5 tips for flying with your young child

With ever changing airline regulations and increased security measures, flying can be tough at the best of times. Flying with a preschooler can carry with it some extra challenges, but with a little thought ahead of time, you and your small child can look at flying as just another adventure.

1. Call Ahead

If you bought your airline tickets well in advance of your trip, chances are the airline has made changes to their list of things which are not allowed to be carried onto the flight. A few days before your trip, call and speak to one of the airline’s customer service representatives to find out what you may and may not bring on board. Often the website carries the lists as well, but it pays to speak to a customer service representative, as they may have additional tips for flying with your small kid.

2. Let your kid help with packing

It’s important that your child has some toys, books, or games to keep him occupied on the flight. Your best bet is to pack a combination of new toys and old favorites. Let your preschooler help you choose which items to bring on the flight. Give him a backpack or small tote bag that he can pack himself. Giving him the responsibility of helping with packing makes it more likely he’ll stay occupied with the items you carry on board.

3. Get There Early

Security lines can go on forever, so it pays to get to the airport early, especially with kids in tow. This will give you time to get to your flight with no worries of missing it, and give your preschooler time to take in all the new sights and sounds. At the worst, you’ll make it to the gate with time to spare, but you can use that time to explore shops, perhaps pick out a new book for your preschooler, and give him the opportunity to watch planes as they land and take off.

4. Pack a Snack

Airline food usually leaves a lot to be desired. A child with picky eating habits may not be want to eat what the airline is serving, so it pays to have some snacks on hand that you know your child will like. Having a drink for your kid to sip through a straw during takeoff and landing can help keep him from experiencing pain if the pressure builds up in his ears. Again, check with the airline ahead of time to see their regulations regarding bringing liquids on board.

5. Be Flexible

Even with the best laid plans, everything may not come off without a hitch. Flight delays, having to wake your preschooler to change planes, and inner ear pain are just a few of the things that can make your trip go less than smoothly. Realize ahead of time that preschoolers may get cranky, airline schedules may change, and the only thing you can control is your reaction to these situations. Be flexible, and just remember that you will eventually make it to your destination. Handling difficult situations with patience and humor is the best way to ensure the remainder of your trip will be enjoyable.

Photo of baby on plane originally posted by sindesign

Topic:  Travel with kids | 1 Comment
Tags:  airports, family, packing

About the author

Amy Bender is a freelance writer and blogger. She is author of Gatlinburg: A Guide for Tourists, and a regular contributor to The BudgetTravelista.com. In addition to travel writing, Amy also specializes in writing web content, writing and editing public relations materials, and blogging.