Flying with a Toddler

My daughter and I traveled back to the province last month using a local airline. We used to travel before but I paid only taxes, nothing for the airfare. She already turned 2 so, for the first time last month, I had to pay a full fare.

Serious mode at 5 o'clock in the morning in Manila Domestic Airport, waiting for airplane boarding.
When traveling with a kid, it is important to plan the trip ahead of time. If possible, buy the ticket during a promo period to save money. Also prepare the documents needed for the travel like birth certificate or passport. Before the day of the travel, make sure your child gets enough sleep and rest to avoid any discomfort the next day. On the travel day itself, dress your child appropriately. Provide a jacket if the weather is a little chilly. You must hand carry a bag full of must-haves like wet tissue, water or milk, etc.
Relaxed in her own seat. We had to take a photo as a remembrance.
To put your child at ease during the flight, bring a comfort item to hug. It could be your kid's favorite stuffed animal or pillow. If you have to travel for long hours, a blanket could be great idea too. Don't forget to fasten your child's seatbelt before tucking him/her in to sleep, though.

The plane has landed. She looked anxious to see the province.
Most toddlers can't sit for long hours, waiting for the travel to end and finally reach the destination. They won't be able to understand it when you say "Hang on, we're almost there". To avoid your child throwing tantrums while still on board, give him/her something to do. Say for example, a coloring book or a puzzle. Or else, give your child something to eat or drink. In my daughter's case, she carried her backpack with fresh milk, some jellies, peanuts and wet tissue. She also brought her favorite stuffed animal with her. And so far, that was our finest travel ever. She did not cry, shout, whatever. Instead, she was just reading the travel manual, watching the clouds, smiling at people and enjoying her light snacks.