It goes without saying that Disney World is a HUGE place to visit – even as an adult. With a toddler, it can feel even bigger and more intimidating.

That doesn’t mean that it isn’t super magical with toddlers (we are big fans of going to Disney with children of all ages) – you just need to set up your expectations a little more.

At the end of the day, there are going to be a lot of rides and attractions that just aren’t suited for your toddler. Knowing where to find fun for them throughout your visit is essential – and while you can find this in every park, some of the parks are a better fit than others.

Book your next magical family adventure through our friends at Get Away Today! They are truly the Disney experts and can make planning your trip a breeze for both Disneyland and Disney World. You can browse their website or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Magical Family Travel Guide sent you or use the code MFTG for $10 off a Southern California

Our Favorite Disney World Park for Toddlers

In our opinion, the best park for a toddler is Magic Kingdom.

Magic Kingdom is the most popular park in Disney World. It has so many things to do and so many great attractions for kids of all ages.

You can go on a boat ride with Winnie the Pooh and his friends, you can meet Cinderella and Snow White,  you can even fly through Neverland! There are many wonderful things to do in the Magic Kingdom.

If you have small kids, you can go to Fantasyland, they have many attractions there for children 3 years old and below. It is a very safe place for your kids because there are a lot of parents that accompany their toddlers. Make sure that you take a good camera with you so that you will be able to take some nice pictures of your kids having fun!

Why We Love Magic Kingdom for Toddlers

Some of the reasons we like Magic Kingdom for toddlers:

• There are TONS of rides and attractions they can enjoy
• It’s filled with popular Disney characters
• The whole family can ride on many of the rides together
• Lots of great toddler-friendly meal items

While you can find something for a toddler to do in all the parks, we definitely find that when we are in Magic Kingdom, our toddler is able to participate more than in some of the other parks.

The Best Rides and Attractions in Magic Kingdom for Toddlers

Here are the rides and attractions in Magic Kingdom that you should consider taking your toddler with you:

it’s a small world

This is always the FAVORITE ride for our toddlers when we go (and to be honest, mine, too!). They just get so captivated by the colors, the music, and the boat ride. Our son who is six still remembers how much he loved going on this the first time (that he could remember, at least) when he was two.

It is a longer ride, and it’s a great way to cool down and relax. I always head here when we need to decompress a little for the day!

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

This is a very popular ride because your kids can get to fly high up in the air like Dumbo, the famous elephant from the movie! Your toddlers will surely enjoy it and they will want to go back here again and again! This is one of those rides that we never miss.

There’s also a waiting area where your child can play as you wait for your turn!

Prince Charming Regal Carousel

Is there anything more magical than a carousel? This is one of our favorite rides to take our toddler on while we are in Magic Kingdom. It usually has a shorter wait, and your toddler can pick from an array of colorful horses. The up and down movement and the music make it even more charming.

 Mickey’s Philharmagic

This is a theater ride where 4D effects are used. It is narrated by Donald Duck, and there are appearances from traditional Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie, as well as newer characters like Miguel Coco. Your kids will surely love it because it is a 3D show which looks very fun and colorful!

Our toddler was singing and bouncing along throughout the entire presentation – it definitely kept his attention.

The Jungle Cruise

This is a boat ride through the jungle world of animals, your toddler can see real animals doing their own thing while you enjoy a relaxing boat ride. The jokes told by the captain might go over your toddler’s head, but they will keep the older members of your party laughing.

This was one of our son’s favorite rides last time we went.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

This is a play area where your kids will have so much fun. They can interact with their favorite characters from Winnie the Pooh and also play a lot of games! Your kids will love it!

I took our toddler on this one probably five times in a row one day, and he never tired of it.

Peter Pan’s Flight

Peter Pan’s Flight is a super popular ride. The line is always quite long, but it is pretty fun to fly throughout Peter Pan’s story! If you can stand the wait, it’s definitely one toddlers usually love.

Goofy’s Barnstormer

This is a roller coaster for kids that are only 36 inches tall or taller, your toddler can enjoy this ride together with you! Just make sure that you hold your toddler tight while riding this ride because it can get a little bit scary!

Walt Disney World Railroad

This is a train ride where you can see the whole park from above. Your kids will surely enjoy seeing all the Walt Disney World attractions while riding on the railroad with you! Our toddlers are big train fans, so this is a great ride.

