Need Info on First Time Flying with 2 Yr Old

Each airline is different about their policies. I would call them and ask. My sister flew recently and she did not bring her daughter's car seat with her. Instead, when she arrived the car rental place had one available for her to use. It worked out better this way. Hope this helps!

I took my 2 1/2 year old son to Disney last year- no I left the car seat- rented a car with a car seat!!!! they do not need car seats to fly- and as far as the ears? That I have no answers for, I gave my son a lollipop which seemed to do the trick- but I have a VERY laid back boy who even if his ears were bothering him I dont know that he would have said- he walked on the plane said Hi guys to the Stewards sat down and when we took off said "Momma we fly in the sky!!!! " that was it- he played with Potato head the rest of the flight..... it was great

You definitely do not need to bring his car seat on the plane with you. Also, if you're going to rent a car once you're down there, most companies will have car seats to put into the car, so you might not have to bring one at all!

You don't have to take a car seat on the plane but it can be helpful. If your son is in a car seat he will less likely be running around the plane.The car seat must be FAA approved. As for ears,
bring a sippy cup and have him drink during take off and landing.Swallowing will unblock his ears. Good luck!

We have flown with our now 2 1/2 year old dtr 4 times. The first time (14 months old) I did not bring her car seat and did not purchase a seat. The flight to CA was LONG...she was restless. The next time we flew (19 months old), we brought her car seat and she seemed to do better. However, when we flew at 23 months, the car seat was a pain. So, on our flight home, we checked the car seat. She enjoyed sitting on my lap during take off & landing and having the space to relax, watch DVD, play with toys, color, etc. I think if I am to fly again, the car seat would get checked!

Hi there!
I'm sure you'll get a lot of responses on this one... My family and I travel a lot, we've done it since my first daughter was 2 month old (I have two girls 5 and 10) and I have to say that it used to be easier then that now... In this days we as mothers find a lot of pressure from everywhere.... Car seats onto the airplane have not been a issue for me because I have choosen not to use them. The reason why is because there were always a mother or two in the same plane my family and I were with their babies seatting in car seats and I could see not only the mother's frustration on their face but also the baby screaming trying to get out of it for the time of the flight.... If you are going to pay for a seat, anyway, just bring crafts, games, books and you'll save a lot of frustration yourself.....That's what I have always done with my kids and I have had nonstressfull flights... Unless you think you'll be able to hanle it. But remember once the car seat is on one seat you can't get rid of it.... And that some times you have to wait inside the airplane to take off.... Maybe it will work for some kids but so far I have only seen frustration from the moms, the children and the people around them asking themselves why mothers don't pick them up..... If you want to, to can try one way and if you think tha it worked for you, bring it on the way back... Good luck!!

Jess

I spent a lot of time in the air with both my kids when they were that age since my parents lived in CT and we lived out West. I used a car seat once and all my son did was kick the seat in front of him which was easy because he was that much closer. So, I think it depends on your child and how you think he will behave. I found that both my kids did very well just sitting in the regular plane seat like everyone else. I would also suggest finding quiet things to keep him busy and I always tried to find a little new thing to throw in my backpack for them so they were excited about it - just keep it small and QUIET so the rest of the plane doesn't mind. Have fun!

no need for the car seat at all. My 16 month old (28 lbs) sat on his dad's lap flying down and then in his own seat that happened to be free on the return trip.
give him a bottle or pacifier during take off and landing to ease the ear pain.
The sucking motion will keep his ears open.

You do not need a carseat on an airplane. In fact, if you do use one it must be an FAA approved carseat, or they will not let you use it. If your son still drinks a bottle, have him sip on that. Otherwise, give him a drink with a straw... the sucking motion will decrease the pressure build up in his ears. Our son (1 1/2 yrs) had a head cold and the pediatrican said to give him children's motrin right before the flight to help with any pain. We had no problems at all!!!

In my experience, I found it unnecessary to have the car seat on the plane (I just rented one with our car rental). My daughter either sat in her seat or on my lap throughout the flight. I did buy a plane seat for her even though technically for age 2 and under you do not have to. I made sure to bring a lot of playthings/books/games/new toy, anything to keep her occupied during the flight. Even some snacks that she may not ordinarily get to eat. I found that if she kept busy, she tended to stay in her seat. and if the flight isn't too long (under 3 hours) i think he'll be just fine. Just when he may start to get fidgety or cranky, you'll be in FL! :) I wish you luck! as for ear pressure issues, try a lollipop or sippycup (or a bottle if he is still bottle feeding) as the plane takes off or descends. By the time my daughter was 2, she didn't have much problems with ear pressure, which was a relief. Enjoy your vacation!

-D.

Hey there B.!

