Is there anything more thrilling than taking a long-haul flight with a baby and a little one in tow? Picture it: you’re soaring over oceans and continents, and you’re not particularly fond of flying. Let me tell you, my friends, that’s a unique kind of adventure!
Don’t believe me? Well, it seems you’ve stumbled upon my first piece of advice for flying internationally with small children: embrace denial. If the thought of flying makes you uneasy but air travel is unavoidable, you’re in for a ride, whether you like it or not.
Even if flying doesn’t fill you with dread, boarding a plane with little ones is all about letting go of expectations. Forget about enjoying that movie you’ve been dying to see. Say goodbye to sipping a leisurely adult beverage (which will either end up spilled or downed in haste). And don’t even think about catching a quick nap like you used to. Sedatives? Yeah, we’re denying those too.
Domestic travel can be a hassle enough—navigating security checks, lugging bags, and ensuring you’re at the right gate. Remember to leave behind your hypothetical switchblade and pepper spray (just kidding!) when you’re stuck next to a cranky young adult. But international journeys? They can be downright mind-boggling. Different customs, unfamiliar languages, and trying to remember if you should say your birth date as month/day or day/month can leave you dizzy. And don’t even get me started on miming “Duct tape?” or “Children’s allergy medication?” to duty-free staff who may not speak your language.
But don’t let any of that deter you from exploring the globe! Why miss out on incredible sites just because you’re a parent now? Pack up those little adventurers and show them the world! The sooner they get used to travel, the more enjoyable it will be for everyone. Bonus: while they’re under 2, they can fly without needing their own seat—score!
Before you jet off, choose a destination that caters to families, or you might find yourself hating the trip while your kids are less than thrilled with you. Sure, you might dream of visiting the Great Pyramids, but if Cairo is in turmoil, perhaps save that for a later adventure. Start with somewhere more family-friendly. Think about recreating Paddington Bear’s London escapade or booking a kid-approved getaway in sunny Spain. Scandinavia is also a solid choice, where everyone speaks better English than your high school English teacher!
You could even plan your trip around the most family-friendly airports. My top recommendation? Amsterdam’s Schiphol. It boasts a play area for kids, a cozy quiet room with cots and baby supplies, and a vibrant city that’s great for families (no contact highs here, I promise!).
When it comes to surviving a flight with kids, it’s all about damage control. You remember those days before you had kids when you’d spot a parent with Cheerios in their hair and think, “Yikes, I’m glad I’m not them!” Well, now you’re that parent, and you’ll do anything to keep your fellow passengers happy.
You’re going to need allies, especially if you’re traveling solo. Scope out a friendly-looking grandparent type or a helpful college student to befriend. Shower them with compliments and spin tales of how your toddler loves to travel. It might just save you when you need a quick bathroom dash with a little one in tow.
And trust me, you will need to rush to the restroom. On one of my countless trips from Europe back to Michigan, my son was newly potty trained while my younger one was still in diapers. Out of the 16-hour trek from the UK to Detroit, I barely sat down for more than 3 minutes—yikes!
Here’s another truth: the usual rules? They don’t apply. No juice for kids? Forget that! Keep them hydrated by any means necessary. Candy isn’t allowed? Well, it might just be your secret weapon for keeping them content (just save it for the end to avoid sugar-fueled chaos). Too much screen time is bad for their eyes? C’mon, you know you’d binge-watch a movie if given the chance—so let them enjoy it while they can sit still!
Most importantly, approach the trip with a positive mindset (and a bag full of books, toys, and snacks) and think about the fun you’ll have once you arrive. And if, like me, you dread flying, remember you’ll be so busy keeping your kids entertained that the time will fly by.
So pick up a guidebook, secure those flights, and charm the first grandmotherly passenger you see at the gate. Happy travels!