Best Tips for Flying with Children

It seems compulsory that any flight to any destination be accompanied by one of the following: crying baby, cranky and argumentative toddler and everyone’s favorite, the fidgety preschooler. My flights are usually doubly blessed with a combination of two or more of these. We all know that flying with children creates a special kind of challenge not only to parents, but to all of the other passengers on board the plane as well. Following a few easy tips, however, can make flying with children a much more pleasurable experience for everyone.

1) Whenever possible when traveling with children, try to book a nonstop flight. The frustration saved from trying to keep track of little ones while racing to a connecting flight terminal more than compensates for the additional money spent for the nonstop flight. Especially when the flight is an international one, some items carried on board could be confiscated during connecting flights; items such as milk, fruit and meats cannot be transported into the United States from other countries, and vice versa. On a nonstop flight, this will not be an issue.

2) Travel at non-peak times whenever you are able. By flying on Mondays and Wednesdays, midday and evening hours, the passenger load is much lighter alleviating aggravation.

3) Check in advance with the airline for their policies on carrying on fluids and foods for the child. You will need to know how much you are able to bring with you in terms of bottles containing water, juices and milk/formula. If possible, taking the baby’s own food with utensils is desirable, and packing snacks and foods for the older child that they enjoy will keep routines normal.

3) If your child needs diaper changing, ensure that you have plenty of supply of diapers, creams and lotions with you. A comfortable baby is a happier baby.

4) Take along a few of the smaller and squishier toys that are the child’s favorites. A new toy or game will also keep the child well occupied for longer periods.

5) It may be helpful to invest in a child harness for those independent toddlers and preschoolers. Making your way through crowded airports will be so much easier knowing that your child is safely tethered to you.

[smartads]6) Use a larger than normal handbag when traveling; this will enable you to keep necessary documents, small toys and snacks within an easy reach, avoiding the frustrating fumbling for that one item that refuses to be found when needed.

7) Try to arrange to board the plane early and to be one of the last to depart the plane. This will not only keep your children out of the crowds of people also getting on and off the plane, but the flight attendants will also have more time to devote to helping you.

Traveling with small children can be a trial, but a few easy tips can make the process a little easier on the parent, the child and for the passengers who are also traveling with you. Helping your child/children to be as comfortable as possible on the trip will make the entire air travel a more enjoyable experience.