I wouldn't worry about bringing the car seat with you, just buckle him in good during take off and landing. Does he still use a bubba? If so, I would say that has to be the best thing you can bring for his ears...I guess a sippy would do if he is off the bottle (your main goal is to get him to suck or chew something<but gum and candy freaks me out for little ones>). Hope this helps, I wouldn't worry to much though. Mine was about the same age and she actually fell asleep during take off!

Have a good one,
D.

I have 3 kids, one is 2, and we have traveled with them often. If your child is already 2, then you will have to buy a seat, and I strongly recommend a car seat to keep your child in their seat and comfortable. Yes, it's a pain to travel with all the stuff! I always have a stroller, which you can check at the gate, so I pile stuff on that, and it makes it a little easier.

hi B., i have done it with and without the car seat, it was much much better with the carseat, and i felt much better too. the best thing we did was to ask at the gate if we could board first, they let us, and even helped us get settled, they hooked up the carseat much quicker than i could have, it was great. it seems like a big hassle, but there are things you can buy to carry or roll the carseat, check onestepahead.com, or just get a cart thing at the airport. by the way, if you really dont want to bring the carseat, one step ahead has this thing called baby b'air, its like a vest they wear that you can clip to your own seatbelt when they are on your lap, i dont know what kind of safety difference it would make, but we used it and it seemed to keep him less squirmy for a while. .....and you can check his stroller at the gate, they put it right on the plane for you right there, put i.d. on it. be very prepared for the security check, that was actually the most stressful part because they had to have me step aside (the underwire of my bra set off the thing!) and then i was trying to keep track of my son and my stuff, it was stressful, be sure you have nothing that will set off the detector on yourself or in your bags. calling ahead to see what they can do for you is always a good idea, and leave lots of time so you can be calm, it will keep your son calm too. bring extra clothes diapers etc in your carry on, including an extra shirt for you! also, as for the toys etc you bring with you, a great thing to do is to bring new things, stuff he hasnt seen before, and break them out one at a time. and try to bring things that you can attach to his seat with those rings or something, no small parts, etc, or you will spend the whole flight trying to squeeze down there and pick stuff up off the floor, a real pita! and definitely a bottle/sippy/paci something for take off and landing. and if he is at all congested, definitely talk to your doc about giving him a decongestant a half hour before take off. and bring something familiar, too. it will be fine, just be as organized as possible. have fun, D.

Hi there~

I would check w/the airline whether they require you bring your carseat. I know Jet Blue doesn't require it, there seems to be different policies out there.
As far as the ears go - we've flown with our 22 month old several times and we give her a dose of baby tylenol an hour before flying, which if you don't want to give medicine to your son, you could probably forgo, but we find that it really helps prevent discomfort and it also makes her a little sleepy so she's relaxed. Other tips - on takeoff and landing make sure he's drinking something. We found that avoiding giving our daughter something to drink for a while before takeoff or landing generally guarantees that she's thirsty enough. If he's not thirsty, give him little snacks that keep him chewing. The jaw movement will help relieve any pressure from takeoff or landing. good luck! Trae

Hi B.. I have a 3 year old son and he's flown 7 (roundtrips) times. The shortest fying time was 4 hours. I never needed to take a car seat for the plane. However, I did need a car seat when I reached my final destination for the drive from the airport to our hotel (etc.). We requested for a car seat from whichever agency we rented our car. If you decide to take your car seat you can check it in at the gate or with baggage claim. I personally prefer to check it in at the gate with the stroller because they give it back to you at the gate as well. Plus I know it's not just thrown in with the heavy luggage. Our biggest problem was keeping our 2 year old son seated during the flight. Bring toys/activities he can play with sitting down for the plane ride. When our son was a baby we gave him a bottle during take off and landing to help aleviate the pressure for his ears. If he doesn't take a bottle maybe you can just put cotten balls in his ears. Again, our biggest problem was keeping him seated during the plane ride. Good luck and enjoy your trip.

