NOOOOO. As the mom of an active child, I regret every flight I made with dc between the ages of 1 and 4. I took dc on a flight at 18 months and it was the worst. Kid was too young to look at screens, as we’d never, ever showed him one before. We made the mistake of putting him on our lap to save money and he just couldn’t sit still. I was so happy that we couldn’t fly during COVID. My youngest is 4, and I’d fly without a second thought these days, but those toddler flights were ROUGH. Have your parents visit you in January.

Anonymous wrote:We did not travel until children were 3, out of consideration for the DC and also consideration for others, but DCUM likely will say differently.

If I had made that choice, my DC wouldn't have been able to meet two of her great-grandparents. It's worth the temporary pain of flying to see family.

Bring lots of snacks and small toys. Post it notes and painters tape were really popular with my kids when they were toddlers. We always traveled as early as possible because I knew my kids wouldn't nap and a fussy, tired kid is the worst. If I had a child who was a better napper, I would have chosen differently. Don't forget a change of clothes for them and you because I guarantee that something will spill.

We did not travel until children were 3, out of consideration for the DC and also consideration for others, but DCUM likely will say differently.

I have three kids. 12-24 months is the absolute worst age to travel. I wouldn't worry about the business, that doesn't matter because it will be hell no matter what.

The key (KEY!!) is to bring a car seat on the plan and keep them contained the whole time. Don't try to walk them around or let them crawl. Just strap them in their seat and bribe with snacks and books.

Yes go. Other travelers should not be a factor.

I've done it, without a second thought.

Obviously yes. It’ll be fine.

Early flight, own seat, safe travels!!

Just do it. Lean into the pain. It’s a finite amount of time and you will get through it. I just flew with my 14 month old over thanksgiving across country and while not the funnest flight ever we managed. Buy their own seat and bring a car seat so they can nap. Lots of snacks, toys and unlimited screens. You got this!

Long flight? Connection? If yes, then this is asking for headaches!

Could you travel on Christmas Day? Flights are much less crowded. And a twilight Christmas can be nice.

It’s stressful. You can totally do it though. Solo?

If I were a passenger on your flight: NO

I would go a different time given child is not school aged. And, put them in a car seat to contain them.

I would just go, how would flying back on a different day help?
What I factor in to my travel decisions is cost of flight, and time of day (nap and sleep schedules)

How long is the flight time? Would you be traveling alone or with another adult?

I'd like to see my parents and have been contemplating on going to see them the week before Christmas and arriving back on a busy travel day. Because it's the holidays, I'm considering maybe coming a day or so earlier to avoid the rush but mostly I'm worried about traveling with a 19month old who is very mobile. Would you fly with a Toddler during the holiday rush? We've flown with her before but she was either very young or had just turned 1 and couldn't walk yet. Now it will be different.