Flying with kids can be daunting for any parent. As a seasoned travel advisor and mother of three energetic boys, I understand the challenges! From restless toddlers to easily bored youngsters, keeping children entertained and comfortable during a flight is no small feat. I’ve picked up some invaluable tips along the way to make the experience as stress-free as possible. Here are my top recommendations for flying with kids:
1. Download Their Favorite Movies: Before leaving home, ensure you have a selection of your kids’ favorite movies downloaded onto your devices. This way, they’ll have access to familiar entertainment even without Wi-Fi, keeping them engaged throughout the flight.
2. Equip with Headphones and Phone Holder: Invest in comfortable headphones for your kids and a reliable phone holder for the airplane tray table. This setup allows them to watch movies or play games hands-free, leaving you with fewer worries about tangled cords or devices slipping off their laps. I take this phone holder with me in my personal bag every time I fly (even without kids).
3. Track Your Luggage: To ease your mind about the whereabouts of your luggage, consider placing AirTags or similar tracking devices inside your suitcases. This extra layer of security can provide peace of mind, especially when traveling with multiple bags and children in tow.
4. Reusable Stickers for Plane Windows: Turn airplane windows into a canvas for creativity with reusable stickers. Let your kids decorate their window space with stickers that can easily be removed and reused, adding an element of fun to the journey. (try these from Melissa & Doug)
5. Invest in an Umbrella Stroller: A lightweight and compact umbrella stroller can be a lifesaver during travel. It’s convenient for navigating busy airports and can provide a comfortable resting place for tired little legs during layovers. I got mine from Target, but this one is well rated and offers multiple positions for reclining.
6. Pack Plenty of Snacks: Keep hunger and boredom at bay by packing an assortment of snacks for the journey. Some of my kids’ favorites are granola bars, crackers, pretzels, goldfish, and a refillable water bottle (remember to avoid liquids). I also like to pack dum dum lollipops just in case we need to distract and avoid a meltdown. I use these reusable zip lock bags to separate snacks by variety. This keeps things interesting for those with short attention spans.
7. Bring Along Knick-Knack Toys: Head to the Target dollar spot or your favorite discount store and stock up on small toys and trinkets. Look for items that are compact, lightweight, and preferably water-resistant, so they can double as bath toys during your hotel stay.
By incorporating these tips into your travel routine, you can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable flying experience for both you and your children. Remember, preparation is key, so take the time to plan ahead and anticipate your kids’ needs. With a little bit of foresight and a whole lot of patience, you’ll be ready to take on the skies with confidence! Happy travels! 🛫✈️🌟
-Jessica Upton
(ask me about BabyQuip for your next vacation)
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