Are you thinking aboutflying with kidsbut are a little nervous abouttraveling with children?
Ive got you covered with tips and tricks to make your next family vacation a breeze!
You will need to get a gate tag.
Hint: This also makes it easy to keep wandering toddlers close by!
This eliminates fighting since everyone is in control of their own stash.
Take Things to Do
Sure its exciting to sit by the window and ride in an airplane .
Bring things for your child to do waiting for or in the airplane.
Remember youdont want to bring your favorite toy which could get lost or spilled on.
Dont bring heavy things that will be bulky to carry.
Here are some suggestions of what to bring:
Here are somegreat book recommendations.
The parents, child, and other passengers are always grateful!
Take something NEW
Your children will be much more entertained by something that is new to them!
Our family has a tradition where I wrap up several new toys and put them in their carryons.
The kids are always to excited to open their presents!
That is almost as much fun as the present itself!
We wrap up simple things from the dollar section, fruit snack, stickers, etc.
Allow EXTRA time
When you are rushed everything always seems to go wrong!
Make a Plan!
Sure, its vacation.
But I truly believeplanning is the key to success.
Pack a day or two in advance to see to it everything you intend to pack is clean.
Print off directions to the airport and boarding passes in advance.
Confirm hotel or other travel arrangements 7 days in advance (sometimes reservations get lost!
Leaving on an early flight may work great for my family, but not for yours.
If you think something just wont work for your family thats okay!
Plan flights strategically
There are usually choices when it comes to flights.
Kid Suitcases
Every child Ive ever met wants their own suitcase.
Its like an extension of dress-up time!
They will love the sense of independence they get from havingmy suitcase.
Bring Water!
Unless you have babies you cant take liquid through security.
NOTE: Tap Airplane water is not safe to drink.
Pack _______ in a Parent Carry On
You should be selective in what you are carrying on.
But trust me youll be glad you did!
If you just have them travel in footie pajamas there feet are covered without the chance for loosing them.
Plus there is nothing to remove at security screenings.
Surviving TSA Screenings
Like them or hate them they are here to stay!
Have your child wear shoes that are easy to put on & take off.
If traveling with 2 parents send one parent in first followed by all the carryons.
Then begin sending the children through one by one with a parent at the end.
If a parent needs to be patted down separately you better ensure there is someone to watch children.
confirm your kids arent kicking chairs in front or bugging people.
When in doubt pull out the stickers!
Note: If despite your best effort your child is still just not behaving well.
Take a moment to apologize to others around you as you deplane.
Use the time to let your child stretch their legs and get out some energy.
Its not good for anyone to sit that long!
Plus, despite what we grown-ups think,airplane bathrooms are super cool to kids!
Should you Pre Board?
I dont think everyone should make a run at pre board with the family boarding time.Board early if .
Hint: Keep babies in carriers and toddlers in strollers.
Preschool and elementary age children should be trained to hold hands and stay close in the airport.
Remind them gently about stranger danger and the need to stay with you.
Teach them who to ask for help if they do get separated!
Carseats on Airplanes?
Your Vacation Starts Now!
Too many times we think the vacation part doesnt start until we arrive at our destination.
I urge you to view the trip as part of the vacation your kids do!
As we all have heard before, they grow up quickly!
(Here is Goofy learning to walk at the airport!)
Instead of taking everything but the kitchen sink, pack lightly!
It can be done!
Instead of packing tons of clothes, consider doing laundry along your trip!
Then youll save on luggage costs and nuisance of hauling it all!
Dress for Comfort
Wear something you are comfortable wearing/sitting in.
We traveled a lot growing up.
I loved flying my suitcase, the airplane food, the little bathrooms, and the moving walkways.
But most of it is a blur.
Nothing Left Behind
Inevitably something is going to get left on the plane!
I remember one time we left our portable DVD player (before i pads) on the plane.
Got a Tip?
If you have a tip for me Id love to hear it!
