How to Survive Long Layovers with a Baby or Toddler
Long layovers can already be a drag, but add a baby to the mix, and they can feel like an eternity. I’ve been there, pacing up and down airport terminals, desperately trying to keep my toddler entertained.
He’s well traveled, having been on over 100 flights and visiting 15 countries by his second birthday. So trust me, I have had my share of layovers and major delays with this kid (without screen time).
But fear not! With a bit of preparation and a few handy tricks up your sleeve, you can turn those tedious hours into fun bonding time. Here’s how I’ve survived long layovers with my baby, along with some gear and activities that saved the day.
1. Pack a Variety of Toys
One of my top must-dos is packing toys to keep my toddler entertained. I always aim for a mix of old favorites and new surprises. Right now, there’s one clear winner:
Sticker books. We use these reusable ones now that he’s two and more dextrous, but they’re meant for age 3 and up so watch them closely with these. You know your kid best and when they can handle what.
Depending on age, I also highly recommend:
- Teething Toys: These are perfect for soothing sore gums and keeping little hands busy.
- Soft Books: Babies love turning the pages and looking at colorful pictures. Soft books are also easy to pack.
- Interactive Toys: Think open-ended play, Montessori-based toys. Here’s a list of 50 more travel toy ideas.
- Stacking Cups: Simple but endlessly entertaining. They’re also easy to clean and pack and make great bath toys.
Flights have been so much easier with stickers. If all else fails, try those when you get to the toddler stage. They can be a life saver!
2. Snack Attack
Never underestimate the power of snacks! I always pack a variety of healthy snacks to keep my baby happy and satisfied. Here are some favorites:
- Fruit Pouches: Easy to pack and mess-free.
- Blueberries: Perfect for little hands to hold and munch on. Squish if necessary.
- Cheerios: A classic. They’re great for developing fine motor skills as babies pick them up one by one.
- Cerebelly Bars: These are a lifeline for me. They are sugar and nut-free and such an easy, portable snack.
See my whole list of toddler travel snacks and how we did babyled weaning while traveling.
I remember a layover in Singapore where a fruit pouch was the key to averting a major meltdown. Snacks not only keep them fed but also serve as a great distraction, and can be a fun reason to visit grocery stores abroad, which are always so interesting, no?
3. Explore the Airport
Many airports have play areas specifically designed for children. I always feel like we hit a goldmine when we find one. You could even research ahead of time, but I guess I just like to be surprised.
Take advantage of these spaces to let your baby crawl, climb, and burn off some energy. On a layover in Copenhagen en route to Norway, we found an amazing play area with wooden toys and bean bags that kept my baby entertained for hours while we got to relax. It may be tempting to keep them reigned in over fear of germs, but we just wash hands and do our best.
If your airport doesn’t have a play area, make your own adventure. We’ve turned airport terminals into exploration zones, walking up and down, looking at people, planes, and anything else that catches my toddler’s eye. It’s amazing how a simple walk can turn into a fascinating expedition for a curious little one. When he was younger, we’d do it in the baby carrier, taking him to look at things and talking about what we saw. I’ve done this in more than one random airport store.
4. Bring a Travel Stroller
For the longest time, we traveled with just a baby carrier since it made life simpler carrying one less thing. But by the end of two weeks stroller free in Japan, we knew we had to accept the travel stroller into our lives.
Then we learned that they can be a game-changer during long layovers, and wondered why we’d waited so long. It gives your baby a safe place to sit and eat, play with toys, or just watch the world go by. Although not a huge space, it has some storage, and if the recline is good, they can sleep in there, too.
5. Utilize Airport Lounges
If you travel often, you’ll know airport lounge access can make a huge difference in noise level and comfort. We have several travel credit cards that get us various lounge access, and we utilize miles and points to fly business as often as possible.
Having a place to get decent food and sit down takes care of us as well as the little guys. It’s not always a possibility, but when it’s available, it sure is nice.
6. Take Care of Needs
A layover can be a blessing at times, as it gives you all a chance to find a family bathroom with a changing table, wash bottles on the go if necessary (we love this portable bottle washing station), seek out a nursing pod (download the Mamava app before you go for US-based pods!), or a nursery. Most airports around the world have these facilities, and sometimes they’re super nice! (looking at you, Tokyo and Singapore).
7. Prepare for Nap Time
Layovers are a great time to try and fit in a nap. A cozy blanket, a baby carrier, and a quiet corner can work wonders. I’ve found that a good nap can reset my baby’s mood and make the rest of the layover much smoother.
As my son got older, naps in terminals did become more challenging, but as a baby, it often worked.
8. Bring a Ride-Along
When toddlers get a bit older, ride along toys can be great. Sometimes they will want to push them around themselves, so be warned, but my 2 year old loves being wheeled around on the Miamily suitcase. It’s great for wheeling him onto the plane and for when he resists the stroller, which happens more and more often as he ages.
I’ve also seen Jetkids by Stokke, which doubles as a flight bed.
Surviving long layovers with a baby might seem daunting, but with the right preparation and mindset, it doesn’t have to be miserable. With a mix of toys, snacks, and a bit of exploration, you’ll keep your baby entertained and happy. So, next time you find yourself facing a long layover, embrace it as an opportunity for adventure and bonding with your little one. Happy travels!
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