I've travelled via airplane many times (probably 20 times) already w/my now-19-month-old son. Some things that have worked for us: (1) at 2 yrs old you'll have to purchase a seat for your toddler (sounds like you already know this) and you'll be glad you did :) (2) save a sippy cup for the take off and the landing - helps baby with ear pressure adjustments. Try to hide the cup so he doesn't see it until just before you start feeling the air pressure changes, or when the plane is just off the ground. (3) Smile broadly and kind of apologetically if baby starts crying at some point - people are really quite gracious about it, particularly if they know you realize it's loud for them, too. They will more often than not feel sympathetic or empathetic toward you and help you by talking with or distracting your baby. Generally, people understand. (4) When/if you get the occasional "harumph" from another passenger b/c you're having a hard time with baby, just let it go. It won't always be perfect. (5) IF you can time the nap for the flight, then more power to you. My baby stayed awake for an entire 8 hour flight from England when I was by myself with him and he had just learned to crawl and was learning to stand. I was exhausted by the end. This is a worst case scenario. The attendant was insistent that she could not hold the baby for me while I went to the bathroom, which, it turns out, is baloney. I've had other attendants offer to hold baby for me so I could go. This leads to (6) if you sense any one or more of the attendants is sympathetic, definitely go to that person for help. (7) Definitely accept help from kind-looking people at the security checkpoint when you're juggling everything you have with you and trying to take off your and baby's shoes at the same time. This leads to (8) TRAVEL LIGHTLY. As lightly as you can. (9) A laptop or a movie player is fantastic during traveling. I'm not big on movie-viewing for toddlers, but I've resorted to this a couple of times, b/c, heck, survival is key, particularly when you're traveling alone with baby. (10) We've never taken our baby's carseat on board. We've always checked it. Airlines also have different policies (that I've observed) about those harness things you can buy to put on toddlers when they're in a seat. Virgin Atlantic actually provided a little harness thing, but no other airlines I've been on have. The carseat is not essential - it would be a matter of preference and whether you want it to help restrain Little One or if he sleeps well in it. But, last year a small plane went down (I remember seeing this in the news) and the only survivor was a baby in his carseat. Interesting and might sway you.
I could list more, but need to get back to work. I hope these thoughts are helpful. Have fun!

go to onestepahead.com and buy the airplane vest. This way if you hit any turbulence he won't fly off your lap - that's what I did - never take a chance. I checked my carseats and they sat on my lap. A bottle on the way up and one on the way down. Hopefully he will fall asleep with the first bottle and you can wake him when you land -that's how it worked out for me. Good luck and enjoy. Oh - be sure to check your carriage at the gate - they will have it waiting for you when you get off the plane - makes life much easier!
TRISH

Hello. My husband and I travel to Florida all the time with our two children. At 2 years old I made sure that he drank a sippy cup when we were flying up and always had some kind of toys with us (coloring books, little magnadoodles, etc). And don't forget the snacks! If the plane doesn't offer a TV, bring a portable DVD player. A car seat is not necessary on a flight. You can check it in at no additional cost and you will get it back with the luggage. Have fun (we are going down in July!).

The first thing to do is check with the airline on their policy for flying. Also if you will need the car seat when you reach your destination you may want to take it and check it in if it is not needed on the flight. My daughter was 6 months the first time she flew and I didn't need a car seat on the plane. Also car rental companies must have car seats to rent so if you are renting a car contact the rental company and arrange for a car seat. As for the ear thing bring something he can chew or suck on. Fruit snacks, small pretzels or something else he likes might be a good option. Have a great time!!!

Hi there, B.! We just did this for a 2 hour trip with our 2 year old son--a very enthusiastic and busy young man. I had alot of apprehension about it but got some good suggestions and tried a few things to help. Beforehand, I got a book about being little and flying on the airplane (illustrated and cute "Lisa's Airplane Trip" by A. Gutman). When we read it I talked about how you had to wear a seatbelt on the plane sometimes even when you wanted to move around and how your ears would feel funny. I also bought a bunch of small matchbox trucks and a DVD player and DVD with heavy equipment moving dirt (we don't have our son watch TV or movies ever so this was a bit of a dilemna). I packed a small child's rolling suitcase with this gear, snacks, empty sippy cups, and some new and old books. On the way to the airport I reminded my son that on the airplane it was important to remember 3 things: (1) Just like Lisa, we have to wear the seatbelt sometimes even if you don't want to (2) Just like Lisa, our ears may feel funny or hurt a little bit (it's normal) and we can use pacifier or sippy cup to help a bit and (3) It's okay to sleep on the plane if you feel like it. On the plane, I would dole out a matchbox car when things got rough and used the DVD just a little bit. It was harder on the outbound flight than on the inbound but all things considered it went okay. On the outbound (Lance's first flight ever), he did cry ALOT because of his ears but we worked through it. As I said I had EXTREME concern about flying but overall Lance (and I) had a blast going through this "first time" experience together. Good luck, safe travels, and enjoy your trip!

p.s. DEFINITELY, give dose of Tylenol well before landing! Also, if your boy is active (as ours is) I would seriously consider NOT using the care seat on the plane. The extra restraints will annoy probably annoy him in a new situation like the plane.

p.p.s. YES, my son made alot of noise and cried long and loud when his ears hurt. I did get some looks and one women said loudly "OH FOR GODSAKES!" This made me sweat and feel upset! But several people (old and young) were sympathetic and had many kind and supportive words--I was amazed and encouraged by this :-)

I just flew with my 2 year old to Florida and had the same debate. Previously I flew with him without the car seat, and this time I opted for bringing it on board. While it was a pain to carry it onto the plane, it was well worth the hassle. My very energetic son was happy and as comfortable as could be in his seat. He never even asked to get out of the car seat. When we flew w/o the car seat a few months prior, he was not comfortable. The regular seats have no back support for little toddlers, and he was ansie and fidgety the whole flight.
Good luck with your decision!

