Tips for Traveling with Children
Traveling with children can present a daunting list of challenges for even seasoned travelers.
From knowing how much gear you can bring—and how to get it all on the plane—to preventing tantrums at 35,000 feet, advance preparation is key.
Fly the Kid-Friendly Skies
Look beyond getting the lowest price when you're booking your flight and opt for airlines with the most kid-friendly features. Some airlines offer unlimited snacks extending far beyond the traditional airline peanuts, as well as heartier fare available at nominal cost. You can also find free WiFi, at-seat charging stations and DirecTV headrests on many flights. Plus, some airlines have family seating areas that will save you the worry of disturbing other passengers.
Plan Your Flight Strategically
Planning to fly during hours when your baby is usually asleep, such as morning or afternoon naptimes? Naptime flights can work when traveling when traveling with an infant or toddler, but this could result in a wide-awake cranky little companion if your child is a light sleeper. The best bet is to book the flight during her alert times instead. Avoid scheduling your flight when your toddler is most prone to tantrums, such as dinnertime or bedtime.
Take the Easy Way
Check ahead to see what services the airline and airport offer to make traveling with children easier. A mother’s lounge in the airport can provide a relaxed environment for nursing an infant or taking care of a last-minute diaper change. Some airlines offer pre-boarding for families with small children to allow time to strap in car seats and get kids settled before other passengers crowd in. Call the airline to find out if you can check strollers and car seats at the gate and have them waiting for you when you step off the flight.
Enjoy the Down Time
Although it’s tempting to get to your destination as quickly as possible, a longer layover can work in your favor when you're traveling with a toddler or young child. Spend some time at the airport playground so they can run off pent-up energy, or enjoy a ride on the airport transit. Take in the airport’s unique artwork with kid-friendly displays like the interactive airplane-themed exhibit in Chicago's O’Hare International Airport, or watch planes take off and land at a restaurant with a view of the airfield.
Protect Little Ears
Air pressure changes during takeoff and landing can cause even the most docile child to erupt in screams of pain. Getting kids to chew or swallow will help their ears equalize the pressure. Plan to give your baby a bottle during takeoff and another at landing. For toddlers, fill a sippy cup with undiluted juice or another sweet treat that will keep their attention even if they're not thirsty.
Discover more travel tips and recommendations here.
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