Best Food for Toddlers in Magic Kingdom

• Casey’s Corner
• Popcorn Refills – I know not everyone feels comfortable feeding younger children popcorn. But if you can watch them carefully, the refillable popcorn bucket is so worth getting. The line for popcorn is usually short, and it can help to ward off some of those food-induced tantrums.
• Churros – This is a favorite of almost everyone at Disney World – toddlers included. They can hold and it them pretty easily.
• Pretzels
• Most Quick Service Restaurants serve kids meals. The offerings may vary, but in general, you’ll find some of these options – there’s usually 1-2 sides and a child-friendly drink included. We usually try to pick at least one fruit/vegetable side if it’s offered. We have found that most have an option for a Danimals Yogurt.
  • Mac and Cheese
  • Chicken Tenders
  • Hamburger/Cheeseburger
  • Pasta
  • Pizza
  • Hot Dog or Corn Dug
  • Smuckers Uncrustables
• Pecos Bills has a great kids meal that a lot of children really enjoy – especially if you want something a little different

Runner Up – Animal Kingdom

If we had to pick another park that we loved for toddlers, Animal Kingdom would definitely take the second-place spot. There are many things we LOVE about Animal Kingdom, and honestly, it’s one of Disney World’s most underrated parks.

While there aren’t a TON of rides for toddlers here, there are so many fun walking paths, animal attractions, and even a really large slide and sandpit area. Even when others were going on rides like Avatar: Flight of Passage, the person who stayed behind with our toddler wasn’t left twiddling their thumbs.

Here are a few things we really enjoy in Animal Kingdom:

• TriceraTop Spin – this is basically Dumbo but with Triceratops. Still super fun!
• Na’vi River Journey – This is a slow paced boat right with lots of colors. Our son loved it!
• Kilimanjaro Safari – we love the Safari! This one tends to get long rides pretty quickly, so it might be one to get a Disney Genie+ pass for right away.
• Maharaja Jungle trek
• Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail – This is a fun path to walk on and find lots of fun animals!
• Celebration of the Festival of the Lion King – this had just reopened the last time we went, and it was a favorite for everyone. Our toddler was captivated the whole time (though I recommend trying to have them sit in the front row if you can manage. The seats don’t have backs, and our son kept kicking the person in front of us).
• Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch – Our son really enjoyed the train ride, and there were some fun things to once we got to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Our son loved the “Affection Section”, which was a petting zoo.
• it’s tough to be a bug – I put this one with the caveat that it doest have some scary/surprising parts that not all toddlers will enjoy.
• The Boneyard – this is the slide/giant sand pit. My toddler could have spent the entire day here during our last trip!
• Animals – there are animals all over the park! It definitely feels like part amusement park/part zoo.

We hope that this helps you plan your Disney World trip with your toddler a little more easily! Let us know if you agree with our opinion!

More Travel Articles You May Enjoy:

The post The Best Disney World Park for Toddlers (From a Toddler Mom) appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

How will you keep the baby happy while still enjoying all of the attractions? What if there was a way to carry your child safely without having to lug around a stroller.

We’ve put together this guide of the 6 best carriers for Walt Disney World so that you can enjoy the rides without having to worry about lugging around an unhappy child who’s too tired to enjoy it all. They are all certain to be a comfortable carrier for newborns, older babies, and even toddlers.

Ergobaby Omni 360

We are big fans of the Ergobaby carrier in our house – we have an Ergobaby Adapt that we’ve taken with us on all our Disney trips. The Ergobaby Omni 360 is one of their top-rated carriers, and it’s our top recommendation.

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Features:

The Omni 360 is a multiple-position carrier, making it suitable for infants and toddlers alike.

Adjustable from both the top and bottom, this carrier will ensure that your child can be worn in a comfortable position no matter what stage they are at! It offers an ergonomic design, making it a great choice for babies.

In addition to the adjustable ‘instructions’, there are also four different ways to carry your child.

The Ergobaby Omni 360 is considered to be one of the most comfortable carriers on the market, with features like a padded waistband and lumbar support. The shoulder straps are particularly comfortable as well.

This carrier can also be used for breastfeeding discreetly. This is not something you’ll find in many other baby carriers!

There’s even sufficient storage space for a diaper bag or purse, and an integrated sun hood for shade.

Why We Love it:

The Omni 360 is suitable for newborns through toddlers, meaning that it will be your go-to carrier all the way from birth to preschool.

This carrier offers maximum comfort and support, whether you are carrying on your front or back.

It is versatile enough to use with four different carry positions including a front inward, hip carry, back carry, and front-outward carry – this is something you won’t find in many other carriers.

Cost:

List Price: $119

Moby Wrap Baby Carrier

The Moby Wrap is often referred to as the ‘original baby wrap’, and it’s still one of the best carriers on the market.