B.,
My kids are 5 and 3 and I go every year to Fl. with my little one I always take toys sacks and coloring books. Now for the ear issues. This is what I do and I never had a problem. I give him his sippy cup to drink while the plane is taking off but sometime he won't take it. So I leaned to give him a lollypop to suck on as well I give him a little Tylenol 1/2 before the plane takes off to help with the discomfort. Have a great trip. Hope this helps you out.

If possible.. for your sanity and the sake of others... bring the car seat! We traveled with our 18 month old and it was "the answer" - she loved the comfort of her seat!
As for ears,, our docs told us just to let our daughter drink during take off/landing .. hope that helps!

Hi B., I learned this lesson too late - but I would recommend bringing his car seat - especially if you'd like him to sleep - but then having your husband (or one of your other children if you have them)sit in front of him because your biggest problem may be with him kicking the seat in front of you and you having to deal with the person in that seat! In my experience - they were NEVER nice about it!

You don't need to bring it on the plane but if you need for your trip you can check it for free and it doesn't count against your baggage limit. Good Luck!

Hello,
I have flown many times with my children. Although you are not required to use the carseat, it is the safest way to go. It also ensures that you have a carseat with you when you get to your destination. Don't get me wrong - it's a pain in the butt - but it's worth it to have a car seat you know and are comfortable with on vacation. As for his ears, bring a sippy cup with you. The sucking action will help his ears pop.
M.

Here is a tip I got for ear relief from a flight attendant/friend: If none of the drinking/swallowing/chewing advice helps, you may be able to talk a flight attendant into giving you a cup of hot water and 2 plastic drink cups. Take a paper towel, put it into the cup and pour a little hot water on it, MAKE SURE THE PAPER TOWEL HOLDS ALL THE HOT WATER, YOU DON'T WANT IT TO DRIP OUT AND BURN YOUR SON!!!! Take the 2 cups with the hot paper towels, and put one over each of your sons ears, it should help clear them. AGAIN, there is definitely a risk of burning your son if you are not careful, so the flight attendants will be reluctant to do this, so it should be a last resort only.

Also, if your son is still using a bottle or sippy cup for comfort, don't withold it waiting for the plane to take off if that will only make him very upset, if he gets too worked up, it will be harder for him to calm down and be cooperative when you need him to. (and you might end up with cranky flight attendandts instead of supportive ones).

I have flown many times with my daughter (4 1/2), in my lap under 2, and with and without the carseat after that. My only other advice is, depending on the plane type, don't sit in the bulkhead seats, these usually have the trays between the seats, so the armrests don't lift up and your son won't be able to lay in your lap from his seat.

Hi, I flew to FL with my son when he was that age as well and luckily it is a short trip. I would just check the car seat on to the plane as he should be fine sitting in the seat on the plane by himself. He may be a bit hyper because of the excitement of being on a plane, but bring lots of snacks and play dough! If you have a travel DVD player, even better! Regardless, you will find passengers (who do not have children or have forgotten what it is like..or just had girls) that will be annoyed with your child. He will undoubtedly kick the seat in front and stand up and talk to people in front and in back of you. Good luck!!

I just flew with my 16 month old and my 3 /2 year old. the 16 month old was actually better in the airplane seat with the seatbelt on than he was sitting in my lap. You can usually rent a car seat from the car rental companies.
As far as the ears, You can buy a container of milk after you clear security and let him drink it on the way up and down. I've also heard putting paper cups over their ears is good, but my kids wouldn't sit still for this.

food and bottles help with the ears,
I would bring the carseat, because its a way to keep him seated for a few hours,
but if your gonna have him in your laps
Its really up to you,

Make sure you plan a way to carry him, either a stroller or carrier,unless you plan to buy one there,

and plenty of diapers and snacks. Wear easy on easy off shoes because they make you take them off the baby aswell,BOOKS and a few toys.

Other than that you should be fine

We did this same trip a couple of years ago. Our saving grace...? A portable dvd player. Sesame Street got us thru alot of waiting and alot of time killed on the flight.

We didn't bring the car seat. Half the time one of us was holding him. I don't even know if my son had any problems with his ears because he didn't complain when we were landing and taking off. Just be sure to bring a bottle or sippy cup that he can suck on if he gets cranky. Or if he's still on a pacifier, that'll work too.

