6 Easy Tips to Prepare a Toddler for Airplane Takeoff & Landing

Flying with my toddler is always daunting. Especially takeoff and landing give me anxiety.

Still…

Even after flying with my toddler six times—four long-haul flights of over 12 hours and two shorter flights each one hour.

These days take-off and landing work pretty well for us. (Doesn’t mean I don’t worry, you never know how your toddler will be like on a certain day.)

—I’ve learned a few tips and tricks to prepare a toddler for airplane takeoff that make the experience smoother. Here’s what worked for me and other parents I know, along with expert advice from my pilot husband.

This post might include affiliate links through Amazon LLC or other programs. If you make a purchase through these links I get a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.

1. Breastfeed or Offer a Drink During Takeoff and Landing

If you’re breastfeeding, offer a feed during takeoff and landing.

It can help alleviate ear pressure. This works because the sucking motion encourages swallowing, which helps equalize pressure in the ears. I’ve breastfed my toddler during these times on most flights, and it’s been working well so far. I even did a guestpost on breastfeeding on a plane here. And I have a whole post on toddler activities on a plane here.

Sadly as he is getting older, he doesn’t want to drink anymore – he is getting too curious.

So these days I bring a spill-proof cup. I personally use the NUK and NUBY cups, which are “mostly” toddler leak proof (I say mostly cause no cup is 100% toddler safe). They have no straw. If the baby drinks something comes out.

A pacifier also works well for some children—several of my friends swear by it. Mine never liked it so doesn’t work for us.

Tip: Timing is key. Avoid feeding your child right before takeoff so they’re still hungry. However, be prepared to adapt; sometimes, toddlers may refuse to eat or drink, and that’s okay too. On our last flight, my son didn’t want anything, but he was still fine.

---

2. Listen for the “Bing” Sound To Prepare your Toddler for Takeoff

Here’s a tip from my pilot husband: There’s a distinct “bing” sound shortly before takeoff. Some airlines use 3 bings some less. It depends on the airline.

Lufthansa uses 1 as far as I am aware.

Use this as your cue to start feeding or offering a drink. Timing is important because starting too early might mean your toddler finishes before the pressure change occurs, which could lead to crying. I learned this the hard way on one flight when I started feeding too soon.

PS.: Now that my son gets older he doesn’t seem to mind the pressure that much anymore.

---

3. Pack Snacks (Lots of Them!)

Snacks are a must-have when flying with a toddler. Not only do they keep little ones occupied, but chewing can also help relieve ear pressure.

My go-to snacks include easy-to-eat items like toddler cookies, sliced fruit, or pouches. If your toddler is old enough, a lollipop can work wonders—my cousin uses this trick with his son. I use the snacks from DM they are sugar-free and not expensive.

Last time the couple with a toddler next to me had a variety of snacks that were individually packed in a big zip-lock (I am gonna steal that idea for the next flight.)

(Sorry to the board personal in advance. The floor always looks a right mess.)

---

4. Time Naps Strategically

A sleeping toddler is a happy traveler. I try to time my son’s naps so he’s ready to fall asleep just before takeoff. This not only helps with ear discomfort but also makes the entire flight experience more peaceful.

However, if your toddler dislikes the seat belt (as mine does), be prepared for some resistance. Distraction techniques like singing or playing a favorite game can help.

The stewardess made funny faces at my son. That worked the best.

---

5. Address Ear Discomfort

If your toddler shows signs of discomfort, gently massage around their ears. This can help alleviate some of the pressure.

For older kids, encourage yawning or exaggerated chewing motions to help their ears adjust. Some parents even recommend light tickling to make their child laugh and swallow—a simple but effective solution.

---

6. Be Flexible

Every flight is different, and what works once might not work the next time. On some flights, my son fell asleep before takeoff; on others, he cried because he hated the toddler seat belt. The key is to stay calm. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your toddler might cry, and that’s okay. Most passengers understand—many have been there themselves.

And the best advice. All toddler’s sleep at some point.

---

Bonus Tip: Stay Prepared

Bring extra pacifiers, snacks, and a spill-proof cup just in case. It’s always better to have too much than too little. Additionally, dress your toddler in comfortable clothes and pack a favorite toy or blanket to help them feel more at ease.

You can find my recommended packing list here.