BTDT Moms - Traveling w/ 16 month old

DH and I are leaving for Portugal (7hr flight) in two weeks with DS. I am having complete anxiety over this trip.

DS is very active and doesn't like to sit still for too long. The flight over is at night and I am not too worried because I am hoping he falls asleep. My bigger concern is the flight home because it is smack in the middle of the day.

What activities did you do with your toddlers that kept them busy on the plane? Also how do you get there ears not to pop going up and down. Any must haves that I should bring?

Any tips or advice would be great. I just want to be as prepared as I can be.

TIA!

Re: BTDT Moms - Traveling w/ 16 month old

Anyone?

Re: BTDT Moms - Traveling w/ 16 month old

I personally have never had much issues with my DC's ears popping, but was always told to have them drink something to keep them swallowing....

As far as things to entertain: portable DVD player, some "new" little toys he has never seen before (literally do not even let him know they exist until you absolutely need them) ....They could be simple dollar store things and odds things like calculators etc....

Also, sticker books, Bendaroos or Wikki Stix, new interesting snacks (again, something he's never had/seen before to keep it interesting)

Did you get him his own seat ? If not, check with the airline that day if the flight is full and they may allow you to bring it on with you...My C's always do best in their own seat...

Bring a spare set of clothes ( speaking from experience- my DS threw up on one of our flights and I didn't have anything so he sat in a diaper with a towel around him )

It's never as bad as you imagine it to be

Message edited 9/20/2010 4:20:02 PM.

Re: BTDT Moms - Traveling w/ 16 month old

Thank you so much your your help. I didn't even think about little stuff from the dollar store. We didn't get him a seat but as of right now the flight is not full so I am hoping we can talk to the FA and get an open spot for him that day.

Thanks again!