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Features:

This carrier is perfect for newborns and babies up to 35 lbs. (16 kg). The fabric is stretchy and supportive and will ensure your child feels safe and secure at all times.

The Moby Wrap is very versatile, and it allows you to carry your baby in several different positions.

You can use it with the traditional front inward position, but also with both back carry positions (back inward and back outward).

Another unique feature of this carrier that you won’t find in many other baby carriers is the ability to breastfeed discreetly.

Moby has actually done a collaboration with Disney, and they have some super cute Disney-themed wraps – you check them out here.

Why We Love it:

The Moby Wrap is suitable for newborns through carrying up to 35 lbs / 16 kg, making it a great investment if you’re planning on having more than one child. It’s also perfect for moms who are breastfeeding but still want the ease of babywearing!

The versatility of this baby wrap means that it is suitable from birth for around 9 months, as your baby can be carried both on the front and back.

It is simple to put on and take off and requires no special skills – making it a great carrier option for those who may not have much experience with babywearing.

Cost:

Between $44.99

Boba Wrap Baby Carrier

The Boba Wrap is another great baby carrier for Disney World. It’s not as versatile as the Moby, but it’s still a great option.

Features:

The wrap used in this carrier is stretchy and supportive, making this an excellent choice if you are looking for something that will feel secure around your little one.

Like many other baby carriers, this carrier is designed to help you carry your child discreetly for breastfeeding.

The Boba Wrap can be used with three different carry positions, making it suitable for babies small through to toddlers, with the minimum weight being as low as 7 lbs and the maximum 45 lbs.

Why We Love it:

We love that this baby carrier is suitable from birth (with the use of additional head support) through to three years old!

It is comfortable and supportive, meaning that you won’t suffer sore shoulders or back after wearing your baby for extended periods.

Cost:

List Price: $49.99

Lillebaby Complete All Seasons Baby

The Complete All Seasons is LÍLLÉbaby’s baby carrier for bigger toddlers and preschoolers, and it’s one of our best baby carriers for Disney World.

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Features:

Suitable from birth through to 36 months (3 years) or 45 lbs., this baby carrier is ideal if you want something that will last a long time.

There are six different positions that can be used with this carrier, making it suitable for a range of activities including front inward, hip carry, back carry as well as front outward-facing. If you’re going to Disney World and will need to wear your child for extended periods of time, the Complete All Seasons is a great option as it is very supportive and ergonomically designed to ensure that you and your child are comfortable. The adjustable straps are particularly helpful.

This baby carrier has soft and breathable fabrics, making it a great option for hot Disney World days. It also has reflective details so you can keep your little one safe at all times.

Why We Love it:

We love the versatility of this baby carrier. It can be used with a range of different carry positions and it’s suitable from birth to preschool.

The six-position design and the high back design give you great support and reduce strain on your shoulders, which is particularly helpful for extended periods of wearing.

The breathable fabrics also mean that this would be a good option if you are planning to do a lot of walking, as well as in a warmer climate like Orlando is.

Cost:

List Price: $119.99

Infantino Flip 4-in-1 Light & Airy Convertible Carrier

The Flip 4-in-1 is another excellent baby carrier for Disney World. It’s super easy to use, and comfortable for both you and your little one. It is one of the least expensive carriers on our list, but it doesn’t lack in quality – it has over 43,000 reviews on Amazon, most of which are 5-star.

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Features:

We love that this carrier can be used from birth (with the additional head support) through to the toddler years (45 lbs.). That makes it a really great value-for-money baby carrier.

It is also suitable to use on the front, on your back, and on the hip, making it really versatile. For example, you can use it on your front when breastfeeding or soothe a fussy baby, while still getting some work done by wearing them on your back while opening doors or chasing after your toddler.

This carrier has a breathable mesh fabric, making it great for hot days at Disney World. It also comes with an infant insert if your little one is not yet big enough for the carrier without the additional support.

Why We Love it:

We love that this baby carrier can be used with infants right up to preschoolers. That makes it a fantastic value-for-money baby carrier.

It’s also easy to use, comfortable for parents and babies, and lightweight so you won’t feel weighed down when wearing your little one in the hot Disney World sun.

Cost:

List Price is $39.99

Tula Baby Carrier Coast Explore

If you’re going to Disney World and would like a carrier that is suitable for use from birth, the Tula Coast Explore baby carrier is another great option.

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Features:

This is an all-in-one baby carrier which means you don’t need to purchase any additional pieces as it has everything you need in one carrier. The Tula Coast Explore baby carrier can be used from birth (with the purchase of a separate newborn insert) through to 3 years old or 45 lbs.

