Planning a flight with a 9- to 18-month-old? Toddlers behaving badly on airplanes have inspired a spate of media coverage, and nearly every parent who flies with kids has been the recipient of the occasional dirty look – or worse.

How to deal? Stay focused on your toddler's needs, says Christine Nelson, a communications expert in Minnesota specializing in patience modeling and guidance, and the founder of www.natknows.com. Be prepared for challenges, keep your toddler as physically comfy as possible (that means a full belly and a dry diaper), and do your best to stay calm and in the moment.

No matter what your plans, prepare the environment and the child will be set up for success, says Lonna Corder, founder and director of The Playgroup in San Francisco, Calif., and a parenting consultant.

Make the trip more kid friendly by bringing the right supplies in your carry-on:

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