The Ultimate Toddler Snack List for Airplane Travel
Airplane travel with toddlers is overwhelming and a bit nerve racking. In my experience, it's always different. The best thing you can do is prepare and hope for the best! Hopefully my list of ideas helps you on your next flight.
I remember getting ready for my daughter's first flight as a toddler. She was 15 months old, and it was just before the pandemic started. That feels like ages ago now! At that age, kids are so busy and it's really important to have plenty of snacks (and activities!) to keep them busy. You really can't pack too much because you end up using them on the trip, too.
Fast forward, and we've now flown with both of our kids several times at all different ages. Every time it's different, but I feel like my bag of tricks is the same and it works!
I've definitely found the best snacks along the way. We haven't done an international trip all together; however, we have had some long flights and these snacks have definitely helped. Plus, having a solid bag full of activities, helps, too! These games & toys are some of my favorite things to pack for a flight.
The Ultimate Toddler Snack List for Airplane Travel
Here's my go-to list of the best airplane snacks for toddlers for happy travels. Keep them packed and ready in your diaper bag!
The Best Homemade & Raw Snacks for Airplane travel :
If you decide to create homemade snacks, I love a snack tacklebox. I made one a few years ago and the kids loved it!
Fresh and Fruity:
Real fruit: Blueberries or a whole banana would be best for packing.
Dried fruit: Dried fruit is a great option because it's mess free.
Veggie Power:
Baby carrots: Pre-packaged baby carrots or carrot sticks are a great choice for little hands.
Bell pepper strips: Surprisingly, these are a favorite with my kids!
Snap peas: Another crunchy and satisfying veggie option.
Dairy Snack Ideas:
Cheese sticks: String cheese or individually wrapped cheese cubes are a great source of protein.
Yogurt tubes: These are a lifesaver, especially on long-haul flights. Just make sure to pack them in a cooler bag with an ice pack.
Grains and More:
Rice cakes: Plain or lightly flavored rice cakes are a good option for a light snack.
Whole grain crackers: Look for crackers with whole grains and minimal added sugar.
Granola bars: Choose granola bars that are low in sugar and high in fiber.
Other Homemade Snack Ideas:
Peanut butter: Pack individual packets or a small container of peanut butter for dipping fruit or spreading on crackers (but be mindful of allergies on the plane!).
FAQs
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Yes, I have the ultimate list saved HERE to keep your kids entertained on a flight. I keep most of these toys in our travel bag. Variety is key!
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Start prepping early! I’d start to pack activities 2 weeks in advance, clothes 1 week in advance and food 1-2 days in advance so you’re ready. Also, a packing list is super helpful! ChatGPT can make one easily!
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Yes, you can! It's often recommended to bring your car seat on board for safety and comfort, especially on longer flights. Make sure your car seat is FAA-approved. You can usually gate-check it for free if you don't want to carry it on board.
The Best Packaged Snacks
I order most of our snacks from Thrive Market. I love that they're clean and you can get a discount for auto shipping them. I have a full review about Thrive Market, and you can also save $40 off your first order with my discount.
Savory Snacks:
Hippea Puffs: My daughter LOVES these! It's a huge hit with her friends, too.
Pirates Booty: Why do kids love puffed snacks so much?
Chicken & Maple Mini Sticks: These sticks from Snackmates are a perfect pop of protein when you need it. They're a great size, too, and pack well!
Sweet Snacks:
Yum Earth Fruit Snacks: These are absolutely delicious. Pack extra fruit snacks because you'll be sneaking some, too!
Annie's Rice Krispies: Our first time flying, my daughter ate one on the way there and back. They're a great dessert!
Yum Earth Lollies: Think Dum Dums, but better! These lollipops are a great way to keep little ones occupied during takeoff and landing.
Noka Pouches: Pack at least a box of these. They're my secret weapon to get some protein in my kids with all natural ingredients.
These are definitely our favorite toddler snacks, and I get all of them from Thrive Market. We eat them at home, but they're great travel snacks, too! If you need the discount code for $40 off your first box, use my discount.
Why Packing Your Own Snacks is a must
Airline food isn't always toddler-friendly, and let's be honest, those tiny bags of pretzels just don't cut it for a hungry little traveler. Plus, having a variety of snacks on hand can be a real life saver if your flight gets delayed or your little one gets tired of the same old thing.
Travel gear you need
Aside from the food, once of the best things I've found is this tray. I love that it's machine washable and covers the entire airplane tray. It's perfect so that kids can stay germ free. Plus, I love these tackle box containers of food. If you're packing raw items (like nuts and dried fruit), I highly recommend it. Kids think it's so fun.
