This past weekend, I encountered a discussion online about airplane snack tips. The person who started the thread is a client of mine who was soon to be heading to Florida with four kids in tow. Members of Clarington Mouse Moms stepped in with their recommendations.

Here is a summary of the airplane snack tips we came up with when flying with our kids from Toronto to Orlando. These tips will also apply for a lot of other flights from Canadian cities into the United States. 

Airplane Snack Tips for Flights to Orlando with Kids

• Avoid bringing snacks with nuts. On our last flight to Florida, the flight attendant announced that a fellow passenger had a nut allergy, and asked us to refrain from opening any snacks that contain nuts. These days, it’s a common courtesy not to bring nuts to eat in a public place.
• Liquids must be less than 100 ml to pass through airport security. However, one dad recommended bringing small sippy cups which you can then fill using a water fountain, after you’ve passed security and customs. This is also a money-saver, as food and drink inside the airport terminals is pricy.
• Try not to bring fresh fruit with you. According to Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), bringing fruit on board in carry-on luggage is permitted. However, passengers may be detained for additional security screening or a bag search when bringing fruit to the airport for a snack. 
• Gummy or chewy snacks are great for kids to help with discomfort in their ears during takeoff and landing. 
• Eat a snack or light meal in your vehicle prior to entering the airport terminal. You’ll avoid paying for an expensive meal.
• Pre-packaged items are ideal, since they don’t spoil. Examples include granola bars, individual servings of crackers, potato chips and nut-free trail mix. These are also great choices because kids will eat these at the resort throughout your vacation.
• Remember, non-alcoholic refreshments are usually provided at no additional cost on flights from Toronto to Orlando. This typically includes pop, juice, coffee and tea. Bringing drinks for your kids might not be necessary. 

Do you pack a light snack for your kids when travelling from Toronto to Orlando? Please share your airplane snack tips in the comments, below!