Erica Travelling with children can be a bit of a hassle at the best of times. However, if you’re looking to get out of the country with them, then it can become truly one of the biggest challenges that you have taken on as a parent. Thankfully, you’re the first person to get on a plane with kids and there is some wisdom to inherit. Here, we’re going to look at some of the best tips to help things fly a little more smoothly.
Avoid stopovers as much as possible
Take your time to really look at the available flights for your destination. You want to book direct flights as much as possible, as any stopovers or periods of waiting are only going to increase the tiredness factor, and can make it much harder for your kids to settle down. They’re going to be tired after touching down, so you want to be close to a bed. Flying at night can also be a good idea as they’re more likely to fall asleep during it.
Know your child-friendly airlines
Not all airlines are the same. Take the time to research the best airlines for flying with children. The different perks they offer can make a big difference. Free seat reservations will make it a lot easier to ensure that you and your children are seated together. Some airlines offer pre-boarding for families so that you don’t have to keep young children pacified while queuing up to get on. Others offer things like kid’s meals and free entertainment that can just make it that much easier to ensure a smooth flight.
Make it easier to get around
If you have a young child, then you want to make sure that getting them to and around the airport, as well as on the plane, isn’t as much of a hassle as it can be. The equipment we use for this, especially strollers, can be too big, too bulky, and generally a bit of a pain in the neck. An aeroplane stroller is a much more practical and space-saving solution worth considering. It’s also perfectly suitable for everyday use, so it’s not something you’re only going to use just a couple of times.
Be ready for their ear pain
A lot of parents are surprised by the sudden pain and crying that can happen when a plane takes off. The change in pressure can be a new, uncomfortable, and honestly, scary experience for children. There are a lot of ways to clear up their ears, such as giving them a snack to chew on, as chewing can help the ears pop and give immediate relief. If they have a cold or are congested, it can make it worse, so medications to help clear their sinuses up can help, too.
If the prospect of flying with your little ones sounds a little too daunting, there are always attractions closer to home to take a look at. Otherwise, we hope the tips above help you keep the peace.
