Flying with Kids: What to Pack for a Smooth Flight
Traveling with children—especially by air—can feel intimidating, whether it's your first flight as a family or just your first time venturing beyond a road trip. But with thoughtful preparation and the right gear in your carry-on, flying can become a shared adventure instead of a stress-filled ordeal.
At Branches and Blossoms Travel, we believe that travel with kids doesn’t just have to be manageable—it can be magical. Here’s how to pack for happy, engaged kids at every age, from toddlers to teens.
Carry-On Essentials for Young Children (Ages 2–6)
Small children often have big feelings when they’re tired, overstimulated, or unsure of what’s happening. Help them feel grounded with familiar items and playful distractions.
Bring:
Crayons and a notebook or coloring book (triangle crayons are great—they don’t roll off the tray table!)
Wet wipes for sticky hands, faces, and tray tables
Favorite lovey, blanket, or small stuffed animal for comfort
Comfy, kid-sized headphones
Tablet or smartphone preloaded with age-appropriate games or shows (test downloads for offline use)
New small toys or books for novelty and surprise
Easy snacks: dry cereal, crackers, cut fruit, or pouches (nothing too messy)
A travel pillow and small blanket for cozy napping
Tip: Let your child help pack their bag—it builds excitement and gives them a sense of control.
What About Older Kids? (Ages 7–12)
By elementary school age, kids often want to be more independent—and they can be! With the right preparation, they can take charge of their own entertainment and comfort.
Encourage them to pack:
A small sketchbook, journal, or puzzle book
Chapter books or audiobooks
Headphones and their own device (fully charged, with games/movies downloaded in advance)
Healthy snacks they choose themselves
A hoodie or sweater, even for summer flights (planes can be chilly)
A reusable water bottle (empty through security, then filled at a fountain)
A travel-sized activity kit or mini LEGO set
Gum or chewy snacks for takeoff and landing
Encouragement counts: Talk with them about what to expect, and ask what they’d like to see or do during your trip. Involving them in planning builds investment and interest.
Teens on Board: Supporting Autonomy
Teenagers may seem self-sufficient, but even the most seasoned young traveler needs a little guidance—especially on longer or international flights.
In their carry-on:
Phone or tablet with movies, games, playlists, or offline content
Portable charger or charging cable (most flights now offer USB ports)
Headphones or earbuds
Books or magazines (something to switch gears from screens)
Snacks they actually want
Personal toiletries: face wipes, hand sanitizer, lip balm, toothbrush, etc.
A hoodie or light jacket (comfort trumps fashion at 35,000 feet)
Travel documents if needed, especially for international travel (check requirements in advance)
Offer independence: Let teens take the lead on their own packing list and travel prep. Provide structure where needed, but trust them to contribute.
Thoughtful Extras for a Smoother Journey
For all ages, a few universal carry-on essentials can make the difference between chaos and calm.
Include:
Tissues and hand sanitizer
Medications or allergy relief
A pen for customs forms (if traveling internationally)
Extra snacks (you'll never regret having more!)
A family travel folder with passports, tickets, and any documentation
And finally—pack your patience. Travel days can be long, but children often rise to the occasion when we model calm, curiosity, and flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with kids isn’t always easy, but it’s almost always worth it. Watching them explore new places, try unfamiliar foods, or marvel at mountaintops and museums reminds us of the wonder in the world.
At Branches and Blossoms Travel, our mission is to strengthen human connectedness through travel. We know that when you're prepared, you can focus on what really matters—experiencing joy, bonding through adventure, and seeing the world with fresh eyes.
Stay curious and travel on.
Ready for more personalized travel tips or a custom family itinerary? Let’s get started —we’re here to help you make memories that last.
