9 Tips for Flying with Toddlers and Young Kids
When flying with young kids, it can be overwhelming for parents and caregivers who want to ensure a smooth journey. Here are nine practical tips tailored to help families navigate through the entire flying experience with ease and comfort.
Before the Trip
1. Set Them Up for Success
Before your flight takes off, it's essential to prepare your children by explaining what to expect during the journey. Besides having a conversation with your child about flying, consider watching kid-friendly videos on YouTube that vividly illustrate the flying experience and visiting the airport. Such videos are designed to be engaging and simple for youngsters to comprehend and remember.
2. Book Early Flights
Booking early morning departures whenever possible is a great tip for staying on schedule during your family travels. Opting for flights in the morning not only decreases the likelihood of delays during takeoff and landing but also sets the stage for a smoother journey. The quiet and sleepy atmosphere of the early hours can help little ones settle in for a nap, making the flight more enjoyable for everyone.
3. Stroller Swaps
Consider swapping out your regular day-to-day stroller with an umbrella stroller or travel stroller as they are much more compact and convenient for travel. When boarding the plane, remember to check your stroller at the gate so the airline crew can have it ready for you upon arrival at your destination.
4. Pack Smart
Every seasoned traveler understands the delicate art of finding the ideal equilibrium while preparing for a journey. The task becomes even more complex when accompanied by little explorers. Although each family has its unique needs, numerous essentials deserve a spot in your packing roster: nutritious snacks and meals, soothing comforts such as beloved plush toys or cozy blankets, electronic gadgets (don’t forget those headphones!), and crucial personal hygiene products like hand sanitizer, wipes, diapers, and pull-ups.
At the Airport
5. Choose Travel-Ready Outfits
Layers, layers, layers; whether you’re traveling from a cold climate to a hot one or if your kiddo is sensitive to changes in temperature, dressing in versatile layers can help to alleviate this major stressor. When it comes to what to wear, consider opting for slip-on shoes for the whole family to avoid any hold ups at TSA checkpoints. Additionally, remember that certain items like snacks, liquids, and electronics need to be readily accessible for removal during security screening, so pack them in an easily reachable manner.
6. Stock Up on Necessities
Don't worry if you forgot chargers, snacks, or water in your carry-on. Remember to stay hydrated while traveling by stopping by a terminal shop to purchase any essentials you may need, such as water, which is crucial for maintaining hydration levels, especially for travelers of all ages.
7. Take a Bathroom Break Before Boarding
To avoid bathroom issues on airplanes, it's advisable to ensure that everyone uses the restroom 15 minutes before boarding. This proactive approach takes into consideration the potential delays in accessing the onboard facilities once the flight is underway. By attending to this before departure, you can help prevent any inopportune restroom-related inconveniences during the journey.
On the Plane
8. Keep Them Occupied
Encourage your little ones to pack their carry-on bags with a variety of items that will keep them entertained throughout the entire flight. Toys, games, books, and snacks are all great options to include. A well-thought-out carry-on can make all the difference between enduring complaints of boredom and enjoying a peaceful, quiet journey.
9. Prepare for Ear Pressure
Babies and young kids may experience discomfort in their ears during takeoff or landing on a plane. To alleviate this sensation, offering them a bottle, breastfeeding, or providing a pacifier can help equalize the pressure in their ears. Children who have recently had an ear infection or a cold may face more significant challenges, making it advisable to consult a healthcare professional before air travel.
