Rich parents, poor parents,  young, old, strict, slack: all are united in dreading long plane rides with babies and toddlers. Relax: it probably won't be as bad as you fear.  Preparation, however, is key.   

Difficulty Level: High      Time Required: Variable

1. Bring plenty of snacks and juiceboxes: it may be a long time before the flight attendants can bring food or drinks.
2. For bottle-feeding babies, bring ready-made formula (small size), or powdered formula and bottled water.
3. Bring three more diapers than you think you'll need.  And zip-loc bags for any soiled clothes.
4. Bring baby-wipes even with older kids, to clean up dribbles down shirt-fronts, spills, etc.
5. For babies, bring several changes of clothes, and extra clothes for yourself if possible (--the worst can happen).
6. An extra t-shirt for older kids can come in handy too-- seems to be easy to spill drinks on planes. 
7. Keep your stroller until the last possible moment (usually right until you board the plane):  if your flight is delayed, your child can sleep in the stroller.  Umbrella strollers are handiest. 
8. With toddlers, expect to spend a lot of time walking your child up and down the aisles on the plane! 
9. Bring along some plastic food containers, to keep half-eaten or untouched meals for later-- kids are often fast asleep when meals were served. Bring closable drink containers too. 
10. Take plenty of amusements: inexpensive novelties -- in three layers of wrapping-- work wonders. (See list of "stuff to bring on trips" below.) Smarties or other treats work wonders too.

1. With tiny kids, expect to spend pretty much every minute taking care of them. Forget that in-flight movie; you can watch it when they're nine or older. (Sheer luxury.)
2. If you need water or juice for your small child, don't hesitate to walk to the kitchen area and nicely request it. 
3. Don't give out your loot (treats, toys, etc.) too soon!  Make sure to hold back enough surprises to last the whole trip. 
4. To avoid ear pressure problems, have babies either nurse, or suck their bottles during takeoffs and landings; small kids can suck on a candy or chew gum. 
   

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