It has multiple ergonomic, front, and back carrying positions that will ensure that you and your baby are comfortable at all times. If your little one needs a nap while out and about, you can also use the carrier to support them in a semi-reclined position.

Why We Love it:

We love that this baby carrier is suitable for newborns through to preschoolers, making it an excellent value for money option. It’s so versatile and ideal if you want one carrier that does everything!

It also has an ultra-soft and breathable mesh lining to make sure you and your little one stay cool when the weather heats up. The head support is also removable, meaning that it can also be used once your baby has outgrown wearing them in an upright position (which is typically at around 6 months).

Cost:

List Price: $159

Should you use a baby carrier or stroller at Disney World?

In our experience, if you have a younger baby between 0-6 months old, we recommend using a carrier instead of a stroller. This is because it can be challenging to push a stroller in Disney World’s crowded walkways and queues.

You also run the risk of your little one falling asleep when in the stroller and then waking up when you put them down to change their position, or worse – waking up and being upset because they are in an unfamiliar environment. This can be very stressful for both you and your baby!

You may also want to consider using a carrier even if your little one is older than 6 months old. Carrying them through the parks will help keep them from getting tired and cranky from being in a stroller for too long.

If you have an older child who is capable of walking or riding a scooter at Disney World, you can still bring a carrier along to use in the queues when necessary.

A carrier will definitely come in handy if your child gets tired while walking around Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom. This is because you can hop in a carrier with your little one while your older child continues walking for another 20 minutes or so before wanting to be carried themselves!

Can you wear your baby at Disney World?

If you want to wear your baby while visiting Disney World, then you’re in luck. You can wear them at all the parks. There are no rules against wearing a baby in the parks, hooray!

Can you wear a baby on rides at Disney World

There are many rides that you can wear a baby on at Disney World – slower moving ones, such as it’s a small world and the Jungle Cruise, are especially carrier-friendly. However, sometimes a cast member may request that you remove them on rides that are jerkier.

The Best Type of Carrier for Disney World

There are many different types of carriers available on the market today. And while some may be suitable for wearing at Disney World, others definitely are not!

We think that the best types of carriers are either wrap carriers (especially for smaller babies) and soft structured carriers. I like the soft-sided carriers due to them having a little bit extra support. Backpack carriers, like ones you might take hiking, can be a bit more cumbersome.

We would also not recommend using a ring sling wrap, either. While they are wonderful for newborns, they can prove a bit difficult to use once your baby gets bigger. Woven wraps might be a bit warm for

Pros of Babywearing at Disney World

There are many benefits of wearing your baby at Disney World. Here are some of the main ones:

• You can take weight off your feet and arms by wearing them in a carrier – especially with heavy toddlers that want to be held. This is great if you have small children who tire easily, or for those times when you want to take a rest but don’t want to put your child in a stroller.
• You can have both hands free to do things like push a stroller, hold an older child’s hand and take photos on your phone/camera. Plus this allows you to fully participate in the fun activities throughout the parks!
• Babies who are worn cry less – and it’s always a good idea to limit crying as much as possible!
• Some children may have an easier time having nap time on the go, rather than having to run back to the hotel room. This is great because you can then avoid the trouble of finding a place for them to sleep, or having them sit in a stroller while everyone else does rides.
• Having your baby in a carrier can make long days during a Disney vacation with a young child a little bit easier.
• If you are taking taking advantage of Disney transportation, it can be simpler to have your baby in a carrier rather than a stroller that you have to fold up

Cons of Babywearing at Disney World

There are a few downsides to babywearing at Disney World. Here is what you need to keep in mind:

• You will have an added expense as you’ll likely need to purchase a carrier if you don’t already own one. However, there is really no way around this since carriers can be expensive and you can’t carry a child around for an entire day without one!
• You need to make sure that your carrier is comfortable. If you are not used to wearing it, do some trial runs at home before you go to the parks so you’ll know how it feels and if it’s something that will wear you out during a whole day of walking around.
• You need to make sure that your carrier is safe and secure before attaching the baby to you. Never try wearing a carrier for the first time with your baby in it while at Disney World! And never use an older model carrier, no matter how much you may love it.
• If you wear your baby and they fall asleep, it can be harder to leave them with someone else while you go on a ride. If they are asleep in a stroller, this will be easier.
• You don’t have an easy place to put your child’s sippy cup like you would with a stroller

If you’re heading to Disney World with your little one, don’t leave home without one of these best baby carriers for Disney World!

All of our top picks are great options that will make sure that your child is comfortable and you are supported during those long walks at the Happiest Place on earth.

