Traveling by air with children can be a daunting experience, as my first solo flight with my eight-month-old son vividly illustrates. Picture this: I hand him a supposedly engaging toy, only to watch it sail three aisles away with pinpoint accuracy. I attempt to rock him to sleep, completely forgetting our hard-earned sleep training, leading to a dramatic showdown that would make a circus look tame. And when the unpleasant smell hits, I foolishly think I can perform a diaper change while he’s perched on my lap—spoiler alert: I was mistaken.
Having journeyed through nearly seven years of air travel with my two kids to visit relatives, I’ve gathered some practical tips to help you survive the experience.
1. DO Try Subliminal Messaging
If you’re traveling with a toddler, consider planting the idea that they will feel very sleepy on the plane. I once whispered this to my daughter earlier in the day, and to my surprise, she dozed off as soon as we boarded. This was a stark contrast to our last trip, where I spent the entire flight wrestling with her like a wild animal.
2. DO Pack Familiar Snacks
Bring plenty of familiar food, milk, and diapers. Air travel can be unpredictable, and you never know when you might find yourself stuck at a remote airport. Once, my toddler refused all airport food and insisted on the warm cheese I had packed hours earlier. In desperation, I let her eat it.
3. DON’T Let Cranky Passengers Bother You
Some travelers may not understand why your baby is crying or think you’re not handling it well. Remember, their discomfort is not your fault. Karma has a way of balancing things out, and that grumpy passenger might just end up next to a crying baby for every future flight.
4. DON’T Medicate Your Kids for Sleep
Some parents have tried giving their children Benadryl to induce sleep on flights. This can backfire spectacularly, as it might make some kids even more hyperactive. The last thing you want is to be trapped on a plane with extra energetic little ones.
5. DO Carry Hand Sanitizer
It offers peace of mind, especially when your child decides to explore the germ-laden environment of an airport. I once caught my son trying to chew on his seatbelt! Educate them about germs, and it may help curb their curiosity.
6. DON’T Overpack Toys
Children often lose interest in toys when they’re on the plane. Instead, ask your flight attendant for some plastic cups and straws; they make great, low-cost entertainment.
7. DO Have Dum Dum Suckers on Hand
They can be lifesavers during meltdowns. I once received one from a kind stranger during a particularly tough moment, and it worked wonders to calm my daughter down.
8. DO Allow Screen Time
Let your older child indulge in whatever games or shows are available on electronic devices. It’s a survival tactic, and you likely won’t have the bandwidth to answer a million questions about how planes work or why certain things smell.
9. DO Accept Help When Offered
Even if the offer feels condescending, it’s okay to accept assistance. I once stubbornly declined help while struggling with bags and kids, only to regret it later. Take all the help you can get to maintain your sanity.
10. DON’T Envy Other Passengers
You might see someone enjoying their flight in peace, but remember that you will travel without kids someday. Embrace the chaos now—because when you get that chance, it’ll be time to celebrate with a martini!
In summary, flying with kids can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it can also be manageable. Preparing for the unexpected, accepting assistance, and keeping your sense of humor intact will go a long way.
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