length of flight and/or departure arrival time) may have their normal nap time/eating schedule disrupted. Bigger kids have different needs as well, while parents need to be ready & packed for all situations.

Important items to have with you in your carry-on bag for a toddler are:

• A comfort item or two. Some suggestions are a favorite stuffed animal, a favorite blanket or a toy. Things that remind them of being comforted at home.
• A box of crayons and/or markers (remember to put those in a ziplock bag).
• A coloring book (an activity book or learning workbook are also options) 
• A few dolls, small animals or small cars. Make sure to separate them into a small ziplock bag.
• Snacks such as crackers, Cheerios, small pieces of fruit (like apple slices or grapes). Make sure to separate them into a small ziplock bag.
• Chewy sweets or fruit specifically for takeoff and landing. This will help assuage and distract them in case they become frightened. Also, will help “pop” their ears if their ears become blocked because of the elevation.
• A few small and lightweight books

Important items to have with you in your carry-on bag for a bigger kid are:

• Handheld games
• A deck of cards
• An activity book, learning workbook or puzzle book
• MP3 player (or make sure your smartphone is fully charged), for videos, music, and audiobooks
• Snacks (Goldfish crackers, individual applesauce or fruit cups, etc.)
• Juice or water in a bottle. Steer clear of drink boxes as they easily picture and leak.
• A small pillow or neck rest.

Important items to have with you in your carry-on bag for YOU (the Parent) are:

• Juice or water in a spill-proof bottle or cup
• Surprise toys. Get a couple toys at the dollar store. Make sure to pull them out only in times of need.
• An extra bottle of water for quick clean up
• One or two travel packs of tissues.
• One or two travel packs of wet wipes.
• Extra ziplock bags or plastic bags for dirty diapers, trash and car/air sickness
• An extra change of clothes for your child.
• Extra bibs
• Recent photo of your child (in case he or she gets lost) 
• Anti-bacterial spray (for hands)
• Doctor’s phone numbers (good to have written down AND stored in your phone)
• Medical items like a thermometer, Band-Aids, and Tylenol (for Adults and Children)

Some suggestions for travel food are:

M&M’s or Reese's Pieces, small water bottles, individual cereal boxes, fruit cups or applesauce, Crackers, Goldfish, or Cheerios (in small bags) and juice or water in a spill-proof bottle.

Have a great flight!