Getting ready for a last minute cross-country flight...flying solo with my toddler

It's the call no one wants to receive in the middle of the night, the news that a loved one unexpectedly passed away.  I live on the opposite coast as my family and with the funeral planned within the next few days, it's time to get on a flight.  I decided to bring my son with me as I know it would cheer up my parents to see their grandchild.  Unfortunately my husband is not able to get time off of work.

Usually when I travel, I have time to not only physically prepare with packing and trips to the store for provisions, but also mentally prepare for the demands of flying with a toddler. This time I'm thrown into it. We're off tonight.

I'm glad I have had a lot of practice flying and packing for him as I know what to pack and learn from each time. I have to admit, part of it is nice, as I don't have time to think about different scenarios. We're going to get ourselves there and the in between will work itself out.

I decided to do a red eye in hope that he'll sleep.  I know I won't get much sleep but as long as he's happy, then I'm happy.  Since he's flown a lot, I know that his ears don't bother him, which can be a worry on a red eye that he'll be screaming the entire flight.

What's in my diaper bag? Check out my flying packing list

I'm off to pack my carry-on diaper bag. I recommend using a backpack as your diaper bag and carry-on. I would get one that has different compartments to organize items in order to be able to quickly grab what you need. The backpack keeps my hands free, which I love. I have The North Face Surge ll.

Of course I have the obvious things in my travel diaper bag:

• Diapers (I put a bunch in a ziplock bag)
• Wipes (always wipe down the arm rests, etc on the plane)
• Changing pad (I use disposable for flying)
• Changes of clothes (I bring at least 3, trust me, I've needed all 3 before)
• Blankets
• Variety of snacks for him
• Passport for my son (or some type of identification)

Other things I bring:

• Ergo baby carrier or carrier of choice
• Comfort item (lovie, blankie, teddy bear, etc.)
• New small toys (keep rotating the toys, exciting for them to have new ones)
• Teething toys or natural medicine
• Books to read to him (especially the "touch & feel" ones)
• Bottle of water (it's fine to bring it through the TSA if you say it's for the baby)
• Nursing cover or formula
• Sippy Cup (I like Zo.li BOT cups)
• Snacks for me (I bring Justin's Almond Butter packets)
• Burp cloths (good for so many things)

What's in your diaper bag when you fly?

Comments

[Sarah]

Thank you for the packing list! I didn't know where to start, we're leaving on our first trip to visit the grandparents in a week.