10 Things to Pack in Your Carry-on When Traveling with Kids

When flying with kids of any age, a well-stocked carry-on is key to a comfortable, happy flight — for everyone involved. The goal is to have the proper supplies to deal with any situation, whether your kid is hungry, thirsty, tired, or bored. Whether you’re headed out on a quick trip or taking an overnight flight, we’ve got you covered with a list of what to pack in your carry-on when traveling with kids.

What kind of carry-on should you bring when traveling with kids?

Before we get into packing your carry-on bag, let’s talk about the best type of carry-on to bring when flying with kids. Firstly, check the rules for your airline because size and weight restrictions vary by airline. Keep in mind that carry-ons aren’t even included in the ticket price for some airlines, so double-check your ticket to avoid paying more at check-in.

This is not the time to get by with unwieldy, overweight luggage. You’ll want to bring a carry-on bag that’s easy to handle even if you have your hands full with a kid or two. A rolling suitcase should have smoothly operational wheels and a functioning handle and zippers. If you’re a backpack fan, it should be comfortable and manageable. You should be able to lift your carry-on into the overhead compartment of the plane without risking life and limb to do so, or it should fit snugly under your seat, if you’re packing light.

What should you pack in your carry-on when flying with kids?

Checked luggage can — and often does — get lost, so imagine that your carry-on is the only luggage you’ll have for a few days. This will help you ensure that you have everything you need inside.

Here are our top 10 packing recommendations for carry-ons:

1. One change of clothes for everyone in the family. For kids, if space allows, it’s not a bad idea to bring an extra set of clothes — because accidents happen. Especially when you’re traveling.

2. Snacks! Seriously, you can’t have too many snacks. Sure, you could buy snacks at the airport, but let’s be honest — airport snacks are vastly overpriced. And you may not be able to find your kids’ favorite snacks. It’s a better idea to stock up and pack snacks both for the flight and later on in your trip. We recommend packing snacks in a spill-proof snack box. Just be sure to make sure you’re abiding by TSA regulations when it comes to children’s food and drinks. Some of our go-tos include granola bars, puree pouches, crackers, and lollipops (to reduce pressure during take-off and landing!).

3. Water bottles. Wait to fill them up until after you go through security.

4. Comfort items. Of course, this will vary by kid, but if your little one is attached to a particular stuffed animal, stuffie, pacifier, or blanket, bring it along in your carry-on to help them feel more comfortable on the flight.

5. Activities. Again, this will vary based on the age and interests of your kid, but it’s important to have plenty of activities to keep them busy for the duration of the flight. Some tried-and-true favorites:

   • Sticker books

   • Matchbox cars

   • Magnetic puzzles

   • Coloring books

   • Fidget toys

   • Card games

6. Wet wipes. We like to bring antibacterial wipes for cleaning surfaces and seatbelts as soon as we’re seated, as well as plenty of regular baby wipes for cleaning up messy hands and faces.

7. A tablet and headphones. With all due respect to families’ varying screen time rules, we know from experience that a tablet loaded with games and favorite movies can be a lifesaver on a long flight.

8. First-aid kit. Be prepared for anything with children’s pain reliever, Dramamine, band-aids, and any other medical supplies you don’t think you can live without.

9. Stuff for staying warm. Airplanes can get quite chilly, so be prepared in case your little one starts shivering. A cozy scarf or blanket, warm socks, and an extra hoodie can really come in handy, even on a summertime flight.

10. Gallon Ziploc bags. Bring just a couple of these for easy disposal of trash, storing extra food, or packing away dirty clothes without sullying the rest of your stuff.

Lastly, be sure that your carry-on also contains your own in-flight essentials, whether a favorite face mist, moisturizing lip balm, or that candy you only get when you’re traveling. Don’t make the mistake of focusing so much on your kids that you forget your own needs! A happy parent makes for a happy kid — which makes for a happy flight. 

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