Travelling with young children, usually under the age of 5, can be a rewarding experience, but careful preparation is key for a smooth and enjoyable journey for everyone. Whether you’re planning a short domestic flight or a long-haul international trip, understanding how to prepare for a flight with a child is crucial.
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At Travel Wanderlust, we have many members of our community who are parents and still love to travel. With their help, we put together these tips with practical guidance. This guide provides practical tips and insights to help you navigate the challenges of flying with children, making your next family adventure as stress-free as possible.
Here are some easy tips on how to prepare for a flight with a child:
- Choose wisely when booking flights with children
- Seating arrangements matter when flying with children
- Packing essentials for flying with toddlers
- Make sure the child dresses for comfort
- Pre-flight preparation helps when flying with infants
- Be prepared for long walks in the airport
- Don’t ignore the inflight time
- Remember to help them deal with ear pressure
- You have to manage their behaviour pre-flight
- When flying with children, prioritize their health and safety
We elaborated on each point to help you better understand.
Choose wisely when booking flights with children
When selecting a flight, consider choosing times that align with your child’s natural sleep schedule. Overnight flights can be advantageous as they allow your little ones to sleep through most of the journey. Additionally, try to book direct flights whenever possible to avoid the hassle of layovers and additional boarding processes.
Seating arrangements matter when flying with children
When flying with children, seating arrangements can make a significant difference in your travel experience. If you’re travelling with an infant, you may want to request a bassinet seat if your airline offers them. For toddlers and young children, aisle seats provide easier access to the restroom and the ability to stretch their legs during the flight.
Packing essentials for flying with toddlers
Packing for a flight with young children requires thoughtful consideration of their needs. Essential items to include in your carry-on baggage are:
- Diapers and wipes: Pack more than you think you’ll need in case of delays.
- Snacks and drinks: Bring a variety of snacks and drinks to keep your child hydrated and satisfied.
- Entertainment: Pack age-appropriate toys, books, and electronic devices with headphones to keep your child entertained.
- Comfort items: Don’t forget your child’s favourite blanket or stuffed animal to provide comfort during the flight.
Make sure the child dresses for comfort
Dress your child in comfortable, layered clothing to accommodate changing cabin temperatures. Consider bringing an extra set of clothes in your carry-on in case of spills or accidents. When all else fails, take out their favourite pair of PJs or outfits just to make the trip special for them.
Pre-flight preparation helps when flying with infants
Before your flight, prepare your child by discussing what to expect during the journey. Making them part of the preparation gets them involved and less confused by the activity around them.
Explain the security process, boarding, and the importance of staying seated with their seatbelt fastened. Familiarizing your child with the flying experience can help reduce anxiety and make the trip more enjoyable for them.
Be prepared for long walks in the airport
Arrive at the airport early to allow ample time for check-in, security, and boarding. Use strollers or baby carriers to navigate the airport more easily, and take advantage of family lanes or priority boarding if available.
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Don’t ignore the in-flight time
During the flight, it’s important to keep your child comfortable and engaged. There’s no guarantee they will fall asleep easily nor that they will remain quiet and well-behaved the whole flight.
Encourage them to drink fluids to stay hydrated and offer snacks at regular intervals. Use toys and entertainment to distract them from the confined space and prevent boredom. This is crucial, especially if it isn’t their bedtime.
Remember to help them deal with ear pressure
Changes in cabin pressure during takeoff and landing can be uncomfortable for children’s ears. Encourage your child to swallow, yawn, or suck on a pacifier to help alleviate ear pressure. For older children, chewing gum or drinking through a straw can be effective.
You have to manage their behaviour pre-flight
Setting expectations for behaviour before the flight can help prevent tantrums or meltdowns. Use positive reinforcement and rewards for good behaviour, such as a small treat or extra screen time. If your child becomes restless or fussy, try walking them up and down the aisle when it’s safe to do so.
When flying with children, prioritize their health and safety
Prioritize your child’s health and safety by bringing any necessary medications, including pain relievers or motion sickness remedies. Keep hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes handy to maintain cleanliness during the flight.
Do you have any tips on how to prepare for a flight with a child?
Flying with children under the age of 5 can be a daunting task, but with proper preparation and a patient approach, it can also be a memorable and enjoyable experience. By planning and anticipating your child’s needs, you can minimize stress and ensure a smoother journey for the whole family.
Remember to stay flexible and adapt to any unforeseen challenges that may arise during your trip. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on a successful flight with your little ones, creating lasting memories and paving the way for many more family adventures to come.