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• 6+ BEST Toddler Shoes for Disney World and Disneyland Vacations
• The Best Legoland Rides for Toddlers in Florida and California
• 20+ Airplane Snacks for Toddlers + Expert Tips for Success
• The Best Rides for Toddlers at Disney World + Disneyland

The post The Top 6 Best Baby Carriers for Disney World appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

It can be a daunting task to find the perfect shoes for toddlers to wear at Disney World. With so many options available, it can be hard to know which ones will be the most comfortable and practical for a day of walking around the theme park. To help make things a little bit easier, we’ve put together a list of the five best toddler shoes for Disney World.

We all know that Disneyland and Disney World with a Toddler can be a little bit daunting. If you have a toddler like ours, you’ll find yourself with a child who is wanting to walk half the day and be in the stroller the other half of the time.

You may also enjoy: The Best Disney World Park for Toddlers (From a Toddler Mom)

The importance of the right shoes for these trips cannot be understated – even for a toddler. You want something supportive and sturdy – as well as protective – as they trounce through the parks. The last thing you want is a toddler complaining of hurt feet during your Disney vacation.

While there are many types of shoes that should work just fine, here is a list of the best shoes that would be fantastic options for little feet in the Disney Parks.

Stride Rite

We are huge fans of Stride Rite shoes for our kids – we had a great pair of sandals that have lasted through three children (until we lost one of the shoes at Legoland this year. Long story). I really think they are some of the best kid’s shoe brands around. They offer very high-quality shoes for toddlers.

You can buy them on their website, Amazon, and various places in the store.

Stride Rite has a lot of different shoe options – from sandals to traditional tennis shoes – and they are just built really sturdily. I feel like they change the names of their shoes pretty frequently, but here is a couple that would be great for the parks:

KEEN Child Sandal

As I looked at different reviews, over and over I came across KEEN sandals being a top recommendation. They have a great reputation for making comfortable sandals for all ages. These are definitely worth the extra cost and many believe they are the best choice for toddlers.

If you want a shoe that’s easy to slip on (like a sandal) but doesn’t risk your little one’s toes being smashed by the wheels of the stroller or other people who aren’t paying attention, this is a great brand.

They have various brands, but the KEEN Unisex-Child Seacamp Ii CNX Sandal seems to have the best reviews. It has different colors and has sizes for children 1-8.

Crocs Bump It Clog

The Crocs Bump It Clog is another great option for toddlers who want shoes that are both comfortable and stylish. Okay, maybe stylish isn’t the right word. But I often think that Crocs are a great brand of shoes to have at the parks.

These clogs are especially good for young children, as they have a ‘bump it’ system that allows you to adjust the straps so they fit your child. This ensures that the shoe will stay securely on their foot without hurting or cutting off the circulation.

These can be a nice pair of shoes to pull out for tired feet at the end of the day. It can be a good idea to have a couple different shoes to switch off between.

Native Jefferson slip-ons

The Native Jefferson slip-ons are another great option for toddlers who want a stylish and comfortable shoe. These shoes are made with a suede upper and a rubber sole, which makes them durable and long lasting. Plus, they come in a variety of cute colors so your child will look stylish as well as comfortable.

They are also “water friendly” and fast drying, which is essential when you are in Florida. They also boast of a rubber sole, are slip on, and easy to clean.

Under Armour Unisex Infant Assert 9 Alternate Closure Running Shoe

If you’re looking for athletic shoes that provide excellent support and comfort, the Under Armour Unisex Infant Assert Running Shoes are a great option. These shoes are made with a breathable mesh upper and a rubber sole, which makes them perfect for running around on hot days. Under Armour is known for its quality products – they are a bit more than I usually would spend on a toddler, but they do seem like they’d hold up quite well.

TSUKIHOSHI Racer

This is a classic sneaker available in a variety of bright and fun colors, which makes for cute comfortable shoes. It has a wide toe box (so perfect for those of us who have kids with chubby feet), and they are slip resistant.

I also love that these are washer friendly, so they can easily be cleaned up and appear to be waterproof. They are also really easy to get on and off, and they have a velcro strap to help keep the shoes on. They have a heal stabilizer, which seemed interesting to me! These are very comfortable walking shoes.

Converse Chuck Taylor Low Top Sneaker

Is there anything more classic than Converse Chuck Taylor shoes? I think not – and toddlers look adorable in them.

But in the park, we need something functional as well, and these are definitely an excellent choice for little kids. They are made of lightweight, breathable canvas and are super easy to slip on and off. They also have a supportive, rubber sole which is a must for the parks!

