Being in a small, enclosed space with a hundred or so people usually isn't anyone's idea of fun. Parents then figure in a screaming toddler and the whole scene becomes torture. It's time to put the fear of flying with a toddler to rest and become armed with important information that will make air travel trouble-free.

Most airlines offer discounted rates for children 2 years old and younger. Typically, the discount is half the fare of the adult they are traveling with. Airlines will even issue a frequent flyer card to toddlers! Just ask the agent when booking tickets. Although the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) highly recommends the use of car seats in an aircraft, it is not yet a law. The FAA suggests that infants weighing less than 20 pounds be placed in a rear-facing car seat, infants and toddlers 20 to 40 pounds be placed in a forward-facing car seat and toddlers and children 40 pounds and heavier may use the safety belt provided in the aircraft. The FAA also recommends that parents only use car seats that are FAA approved. Check for a sticker on the car seat that says the seat has been certified by the FAA for use in cars and airplanes.

When booking a flight, take into consideration your child's eating and sleeping schedule. It's a good idea to keep their schedule as normal as possible when flying, even with a time zone change. The booking agent is usually knowledgeable about less crowded flights and less busy flying times as well. Jackie Nicholson, mother of twin toddlers, suggests, "I've found that it's easier to travel during their nap times or even overnight on a 'red-eye' flight. At least with the 'red-eye' I knew they would eventually fall asleep and make it a more peaceful and smooth flight for everyone." It's also a big help to book a non-stop flight for the trip if it's available. Changing planes brings disruption, but sometimes it's unavoidable due to routing or cost. Check with the booking agent to see if bulkhead seating is available for you. Bulkhead seats offer more room for passengers because these seats are located at the divide of first class and coach and between coach seating and the galley. Flight attendant Nannette Gonzales, mother of a toddler, explains, "If the flight serves a meal en route, most airlines offer special children's meals for their young travelers. However, a request must be made with the agent while booking the flight to order a children's meal. The airline will not have one on board for your child unless you request it ahead of time."

Once the plans have been set, it's time to prepare for the flight itself. First and foremost, if your child has a "comfort" item like a special blanket or teddy bear, be sure that item is on the plane and not packed away in a suitcase. This is especially important if your child uses a "comfort" item to fall asleep. Also, try to minimize carry-on luggage to one piece. (Of course an international flight is naturally longer and may require two carry-ons.) A sturdy backpack works great for this purpose as it leaves hands free while maneuvering through the airport. Here's the ultimate challenge: packing a lightweight carry-on bag. It's impossible to bring all your child's favorite toys and "what if" paraphernalia, but here's a list of must-have items.

1. Travel-size baby wipes;
2. Premium diapers (less likely to leak and more absorbent, won't have to change as often);
3. One set of extra clothing for the toddler;
4. Ready-mix formula and bottles if needed;
5. One extra shirt for you (things can get quite messy or spill quickly on an airplane);
6. Children's Tylenol or Motrin.

After the basics come the tricks of the trade -- the sanity savers -- the bribes. Here's a list of items to choose from that will come in handy.

1. A new toothbrush (great for toddlers to chew on and play with);
2. Flashy prepackaged, single-serve snacks (bags of cookies, crackers, fruit bars, etc.);
3. Small board books;
4. New, small toys gift-wrapped for added excitement;
5. Stickers;
6. Lollipops (for those who dare);
7. Juice boxes or use sippy cups with juice provided on the plane.

Many parents are concerned about their toddler's ears popping due to altitude changes and air pressure. A simple way to help this process is to have your toddler sip a drink or enjoy a lollipop during take off and landing. Frequent swallowing is what helps ears pop and stay clear. "Giving your child an antihistamine just before the flight also helps relieve pressure on the ears," says Nannette.

When the day of departure arrives, be sure to budget enough time so as to not be rushing around to get to the airport. The less stress the better. Michele McNally, a veteran traveler with toddlers, recommends, "Dress yourself in something cool because you will probably work up a sweat! It's helpful to dress your toddler in short sleeves and long pants -- you never know if the airplane will be too hot or too cold. This way your little one can brave either condition. Also, if you pack more than one suitcase, split everyone's clothes among them. If one suitcase gets lost, at least everyone still has something to wear." Remember to arrive at the airport at least one hour before a domestic flight and at least two hours before an international one. Consider using a stroller for your toddler and her gear right up to the gate of the aircraft. Airlines can "gate check" the stroller and have it waiting for you at the gate of your destination. If you are changing planes along the way, be certain your stroller is only checked to the connecting city if you'd like to use it mid-trip. Even though most flights announce that parents traveling with small children are welcome to board the plane first, this may be a disaster for fidgety toddlers. It may be beneficial to actually board the plane last so your toddler isn't sitting strapped in a car seat for a half-hour before take off.

Although it is a well-known fact that air travel is much safer than automobile travel, it's sensible to have a family plan in case of an emergency. If you're traveling alone with your toddler, the plan is obvious. But if you're traveling with your spouse, friends or other children, decide ahead of time who will be in charge of what child and which exit you will all head towards. Being prepared is half the battle when flying with a toddler. Just remember to relax, we were all kids once-- and that includes the elderly gentleman with the perfectly pressed three-piece suit sitting on the other side of your toddler.