If you think your 2 year old will stay seated in it, bring it! Don't forget, you'll have your husband there to help. I've done it all but without my husband each time! It's crazy doing it alone. My son slept ONCE (we fly often) on an hour flight, but in my lap. If your son actually sleeps on this flight, do you want him on your lap for that long? Just another thing to think about-unless of course he'll sleep on his seat on the plane. (I don't see that often) Especially bring it if you paid for a separate seat for him, he may be more likely to sleep in his familiar car seat than in a "big" airplane seat. It will be more comfortable too. Will you need the seat for transportation purposes? Another good reason to bring it-and they do sell pretty cool car seat carriers which will help. I personally wouldn't bring mine, I know the chances of my son sleeping (for a 2-3hr flight) are slim! But again, I almost always travel alone with him, I take as little as possible.
Definatley bring his favorite thing to drink in his favorite thing to drink it in! Save it for take off & then landing. Put any little creams, Tylenol or hand sanitizer's (etc) in a small ziploc bag. Lastly, change his diaper shortly before boarding so you hopefully wont have to struggle to do it in the tight space of their bathrooms! Good luck!

Hi B. - We took our son whom was 1 month shy of 3yrs to FL in Nov - I did bring the car seat for the car in FL, but for the airplane - we did not need it - it was more comfy for hime in the reg seat and our car seat did not meet the requirements - it can be checked in at the gate with no fee - as for the ears - he has had bad ear problems and tubes - I asked the doctor and he said if he is allowed to chew gum to let him or have him drink from his sippy cup - fourtantly we had no problems - he did sleep alot espeacially on the way home - we did bring a few new small toys and books in a new backpack and also a portable dvd player - good luck and have fun

I would try to find a family friendly airline. I believe Southwest Airlines is one that goes to Florida. I flew for the first time with my daughter when she just turned one. NIGHTMARE!!! She screamed the whole time because she couldn't have her freedom. She was confined to three seats on the way down and two on the way up (the plane was full and we had to share the third seat). I tried to give her snacks and juice the whole time. Anything to get her to move her jaw, which usually "pops" your ears. I brought TONS of toys. Three hour flight is long with an infant/toddler. While we were in FL, we bought the portable DVD player. It worked a little, I'll bet it would serve a better purpose now that she's a little older and shows hold her interest. The first time down, she fell asleep. On the way home, it helped to have our friends with us on the plane to help entertain her. I would not go with the carseat. I don't think it would be any different. Just more screaming. I would hope at 2 years old, your son is still not on a bottle, so bring a sippy cup and purchase apple juice in the terminal, seeing as the attendants aren't always around when you need them (like when you need juice for your child). Not much else I can tell you, I see you've got plenty of advice already. I think you'll do just fine. I do highly recommend the portable DVD player....make sure you bring the charger for it for on the way home!!! Good Luck!!!!

Hi B.,I am a fabulous gramma (my kids tell me that) and they ALWAYS take their litle ones car seat on the plane. It's much easier for them for the little one to sit, sleep, and be comfortable.
When the plane TAKES OFF, AND LANDS, your little darling should always be drinking something, either in a botle or a sippy cup. This will allow his ears to unclog! Hope I've been of some help to you. Have a great time in Florida! Arlene S

I suggest bringing the seat. It should be more comfortable for your child, and mine fell asleep on our flights. However, some seats don't fit well in the plane, so if it doesn't, you can just gate check it. Also, car rental car seats are often cheap and old and not trustworthy. Good luck.

Hi B.,
We have travelled all over the world with our sons, from ages 2 months til now (my oldest is just over 2). We recently flew with him and the key was to having lots of distractions, colouring book, snacks, juice. We even brought a portable DVD player and that was FANTASTIC. Well worth hauling it with us. As for ears, at this age they are usually fine. Just try to get your son to drink during take-off and landing and it should be okay. Good luck and enjoy your trip to Florida! S.

Hi B. - check out www.kidsflysafe.com. They make the only FAA approved restraint system for the airplane (CARES) for kids 1-4 yrs. old. We bought one for my son & used it when he was 15 months old. It was really nice not lugging around the carseat, which we checked with our luggage, & he was more comfortable in the regular seat because he had room to wiggle & lay down when tired. It's definitely worth the investment, as they last until the child is 4.

good luck-
A.

If you have a car seat at the other end of the flight, then you don't need to bring it. But, it there is room on the plane, you may want to use it for him to nap in. Bring a few toys & books to entertain him during the flight. Sometomes something new distracts him from the scary feeling of flying. Have him drink something while taking off and landing so that his ears don't pop. Good luck.

HI B.,

No you do not need a car seat. You only have to bring one if you are renting a car at your destiniation. When I fly with my son as we ascend I give him a sippy cup so he is sucking to keep his ears clear. Same with the landing. Anything, like a snack that just makes them swallow works.

Have a great trip.

A. B.

Hi B.,

I've been traveling internationally constantly with both my girls since they were 4 months old. I would highly recommend the Baby B'Air if your child is sitting on your lap but if he's already two then you have a seat for him so I would very highly recommend the Cares belt...www.kidsflysafe.com. This is pretty expensive for a one time trip so if you're not planning on flying with your son regularly then perhaps it would be better to contact your airline and find out if you can bring your car seat on. Even if it's a little awkward it's totally worth it from a safety perspective. Two year olds are very difficult to control and it's hard to keep them sitting in that airplane seat. My eldest is now 4 and I still use the Cares belt with her so it was worth it for me to buy it.
Also, just fyi, many internal Continental airplanes don't have changing tables in the toilet so you should be prepared for that.
I would also recommend a sippy cup or bottle on take off and landing..anything to get him sucking and swallowing!!

