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?