Traveling with little ones can be a chaotic adventure, especially when flying. I’ve been through the ups and downs of flying with my kids for years, and through trial and error, I’ve gathered some insights to help you navigate the skies. Here’s how to survive flying with kids, based on my own experiences and a little humor.
- DO Try to Encourage Sleepiness: If you’re traveling with a toddler, use some creative persuasion to get them in the mood for a nap. Whisper soothing phrases like, “You’ll feel so cozy and sleepy on the plane.” I once did this successfully and my daughter fell asleep as soon as we boarded—unlike our previous flight where she bounced around like a hyperactive kangaroo.
- DO Pack Plenty of Familiar Snacks: Bring along a variety of snacks, drinks, and diapers. You never know when travel hiccups might leave you stuck in an airport. I once found myself in a situation where my toddler turned her nose up at all the food I bought at the airport, opting only for a questionable cheese snack I had packed earlier. Desperate times call for desperate measures!
- DON’T Let Cranky Passengers Rattle You: Some travelers might not understand why your baby is crying, but don’t let their grumpiness bring you down. Just remember, karma is real, and they might find themselves next to a wailing baby on their next flight.
- DON’T Medicate Without Caution: Avoid giving your little ones Benadryl to help them sleep. A friend tried this with her twins, and instead of calming down, they became even more hyper. You definitely don’t want to be stuck on a flight with kids who are more awake than usual!
- DO Bring Hand Sanitizer: It’ll give you peace of mind as you navigate the germ-infested environment of an airport. Just be prepared for the inevitable when your child discovers creative ways to explore their surroundings—like putting their seatbelt in their mouth. You can explain to them that airports probably have germs everywhere, which might just cut down on the licking!
- DON’T Overpack Toys: Forget bringing a million toys along. Kids are more interested in making life difficult than playing with new toys. The best “toys”? Ask the flight attendant for some cups and straws; they can provide hours of entertainment without the hassle.
- DO Keep Dum Dum Suckers Handy: When your child is on the verge of a meltdown, a simple sucker can work wonders. Once, a kind stranger handed me one during a particularly rough moment, and it helped to calm my toddler down. Just remember, candy from strangers can save the day!
- DO Allow Screen Time: Let your older child use electronic devices to keep them entertained. While you’re managing a mini tornado, you won’t have the bandwidth to answer endless questions about how flight works or why things smell funny.
- DO Accept Help, Even If It Feels Condescending: When struggling with your kids and luggage, if someone offers assistance, take it—even if their tone suggests they think you’re a bit of a disaster. Trust me, your sanity will appreciate the help.
- DON’T Envy Those Traveling Without Kids: That woman sipping her cocktail while reading a magazine may look appealing, but remember: your time will come! One day, you’ll travel kid-free with all the style, and you might even miss these chaotic moments (or maybe not).
In summary, surviving a flight with kids often requires a mix of creativity, humor, and a few survival strategies. Embrace the chaos, accept help when it comes, and don’t forget to pack some snacks and hand sanitizer! For more insights, check out this resource and consider looking into effective solutions for your family.