Best of luck and hope you enjoy your trip to Florida!
M..

If you have not purchased him his own seat you do not, otherwise it is strongly suggested. There are other means to safely keep a toddler in the plane's seat but they can be pricey and not worth the $ if you do not travel frequently.

If he sucks on a pacifier still let him use that during take off and landing. Another idea is to let him sip something through a straw.

B.,
If you bought him a seat, you may want to bring his carseat. I have travelled extensivly with my son, and we started buying him a seat before he was two just to put him in his seat!! They know they can't get out of their seat and don't even try. But without it, its a really big space and they seem to feel that anything goes.. I say bring the seat. You can buy a back pack like contraption that makes it easier to carry the seat through the airport, or they have a luggage like wheel base with a handle that you can put your son in the seat and wheel him through the airport.. (i've seen this one and its sooo awsome)
For the ears, bring a pacifier (or 5) If he doesen't take on anymore, or ever. You may want to "regress" to a bottle type of drink to help with his ears. Sippee cups, from what I've witnessed, don't seem to cut it.
Other than that, if you can schedule the flight during a nap time, thats a score. Bring a few small toys/ books that he has never seen and that should do the trick..
Good luck and have a great time!!
Most importantly, don't be stressed, they are like dogs, they can smell fear!!
Ha!
M. Fischette-DiNardo

Hi B.,
I read all the responses you've received because I will be doing the same thing next year ... anyway, I noticed someone suggested wrapping gifts to present during the flight. A great idea, except: If you have anything wrapped in your carry on they will make you unwrap it in security. Just passing along something I learned the hard way.

Anyway, good luck, and let us all know what you decide and how it goes.

Hi florida has stricted laws . So car s seat is must. It goes under with Luggage. Or if your renting a car check to see if car seats are available with car rentals. As for the baby ears brothering him have plenty of drinks and snacks. The sucking and swallowing help unplugging in his ears. Have fun and enjoy.

Hi B.,
My husband and I lived in Chicago and now live in Ridgefield CT, But we did alot of flying back and forth to see family. I believe you do need a carseat once they are over 2 because you can't hold them in your lap after that age. I always felt safer with him being strapped in anyway.
As far as the ears, a sippie cup that he has to suck on should work. Especially on assending and desending. The carseat I agree are bulky but not so bad.
K.

1) You don't have to, but if you think you'll have to struggle to make him keep his seatbelt on--especially during takeoff and landing--then I'd recommend it.

2) My daughter's pediatrician gave us some drops to numb her eardrums during landing (she's adopted so her first flight was at one week old). We put them in her ears when they announce the initial descent, and it always worked. Now that she's almost three, we don't use them anymore and haven't had a problem. But you might ask her pediatrician about it.

I would definately bring the carseat. You will need it in a car anyway. When we took our son to florida a few years ago, it was nice to have the carseat in the plane. put the car seat in his stroller, and check the stroller at the gate. Your carseat can be secured with the lap belt. The lap belt does not protect him very well, and God forbid the plane just have to come to a hard stop...besides that, being strapped in a car seat is a comfortable way for him to nap on the plane, and will discourage him from running around in the aisles.

It really depends on your child. I flew when my son was 2 1/2 and he was excellent without a car seat. But my son is a very good boy and isn't hyper. On the other hand my friends son can't keep still so she choose to bring the car seat because he would have been running around the plane. The benefit of a car seat is most kids know that when they are in the car seat they can't go anywhere. Which ever you choose make sure you bring snacks and drinks (you can bring drinks for young children through security) and maybe a portable DVD player to keep him occupied. I made sure to book my flight during his naptime so he fell asleep after about a half hour so it was perfect!

B.,

I spoke with our pediatrican before we flew with our 1 1/2 year old daughter for the first time. She recommended fluids for the ears before take off and landing.

Also, I would skip the car seat. It is one more thing you have to carry and worry about. Our daughter sat on the plan with no problems. Just bring things for him to do and to keep him occupied. We rented a car and also got the car seat from the rental place. No problems at all.

GOOD LUCK!

Hi B., I have traveled with all three of my children at different ages and I do not recommend bringing his car seat. You really do not need it, you can get a car seat at whatever car rental you are using and children 2 & under usually ride free on airplanes and can sit on your lap. He will probably be on your lap anyway. As for his ears, they sell special ear plugs for children called Earplanes, you can get them at any drug store where they sell eye drops and ear paraphenalia, they seemed to work for my kids, also you can try giving him something to drink or eat on take off or landing. Also,try requesting the bulkhead seats when you get to the airport, they are the first row of seats with a ton of leg room, he can sit on the floor and play. They are not always available, but you can try and get them. I recommend a bag of toys, or activities to keep him busy. If you are flying JetBlue, they have tv sets in the back of all the seats. Good luck and enjoy your trip!!

