Just typing the title of this post gave me anxiety.  Flying with toddlers can be hellllllllllll.  I took a trip last week (solo) and thought it would be valuable to document my crappy experience for others to learn from.

But first, here are some pictures of my travel companion.

Caroline pushing the stroller through the Austin Airport
Caroline eating Chips. Judge if you must...anything to keep her quiet 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Items from the bag-o-goodies!

Keep your carry-ons as light as possible.  Sounds like a no-brainer, right?  Well, I’m one of those vain people who carries a full bag of makeup at all times, “has to have” her computer in case something comes up and carries a to-do list at all times.  So, in addition to Caroline’s bag-o-goodies (aka everything that could possibly keep her remotely happy for two hours) I had my huge mommy bag.  BIG MISTAKE.  I didn’t even open it except to get money.  Next trip, I’m throwing everything in the checked bag and throwing my license and debit card in a safe place like my pocket.

Rent your baby essentials.  I know it’s a little creepy/gross to think of using someone else’s baby gear but seriously…these companies sanitize the **** out of these things and it will save you multiple trips to the car while checking in and hassle at baggage claim. I wish someone had a picture of me carrying Caroline on my hip and lugging our huge suitcase with our car seat propped on it. Comical and the best part is on my way in….no one offered to help! Jerks!

Don’t let the looks get to you.  I was feeling so insecure while traveling solo that every peep that came out of Caroline put me on edge.  I felt like all of the travelers of the world were judging me for being the person who thought their almost two year old could still get away with being a lap baby. It was my insecurity that ultimately led to me being “okay” with a Southwest Airlines representative’s recommendation that Caroline and I lug our crap to the back of the plane when we were perfectly situated in row 2.  Very annoying, but had I walked onto that plane with my standard “diva-mom” attitude, I probably wouldn’t have gone for it.

Ask for Forgiveness Not Permission.  Let your kid be a kid…not to the point where

Peek A Boo

they are spitting at other passengers, but it’s a long ride and uncomfortable for us adults, I’m sure the little toots are uncomfortable, too.  Let them stand up, play with the table tray and open and close the window shade.  At the end of the flight, should you get an ugly look, thank the people around your for being understanding! Ya know, the good ole “Kill ’em with kindness.”

If you have some travels coming up, my #1 piece of advice is to travel with someone but if that’s not an option…you got this! You can do it! You are woman!

Roar!

7 COMMENTS

  1. I have traveled alone too…it is not easy. But you are right, when you worry about every tiny thing your kiddo does annoying other people you will be an anxiety ridden wreck by the end of the trip. Just say screw it and have fun with your babe and act as if no one else is there, it is more fun for you and lil toot that way!!! The kiddos feel your anxiety and I think it makes them act out more. Eat snacks and play =)
    Great post Vanessa…it made me laugh and took me back to some of my trips…and some as a family HA!

  2. I still can’t believe you didn’t completely lose your $hit when the flight attendant asked you to move… I know I would have lost it on the creep that asked to have you moved in the first place. UGH! People!

  3. What about her ears?? They were okay? That’s what I’m super stressing about . . . Last time V flew I just nursed her on takeoff and landing, and I know she’s too young for gum . . . 🙂

  4. I have been on exactly 15 solo flights with gavin who is only 2 & a half 🙂 yes, its hard and people stare BUT if you choose the right airline, they can be very accomodating to a mom alone with her child. Jet blue was so great on every flight i went on with gavin. Every time, they allowed us to sit up front (first row) has more room. But not so much on delta. The flight attendents are pretty rude, in my experience. As for advice, bring lots of snacks, juice, books, dvd player, games, ANYTHING to keep them occupied. Spoil them, bribe them..etc. Anything to get a calm happy child 🙂

  5. Hee Hee! I love the advice. I too have traveled alone with a toddler who barfed in my lap right before we took off. Luckily I was sitting next to a Kindergarten teacher who was so understanding and sweet that she offered to HOLD (all barfed on) my little one while I cleaned my lap. There still are some good people out there. 

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here