Traveling with energetic children can be quite the challenge, especially when confined to an airplane. If you’re gearing up for a family getaway, here are five essential strategies to help you manage a flight with little ones.
- Consider Packing an Antihistamine: While this might not be for the kids, having some for yourself can be a lifesaver. If your children are having a meltdown and the flight attendants are yet to deliver the drink cart, a little relief for yourself could go a long way. No judgment here if you need it!
- Skip the Pre-Boarding: It’s tempting, but pre-boarding is not your friend. Why add more time to being crammed in a small space? Wait until the last possible moment to board. Let your kids burn off some steam before you’re stuck in your seats. Think of it as a pre-flight workout session in the airport!
- Opt for Comfortable Clothing: Choose elastic-waisted pants for everyone. With frequent trips in and out of your seats and snacking on pretzels and Cheez-Its, comfort is key. Trust me, a cranky child in jeans is a recipe for disaster. Also, remember that security will be a hectic experience; it’s not the time for your child to be fumbling with shoelaces. Go for easy footwear like Crocs.
- Aisle Seats Are Your Best Friend: If you can’t snag these seats initially, don’t hesitate to ask someone at the end of the row to switch. Kids will need to use the bathroom often, and it’s much easier if they don’t have to climb over passengers. If your child is under five, they might find airplane bathrooms intimidating, so you’ll likely need to accompany them. Be prepared; it’s a workout maneuvering little ones in a cramped space!
- Don’t Forget the Wipes: Just when you thought you could retire the wipes after diapering days, think again. You’ll need them for sticky hands and crumbs left behind after in-flight snacks. You may end up feeling like you’ve been covered in Jolly Ranchers and crushed crackers by the time you de-plane.
And while you might think that fellow passengers understand, take a look at their faces during boarding. The anxiety is palpable as they silently hope your child will keep moving. If your kid starts acting up (or worse), don’t be surprised if someone curses under their breath. Can you really blame them?
Summary
Traveling with young children can be a daunting task, especially on a plane. However, with a few strategies—like skipping pre-boarding, wearing comfortable clothing, and securing aisle seats—you can make the experience more manageable. And don’t forget to pack those wipes for inevitable messes! For more insights on family planning and pregnancy, check out this excellent resource or learn about home insemination kits for your family journey. Additionally, for further information on insemination, visit this authority.