Traveling with a toddler

Traveling with a toddler is a slice of hell situation you need to be prepared for. Your expectations need to be very low and the snacks/activities need to be constantly flowing.

We just got back from a trip to Las Vegas, Nevada and we had a blast! We went to visit my mother in law and John's Grammy.

A few of my must haves for airplane travel with a toddler are:

1) Melissa and Doug Water Wow- These are amazing for travel and/or restaurant visits. They occupy John for quite some time and are mess free.

2) Melissa and Doug reusable sticker pad- This was a new activity for John and he enjoyed it the whole trip. He would stick the stickers on the airplane window and then when we got desperate we played peek-a-boo with them in the barf bag. Hey, whatever works.

3) Coloring books, crayons, and stickers. We stock up on these from the Target dollar spot. Stickers are a lifesaver.
4) Snacks, Snacks, and more snacks. In the beginning we stick to healthy snacks so he will hopefully fall asleep. Raisins, applesauce pouches, crackers, etc. Then towards the end when John didn't take a nap and we're desperate for him to shut up sit still we break out the fruit snacks, dum dums, and leftover Halloween candy.
5) iPad. Fill it up with new cartoons and games. It will save your life.
6) And lastly...your child's blankie/lovie. If they are adaptable sleepers then this will help them sleep on the plane. If a nap doesn't happen (John did not nap for either flight) then don't stress about it. Keep them occupied with snacks and activities! My husband and I would switch seats when we needed a change of pace. I know it's easier said than done. But on the bright side- you'll never see those people again!

We had a great time in Las Vegas and we look forward to our next trip!