Exploring Solo With Your Toddler: Tips For Brave Parents

Travelling alone with a 1-year-old can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to ensure a smooth journey. From packing the right essentials to making strategic travel arrangements, there are several aspects to consider when embarking on a trip with a toddler. This guide will cover everything you need to know about travelling alone with a young child, offering insights on packing, entertainment, sleeping arrangements, and more, so you can feel confident and prepared for your next adventure with your little one.

Packing and preparing

Destination Considerations:

Firstly, consider your destination and the facilities available. If you're staying at a hotel or Airbnb, or with family or friends, try to send any larger necessities ahead of time. This could include a travel crib, bedding, or a car seat. If shipping isn't feasible, you may be able to rent gear, especially if you're travelling to a larger town.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Think about your child's sleeping environment at home and try to replicate it as much as possible during your travels. If your child is used to a crib, consider bringing a pack-and-play or travel crib. If they usually co-sleep, bring a portable bed that can fit in your bed. If you're travelling with family or friends, it's a good idea to discuss sleeping arrangements in advance to ensure everyone's comfort and safety.

Strategic Packing:

Be strategic about what you pack. Make a list of essentials, including clothing, feeding items, and entertainment. Try to avoid overpacking by buying some items, such as diapers, wipes, or snacks, at your destination. You can also order these items online and have them delivered to your location, reducing the need to pack bulky items.

Carry-on Essentials:

Your carry-on bag should contain items that are absolutely necessary and cannot be easily replaced. This includes sleep aids, such as a sleep sack, lovey, or blanket, as well as important gadgets like a white noise machine or video monitor. Keep these items with you at all times to avoid any last-minute emergencies.

Airport and In-flight Necessities:

When travelling through the airport and on the plane, there are several must-haves to make the journey more comfortable. In addition to the usual snacks, diapers, wipes, and toys, consider bringing a change of clothes for both you and your child in case of accidents. A disposable changing pad, such as dog training pads, can be useful for public changing tables. A stroller is also essential for navigating large airports, and don't forget to bring a gate check bag for it.

Entertainment Options:

To keep your 1-year-old occupied during the flight, pack a variety of entertainment options. A colouring or drawing tablet can be a good choice, but make sure it's mess-free to avoid any unwanted marks on the plane. Small, new toys wrapped in tissue paper can also provide a fun surprise and keep your child engaged for longer. Quiet, mess-free sensory toys, such as Wikki Stix, are another excellent option for plane rides.

Additional Tips:

• Prepare for unexpected delays or changes in your travel plans by having a backup plan, such as a pre-booked car service with a car seat.
• Open any new toys before your trip and repackage them in a less disruptive bag to avoid noisy packaging.
• Take advantage of early boarding for families and don't be afraid to ask for help from fellow passengers or staff.

Remember, while it's important to be prepared, you can't plan for everything. Stay flexible and adaptable, and most importantly, enjoy your trip and create lasting memories with your little one!

Sleeping arrangements

Travelling alone with a 1-year-old can be challenging, but it is important to think through sleeping arrangements to ensure a smooth journey. Here are some detailed tips for sleeping arrangements when travelling alone with a 1-year-old:

Plan Ahead:

If you are staying with family or friends, consider shipping a pack and play or a travel crib to your destination. This can provide a familiar and contained space for your toddler to sleep in, especially if they are still used to sleeping in a crib at home. Ensure that you give enough time for your family or friends to properly set up the sleeping arrangement before your arrival. Alternatively, if you are staying in a hotel, call ahead to reserve a crib or pack and play, as these are often provided free of charge.

Consider Your Child's Personality and Needs:

The right sleeping arrangement depends on your child's personality and what they are used to. If your child is independent and active, they may need a quiet and separate space to sleep. On the other hand, if they are snuggly and prefer being close to you, co-sleeping may be a viable option. Additionally, consider any safety factors and practical challenges, such as the need for a quiet and distraction-free environment for your toddler to fall asleep.

Choose the Right Travel Gear:

When travelling by car, you have the flexibility to choose larger sleeping gear, such as a pack and play or a travel crib. However, when travelling by plane, you may need to compromise due to size and weight restrictions. Consider investing in lightweight and compact travel cribs, such as the Lotus Travel Crib or the BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light. Alternatively, you can use a toddler air mattress, which is smaller and lightweight, making it easier to carry on board or check-in without incurring additional fees.

