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Flying with a Baby or Toddler? How to Sail Through Security and Prevent In-Flight Fuss

We get it, mama: Flying with a baby or toddler can test your patience! Check out these tips to get through the airport (and the flight) fast and meltdown free. (18 Photos)

Ylonda Caviness on Nov 20, 2012 at 6:01PM

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Flying with a Baby or Toddler? How to Sail Through Security and Prevent In-Flight Fuss

Zia Soleil/Iconica/Getty Images

Stress-Free Travel with a Baby or Toddler

Traveling during the holidays almost always feels stressful -- and adding a new baby to the mix can make even the shortest flight seem overwhleming. It's true, managing airport crowds, security, the luggage, a toddler and a baby -- while keeping your sanity -- is a lot to ask of a new mom (or any mom, really!). But with a little prep and lots of patience, you can have a smooth travel experience. Here's how:

Consider the Right Time to Fly
There's no surefire way to avoid a tie-up on the tarmac, but you'll do yourself a favor by traveling during off-peak hours. The highest traffic periods are generally those times most convenient for business travelers -- think mid-day and mid-week. Also, avoid scheduling early Monday morning flights, and never book the last plane of the evening. "If the flight is canceled or anything goes wrong, you're stuck," says Melissa Klurman, a travel expert and former spokesperson for Fodor's Travel Guides.