Additional Tips:

Here are a few additional tips for making life a little bit easier with your child’s shoes and walking in the park:

Break Them In

Never wear a brand new pair of shoes to Disneyland and Disney World – TRUST me. Even if your toddler isn’t walking a ton, just walking a little ways in shoes you aren’t used to can be miserable. Make sure you have your toddler regularly wear their shoes for at least a few weeks before your trip for maximum comfort.

Make sure they are waterproof

Disney World is known for its rainy days and sudden rainstorms, and trust me, you don’t want to be caught in one of these with the wrong shoes. When we went last year, we were caught in a massive storm where we were wading through about 6″ of water. Let’s just say, we didn’t go home with all the shoes we came with. Even going on certain water rides – like Splash Mountain – make it necessary to have shoes that are water-resistant. Make sure the shoes you get (for everyone!) are waterproof and water-resistant.

Comfortable socks are important

Sometimes your socks can make a world of difference when it comes to your shoes, especially with toddlers. Make sure you bring along some socks that make walking more comfortable.

Protect the toes!

While it might be tempting to throw on some flip flops or open-toed sandals – the Disney parks are PACKED. I get my feet trampled on all the time and having open-toed sandals put you at great risk for that. Make sure your child has closed-toe shoes!

Finding the best option for your toddler at the Disney theme parks doesn’t have to be hard. We hope that you’ve found some good tips for the type of shoe that will leave your toddler with happy feet after the long hours of walking in the Disney World Parks.

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• The Best Legoland Rides for Toddlers in Florida and California
• 20+ Airplane Snacks for Toddlers + Expert Tips for Success
• Top 10 Disneyland Kids’ Meals Your Child Will LOVE
• The Best Rides for Toddlers at Disney World + Disneyland
• The Top 6 Best Baby Carriers for Disney World
• The Best Places to Buy Disney Clothes for Your Disney Vacation

The post 6+ BEST Toddler Shoes for Disney World and Disneyland Vacations appeared first on Magical Family Travel Guide.

Whenever someone asks me how to survive a flight with a toddler, I tell them, “Bring lots of snacks.”

I truly believe that snacks are the best way to survive a flight with a toddler.

I also tell them to lower their expectations and be okay with the snacks not being the healthiest of the healthy. It’s usually just a couple of hours and then you can get back to your normally balanced diets. Of course, you don’t need to bring candy bars and M&Ms for the whole plane ride (I’d save those M&Ms for emergencies!), and there are healthier snacks you can tote along.

But regardless of what you bring – small and mess-free is ideal for young kids. Snacks are just a great way to help pass the time and keep your tinies occupied for a while! With older kids, you can often have other airplane activities but toddlers have such a short attention span, coming up with activities can be tricky (especially if you are opposed to screen time).

The number one rule I have about snacks? Make sure they are easy to clean up – and bring some wet wipes, because even a less messy snack can turn into a huge mess with a toddler – at least, if yours are like mine at all!

I have flown many times with toddlers and little kids, so I think I’ve got a pretty good handle on what snacks to bring and how to bring them. Here are some of my best snack ideas and some of my best tips for success. Please let me know if I missed any of your favorite airplane snacks for your toddlers!

Pack for the TSA

Before we get into the snacks, I wanted to mention how we pack our snacks.

Once upon a time, we were flying out of Denver International Airpot. They pulled us aside and said they had to swab EVERY. SINGLE. SNACK. we brought because they couldn’t see inside.

We had about 20 packages of fruit snacks, and they swabbed each one. It took forever, and we almost missed our flight.

Now, I haven’t had this happen at other airpots, but I have been pretty determined to never have it happen again. So, before we leave, I always take all the food that I can out of their original packaging and put them in see-through containers.

We have had several TSA people thank us for doing this. It just makes life easier for everyone in the security line. I’ll share some different snack containers at the end, but we love using our ZipTop Reusable silicone bags. They have so many sizes – including cute little snack ones that look like animals. We really love using them on the airplane – you can use the code CLARKSCONDENSED15 to get 15% off.

Make sure you either pack them in a separate bag or in an easily accessible place in your carry-on bags to make life easier for everyone as well. Regardless, make sure you give yourself enough time to get through security just in case something doesn’t go as planned.

Types of Snacks

There are different types of snacks you should consider bringing on the plane – they are great options for different purposes and adds variety. I usually recommend choosing a couple different snacks from each category. With my kids, I never know what snacks they are going to want. On our last flight, all my son wanted were apples and clementines!

I do recommend having most of your snacks be ones you can keep at room temperature. While you can definitely bring an ice pack, I find it to be much simpler to have snacks you don’t have tow worry about at all during your air travel.

Also keep in mind that many airlines still provide snacks at some point during the flight, so that can be an added bonus. However, not all do – so don’t bank on that for being your snack plan!