Be Flexible and Adapt to Your Surroundings:

When staying in a hotel, consider booking a room with a pull-out sofa or two queen/double beds. Putting your toddler on the pull-out sofa can provide them with a separate and compact space to sleep, with some protection from falling out. If you have more than one child, you may need to book a room with multiple beds or request a rollaway bed, although this may come with additional fees. In some cases, bed-sharing may be the easiest option, but be prepared for the possibility of a sleepless night if your little one is squirmy.

Prepare for Disruptions:

Whether on a plane or at your destination, accept that sleep may not always go as planned. Try to replicate your toddler's sleeping environment and bedtime routine as much as possible to promote familiarity. Bring along comfort items such as their lovey, blanket, or white noise sound machine. Additionally, be prepared for disruptions during takeoff and landing, and keep your toddler buckled up for safety and to avoid having to wake them up later.

Airport and plane necessities

At the Airport

When travelling with a 1-year-old, it is important to be well-prepared. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to navigate the airport with a toddler in tow. You may need to allow extra time for diaper changes, feeding, or simply to let your little one stretch their legs and release some energy before the flight.
• Use a Stroller: A stroller can be a lifesaver when travelling with a toddler. It provides a familiar space for your child to sit or nap and can be used to transport them through the airport. Many airlines allow you to gate-check strollers for free, making it convenient and hassle-free.
• Burn Off Energy: If your toddler is a walker, let them explore and walk around the airport terminal before boarding. This will help tire them out and may increase the chances of them napping during the flight.
• Diaper Changes: Take advantage of family restrooms at the airport, which offer more space and privacy for diaper changes. Change your toddler's diaper or pull-up right before boarding to reduce the need for diaper changes on the plane.
• Boarding Strategy: Consider your boarding strategy. Many airlines offer family boarding, allowing you to board early and get settled before the plane gets too crowded. Alternatively, you can opt to board last to minimise the amount of time your toddler needs to sit on your lap.

On the Plane

Now, let's talk about some in-flight necessities:

• Seating Arrangements: You are not required to purchase a separate seat for your 1-year-old, as they can travel as a lap infant. However, if your budget allows and you prefer the extra space, you may want to consider booking a seat for them. This is especially useful if you plan to use a car seat on the plane.
• Car Seat Options: You have a few options when it comes to car seats. You can bring your own car seat on board if you've purchased a seat for your toddler. Make sure it's FAA-approved and installed in the window seat. Alternatively, you can gate-check your car seat or rent one at your destination.
• Entertainment and Distractions: Come prepared with a variety of entertainment options to keep your 1-year-old occupied during the flight. This includes toys, books, and electronic devices. New and novel items from the dollar store or Target's dollar spot can be especially engaging.
• Snacks, Snacks, Snacks: Snacks are a must-have when travelling with a toddler. Pack a variety of their favourite snacks, as well as some special treats for emergencies. Include both salty and sweet options, and don't forget the lollipops or gummies for takeoff and landing to help with ear popping.
• Drinks: Bring milk or water for your toddler, and consider a sippy cup with a tether to avoid spills. You can also ask the flight attendants for additional drinks if needed.
• In-Flight Changing: Familiarise yourself with the plane's bathroom facilities. Most planes have at least one bathroom with a changing table. Change your toddler's diaper as needed, and don't be afraid to ask the flight attendants for assistance if you need help.
• Sleep Strategies: If possible, try to book a nighttime or nap time flight to increase the chances of your toddler sleeping. Bring a lightweight blanket, their favourite sleep aid (pacifier, stuffed animal, etc.), and try to follow their bedtime routine as closely as possible. Rocking, bouncing, or singing to your little one may help them drift off to sleep.
• Keep it Clean: Don't forget to pack hand sanitiser, face/hand wipes, and sanitising wipes to keep yourself and your toddler clean and germ-free during the flight.

