With holidays fast approaching, parents around the world will be worrying about the ‘pleasures’ of flying with kids. Those who travel with children for the first time will be surprised to notice how much care their little darlings need and how much it pays to be prepared. Fortunately, some strategic planning can help to avoid ‘flying with kids’ nightmare and have an easy and stress-free flight, especially when it’s a long air travel. Here are top tips from experienced mothers that will help you reach your preferred destination and get back home without ruining your vacation.
Choose the right flight time
Most mothers advise to consider the 6AM flight. At first sight it will sound to be the most terrible advice, as it includes having to get up at 4AM to get to the airport, or even at 3 AM. But, on the other hand, taking into account that a travel day is going to be crazy from start-to-finish, by getting your kids on the 6AM flight, you’ll have the following in your favor: during this hour of the day even if they didn’t get their normal sleep, it’s the beginning of the day and this might be a great chance to get them sleep on the plane. Choosing an early morning flight is also recommended for another reason – in case there is a problem and you miss the flight, you’ll have enough time to hopefully get re-booked or re-routed easily.
Have plenty of on-board entertainment
Deciding what to pack mainly depends on the age of your kids and their preferences. However, there are a few items that are fairly age-independent and will help you entertain your kids during the flight.
- Snacks, snacks, snacks…
At one point during your flight, your child will become hungry and there is no guarantee they will eat airplane food. And as far as buying food at the airport snack stand can be expensive, so make sure to bring a bunch of snacks, the ones your kids like much. Very often mothers tend to use junk food on flying days; it’s yummy, so even picky eaters will eat it. Do not forget to also have Lollipops, Raisins and Water with you, which will help with ear pain during take-off and landing. Stick to low-sugar options and food that won’t spoil quickly.
- Gadgets
While many planes have kid-friendly in-flight music, some children are comforted by listening to familiar stories. Bring an iPad, laptop, Pong Case and Kids Gear Wired Headphones, along with a selection of movies and games – this can be the secret charm to occupying their attention. You can also record a few of your kids’ favorite books.
- Books and art suppliers
Pack books, toys and art suppliers. The Ultimate Sticker Books by DK, for instance, are truly amazing. You can find books in every possible niche: from space to trains to diggers to animals to name but a few. No matter it’s a book or an audio book, consider choosing exciting or action-packed, so that you can focus your child’s attention on it for a period of time.
Coloring and drawing are always a favorite activity, so do not forget to bring pencils and coloring books. Stickers are also great for keeping children amused for a while – just give them an empty water bottle to decorate.
- Little gifts
Bring wrapped surprises (which can include everything: finger puppets, wind-up toys, small soft animals, magnets, squeezie balls, etc.) to present to your child as a reward for behaving good every half an hour or so. These do not have to be expensive and can even be one of your child’s old forgotten-about toys.
Be ready for fluctuating temperatures
With some planes being warm, some cold and some both at different times, you should dress your kids in layers and be prepared for all temperatures.
Walk around the plane when you can
If you are flying in a big plane, then allow your children to stretch their legs and look out of the plane at one of the fire exit windows for a few minutes.
Watch out of the ‘Plane Police’
A clever trick is to warn your children of the ‘Aeroplane Police,’ who are looking out for badly behaved children as they are not allowed to fly. This does not mean you should scare them, no, just explain them what can Aeroplane police do when they catch a naughty child.
