17 Stages of Flying With a Toddler That Make Turbulence Feel Like a Piece of Cake
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Navigating air travel with a toddler is a minefield of potty breaks, tantrums, and forgotten teddy bears. Even if your child is pretty well-behaved, the whole ordeal is far from relaxing. There's planning, packing, and making sure they stay entertained on the flight (no matter how short or long). And once you do travel with your kids, you basically become part of an exclusive club where the only benefit is looking at other parents with a sympathetic "me too" look. We understand, and you are not alone.
01
You try to get a good night's sleep the night before, but they wake you up at 6 a.m. because they're too excited for the trip.
02
You plan to get to the airport two hours early, but getting everything and everyone in the car takes a freakishly long time.
03
You're finally next in line at security when they tell you they have to go to the bathroom, and it's an emergency!
04
You get back in the security line and then they tell you they left their teddy bear in the bathroom.
05
Then they refuse to eat the snacks you brought for the trip.
06
You're boarding the plane and everyone looks at your toddler, then at you, and gives you a look like you're heading off to war.
07
You see the look on your fellow passengers' faces when they realize they'll be sitting in the same row as a toddler.
08
You're settled in your seat, ready for takeoff, when the captain says it'll be another 45 minutes due to heavy plane traffic.
09
They didn't have to pee in those 45 minutes but now juuuuust as the plane is taking off, they have to go to the bathroom. Again.
10
Not long into the flight, the "hazards of screen time" become worth it for peace, and you let them watch a movie on your phone.
11
Then they spill juice on your phone and throw a tantrum when you stop the movie to clean off your phone.
12
You feel embarrassed by everyone staring at your screaming/crying child.
13
Then you realize that this is your kid and it doesn't matter what everyone around you is thinking.
14
The phone is clean and peace is restored, thanks to Despicable Me 3.
15
The plane lands and you think it's over — you've made it!
16
Then you remember you have to wait at baggage claim for the three suitcases and stroller you had to check.
17