Work really well - They have the Wiggles, Bob the Builder, etc. I always get a little "surprise" bag, like a fanny pack or a small back pack and let my son "pick" what he wants on the plane. I also pack a reserve in my suitcase, so there will be new "goodies" on the flight home. The little .99 cars, stickers, mini flashlight - they have Nemo, Lion King, etc (good to do on the flight there, then he can use it on dark rides, if he gets scared)
My son, now 4, flew the first time just before he turned one (3 hours to Boston from Florida), and has since flown to Las Vegas, California, Jamaica, and Turks & Caicos. He absolutely loves to be "Way up in the clouds, Mommy!!" and we have never had a problem.
A definite YES on the car seat, and the stroller. When he was younger, we always made sure he was drinking on take off and landing, and only once did we have an issue with ear pain.
Good Luck! You will have a great time!
iluvtig