The holiday travel season is upon us, and if you’re preparing to fly with little ones, I wish you a journey filled with peace and joy. However, when flying with children, there are certain truths you cannot escape. Here are 10 unavoidable realities you will likely encounter:
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The Not-So-Functional Changing Table
For those unfamiliar, the infamous “changing table” is typically found in the front lavatory of the aircraft. You’ll find yourself waiting for the “occupied” sign to turn off, racing down the aisle once it’s your turn. Once inside, you might be surprised to discover that the changing table is about as spacious as a skateboard, making it nearly impossible to change your little one without a struggle. Expect a visit from a flight attendant after your child inadvertently hits the emergency call button. -
Goodbye to Refreshing Beverages
Gone are the days of leisurely sipping on a beverage during your flight. When the drink cart approaches, it’s best to decline anything except perhaps water—no ice, lid, or straw—because anything within reach of the children is likely to end up spilled on you or the seats. -
The Perils of a Lap Child
While it’s financially advantageous that children under two fly for free on your lap, the reality is that once they surpass one year, they consume all available space. The tray table remains stowed, and reaching for anything in the seat pocket becomes an acrobatic feat, especially if you’re also pregnant and managing two bodies on one seat. -
The Endless Seatbelt Sign
Just when you think it’s safe to head to the restroom, your potty-training child will declare an urgent need as soon as the seatbelt sign illuminates. I learned the hard way that attempting to bring him to the bathroom during takeoff is not advisable. The result? Wet pants before you can even stretch your legs. -
Nutrition Takes a Backseat
I’m usually strict about my children’s diets, but once we’re airborne, all rules fly out the window. The thought of a toddler tantrum over snack choices is enough to make me surrender to the allure of cookies and chips. After all, a few minutes of quiet is worth any temporary dietary lapse. -
The Agony of Unforeseen Flight Changes
Imagine finally getting your child to sleep before takeoff, only to face a delay that forces everyone off the plane. I once endured an emergency landing with my two toddlers, turning what should have been a peaceful flight into a chaotic ordeal. It was a lesson in patience and resilience. -
Unrequested Suggestions
During the flight, you’ll likely encounter well-meaning strangers offering unsolicited advice, like suggesting that nursing your baby during takeoff will alleviate ear pressure. While I appreciate the thought, it can be overwhelming when you’re already juggling multiple responsibilities. -
Potty Breaks Are a Family Affair
When flying solo with both kids, bathroom trips become a group activity. Picture me holding my infant while assisting my son in a cramped airplane lavatory. It’s enough to make anyone reconsider potty training decisions. -
Excessive Luggage
Traveling with children means bringing along a multitude of items. On a recent flight, my cargo included a stroller, a pack ‘n play, two car seats, and several suitcases. Even a short trip can feel like an expedition with all the necessary gear. -
Temporary Amnesia About Flying
Despite the chaos of flying with children, I find myself forgetting the hardships and booking another trip. It’s as if I suffer from short-term memory loss when it comes to travel with kids.
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Summary
Flying with young children presents a series of challenges, from cramped changing tables to unsolicited advice from fellow passengers. While strict dietary rules may relax mid-flight, the need for patience, resourcefulness, and a sense of humor becomes paramount. Despite the chaos, many parents find themselves booking another trip, perhaps in blissful forgetfulness of past adventures.