The first time I took my baby on a long-haul flight from Detroit to Australia, I was so nervous. As an adult, these trips can be difficult, uncomfortable, and exhausting. How was it going to work?!
I spent weeks making packing lists, looking at flight times, trying to figure out baby sleep routines and how to politely apologize to strangers in advance for any mid-air meltdowns. Fast forward fifteen years (and many more transcontinental journeys), and I’ve now traveled with my kids across 10+ time zones, with total travel times ranging from 26 to 36 hours–and sometimes even solo.
Yes, it’s exhausting. Yes, it’s chaotic. But it’s also completely doable. And with the right mindset and a few hard-earned tricks up your sleeve, it can even be (dare I say it!) memorable in the best way. Below, I’m sharing what I’ve learned from years of crossing the globe with babies, toddlers, and now teens.
Mindset First: Lower Your Expectations
The number one thing that helped me survive the first 30+ hour journey with my infant was simply adjusting my expectations. The goal isn’t to have a pleasant or relaxing flight. The goal is to make it to your destination safely and with minimal trauma! If the kids watch eight hours of screens, sleep with their shoes on, or eat goldfish crackers for dinner, it’s okay. Survival is success!
Divide the Journey into “Chunks”
A 14-hour flight sounds daunting. Add a layover, another 10-hour leg, and a few hours in airports, and it feels impossible. One thing that helped me mentally was breaking the journey into “chunks.” I’d tell the kids (and myself): “First we fly to LA—that’s about two movies long. Then we’ll explore the airport, get a snack, and board the next one.” It can be so hard to keep track of time as you are crossing time and date lines, so I find this the best way to communicate and help the kids adjust.
I’d even number the segments in my head:
Chunk 1: Drive to DTW
Chunk 2: Flight to LAX
Chunk 3: Layover (this one’s the wild card!)
Chunk 4: Long-haul flight to Sydney
Chunk 5: Customs + final connection
Chunk 6: Collapse at Grandma’s
Prepare for Every Age + Stage
Here are my tips for every age!
Babies
I once flew solo with my six-month-old and toddler. I remember the relief when a stranger offered to hold him so I could use the bathroom. The flight attendants can help with luggage, but aren’t always allowed to help with holding children. The biggest tip here: babywearing.
A soft carrier saved me on every flight. But also note, they will make you take your baby out for take off and landing . . . super annoying when they are asleep and you could argue that they are more secure than a loose belt attached to your seat, but rules are rules. And, pack extra clothes for baby AND you because a blowout at 35,000 feet is not a matter of if but when.
Toddlers
The hardest stage, in my experience. I once spent a trans-Pacific flight chasing my two-year-old up and down the aisle like a sleep-deprived maniac. It is hard to get them to sit still for any period of time!
My advice: don’t rely on them sleeping but do aim for that! Even a precious few hours makes a difference. It really helps to tag team with your husband or a travel partner! Pack new little toys (stickers, puzzles, window clings), download shows, and offer snacks frequently (like every 30 minutes). It breaks up time and keeps them occupied. Also, bring a non-spill bottle for the flight attendants to fill so that you reduce the risk of spilling the cups of apple juice handed to them!
Big Kids
Honestly, once kids are around six or seven, things get easier. They can read, watch movies, and understand time in terms of “after this movie, we’ll land.” I let my older kids pack their own carry-on with books, headphones, and travel journals. They also pre-load their favorite audiobooks and shows. It gives them a sense of independence and excitement. Pro tip: do a screen fast before, and they will be super happy to sit for all that screen time!
Pack Smart: Your In-Flight Survival Kit
Here’s what’s always in my carry-on:
- Everyone’s passports and boarding passes
- A Ziploc of emergency meds: infant Tylenol, band-aids, Benadryl, etc.
- Change of clothes for each kid (and for me too!)
- Travel blanket or cozy hoodie for each child
- Snacks they don’t get every day–this is not the time for raisins and rice cakes!
- Headphones with a splitter (because someone will want to watch what their sibling is watching)
- Baby wipes. Always. (I even make sure I have these still on solo trips!)
Pro Tip: don’t overpack. You’ll be carrying children, a stroller . . . and possibly your will to live, keep it light.
Layovers: Embrace the Chaos
Long layovers are exhausting, delays also happen, but I’ve also made great memories during them. I once let the kids change into pajamas and run around a quiet gate area before our midnight flight. In Singapore’s airport, we discovered an indoor butterfly garden. In LA, we did laps with the stroller to get energy out. Think of layovers as mini adventures, not just obstacles.
Solo Parenting? Ask for Help.
I’ve flown alone with little kids and a baby, and while it’s daunting, flight attendants and even fellow passengers can be surprisingly kind. I’ve had strangers entertain my toddler, lift my overhead luggage, and even walk my baby so I could eat. People remember what it was like, or they’re just decent humans. Don’t be afraid to ask for or accept help. Now, as a seasoned mom traveler, I love to offer help and get in some baby cuddles!
Remember the Why
When I’m somewhere in hour 25, uncomfortable, neck and shoulders aching, my kids overtired and emotional, I remind myself that this is worth it! We’re giving our kids the gift of connection. Connection to family, to culture, to a bigger world. The jet lag passes, the messes fade, and what’s left are close relationships, sweet memories, and shared adventures.
So if you’re dreaming of a big trip but nervous about the flight, take it! This is from a mom who’s done it many times. Yes, it’s hard. But yes, you can do it. And you will make some unforgettable memories along the way. Have you flown long-haul with your kids? Share your favorite travel hacks!
