Traveling on a plane with kids can be a daunting prospect. Between the cost of the tickets, the uncertainty of weather, and the demands that come with wrangling a group of little ones, the rigors of air travel can present you with challenges you weren’t expecting. But with the right strategy, you can make your flight an enjoyable experience for everyone. So, plan ahead and stay flexible – here are some great tips for navigating air travel with kids and ensuring a successful flight.
1. Prepping the Kids for Takeoff
Taking kids on a long journey by plane can be daunting experience. So with any journey it is important to be prepared. Here are a few tips to help get the kids ready:
- Make sure they are comfortable: Ascertain the kids have comfortable and practical clothes to wear. Pick items specifically designed for travel, so they can move about easily and think about what temperatures they may be faced with.
- Educate them about flying: Kids can be apprehensive about flying, so ensure they understand the process. Explain the plane journey to them clearly in terms they will understand. Discuss the on-board procedures and what to expect – such as wearing their seatbelt and having to wait while the plane is still on the runway.
- Entertain: Travelling with children can be tiring and stressful. Plenty of entertainment will help keep them occupied. Bring toys and books, as well as candy or treats that are only allowed during flights. Consider buying new items they haven’t seen before – this will help keep them occupied and surprised.
These tips are just the start of getting kids ready for a flight, but they establish a great foundation for the journey. Once you start the journey, there are still plenty of steps to keep in mind to ensure that the travel experience is enjoyable and comfortable for you and the kids.
2. Making Flights Fun and Stress-Free
Travelling can be an exciting yet slightly overwhelming experience. Fortunately, there are a few simple tips and tricks that can help make any flight a happy and stress-free ride. Here are a few:
- Pack light – The last thing you want is to be weighed down with heavy bags when crossing through the airport. Take only the absolute essentials, and maybe even consider travelling carry-on only if you’re able.
- Stay informed – There’s nothing worse than being surprised at the last minute when a gate changes or a flight is delayed. Download an airline app, or use the airline website to keep updated on any upcoming changes.
If all the hustle of the airport is getting a bit too much, why not take a few moments to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee, or sit and read the free newspapers in most departure lounges? This can be a nice way to ease into the flight experience before the journey in the sky.
- Plan ahead and be prepared – Pre-book seats in advance if you would like to ensure you can choose the seat you like. Print off your flight tickets or itinerary in advance so you won’t have to scramble for it at the last minute.
- Close your eyes and drift off – If all else fails, why not just close your eyes and drift off to a peaceful dreamland during your flight? Before you know it, you’ll be arriving at your final destination!
3. Keeping Kids Comfortable in the Air
Air travel with young children can be a challenging experience. Thankfully, there are some steps parents can take to help their children stay comfortable and happy while in the skies.
- Bring snacks, drinks, and toys. Keeping your little ones fed, hydrated, and distracted will help make the time go by more quickly. Pack a variety of snacks and drinks, both healthy and sweet, along with some engaging toys and activities (including some special new ones!) to keep your children entertained in the air.
- Stay comfortable. Wearing comfortable clothes and shoes may not seem necessary for a short flight, however, young children can become uncomfortable quickly, especially in a confined space. Dress your children in clothes made for movement—avoid anything too tight, and be sure to take extra socks and a warm layer like a cardigan or zip-up jacket.
- Prepare for the journey. If you’re going on a longer flight, plan ahead. Invest in items like a travel pillow or an iPad loaded with movies and cartoons to help pass the time. Talk to your children beforehand about what to expect during the trip, and explain why safety rules must be followed on the airplane.
Taking even just a few of these steps before leaving for the airport can help prepare both parents and children for a more pleasant air travel experience. And, of course, don’t forget a couple of surprise treats for after the flight! With these tips, you and your family are sure to have a stress-free and enjoyable flight!
4. Arriving at Your Destination Smiling
You have been travelling for hours, if not days, and you have finally arrived! Your destination is just around the corner, the journey is about to be completed. Now is the time to arrive smiling, so here are some tips on doing just that:
- Be prepared: Knowing you have everything covered, will put a smile on your face when you arrive. Bring a water bottle, snacks, your charger and any other items will make the process smoother.
- Stay present: Bask in the beauty of the moment and the wonders of your journey. Try to stay focused on the beauty of the world around you and forget the passing hours.
- Have an end goal: Anticipation, when combined with hope, can fill you with joy. Remind yourself what awaits you in your destination and worry less about the journey itself.
Take the time to be thankful for the journey and how it has shaped you. Think of what the experience has given you, and how it made you stronger. Soon you will arrive at your destination full of joy and gratitude for the journey. Reach for the stars and arrive with a smile on your face.
Traveling with kids can be a daunting experience, but with these tips and a bit of planning ahead, you can make the adventure a fun and stress-free experience for the whole family. So strap in, enjoy the natural silliness, and buckle up for a successful flight!