Here are a few of my go-to items I keep in our diaper bag for travel:
airplane tray cover
travel toddler utensils
travel potty seat
TSA Rules: What You Need to Know
Navigating TSA with toddler snacks can be tricky. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:
Baby Food, Breast Milk, and Formula:
You can bring these in reasonable quantities, even if they exceed the 3.4-ounce liquid rule.
Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process.
Solid Foods:
Most solid foods are allowed, but it's always best to double-check.
Liquids and Gels:
Avoid packing large containers of yogurt or fruit puree outside of baby food.
TSA Checklist:
Approved: Fruit pouches, crackers, cheese sticks, dry cereal.
Prohibited (in large quantities): Yogurt, applesauce, large containers of dips.
Direct Link to TSA: [Link to the specific TSA page about traveling with food].
Tip: Pack items in clear, resealable bags for easy inspection.
Tips for Snack Success:
It's a good idea to tell the flight attendant if it's your first flight or if there's anything you're concerned about. Most flight attendants are great and will look out for you. They're used to young children flying and have plenty of tips and tricks! Here are a few other ideas:
Pack a variety of snacks: This will help keep your toddler interested and prevent them from getting bored.
Use small containers: Pack snacks in individual portions or small containers to make them easier to manage on the plane.
Avoid messy snacks: Skip the traditional potato chips and opt for less crumbly options like veggie chips or banana chips.
Bring an empty water bottle: Fill it up after you go through security to stay hydrated.
Pack a comfort item: A favorite blanket or stuffed animal can help soothe your toddler during the flight.
Bonus Travel Hacks for Traveling with Toddlers
Pack a variety of toys. I have a drawer of plane toys so that they're not our favorites and are also a good fit for travel (ie: magnetic pieces). I don't let the kids bring more than 1 toy from home that they love just in case they lose it. The flight is pressure enough, am I right??
While I try to limit our plastic, plastic bags are perfect for packing snacks and toys.
Bring activities & toys: Having a variety of things to do is key to staying busy. I have a full list in this post.
Consider your seat location: If possible, choose a seat near the front of the plane so you can get on and off quickly.
Bring a travel snack bag: This will help keep your snacks organized and within reach.
Pack a few surprises: A new book or small toy can be a great way to keep your toddler entertained.
Don't forget the wipes: Airplane tray tables can be germy, so be sure to wipe them down before snack time.
Addressing Common Toddler Travel Challenges
Traveling with a toddler is more than just keeping their stomachs happy—there are a lot of moving pieces to manage! Here’s how to handle some common travel struggles:
Ear Pressure Relief
Takeoff and landing can be rough on little ears. Try these tricks:
Nursing or bottle feeding during takeoff and landing helps relieve ear pressure.
Pacifiers and chewable snacks (like soft crackers or fruit chews) can encourage swallowing.
Yawning games—exaggerate a yawn and encourage your toddler to copy you!
If your little one is still uncomfortable, a warm compress (like a wrapped-up damp napkin) placed near the ear might help.
Motion Sickness Prevention
Some kids struggle with motion sickness, especially on long flights. Keep nausea at bay with these tips:
Light meals before and during the flight—skip greasy or super sugary foods.
Seat selection matters—sitting over the wings (mid-plane) can minimize motion.
Child-safe motion sickness remedies—talk to your pediatrician about options like ginger chews or motion sickness bands.
Tantrums and Meltdowns
A confined space and an unpredictable schedule can make tantrums more likely. Here’s how to manage:
Stick to routines when possible—offer snacks, naps, and activities around the same time you normally would.
Have a meltdown plan—calmly acknowledge their feelings, then offer a distraction (like a snack or small toy).
Minimize sensory overload—noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, or a cozy blanket can help overstimulated toddlers relax.
Sleep and Rest
If you’re hoping for an in-flight nap (for both of you!), try these:
Bring comfort items—a small pillow, blanket, or their favorite stuffed animal can make a big difference.
Stick to your sleep cues—if you use a certain phrase, song, or routine at home, try to replicate it on the plane.
Use a window seat—less distraction and a better headrest for dozing off.
If all else fails, remind yourself: They will sleep eventually. Maybe not on the plane, but at some point!
What If You Forget Something?
Let’s be real—packing for a toddler is a whole event, and it’s easy to forget something. Here’s what you can do:
Airport stores – Many sell snacks, diapers, and wipes if you’re in a pinch.
Flight attendants can help – They often have extra juice, water, and napkins.
Fellow parents on the plane – You’d be surprised how willing other parents are to lend a hand!
Traveling with toddlers can be a challenge, but it's also an incredible opportunity to create lasting memories. Remember to pack your patience and embrace the unexpected. Most importantly, the plane will land! There's an end in sight!
