I’m traveling from the USA to Egypt, a very long trip with 3 connecting flights. It’s my first time to travel with him without his father. Please, what do you recommend to have/buy? Is a stroller helpful or just a headache? Also, how about a ride-on carry-on?
Thanks
A stroller is unlikely to make it to the destination without damage. Bring a lot of items like small new toys/books/treats to occupy/interest your child. Download some movies/shows onto a tablet. Get headphones for both of you.
@Charlie
A travel stroller that fits in overhead is what I’d recommend if OP wants to bring one.
@Charlie
Thanks - Any kid headphones recommendations?
Sloane said:
@Charlie
Thanks - Any kid headphones recommendations?
We traveled all over the world with a stroller when our kids were little and never had a single issue. Just get a stroller bag, and your stroller will be fine.
Bring lots of snacks, water, and shows, movies, and games on an iPad. We traveled with our kids to Europe when they were 3 and 4, and everything was fine. Some parts are hard, but there is enough going on to keep them entertained. Our kids don’t get to watch a lot of TV, and they love traveling because they get iPad time.
Another thing I suggest is upgrading to premium economy or business if you can. Having extra room is so nice when traveling with little kids.
Sloane said:
@Charlie
Thanks - Any kid headphones recommendations?
If you have a headphone jack, I would use cheap wired ones. You can get a Y adapter that would allow you both to listen. If you do not have a headphone jack, then anything except the earbud style as they will get lost too easily.
Bring snacks and drinks so you don’t have to wait on the service to get to your row.
Dawson said:
Bring snacks and drinks so you don’t have to wait on the service to get to your row.
Will do, thanks 
Dawson said:
Bring snacks and drinks so you don’t have to wait on the service to get to your row.
But not liquid/gel snacks. There are exceptions for infants, but I have doubts about a 3-year-old. Buy those inside security or ensure each is less than 100 ml / 3.3 ounces and with your other liquids.
It might not be feasible given how long the trip is, but a family friend packs small bags for their kids for each hour on travel days. Some bags will include a snack, some include a small game, some include crayons and a notepad, etc.
Anyhow, this keeps their kids occupied for the whole travel portion of the trip. Like I said, it might not be feasible given how many hours you’ll be traveling, but it might be worth a shot!
@Cade
Thanks
@Cade
I travel frequently with kids. Yes, pack activities/toys that are new but do not take up too much space. Activities that engage your surroundings are fun. We have an ISpy game and several books. If you can get sticker books those are helpful. Snacks that can turn into activities are fun, sorting shapes, colors, etc. You can even make puzzles. Print a picture, cover it with transparent tape, then cut it up.
A carry-on stroller is nice if you have long connections, and it gives your kid a place to relax while you walk, eat, or rest.
Our kids love to fly because it’s the one time most rules go out the window. All snacks anytime? Sure. Screen time? Sure. Running around in an unused terminal? Sure.
Tablets and an extra phone are a must. I have premium YouTube only because I wanted to download YouTube videos.
Also, buy a phone or tablet holder that attaches to the seat in front of you in case there is no in-flight entertainment system or built-in phone holder.
@Flynn
Agreed.
Our son had flown 100,000 miles by age 2, loved it, and still does. (Text from him at an odd time of day - “Where are you?” “Iceland for a 2-day meet-up.” “Okay, apple, tree, not far.”)
We didn’t do any screen time even when flying until age 5 and then it was a rare treat while flying (dinosaur documentaries!). To do it again, and with his younger sister, we allowed screen time on planes at any age.
But also realize you’re “on”. Your vacation doesn’t start until sometime after you land. At 3, he ought to be able to accept that Mom needs to sleep a bit and that he has his snacks, games, coloring book all in front of him and he needs to let Mom rest for a bit. Practice that a bit at home first - What you need to do around your chair to be happy and alone for the next 20 minutes? Then 40 minutes…
I disagree with the other commenter and would strongly encourage you to get a stroller. Not sure if it’s available to purchase where you are, but we had a gb Pocket+ All City stroller when our son was younger, and it was a lifesaver for all plane travel (domestic and international). To be clear, it would probably not survive being checked, but luckily it folds up small enough to fit in overhead bins or even under some airplane seats. We liked this version because it has a full sunshade and the seat can recline a bit to allow for naps. We loved being able to put our son in there during layovers, allowing us to move around the airport quickly and saving our backs. gb Pocket+ all city
I would second the suggestion to pack a tablet with movies/shows downloaded along with headphones but also try to have a variety of other activities - Imagine Ink coloring books are great because the markers only work on the special paper (so no messy fingers or tray tables), maybe mini magna tiles. Classic coloring books and crayons are inexpensive too. My son likes “search and find” books, and we can sometimes find them in paperback versions that take up less space.
Another tip: pack extras of the coloring books or a little toy in the suitcase so you have something new and different for the return flight.
@Finley
Thanks for your detailed reply, do you have headphones recommendations?
Sloane said:
@Finley
Thanks for your detailed reply, do you have headphones recommendations?
There are kid’s headphones you can get online. Relatively inexpensive, and they control volume so it won’t get too loud.
@Finley
Do you find it easy to fold up? We have one and I still struggle to get it folded down in the first go.
Toby said:
@Finley
Do you find it easy to fold up? We have one and I still struggle to get it folded down in the first go.
Yeah, it took some practice, but we haven’t had issues folding it down. We used it pretty heavily for about two years, and towards the end it wouldn’t stay “closed” when folded, but we just used a luggage strap to click around it, and that took care of that.
It’s about balancing what will be the most comfortable for you and your child. A lightweight stroller and a ride-on carry-on could be a great combination to keep things manageable and fun for your little one. And bring toys that really interest him and prepare a tablet with lots of videos and games that can distract him. Pack some snacks for him too.
Safe travels, and I hope you both have an amazing experience in Egypt!