Flying With Kids and Babies: The Survival Guide
Updated June 2026 · 7 min read
The flight is the part everyone dreads, and I get it. But after enough trips with a toddler and a baby, I promise it is more manageable than the horror stories make it sound. It comes down to three things: getting through security calmly, beating the ear pressure, and packing like you expect a delay. Here is how I do all three.
Getting through TSA with kids
This trips people up, so know the rules going in:
- Kids 12 and under get modified screening. They can keep shoes, light jackets, and hats on, and your child does not need ID for domestic flights as long as they are with an adult.
- Formula, breast milk, and baby food are exempt from the normal liquid limit. Pack what you need and just tell the officer up front.
- Strollers, carriers, and car seats go through the X-ray. Umbrella and compact strollers are easiest, fold them at the belt.
- Look for a family lane. Many airports, including Orlando's MCO, now have dedicated family security lanes. Use them.
Beating ear pressure (the number one cause of crying)
Ear pain on the way up and down is the top reason little ones cry on a plane, and the fix is simple: swallowing equalizes the pressure.
- Babies: nurse, bottle-feed, or offer a pacifier during takeoff and landing.
- Toddlers: a sip of water, a snack to chew, or a fun "big yawn" game all work.
- Try to keep them awake for ascent and descent. Kids swallow less while sleeping and are more likely to wake up in pain.
Strollers and car seats: gate-check like a pro
Most airlines let you gate-check a car seat and stroller for free. Fold and label everything, and a padded bag protects your gear from the rough handling. If your car seat is approved for the plane, board early when families are called so you have time to install it with the seat belt without blocking the aisle. Bringing the car seat onboard is the safest option for little ones, the same rules as a car apply.
What to pack in the carry-on
- More than you think. Pack twice the snacks and at least one extra outfit (for them and a spare top for you). Delays do not care about your plan.
- A grab-and-go diaper kit with a few diapers, wipes, and a changing pad in one pouch, plane bathrooms are tiny.
- Wired kids headphones and a tablet loaded with shows before you leave home.
- Quiet, mess-free snacks. My full list is in toddler travel snacks.
- A few small new toys they have not seen, doled out one at a time.
Shop my flight-day gear
Carriers, headphones, snack cups, and the carry-on stuff I never fly without are in my Amazon storefront.
See my Amazon picks → As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.Frequently asked questions
How do I keep my baby's ears from hurting on a flight?
Have them swallow during takeoff and landing. Nurse, bottle-feed, or offer a pacifier for babies, and water or a snack for toddlers. Keeping them awake for ascent and descent helps too.
Can I bring formula and breast milk through security?
Yes. They are exempt from the standard liquid limit. Carry what you need and tell the TSA officer at the start of screening.
Should I bring the car seat on the plane?
Bringing an approved car seat onboard is the safest option for young children. If you do not use it in the cabin, most airlines gate-check it for free.
Does my toddler need ID to fly?
Not for domestic US flights, as long as they are traveling with an adult.
Janet
Orlando mom of two and the creator behind Planet Janet TV. I share the real staycations, family finds, and deals I actually use. Come say hi on Instagram.
Mess-free snacks that save the flight
The exact toddler and baby snacks I pack so we make it wheels-up to wheels-down without a meltdown.
Read the snack guide →Sources: TSA, HealthyChildren.org (AAP), Graco. Follow current TSA, airline, and car-seat guidance.