Healthy Snacks

It’s a good idea to bring some healthy snacks so your child doesn’t get all hyped up on junk and sugar. Healthy snacks can feel a little trickier to bring on the plane, but there are plenty of options that are easy to pack and won’t be too messy. If you bring something that has a peel or rind, bring along an extra Ziploc bag to put the waste in.

String Cheese – Kids can eat these by themselves and they’re high in calcium which is good for kids’ bones. You will need a freezer pack for these.

Blueberries– It’s easy to pack a container of blueberries so toddlers can munch on them throughout the flight without making too much noise or spilling anything onto other people.

Yogurt– This is fairly easy to bring and can have some nice protein. However, I would recommend getting the pouches that aren’t refrigerated. It’s a little easier to manage

Carrots are a healthy snack for toddlers on airplanes. They are high in vitamins A, C, and K as well as fiber and water content. They can be a choking hazard, though, so I would pre-cut them or get the pre-sliced carrots.

Homemade Muffins – My son loves when I make homemade muffins, and he doesn’t mind at all when I make more “veggie” based muffins. You can make a batch at home before you go – mini muffins are even better!

Sauce pouches – Apple sauce is what we always go for but there are lots of varieties you can choose from.

Hard Boiled Eggs – Might be a little smellier of an option, but they are filling and have a good amount of protein. You will want to have a freezer bag for these.

Hummus or Guacamole– You can buy the little individual containers of hummus or guacamole at the store to bring along – they can be a bit more filling. They will probably need to be refrigerated. Make sure to bring something to dip in. These can be a little messier.

Apples – People have different comfort levels when it comes to apples. Our toddler can eat a whole one (while being watched, of course), so I just wash them before we go and bring the whole ones on the plane. This way it doesn’t get all brown. However, if you don’t feel comfortable with that, you can easily pre-slice some apples and sprinkle it with either lemon juice or some fruit fresh.

Clementines – These are my toddlers absolute favorite! Easy to eat. Bring a bag for the peels.

Grapes – Obviously make sure you pre-slice these ones before you get on the plane!

Peanut Butter & Jelly sandwich– this lunch staple is easy to make at home or buy from a nearby store if you’re making your own snacks before the flight. See my note about allergies at the bottom of the page.

Easy to Eat Snacks

These are those snacks that are usually small and easy to eat – and there are larger quantities so they might keep your child occupied for longer.

Keep in mind that if these snacks spill, they will go everywhere. So be careful!

Cheerios – Always a favorite for toddlers! Really, any cereal will do. Just be c

Goldfish – Another great finger food option for kids, Goldfish are low in sugar and have great flavor. They are a great snack cracker that children love.

Cheese and Breadstick Dippers

Rice Cakes – My kids always love these. Lots of different flavor options, too!

Granola Bars – We love granola bars. They can get kind of messy though. I recommend steering clear of those Nature Valley Oat bars – not sure if that’s the name, but they are SO crumbly and get everywhere. I like ones Nutrigrain bars (or a toddler equivalent)

Annie’s Bunnies – Similar to Goldfish but there are some different varieties. They might be a little healthier?

Trail Mix – You could make a toddler-friendly trail mix with chocolate chips, raisins, etc. I would skip the nuts, though, since those aren’t particularly good for toddlers.

Animal Crackers

Pretzels

Veggie Straws – my kids always love these!

Sweet Snacks

I always enjoy something sweet while flying, and I know my kids do, too. Try not to go too overboard, but these can be fun to have.

Fruit Snacks– Always a popular option!

Fruit Leathers – I almost put these in the healthy section, because they can be. However, they do tend to be higher in sugar, and they definitely can satisfy a sweet tooth!

Raisins – For an extra yummy treat, spring for the yogurt covered ones! They can be a good source of fiber for helping with any travel tummy issues.

Teddy Grahams – I personally love Teddy Grahams. I think they have some really nice sweetness to them, and they definitely feel like a treat.

Graham Crackers

Emergency Snacks

These are the snacks you pull out when your child (or you) are about to lose it! Definitely use them as a last resort or bribe. Yep, I’m not above bribery when it comes to flying!

Mini M&Ms

Chocolate Chips

Licorice Nibs – These are sweet, but my mom swears they also help with constipation. Win-win!

Drinks

One of the most miserable flights I have ever been on was with my second son. He was a toddler at the time, and there was a lot of choppy air, so they weren’t able to do the food and drink service.

We had forgotten to fill up our water bottles because we got to the airport late and were rushing. He got SO thirsty and had a complete meltdown over it. It was probably a good hour of him screaming, “I want water, I want water” over and over again. I can’t say I blamed him – I was thirsty, too!

