Travel Tips: Flying with Kids
As any parent knows, flying with kids can sometimes be a stressful experience. It is important to plan ahead and pack right to avoid those tantrums on board. So we’ve put together some tips so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the experience:
Before you Fly
Some of the airport rituals that we are used to may be scary for little kids so make sure they know in advance what is expected during the security process. Also arrive early at check-in and ask if it’s possible to be seated next to an empty seat. This empty seat, if available, will provide more room for your child to play and sleep. If you have a toddler, they can get tired of walking very fast so pack an inexpensive umbrella type stroller.
Pack Snacks
Relying on airplane snacks and meals often won’t cut it so pack little bags of crackers and cookies or granola bars. If the airline you’re flying on does provide kids meals, be sure to pre-order them at least forty-eight hours in advance.
Embrace Technology
Distract your child with new toys and books but get maximum use from them and only allow them to play with one at a time. Also if you are travelling with a laptop, portable DVD player or iPad, load it up with your child’s favorite movies to help pass the time and bring child-safe earphones so they fit comfortably and won’t slip off. If you have a smartphone, there are dozens of apps/games aimed at young kids so add those to your phone before your travel.
Catch some Zzz’s
Sleeping on a plane is hard for anyone but every child needs their nap time so make it comfortable for them on the flight and dress them in their pajamas and pack their favourite snuggle toy.
Happy travels and good luck!
Have some other great tips? Leave them in the comments below! Looking for more tips? Check out our Travelling with Kids and Infants Series or contact one of our agents at 1-866-502-4605 to start planning your next family vacation.
About the Author
Emma Hackwood a freelance copywriter, amateur glider pilot and full-time adventure seeker, has travelled extensively in pursuit of her lifelong dream of simply seeing it all. Up to over 50 countries, she lists American Samoa and the seldom visited Marquesas Islands as her current favourite destinations, with a wandering eye on Guam and Tonga to complete her Pacific escapades.
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