Any suggestions for toddler snacks that aren't too messy to take on a plane?

We've got a long flight ahead of us. We're planning to bring a bunch of new toys and such to placate the little one, and I'm trying to think of edibles to throw into the mix but can only come up with animal crackers at the moment (sleep deprivation).

I'd go with sugar free stuff. Cheerios are good (to me even). We also carry the lil' packets of flavor mix for bottled water. That, a sippy cup, and a water fountain... instant mute button. (Though will lead to a diaper/potty break eventually.)

We have flight plans in May... TheBoy is 4(goin' on 12), so I think we'll be fine, particularly with some electronic toddler gadgets, and I think our longest flight is 2 hours, if that. I'm probably gonna have to give up my window seat from now on... I hate that.

I've heard that $3-$5 gift cards for McDonalds, or some random (universal) store/restaurant can be a nice gesture for those immediately around you, if it becomes a rather, um, "challenging" flight for the wee one.

Good luck!

We have always thought of airplanes as "rule free zones" when it comes to nutrition and media. Whatever it takes to maintain the peace.

Let us know what snacks work the best.

Cheerios, string cheese (the individually wrapped kind - they keep very well).

We are hooked on GoldFish crackers and raisins!

How old is the kid? Oyster crackers, laughing cow cheese wedges (they are shelf stable ), and peanut butter filled salt free pretzels are also good choices.

My oldest has a small canvas bag from LLBean with a zipper top that we use as her goodie back. it is big enough for a sippy, a couple of toys and snacks. It will usually be enough to keep her occupied on a flight. We also use the bag at the grocery store (empty, of course) so she can take an item or two home. It keeps her in line and makes her feel like she is helping.

After I got all this great advice and stocked up on cheerios and such, my wife decided to throw caution to the wind and got a bowl of mixed berries from one of the airport restaurants and gave it to our 18-month-old. On the plane. Sigh.