Flying With a Baby: What to Pack in Your Carry-On

Having a variety of little nibbles won’t just keep your older baby or toddler from getting hangry; it’s a source of entertainment. “The hardest age to travel with is that 14- to 20-month-old phase where they don’t want to sit in the seat. The No. 1 thing that made a difference was food,” says Suzanne Brown, a mom of two older boys based in Austin, Texas, who began flying with them when the oldest was around 14 months old.

Dani Lebovitz, RD, who’s been traveling internationally with her three girls since the oldest was 4 months old, packs a variety of shelf-stable options that are easy for her kids to eat independently. “I bring a combination of nutrient-dense options and fan favorites,” she says. Think freeze-dried and dried fruits, applesauce pouches, shelf-stable yogurt pouches, tuna kits, dried seaweed, dried edamame, snap pea chips, cereal, and granola bars. “I also include some novelty items like lollipops, chocolate, gummies, chips, and crackers,” says Lebovitz. “I keep snacks in a reusable zipper bag in my diaper bag backpack to keep everything organized.”

Lebovitz likes to let her kids pick from one of two snack options at a time rather than giving them carte blanche. “It provides autonomy of choice while preventing a snack buffet,” she says. To keep portions and messes in check, she’ll put the chosen snack in a reusable, toddler-sized snack cup.

If your baby takes formula, pumped milk, or baby food, pack an extra day’s worth to ensure you’re covered for delays or cancellations. “TSA liquid rules do not apply […] so I always err on being over-prepared,” says Lebovitz, who recommends bringing milk bags or bottles stored in 2- to 3-ounce portions because they’re easier to warm.

Finally, remember to bring some food for yourself and a refillable water bottle. If the drink service comes around when your baby is asleep in your arms, “you’re not moving to scratch an itch, let alone reach for a ginger ale,” Valentini says. Pack snacks you can eat one-handed and keep a drink in your diaper bag. When the time is right, you’ll have what you need to tide you over.