Tips for Traveling with Toddlers: How I’m Preparing for Paris

Packing Essentials, Entertainment Hacks, and Must-Know Travel Tips for Parents

Planning an international trip with toddlers? Whew—bless you. As a mama of two getting ready to take our family to Paris, I’ve been deep in the prep game: organizing snacks, choosing travel-friendly gear, and even securing Global Entry to make the airport experience smoother. If you’re prepping for a big family trip, especially with little ones, this guide is for you.

From what I’m packing to how I’m keeping my toddlers entertained at 35,000 feet, here’s exactly how I’m making this trip to France as stress-free (and stylish) as possible.


Packing Essentials for Toddlers: What’s in Our Carry-On

When it comes to international travel with kids, organization is survival. I created a packing checklist with everything they need for the flight—and the first 48 hours abroad—in case our checked luggage gets delayed.

Here’s what’s going in each toddler’s carry-on:

  • Snack trays with a mix of favorites: pouches, crackers, gummies, fruit snacks, and mini sandwiches
  • Change of clothes (two full sets, just in case)
  • Wipes + diapers or pull-ups
  • Headphones + tablet with downloaded shows and games (no Wi-Fi stress)
  • Comfort item (blanket, airplane bed or stuffed animal)
  • Leak-proof water bottles to stay hydrated

Pro Tip: Use packing cubes or labeled zip pouches to keep things easy to grab mid-flight.


Entertainment Hacks for Long Flights

Toddlers on a long-haul flight = challenge accepted. To avoid mid-air meltdowns and reduce screen time, I’m packing a few tricks up my sleeve:

  • Sticker books + reusable activity pads
  • Color Wonder markers (no mess, thank me later!)
  • Window gel clings for a fun distraction on the plane
  • Quiet sensory toys like pop-its or squishy animals
  • Mini puzzles and magnetic games

I also downloaded new movies and favorite episodes from Netflix and Disney+ ahead of time and created a “special trip playlist” just in case we need them.


My Toddler Travel Medicine Kit

You don’t want to be across the globe without a few essentials. Here’s what’s going in our travel-friendly medicine kit:

  • Children’s Tylenol + Benadryl
  • Motion sickness bands
  • Teething tablets and gas drops
  • Thermometer (just in case)
  • Mini first aid kit: bandages, alcohol wipes, and ointment
  • Electrolyte powder packs (a lifesaver if they get sick)

Everything is TSA-compliant and packed in a clear zip pouch in my personal item for quick access.


How I Got Global Entry for My Family of 6

One of the best decisions I made? Applying for Global Entry for the entire family—including the toddlers. It covers expedited customs and includes TSA PreCheck, which means no long security lines, keeping shoes on, and less stress all around.

Here’s how I did it:

  1. Applied online for each person (yes, even the kids need their own application!)
  2. Paid the $100 fee per person (good for 5 years)
  3. Got conditional approval in under 2 weeks
  4. Scheduled interviews at our local enrollment center

Parent tip: Kids under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the interview, and most locations allow you to complete interviews for the whole family at once.


Bonus Tips for Traveling Internationally with Kids

  • Prep your documents: Make sure everyone’s passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
  • Book an early evening flight so toddlers can sleep through most of it.
  • Pack your own stroller or rent one at your destination.
  • Use AirTags in their backpacks and suitcases for peace of mind.
  • Practice airport day at home—run through security routines and talk about the plane experience ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Traveling internationally with toddlers is no small feat—but with the right prep, it’s absolutely doable (and even fun!). From entertainment hacks to getting Global Entry, I’m doing everything I can to set our family up for a smooth, joy-filled trip to Paris.

If you’re prepping for a big trip with littles, save this post! And stay tuned—I’ll be sharing a full Paris travel recap and tips on what actually worked after we get back.

Bon voyage, mamas!

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