Flying With a Toddler: 12 Must Have Meds and Products I Always Pack
We have big news! Our family is moving to Greece! My husband accepted a new basketball contract there, so we have been busy packing up our life with two little ones.
As a registered nurse and “scrunchy” mom of two, I know firsthand how important it is to be prepared, especially when traveling overseas with babies and toddlers. That’s why I wanted to share my personal list of 12 essential medications and products I always pack when flying with a toddler.
This is my go-to “travel medicine cabinet” that helps me feel ready for anything: from fevers to upset tummies, while we settle into a new country and adjust to our new neighborhood. I make sure to pack enough to cover those first few months abroad, giving me peace of mind when pharmacies and brands may differ.
Disclaimer: Always consult your pediatrician before starting new medications or vitamins for your child. While I am a nurse, this post is for informational purposes only and not medical advice.
UPDATE: unfortunately, my son got sick at the airport!! This is the very reason I suggest you pack medications from home!
Table of Contents
1. Vitamin D3 Drops
Since Kai is breastfed, I always make sure to give him Vitamin D3 drops. Kairo gets a drop a day. It helps with bone health, teeth health, cardiovascular health, immune system support, and growth and development.
PS: If you want to give Mary Ruth Organics Vitamin D3 drops a try, you can get 20% off your order by entering my discount code MROMSUGGS at checkout.
2. FridaBaby Nose Frida: Snot-Sucker Saline kit
This item has been highly recommended to me, and I’ve used it more times than I can count. The FridaBaby Nose Frida kit includes 1 aspirator, hygiene filters (replacements), and saline spray.
It is especially handy when flying with a toddler, since the dry airplane air can make congestion worse. Helps loosen up dry mucus/boogers that are plugging up the baby’s nose. So if the baby is dealing with congestion, this product is great to help them breathe easier.
3. Pain Reliever/ Fever Reducer
A pain reliever/ fever reducer is an absolute MUST.
Motrin infant drops are one option. It is for babies 6 months to 23 months old. On the box, there is a dosing chart printed which will show you how much of the medicine to give (based on the weight of your baby). It is especially useful when flying with a toddler, since fevers or teething pain can pop up at the worst times (like it did for my son when we flew to Greece!)
It comes with a little syringe as well. Make sure you use the syringe that’s provided to you in the box for this medication only. (Remember it’s important to use the correct syringe with the correct medication to prevent potential overdose).
For little ones over 2 years old, I like to bring Genexa brand Kids’ Pain and Fever Reducer/ Children’s Acetaminophen. It is great for minor aches, sore throats, fevers, teething, etc. This liquid paracetamol for kids is dye-free, ibuprofen-free, and aspirin-free.
4. Pedialyte Powder Packets
These are great if your child has vomiting, diarrhea, or possible heat exhaustion that could lead to dehydration. When flying with a toddler, it helps to have Pedialyte on hand because it replaces electrolytes lost due to sickness or excessive sweating. Pedialyte helps replace electrolytes lost due to sickness or excessive sweating.
5. Diaper Rash Ointments
I’m sure everyone has these in their diaper bag but I buy these brand new before traveling so I have enough to last me for a little while. These are absolutely essential to have in everyone’s diaper bag when flying with a toddler or even a baby ( or in my case BOTH). My top 2 creams contain 40% zinc oxide (which works by creating a barrier between the skin and the diaper). It’s a pretty thick paste like cream. Second is Vitamin A & D ointment which works great for cuts and scrapes, helps prevent diaper rash, and helps heal cracked and dry skin.
6. Allergy Meds
Genexa Kids’ Allergy Care medication is for children 3 years and up, and it works by relieving allergy symptoms such as runny eyes, itchy eyes, sneezing, and skin rashes.
It’s great to bring, especially if emergency situations arise (such as your toddler being allergic to a new food that was served on the plane).
7. Hyland’s Baby Mucus & Cold Relief Day and Night
It is homeopathic and has no artificial flavors, dyes, or parabens. Hylands Mucus and Cold relief medicine helps loosen up mucus and relieve congestion.
8. Zarbee’s Naturals Saline Nasal Mist
Zarbee’s Naturals Saline Nasal Mist has aloe and helps moisturize and flush out babies’ and toddlers noses. (Use Nose Frida and this spray to help them breathe easier especially when flying with a toddler. Air on the plane is so dry). Great for infants and adults. No drugs, no alcohol or preservatives.
9. Mommy Bliss Gripe Water
Mommy Bliss Gripe Water is great for tummy aches and pains such as colic, and gas. Highly recommend you pack this when flying with a toddler.
10. Digital Thermometer
This is a must when flying with a toddler! I’ve used this digital thermometer every single time we’ve vacationed. It can be used in the ear or forehead, for both adults and babies.
11. Prescription Medication
If your little one has been prescribed medication, remember to bring it on the flight!
If you really want to simplify your life, consider getting this portable travel medicine kit by FridaBaby. Stock it with whatever medications you want to bring with you and keep them in one place.
Flying with a baby? Frida Baby Ultimate Baby Kit has everything you need!
12. FridaBaby NailFrida Nail Kit
My son’s nails grow like crazy, we use this every few days or so. This FridaBaby Nail Electrical Buffer Kit is a must-have.
Update
We’ve been in Greece for a week now, and unfortunately, my son got sick at the airport!! This is the very reason I suggest you pack medications from home!
From the list of products I mentioned above, so far I’ve used: Motrin, a thermometer, a snot sucker, diaper rash cream, gripe water, and Pedialyte.
This goes to show that it never hurts to stay prepared! I’m so glad I packed what I did. It was tough to watch my baby struggle to bring down his fever and fight his illness. I’m glad I had some products on hand to help.
Amazon Storefront Travel Faves
Don’t forget to visit my Amazon storefront, where you’ll find thoughtfully curated selections of travel essentials.
1. Traveling with a Toddler
2. Travel Essentials
3. Airport Outfit Ideas
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Written by: Melanie Suggs
Melanie is a nurse, a coffee-lovin’ mama of two, and a frequent flier who has visited 17+ countries, lived overseas in Asia, Europe, and the States, and has taken her toddlers on over 30 international flights + even more domestic ones.
With her extensive experience in flying and traveling with her family, she developed a passion for helping parents travel with ease through tips, suggestions, and reviews on her blogs.
