Taking a long international flight with your child is an adventure that often straddles the line between daring and downright crazy. When we shared our travel plans, the responses ranged from excitement to disbelief, particularly when people realized our little one was coming along for the ride. We initially shrugged off their skepticism as silly, but it turns out, they may have been onto something. Here are the five types of people you’re likely to meet when you board that plane with your children, many of whom we’ve encountered on countless journeys since.
1. The Corporate Nomad
This is the fellow passenger who dreams of using this flight to catch up on work, enjoy a good book, or sneak in some much-needed shut-eye. Of course, fate has a way of seating him right next to you. While he may attempt to maintain a polite facade, the disappointment etched on his face as your toddler throws a tantrum is hard to miss. Don’t be surprised if he starts planning his vasectomy as soon as the wheels touch down.
2. Mr. Chill
Another child-free traveler, Mr. Chill has little regard for those around him. He’s the guy who talks way too loudly, indulges in too many drinks, and inadvertently teaches your child a few choice words. He’s sprawled out in front of you, reclining his seat to the max, which only adds to your already cramped legroom. If the universe has any justice, his future will involve a trio of colicky infants.
3. The Rule Enforcer
Picture this: you’re racing to the plane’s cramped restroom (which might as well be a torture chamber) to change your baby, who has just had an explosive diaper incident. Enter the flight attendant, who kindly reminds you that the seatbelt sign is still illuminated. With your dignity in tatters, you shuffle back to your seat, still sporting remnants of the diaper disaster. For the rest of the flight, she will be on high alert, strictly enforcing the rules for you and your little ones while conveniently ignoring the rowdy 10-year-old behind you.
4. The Perfect Family
You know them—the family that seems to have it all figured out. Their kids are dressed impeccably, behaving like angels, and happily engaging in quiet activities like coloring or reading. They even munch on organic, homemade snacks while conversing sweetly among themselves. The flight attendant can’t help but admire them, casting disapproving glances your way as you, on the other hand, are desperately trying to clean up mashed peas from your outfit.
5. The Tiny Tornadoes
These little ones are the embodiment of chaos. They dart down the aisles, scream at the top of their lungs, and press every button they can find. Their bathroom trips are timed perfectly for takeoff and landing, and they are the reason why you wonder if you might actually go insane. Their parents are frazzled and mortified, constantly checking their watches as if that could somehow speed up time. Yes, you guessed it—this is you.
Traveling with kids can be a wild ride, but it’s ultimately a fantastic way to bond and enrich their lives. While the theory of family travel is delightful, in practice, we’ve decided to limit our flights to just once a year (or maybe five if we’re feeling brave). For more tips on navigating travel with little ones, check out this helpful resource on pregnancy week by week.
In the end, while air travel can test your patience, it’s an experience that helps your children grow culturally and socially.