There have been a couple of times in my career when parents have informed me that I will probably never have children. Wasn’t that nice of them to bring that to my attention? However, over time I’ve picked up on some easy to apply methods to make traveling with children easier. I try to remember them just in case a miracle occurs and I end up a father!

When you think about flying with your kids, do your palms get sweaty and eyes glaze over? Do you envision the Worst Possible Scenario, complete with cramped quarters, screaming meltdowns, horrified passengers and a throbbing migraine? Don’t worry. You’re not the only parent who feels this way – but there are plenty of things you can do to make your trip a success and take the “pain” out of flying with your family. The key is preparedness.

Talk To Your Kids Beforehand

Sit down with them and explain what they can expect. Make sure they understand the rules, like staying in your seat when appropriate and listening to staff directions. Tell them that your “home rules” still apply, but that there are special exceptions (such as more TV time- yay!). 

Sensible Items

Depending on the age of your child, make sure you have important items in your carry-on, including wipes, diapers, necessary medications, a change of clothes, etc. If your child has a “blowout” or gets sick, you don’t want those things in your suitcase in the cargo hold! The passengers around you will also appreciate your good sense. 

Snacks

Be sure to bring plenty of everyone’s favorite snacks. Pack easy finger foods that won’t end up all over your clothes. (Nothing says “I just flew cross-country with a baby” better than blueberry yogurt on your blouse). For older kids, let them pick what they like and take them in their own carry-ons. There is a great suggestion at the end of the post.

Activities and Surprises

Bring as many things to do as you can, especially for very long flights. Crayons, paper, washable markers, puzzle books, mini Etch-a-Sketch’s- these all make good choices. But here’s a fun twist: Wrap each item individually (as simple as a bag with a bow) before the flight and hand them over one by one as your child is ready for a new activity. They’ll feel like it’s their birthday, and you’ll be a hero. Win-win!

So as you take to the skies with your beloved offspring, remember to be prepared, communicate with your kids, and keep it as fun as possible. With our helpful tips, surrounding passengers will be asking you for your secrets as your clan de-boards. And you can pretend these ideas were all yours.

Here are some items that you can purchase before your trip to make preparation easier: 

The Kidzsack is a great way to keep kids excited about an upcoming trip since they can color this backpack themselves using 8 non-toxic markers. The bag is mashine washable and can be colored again and again. This will become your child’s special backpack for the trip and will  be just as fun to pack with everything they’ll need on the flight.

I must also mention GoPicnic once again because these very well thought out meals are fantastic for travel. They even have a collection of meals just for kids. With so many varieties to choose from there is always something to please even the pickiest of the bunch.

Have a good travel tip you’d like to share? You may comment or write directly to the Sky Steward at gailen@skysteward.com

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