I’ve been there. That first flight as a mom sends even the most calm person into panic mode. So much is up in the air compared to the routine you’ve mastered at home in the first couple of months. And even for pro parents, holiday travel with little ones can feel like the Olympics of parenting (except, instead of medals, you get sweat, tears, and maybe a coffee spill).

Between the overstuffed diaper bag, the toddler who insists on bringing their entire stuffed animal "family," and the baby who has perfected the mid-flight diaper blowout, there are definitely moments when you’ll wonder why you ever left the house. But before you throw in the towel and decide to stay home in your pajamas, let’s chat about some strategies that will make your first big trip a little more manageable. Trust me, with the right gear and a few handy hacks, you can survive (and, dare I say, even enjoy) the chaos.

1. Streamline Your Gear (aka Pack Light, Mama!)

I know, packing light sounds impossible, especially when it feels like you need everything just in case. But here’s the thing: you don’t need three strollers, two carriers, and an entire toy store. One solid stroller, like the Colugo Compact Stroller, is all you really need. It folds up in a snap, it fits in the overhead if you're flying, it’s super lightweight, and it can handle everything from airport terminals to uneven sidewalks. Bonus: It has enough storage for a full sized diaper bag, including all those snacks that will keep your little one’s meltdown at bay. Hello, puffs!

2. Hands-Free is Your New Best Friend

I’ve been on my share of trips with littles and I can tell you: the less you have to carry, the better. Between juggling passports, a toddler who insists on running in the opposite direction, and a baby who needs to be held at all times, an extra set of hands would be amazing—if only. Since that’s not in the cards, my lifesaver has been the Colugo Baby Carrier. It keeps my baby close and leaves my hands free to chase after my toddler or —if I’m lucky—grab a coffee.

3. Snack Like a Pro

Speaking of snacks; they are your secret weapon. They can buy you a few minutes of peace when your toddler’s patience runs out, and are the magic trick to making it through a flight delay without any full-blown meltdowns. I like to stock up on portable, spill-proof containers with easy-to-eat options like crackers, puffs, and maybe some dried fruit (if your kid will actually eat it). Pro tip: Introduce a new snack—something they’ve never had before—when things start to feel tense. A little novelty goes a long way in distracting them (even if just for a few blissful minutes).

4. Entertainment Without the Bulk

I love my phone and tablet, but let’s be real—battery life and Wi-Fi can fail at the worst possible moments. So, I like to pack a few simple, low-tech distractions: a mini coloring set, reusable sticker books, or even a pouch of tiny toy cars. They’re compact and can keep your little one busy when Wi-Fi is down or the in-flight movie is not what they had in mind. Two surprise winners that you probably have on hand at home? Post it notes and masking tape. These little boredom-busters are easy to access at takeoff or landing, so you can keep them entertained when everything else feels like it’s going sideways.

5. Dress Smart (and Layer Like a Champ)

Airports and airplanes are basically little climate zones unto themselves—one minute you’re sweating through your sweater, the next you’re shivering like it’s winter. I’ve learned that dressing in comfy layers is key. Think soft leggings, easy-to-remove zip-up hoodies, and shoes that slip on and off easily during security. Plus, layers make it a lot easier to handle that inevitable juice spill without panicking. If you have a baby under one, packing an extra shirt is also a smart move, in case they have an accident or get sick. Pop one in the diaper bag… you’ll be glad you did. 

6. Accept the Chaos and Pack a Sense of Humor

This might be the hardest tip to take to heart, but it's probably the most important: stuff is going to go wrong. Someone will cry, something will get lost, and yes, the diaper blowout will happen at the least convenient time possible. But the best thing you can do is roll with it and laugh. Seriously, sometimes the only way to survive is by laughing through the mess.

7. Plan for the Unexpected (a Little)

Even though I’ve traveled with my firstborn, I’ve learned that a bit of planning can save you a lot of stress. Know where the family restrooms are (because you’ll need them), stash an extra outfit for both you and baby at the top of your suitcase, and plan for more time than you think you’ll need. There’s nothing worse than rushing through the terminal with a stroller in one hand and a toddler in the other while they announce your flight’s last call.

8. And Finally: Embrace the Adventure

Look, the reality is that travel is going to be a mix of wonderful and messy moments. But someday, you’ll look back and laugh about the time your toddler decided to give a TSA agent an unsolicited hug or when your baby thought the best time to practice their outside voice was 30,000 feet in the air. Until then, do your best, cut yourself some slack, and use the right gear to make life a little easier. And when in doubt, coffee. Coffee will always help.

So go ahead, Mama—pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for the adventure. You’ve got this—baby on your chest, toddler in tow, and a big smile on your face. Happy travels (and here’s hoping they’re less chaotic than you expect)!