Flying With Kids Over the Holidays? Here’s How to Stay Sane.
Holiday airport crowds? Delayed flights? Overtired kids? Traveling during peak season can test any parent’s patience — but the right prep, the right travel car seat, and a few sanity-saving strategies can make holiday flying with kids so much easier. Whether you’re heading to see family or flying somewhere festive, here’s how to keep the chaos low and the holiday spirit high.
1. Choose a Travel Car Seat That Makes Flying Easier
Your car seat shouldn’t be the hardest part of your trip, but for many families… it is.
That’s why a lightweight, portable travel car seat makes a massive difference.
The WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat:
- Weighs just 8 lbs
- Folds small enough to carry like a backpack
- Installs easily on planes and in rideshares
- Keeps kids safe, comfy, and contained during long flights
Parents say Pico is the difference between a stressful flight and a manageable one — and during the holidays, every win counts.
2. Master the One-Bag “In-Flight Essentials” Strategy
Instead of digging through multiple bags, create one dedicated in-flight essentials bag you can store under the seat.
Include:
- Mess-free snacks
- Headphones + tablet
- Stickers, crayons, or a small activity book
- Hand sanitizer + wipes
- A change of clothes
- A cozy layer (the WAYB Travel Blanket folds up tiny and doubles as comfort support)
Put this bag in arm’s reach — future you will be very grateful.
3. Use Early Boarding to Your Benefit
Take early boarding when it’s offered. It gives you precious minutes to:
- Install the Pico before aisles get crowded
- Get the kids settled
- Claim overhead bin space
- Set up any in-flight entertainment before chaos begins
Even two minutes of calm can set the tone for the entire flight.
4. Create a Simple “Travel Story” for Kids
Kids handle travel better when they understand the plan — especially toddlers and preschoolers.
Try something like:
“First security, then a snack, then we fly and watch a movie.”
Repeat it a few times and keep the language simple.
This helps reduce anxieties and sets clear expectations.
5. Plan Snack Time Like Mini Activities
Snacks aren’t just food — they’re entertainment.
But don’t give them all at once.
Rotate small, easy-to-handle snacks every 30–45 minutes.
Think:
- Fruit pouches
- Pretzels
- Crackers
- Dried fruit
- Mini sandwiches
Slow, steady snack distribution = fewer meltdowns and fewer “Are we there yet?” moments.
6. Pick Seats Strategically (It Matters More Than You Think)
Choosing the right seats can make a big difference on a crowded holiday flight.
Consider:
- Window seat = free entertainment
- Aisle seat = easier bathroom runs
- Bulkhead = more legroom but less storage
- Split seating so one parent sits aisle for quick access
If you're bringing the Pico, check out WAYB’s guide to flying with a car seat for installation tips.
7. Don’t Just Pack a Backup Plan — Pack Two
Holiday travel is unpredictable. You need backups… and backups for those backups.
Think about:
- Extra outfits
- Fully charged devices
- Downloaded shows (never rely on in-flight WiFi during the holidays)
- A “surprise item” like a new sticker sheet or mini figurine
- Extra snacks
- A portable charger
If you think you won’t need it, pack it anyway.
8. Give Yourself More Time Than You Think You Need
During the holidays, lines, security, and boarding take longer — sometimes much longer. Leave early. Earlier than early. Then add 20 minutes.
More time = less stress.
9. Keep Expectations Low and Flexibility High
Holiday travel will always have variables — delays, gate changes, weather surprises, overtired kids. Try to keep the energy calm and flexible.
Kids will follow your lead.
A relaxed parent helps create relaxed little travelers.