Entertainment and distractions

Travelling alone with a 1-year-old can be challenging, but there are many ways to keep them entertained and distracted. Here are some ideas for entertainment and distractions while travelling:

Toys and Activities:

• Stacking cups: These can be used for stacking, nesting, and filling and dumping, which are activities that 1-year-olds enjoy. They are easy to pack and can also be used as bath toys.
• Post-it notes: A large pad of Post-it notes can provide entertainment as 1-year-olds like pulling things apart and sticking them together. Just be sure to monitor your child to ensure they don't put the paper in their mouth.
• Finger puppets: These can be used to put on a puppet show or sing songs, and 1-year-olds can also enjoy putting them on their fingers.
• Electronic devices: While some parents may not usually use these at home, they can be a lifesaver when travelling. Download some movies or apps before you leave, and don't forget headphones for the journey.
• Toy cell phone: A toy cell phone with buttons and sound effects can keep your 1-year-old entertained without disturbing other passengers.
• Stuffed toys: Bring along some small stuffed toys that can be easily packed and won't cause a meltdown if lost.
• Magnetic blocks: Tegu Magnetic Blocks are a great travel toy as they are small, stick together, and provide hours of entertainment.
• Sticker books: Toddlers love stickers, and reusable sticker books can keep them quietly entertained for long periods.
• Suction cup spinner toy: This toy can stick to an airplane window and provide entertainment for young infants and toddlers.
• Search and find books: These interactive books can be used by toddlers to find different objects, keeping them engaged and quiet.
• Travel tangram puzzles: Tangram puzzles are a great way to keep toddlers occupied and help develop their hand-eye coordination and spatial skills.

Snacks:

• Snacks are a great way to keep 1-year-olds entertained and happy.
• Animal crackers: These are fun to eat, and the box can be used as a play item afterwards.
• Small, easily portioned snacks: Pack things like tangerines, dried blueberries, Gerber puffs, and Cheerios that can be slowly given out over time.

Remember to pack a variety of small, age-appropriate toys as 1-year-olds can get bored quickly. It's also a good idea to have some surprises up your sleeve, like new toys or special treats, for when your toddler starts getting grumpy.

Transport and transfers

When travelling alone with a 1-year-old, it is important to be prepared for the journey ahead. Here are some tips for making transport and transfers as smooth as possible:

• Book an earlier flight: Although it may be tempting to book a later flight to avoid early mornings, it is worth considering an earlier flight when travelling alone with a young child. This will allow more time to get through security and to the gate without feeling rushed.
• Pay for seat selection: Many airlines allow passengers to select their seats for free when checking in online. However, when travelling with a young child, it may be worth paying extra to choose seats together and avoid the stress of being separated.
• Figure out a car seat plan: It is recommended to bring your own car seat when travelling with a young child, as it will be familiar and you will know it is safe and correctly installed. Most airlines allow car seats to be checked for free, either at the ticket counter or gate. Alternatively, car seats can sometimes be rented at the destination, but these may be worn or broken, so it is important to check their condition carefully.
• Get to the airport early: Allow plenty of time to get through security and to the gate without feeling rushed. This will also provide an opportunity for the child to walk around and get some energy out before the flight.
• Bring a stroller or carrier: A stroller can be a lifesaver when travelling with a young toddler, as it provides a place for them to sit and can be used to pile bags on. It can be gate-checked before boarding the plane. If forgetting a stroller or carrier, it may be necessary to carry the child, which can be tiring.
• Board the plane last: While it is common for families with young children to be called to board first, it may be better to board last when travelling alone with a toddler. This will help to minimise the amount of time spent on the plane, as young children can get restless and fussy when confined to a small space for too long.
• Bring snacks: Snacks are essential for keeping young toddlers entertained and happy during flights. Bring a variety of snacks that the child enjoys, and ration them to ensure they last for the duration of the flight.
• Bring extra clothes: It is always a good idea to pack an extra change of clothing for both the child and the parent when travelling. Accidents and spills can happen, and it is important to be prepared.
• Use a travel potty: For potty-training toddlers, a travel potty can be a lifesaver. It is lightweight and easy to carry, and can prevent the stress of trying to find a bathroom in an unfamiliar place.
• Stay calm and accept help: Travelling alone with a young toddler can be challenging, but it is important to remember that it is only a few hours and will be over soon. Stay calm and accept help when offered, as it can make the journey easier for everyone.

By following these tips, travelling alone with a 1-year-old can be a manageable and even enjoyable experience.

Frequently asked questions