Would you fly longish haul with 3mo and 2yo on your own?

[redrum29]

I'm thinking of heading to see my parents next month with my newish born and toddler. As we live abroad, they don't see these particular grandchildren that often. I am also going back at Christmas with my husband.
I will definitely travel with the baby, but wondering if it is insane to even think of travelling with both baby and my 2.3 yo toddler, who is quite wilful and apt to run off. Has anyone done it alone (my husband can't join b/c of work), and is it worth it, or should I just wait till December...? I find travelling with a newborn stressful at the best of times..
Grateful for any thoughts.

No I wouldn't. I managed longhaul (Aus-UK and back) on my own with DS1 from age 2-4, and that was ok; and I managed on my own when DS2 came along because by then DS1 was 5 and that was ok too. But that was because by the time DS2 came along, DS1 was well able to look after himself in terms of sitting watching the VOD, take himself to the toilet (we have bulkhead seats so we are right near the toilet) and not get scared if I have to take DS2 to be changed etc.

I'm sure it's manageable, with the age gap you're talking about, but I wouldn't want to do it. And I agree that the toddler is way more of a challenge in this scenario than the baby.

Tips if you do decide to do it though - invest in a set of reins. I had DS1 in reins in the airport, especially for connection waiting times, until he was 4 just because the tiredness would sometimes make him hyperactive, while I was about ready to drop through the floor, and it took a lot of the risk out of the situation. Of course if your toddler won't wear reins then that's an even bigger reason to avoid doing this by yourself, IMO.

I have travelled alone with my two on long haul flights quite often. They are older now so it is easier. Sometimes it worked out well, other times it was awful. It is not predictable.

As an earlier poster said you have to keep your eye on the prize. Once you get to where you want to be, you will get some help.

I have always viewed that it can only be as bad as your worst day at home and it won't last forever.

How long is the flight? Can you make sure someone meets you from the airport?

Take as little as possible with you on the plane. I think reins are a good suggestion, I have never used them (but wish I had, my DC2 is a runner).

Why do you find traveling stressful with your newborn?