Travelling with kids
I am no expert on traveling with kids, but I did my research for our upcoming trip and have found these tips very helpful when in the planning process. #1 takeaway I have…DO NOT WING IT! Check out my lists of must-haves and to-do’s to get you through it seamlessly.
Flight Plans
1. Fly as Early as Possible
It’s your best chance to avoid delays at takeoff and landing, a flight attendant named Patrick explains. “These flights are usually less crowded, too,” he says, “and everyone is basically tired and just wants to nap — kids especially.”
2. Do Layers, Skip Laces
Be ready for drastically changing temperatures when flying. Wendy, a flight attendant and mom, suggests that you dress your kids in comfortable layers–preferably without buttons, zippers, or anything that could prevent them from getting to the bathroom in time. The same principle applies to shoes: Avoid laces and opt for slip-ons. “There’s the added benefit of getting through airport screening that much faster,” she says.
3. Switch Strollers
When you can, minimize. Getting through an airport without a stroller is unthinkable for some parents, so consider switching out your regular-size stroller for an umbrella stroller. If you’ve got more than one little traveler with you, consider a kid harness (leash). I was so against them until I read of a woman with three young boys using them in baggage claim because the exits were close by. Look, flying is stressful enough. Do what you need to do to protect your kids and your sanity.
4. Seat Kids Away From the Aisle
It can be dangerous for them. As the food and beverage cart passes by, little hands are in reach of hot coffee or water.
5. By All Means, Use Pull-Ups
Your toddler may have moved beyond Pull-Ups, but they are a great resource when flying. It’s much less stressful than having to race to the bathroom or deal with an in-seat accident.
6. Beware of Germs
Wipe down everything and above all else, do not send your kids to the bathroom without shoes. “The floor is a Petri dish,” a flight attendant confides. “You’re in the air, things jostle. That’s not just water on the bathroom floor.”
7. Bring Surprises
A wrapped new plaything has two advantages: Kids love to unwrap stuff, and a new toy has more attention-grabbing pull.
8. Prepare for Air Pressure
After passing through security, be sure to stock up on enough water for everyone to get through a possible delay and have enough left for the descent–the most bothersome time for ear pressure discomfort. Have them drink some right after takeoff and then make sure they start drinking again during the last 30 to 45 minutes of the descent. The swallowing helps with the pressure and gives the added hydrating benefit.
9. Pack Just Enough
Flight attendants urge parents to pack enough essentials for the flight. “Unfortunately, you can expect there to be zero food on a plane that would interest a kid,” says Lynn. “And we are so limited in what we can offer in terms of comfort items as well.” On the flip side, parents will struggle if they overpack. “Usually, when it’s one parent traveling with one or more kids, they’ll bring way too much stuff in an attempt to keep their kids happy,” Lynn says. “They forget they have to carry all that stuff off the plane with them, along with their kids.”
FAA Packing List
– 1 Comfort item — If it’s a pacifier, be sure to bring more than one, lest it get flung down the aisle or on the floor
– Sanitizer, wipes, Pull-ups, and diapers. One diaper per hour of travel is recommended
– Smartphones and tablets — Loaded with your kids’ favorite movies or shows. .
– Kid-Size headphones
– Art supplies — See list below
– Plastic bags for trash
– Water
– Low-sugar snacks: Cheerios, pretzels, crackers, nuts, string cheese, and granola bars are good options
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