After that experience, I have always made it a priority to have plenty to drink. I recommend having a larger water bottle that you can refill one of their sippy cups for.

You could consider bringing some juice boxes, too, if you give your kids juice. This juice box holder could be handy!

We have a handy silicone sippy cup lids that you can stretch over cups, which we’ve used an airplane cups. However, we often request for our kids to get a lid and straw with their drinks, which is really nice for preventing spills. We usually just get them water, but I will usually ask for the whole can so we can fill up extra.

How to pack snacks for toddlers on airplanes

Pack snacks in a checked bag and make sure they’re not liquid. You can take ice packs, so long as they are completely frozen.

1. Pack perishable snacks in a soft sided, insulated lunch box (or something of the sort). , such as a Rubbermaid Lunch Blox or an insulated lunch box with ice packs.

2. As I already mentioned, try and separate items into see-through bags, such as plastic bags or the ZipTop bags that I already mentioned.

3. Be careful about bringing anything too smelly on the plane. If you do, make sure you have a way of disposing of the items after you are done eating.

4. Bring a separate backpack or carry-on (if allowed) where you can put all your snacks that is separated from the rest of your belongings. It’s much more convenient to have them in one designated spot.

5. Make sure you pack things so you don’t have your whole fruit and granola bars being smooshed to pieces at the bottom!

6. If you have multiple children, you can either divide snacks ahead of time into individual portions and put them in a small backpack for them, or bring everyone a bag to divvy up during the flight.

7. Pack reasonable quantities for the length of the flight. If your flight is only one hour, you won’t need nearly as many snacks as you might need for a long trip.

What to Bring

We’ve already talked about what snacks to bring – but let’s chat a little bit about different containers and items to bring to make it easier.

Definitly bring bags or containers that can be closed with a lid or zipper. You don’t want snacks just flying all over your bag and on the ground. As I mentioned, we really like the ZipTop silicone bags. They stand up straight and close really easily.

If you want to bring a little snack container, you might want to bring one that has a suction cup so your toddler can’t as easily just fling it across the airplane. Same goes for little plates if you want to bring something like that. I really like the EzPz brand.

Sippy cups are great. I would avoid straw cups just because they can easily get lost. You can also bring that stretchy universal lid I mentioned earlier.

I have never tried these squeeze pouch containers before, but I’ve heard rave reviews. It makes it so you child can’t just squeeze all the contents out at once (making a huge mess).

I love catcher bibs. They are probably one of my all-time favorite baby products. Great for bringing on the plane for quick clean up and making things less messy. You could also bring silicone placemats to make things even less of a mess.

Wipes – I am sure you probably will have wipes already but don’t forget it! You will want them not only to clean up your toddler but any mess they inevitably will make.

Rules for snacks on airplane

The rules for snacks on airplanes are simple. You can bring your own food on an airplane, though always check with your carrier to see if there are any specific rules.

Additional Tips and Tricks

There are many allergies that people have. Allergies to nuts are very common. You can bring nut-based snacks, but Iwould suggest leaving them at home if at all possible. While some people may speak up and let the airline know that it needs to be a nut-free flight, not everyone will.

Obviously you can’t control all the allergies – if you skipped everything people were allergic to, you wouldn’t ended up with very many options. However, just be aware of the people around you, a nd if someone tells you that there are allergies, be kind and considerate.

On the flip side, if your child has an allergy, make sure you pack plenty of allergy-friendly snacks. Notify the airline ahead of time so they can make an announcement on the plane about what snacks should be limited.

Always buy your snacks before you get to the airport! They are always way more expensive and more limited in option.

And finally, don’t get all the snacks out at once! I like to have bigger bags of snacks that I can portion out throughout the flight into smaller bags (like these ZipTop Kid Snack bags). If they eat all the snacks at once, and you have a long flight ahead of you, it can make life a lot harder! This is especially true if you dont’ have a direct flight

and you are going to need good snacks to last through the next flight. Start with the least desirable snacks and build up from there.

It may seem like a lot of work upfront, but I promise, it’s worth it to be prepared.

I hope that this was helpful in helping you coming up with the best snacks! for your next trip. Honestly, these are great travel snacks for kids of all ages! Try not to overthink it and bring a variety of snacks your toddler while enjoy. Good luck!

More Posts You Might Enjoy:

• Five Pro Tips for Flying on an Airplane with Kids
• 15+ Tips For Flying With a Baby (And Not Going Crazy)
• The Best Rides for Toddlers at Disney World + Disneyland

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