We all know that traveling with kids can feel like preparing for a marathon. Between managing their energy levels, keeping them entertained, and ensuring they stay calm, there’s a lot to juggle. But fear not! With the right preparation and a few unique tricks up your sleeve, you can make flying a more pleasant experience for both you and your little ones. Here are some amazing and unique tips to help you navigate air travel with kids smoothly.
1. Choose the Right Flight
Booking the right flight can make all the difference when traveling with kids.
• Nonstop Flights: Whenever possible, choose nonstop flights to minimize the hassles of layovers and changing planes. Trust me, fewer transitions mean fewer meltdowns! I learned this the hard way on a multi-leg flight where my toddler decided layovers were the perfect time to explore every corner of the airport.
• Timing Matters: Book flights that align with your child’s sleep schedule. Red-eye flights can be great for overnight travel, allowing your child to sleep through most of the journey. On our first red-eye flight, my little one slept almost the entire trip, making it so much easier for both of us.
• Family Seating: Ensure you book seats together. Some airlines allow you to select seats in advance, so grab those family-friendly spots early! A window seat can be a great distraction for curious kids who love to look outside.
2. Pack Smart Carry-Ons
Your carry-on is your survival kit. Here’s how to pack it wisely.
• Entertainment Galore: Pack a variety of small toys, books, and non-electronic activities. A new toy or activity can be a lifesaver! I always include a mix of familiar favorites and a few new surprises to keep things interesting.
• Sticker Books: Endless fun with minimal mess. Kids love peeling and sticking, and it keeps them occupied for quite a while. Trust me, those little stickers can be a big hit. They’re also easy to peel off and move around, which adds to the fun without creating a mess.
• Coloring Books and Crayons: A classic choice that never fails. Choose mess-free markers to avoid any accidental airplane art. There’s something soothing about coloring that can keep kids engaged for hours. Plus, it’s a great way to encourage creativity.
• Magnetic Travel Games: Compact and perfect for small spaces, these games are great for quiet play. Think magnetic chess, checkers, or even tic-tac-toe. They’re easy to manage and less likely to lose pieces.
• Play-Doh: Just a small amount can provide a lot of entertainment, letting kids sculpt and create. It’s tactile and fun, and you’d be surprised how long it can keep them busy. Just make sure to pack it in a resealable bag to keep it fresh.
• Activity Books: Puzzles, mazes, and word searches can keep older kids engaged. They challenge their minds and keep them focused on solving problems. It’s educational and fun rolled into one!
• Pipe Cleaners: Super versatile and spark creativity. Kids can twist them into shapes, letters, or little creatures. They’re easy to bend, and you can create so many different things. I’ve seen my daughter make everything from flowers to little animals.
• Post-It Notes: Kids love sticking these everywhere, and they can be used for drawing or creating simple crafts. My child loves creating little stories and sticking them around her seat area. They’re easy to clean up too!
• Drawing Tablet: A reusable drawing tablet can provide endless drawing and erasing fun. It’s mess-free and can be used over and over again. Perfect for a budding artist or just doodling to pass the time.
• Card Games and Travel Board Games: Look for versions with minimal small pieces to avoid the nightmare of dropped items. Games like UNO or a travel-sized Connect Four can be great options. They’re easy to play and pack away.
• New Books and Toys: The novelty of something new can keep kids entertained longer. I always save a new book or toy for when they start to get restless. It’s like a special treat that can capture their attention.
• Yoto or Audiobooks: A Yoto player or downloaded audiobooks can provide hours of storytelling without the screen time. My daughter loves listening to stories, and it’s a great way to keep her entertained while giving her eyes a break from screens.
• Snacks, Snacks, Snacks: Bring a variety of healthy snacks. Think bite-sized fruits, cheese sticks, and crackers. Hungry kids are grumpy kids! I always pack a little extra because you never know when there might be a delay. Having their favorite snacks on hand can make a world of difference.
• Comfort Items: Bring along their favorite blanket or stuffed animal. Familiar items can provide comfort and make the airplane feel a bit more like home. My daughter’s favorite Mickey Mouse Plush doll has been a lifesaver on many flights. It’s like having a little piece of home with us.
3. Prepare for Takeoff and Landing
These moments can be tough on little ears. Be ready!