We haven't taken the car seat on the plane with us for any of our trips. It's too bulky. I hold my daughter on my lap for and landing. We check the seat and have a cushioned bag that protects it. The bag costs about $45 and you can get it from Albee Baby although I'm sure other places carry it as well. If you are not paying for your son's ticket b/c he's under 2 then try to book a window and aisle seat for a plane with 3 across seating. Hopefully, you will get lucky and end up with no one in the middle seat, so your son gets his own seat. We have for most of our trips. About the ears, have your son drink something during the take-off and landing.

Each airline company has different rules about carry on's and how they deal with things so to be sure call the airline you are flying with to ask.

Call a week before you are leaving and the night before....
It's been my experience of getting 5 different answers from 5 different people when it comes to traveling with airlines these days.....the hired help either don't know but will say anything off the top of their heads instead of saying "I don't know but hold on, let me find out for you"....or they actually do change their rules very often leaving people frustrated once they get to the airports.

Hello! I flew with my eight month old son-they did not make me take the seat. You can check it and it wont count as one of your pieces of luggage-just check with the airline first. If you have a collapsable stroller-I would highly recommend having one with you because there is a lot of walking in airports. You can take it right up to the gate and they will take it for you and have it at the gate waiting at your destination. Also, I had trouble flying as a child with my ears-it used to help if I had something to drink during take off and landing. The swallowing made my ears pop! Good luck.

If you are paying for a seat for your son I recommend bringing the car seat on the plane. If my daughter did not have the seat she would have been running around, now that she is older and in a booster seat she can tolerate long flights without a five-point harness to contain her. Remember, you will need the carseat when you land to get around once you are in FL. With the new rules/fees from airlines regarding paying for 2nd bags there is no reason to check the carseat. When I flew with my daughter when she was young we would buy gum for the takeoff and bring a sippy cup (Avent) for her to drink to encourage her to swallow and reaclimate her ears to the elevation. **You can bring a stroller to the airport for your son to ride in and check it at the gate.

I have flown with my 2 sons (2 and 4) many times. The thing that we found to work the best was to either check the carseat or rent one and then rent the CARES system for the plane from ebay. It is about $25 to rent (it costs $75 to buy) and it gets mailed to you a few days before your trip and then you must mail it back within a couple of days of your return. It is the only FAA approved airplane restraint. It turns the airplane belt into a five point harness. The only suggestion I have is to flip the airplane belt toward the child and then tighten it facing his belly so he cannot open it. My younger son had a tough time with his ears on our last trip and what ended up working was lollipops. Enjoy your trip!!!

Hi B., As a Mom and Flight Attendant I would definately bring the car seat and here is why. In the car they know they have to sit and be strapped in. On the plane the seat belt on the seat becomes a toy. If you have their car seat it is something they are familiar with and therefore know they have to sit and be strapped in. I know it can be a hassle but since your hubby is with you he can help. I use to travel all the time just the 2 of us. I would take the tether strap and wrap it around the handle of the stroller. Letting the car seat hang to the side. As for the ears. If you are nursing, nurse. If not have a bottle, sippy cup anything available for him to suck on. Good Luck and have a great trip!

Your best bet is to check with the airline that you are using and see their recomendations. Alot of planes regardless will make you buy a seat since the child is two. It all is going to depend on the airline. You can even check the website to see their regulations and then if you have questions call and ask.

Flying with a young child can be pretty painless. The car seat is optional (odds are if there's a crash the car seat won't make a difference) but it always made me feel better to fly with one. Plus he'll be more comfortable if he falls asleep and it gives you a familiar place to "corral" him. He may be more willing to sit for long periods of time in the car seat since he's probably used to doing that in the car. Make sure you have things for him to snack on and a sippy cup or bottle. Making sure that he has something to suck on from the time you taxi down the runway until the plane reaches altitude will prevent him from having painful stopped up ears. If you don't let him have gum yet that may be a special treat for that time. Also make sure he has something to suck when the plane descends. Bring lots of amusements for the trip. Buy some new coloring books, books to read or sticker books. Good Luck! It won't be a "relaxing" journey, unless he sleeps a lot, but it can be really fun to travel with little ones.

We flew with our 2 y.o. to Fl back in Feb. I discussed whether or not to bring his car seat on the plane with several parents. Most parents opted not to bring a car seat w/a 2 year old. We did not bring a car seat on the plane. He sat in a regular seat. After flying several times in the past w/the car seat, it was nice to have the extra room. You can check your stroller right at the gate so you have it upuntil boarding the plane.

