I’m sure you’ve left already, but for future readers: for a really long flight, no Benadryl…however, a crumb of melatonin (maybe 0.5 mg) could be ok if a nap is sorely needed. Encouraging nursing on takeoff and landing if that’s still an option. Lollipops if not. Bring yummy snacks that aren’t liquidy (TSA nonsense)–trail mix and Gardetto’s cracker mix are good–and let the babe play games on your phone or whatever equivalent you have. During airport waiting time, let the kid run around within reason with you–explore the gift shops and let him pick a snack/coloring book/whatever. Socialize with other waiting passengers who look friendly. Over Thanksgiving we spent ~12 hours each way in transit (car, airport, airplane, airport, car) with a 6 month old and a 3 year old and it went really, amazingly well. (No melatonin, either.) As others have said, throw dietary/electronic restrictions out the window.
ETA: I don’t think my kids had much ear discomfort, but the littlest one pooped on every take off, and the older one was constantly asking to go to the restroom. Something about the altitude/pressure changes, I imagine.
If anyone on the plane makes a fuss while you are running up and down the aisles chasing the baby, say sweetly, “Takes a village, for sure. Can you help me with him for a sec?”
If it’s available, book “Economy Plus” seats (the ones with extra leg room). The extra room means the kid can stand on the floor, exercize her leegs, and play with something on the seat. We paid an extra 10% or so for the extra space, but it was totally worth it.
Probably too late for the OP, but the sprout has been across the continent multiple times:
bring sippy/snacks/etc.
new small toys are indeed great for distraction
Generously pack extra wiping cloths, clean shirts, pants, etc. for on-plane use.
Before you leave, find the smallest tightest, most cramped closet in your house, bring the child in and close the door, and practice changing their diaper. (Don’t forget to apply for your ‘Changed a Diaper in an Airplane Bathroom’ medal if you qualify after the flight)
If possible, red-eye flights can be great for maximum sleeping during the flight.
Doesn’t hurt to show off the adorable little one to the gate agent, in case they can swing it so there’s an empty seat next to you (they may understand that it’s a favor to everyone on the flight, not just you).
Don’t forget to enjoy the express lane through security/boarding!
Another too late suggestion - we bought our then 20 month year old a Trunki for her first big plane ride. Not only can you stow all their books, toys and assorted stuff in it, it’s great for little rides in terminals when waiting for connections and the like. It’s her go to travel bag now.
We took our 17 month old on a cross country flight. Lots of good advice here.
We tested benedryl a week prior and kept it ready for an emergency. Never had to use it.
My boy won’t wear earphones. I was worried about the noise of his Leap Pad but it was barely audible over the noise of the plane.
Bring LOTS of snacks. And many different kinds.
Give yourself a lot of extra time to get through security. We had to wait almost 20 minutes for someone to hand check our stroller.
Put the diaper bag under your seat, not in the overhead bins.
I had seen this too–wonder how many little gift bags they brought to distribute? Not letting kids kick the seat in front of them–this often requires tying toddlers down–goes a long way in placating the people in front of you.
Update: it went alright despite a 4 hour delay. 18 month old was spastic on a sugar high but with a slew of Dum Dum suckers at least his eardrums weren’t bursting.
Will definitely try Benadryl one evening while I’m here to see it’s affects.
A bit late, but we took both our kids on a plane (12 hour flights) when they were 18 months old and didn’t have any problems. Talking tends to pop the ear canals nicely and chewing or drinking milk/formula from a bottle works too. Really, anything that causes reasonably vigorous movement of the jaw will pop the ears.