• Chewing and Sipping: Bring along gum, lollipops, or a sippy cup to help alleviate ear pressure during takeoff and landing. Nursing or giving a bottle to infants can also help. These simple tricks can make a huge difference in keeping them comfortable.
• Distraction Mode: Have a special toy or game ready to pull out during these times to distract and entertain. I usually save the most exciting toy for this part of the flight to ensure my daughter is fully engaged. It’s like pulling out a secret weapon when you need it most.
4. Create a Travel Routine
Kids thrive on routine, even when traveling.
• Pre-Flight Prep: Talk to your kids about what to expect during the flight. Create a fun, mini routine before the trip, like packing their own travel bag or choosing a favorite toy to bring. We have a pre-flight checklist that my daughter loves to go through – it makes her feel like a big part of the adventure.
• In-Flight Schedule: Break down the flight into manageable segments with activities. For example, start with a snack, then move to a coloring book, then a short movie, and so on. This structure helps manage their expectations and keeps them entertained.
5. Dress Comfortably
Comfort is key for a happy traveler.
• Layer Up: Airplanes can be chilly. Dress your kids in comfortable layers that are easy to remove or add as needed. I always pack an extra sweater and a pair of cozy socks. Layers are great because you can adjust as needed without too much fuss.
• Easy Access: Choose outfits that are easy to take on and off for diaper changes or trips to the bathroom. Trust me, those airplane bathrooms are not the place for complicated outfits. Simple, easy-to-remove clothing can make a big difference.
6. Unique Tricks to Keep Kids Engaged
These tips are game-changers!
• Gift Wrap Surprises: Wrap small toys or snacks in wrapping paper. The unwrapping process itself is exciting and keeps them entertained. My daughter loves unwrapping little surprises – it’s like a mini birthday party on the plane!
• Window Clings: Bring reusable window stickers for them to play with on the plane windows. They’re easy to pack and provide endless fun. My child can spend a good amount of time creating little scenes on the window.
• DIY Snack Necklaces: String cereal or dried fruit on a piece of yarn to create edible jewelry. It’s a snack and an activity in one! Kids love making and eating their creations.
• Travel Bingo: Create bingo cards with things they might see during the flight – a flight attendant, a seatbelt sign, a cloud, etc. It turns looking out the window into a fun game. It’s a great way to keep them observant and engaged with their surroundings.
• Finger Puppets: Small and entertaining, finger puppets can spark imaginative play and storytelling. My daughter loves creating little shows with her finger puppets. It’s a wonderful way to pass the time and spark creativity.
• Pipe Cleaners: Super versatile and spark creativity. Kids can twist them into shapes, letters, or little creatures. They’re easy to bend, and you can create so many different things. I’ve seen my daughter make everything from flowers to little animals.
• Post-It Notes: Kids love sticking these everywhere, and they can be used for drawing or creating simple crafts. My child loves creating little stories and sticking them around her seat area. They’re easy to clean up too!
• Magnetic Travel Games: Compact and perfect for small spaces, these games are great for quiet play. Think magnetic chess, checkers, or even tic-tac-toe. They’re easy to manage and less likely to lose pieces.
• Activity Books: Puzzles, mazes, and word searches can keep older kids engaged. They challenge their minds and keep them focused on solving problems. It’s educational and fun rolled into one!
• Drawing Tablet: A reusable drawing tablet can provide endless drawing and erasing fun. It’s mess-free and can be used over and over again. Perfect for a budding artist or just doodling to pass the time.
7. Stay Calm and Positive
Your energy sets the tone for your kids.
• Positive Attitude: Keep a positive attitude and be flexible. If something doesn’t go as planned, roll with it and show your kids that travel can be fun despite the hiccups. Kids pick up on our energy, so staying calm and upbeat makes a big difference. Even if there are delays or changes in plans, maintaining a positive outlook helps your kids see the fun in every situation.
• Patience is Key: Take deep breaths and remember that everyone on the plane has been a kid or has had kids. Most people are understanding and empathetic. On one particularly tough flight, a fellow parent offered to help, and it made all the difference. Your calm demeanor will help your children stay calm too.
Flying with kids doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, creativity, and a lot of flexibility, you can turn your flight into a fun and memorable part of your family vacation. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Embrace the adventure and enjoy every moment with your little ones. Safe travels and happy flying! If you have any additional tips or experiences to share, please leave a comment below. Let’s make family travel as smooth and fun as possible!