Good Luck

Hi B.,
I have 2 boys (now 5 and 7) and we fly with them all the time - ever sine they were about 6 months old. so here is my advice. I have done it both with and with out the car seat. It iw obviously much easier to get throught the airport with out the car seat, at one point we had to do it with 2 car seats and vowed NEVER to do that again! there are pros and cons to both. if you have him in the car seat and he gets antsie, your only other choic is to have him on your lap because the car sea it taking up his seat, if you don't bring the car seat and he will not sit still at all, he may be hard to contain. If you are flying at a time when he may sleep, the car seat is a definite plus.

Florida is a short flight, but for us it was always a long time for our boys to be sitting when you factor in the hour ride to the airport, in the stroller in the airport and then 2 to 2 1/2 hours on the plane. it is a long time to be constrained. My advice, if you don't think he will nap, do not bring the car seat.

My boys doctor would also strongly recommend a dose of benedryl a 1/2 hour before take off.

a few things to remember, if you are flying out of newark there is often alot of air traffic for taking off. so you may not want to give the benedryl in the airport, wait until you are on the plane and know how many planes are in front of you for take off.

about the ears. very important. make sure you have a bottle, or sippy cup of something for him to dring during take off. the key words her are during take off. I have made the mistake before of giving the bottle too early while we were taxing, thinking that take off will be any minute.... and then we sat waitng for our turn on the runway... by the time we were actually taking off the bottle was empty and I was in a panic. wait until there are actually wheels off the ground before letting your son see the drink. you also want to have something to offer when the plane starts to descend, another drink, a lolipop... anything that will keep him swallowing. I would not get too concerned though if he falls asleep and sleeps through the landing. my boys have done that too and been just fine. don't forget to bring him snacks and a few toys for entertainment. if you have a portable DVD player, it can be a lifesaver. keep in mind, recently the flight attendants tend to get annoyed if you do not have headphones for them.

have a wonderful trip and travel safe.

W. K

Hi,
I have been flying with my now 10-yr-old daughter since she was 6 wks. old. A friend gave me this tip: Wrap and pack a few presents (preferably of the type that will interest your child on the flight). Take them out one by one as the flight progresses. Don't forget to pack a few for the flight home, too. During take off and landing your child needs to chew or suck: Pacifer? Or food. Good luck!

We just took our 14 month old on a plane for the first time. She did great. We took her carseat and stroller with us. Its really easy to do. Just take them through security and do a gateside check on them. they will stow them with the rest of the luggage for you and get them out again for you when you get off of the plane. We took a sippy of water (you can take juice) with us. I do not reccomend milk in case your flight gets delayed and the milk spoils. Other than that just anything that they can chew on should help. Jet Blue is great because EVERY seat has a tv with tons of channels to keep the little ones occupied. Good Luck.

Hi B., I wouldn't bring the carseat (too heavy, too bulky) try to carry light!!! Bring a stroller and atleast you fold it up and leave it right before you board the plane so you have no worries while on the plane as to where to put it or if its in anyone's way like a car seat. They say its safer for child to be on your lap (i have always flown like that). As for the ears, does your son still drink from a bottle? If so, put milk, juice or water whatever he likes have him drink it upon landing. If no bottle, use a sippy cup so he can suck. Usually for take off it not too bad on the ears but you can always haim drink then too if it makes you more comfortable. There are some parents who give benadryl before a flight if this is something that is comfortable for you i'm sure it can't hurt. My kids were always ok with flying - just dont forget to have him drink (he's actually sucking which pops the ears). Have a good flight and nice trip!!!
J. B

Hi B.!

We flew from Ithaca NY to Hawaii with our 2 year old. I was petrified about not bringing a seat for safety reasons, and then my mom sort of set me straight by asking me if I really thought it would make a difference in the event (god forbid) of a major problem. I was still very nervous, but our son did great, and the novelty of not being in the car seat kept him well occupied. It also meant that when he fell asleep, he could stretch across our 3 seats. Don't think I didn't have a death grip on him during the entire flight, but I am a nervous flyer anyway. We brought bubbles, band-aids, lots of new snacks, magazines to look through (and these are great because you can pitch them at the end of the flight), but I have to admit that the portable DVD player was the best distraction. Until the battery ran out. Lollipops were also very helpful, and will help with his ears. Several weeks before I got one of those cheap photo albums from AC Moore and filled it with family pictures, pictures of our house, cats, etc. and he loved this. I tried to break each toy/item into 15 minute increments to see how many different things I would need, and on the way home he actually slept for most of the flight. We also brought those wet wipes, and our son had a ball cleaning the table trays, which by the way, were filthy! Another saving grace was our umbrella stroller - it was light, kept him contained in the airport, and we could hang our videocamera, diaper bag on it, etc. Good luck!