Traveling by plane with children can be quite a challenge. My first solo flight with my eight-month-old, Leo, was a whirlwind of chaos. Here’s a glimpse of what happened:
- I handed him a “brain-boosting” toy I thought would keep him entertained. Instead, he launched it three rows back with surprising precision.
- I cuddled him in hopes he’d nap, but I’d forgotten our sleep training routine. Instead of peacefully dozing off, he transformed into a flailing, loud alarm clock.
- After a while, I discovered an unpleasant odor. A trip to the airplane restroom felt like being trapped inside a fridge with a baby octopus and… well, you can guess the rest.
Having navigated airplane travel with my kids for nearly seven years to visit family across the country, I’ve gathered several strategies to help you survive the experience. Here are my top tips:
- DO Try to Induce Sleep: If you’re flying with a toddler, use some subtle suggestions to encourage them to feel sleepy. For instance, I whispered to my daughter throughout the morning, “You’ll be so cozy and warm on the plane.” It worked wonders—she fell asleep immediately upon boarding! This was a major contrast to our previous flight, where I felt like I was wrestling a hyperactive monkey.
- DO Pack Plenty of Familiar Snacks: Bring a stash of snacks, milk, and diapers. Unexpected situations can arise, and these items can be lifesavers. Once, after a few flight cancellations, my toddler refused to eat anything I bought at the airport and only wanted the unappetizing warm cheese I had packed hours earlier. Desperate times call for desperate measures!
- DON’T Let Grumpy Passengers Bother You: Some people may not understand why your baby is crying, and they might blame you for their interrupted nap. Remember: karma exists, and they’ll likely find themselves on a flight with equally noisy kids soon enough.
- DON’T Medicate for Sleep: Avoid giving your child Benadryl to induce sleep. A friend tried it with her twins on a long flight, only to find that it made them even more energetic. A plane full of hyperactive kids is not a pleasant scenario.
- DO Carry Hand Sanitizer: This will at least give you peace of mind. Just be mindful that you can’t squirt it into your child’s mouth! I once saw my son attempting to chew on his seatbelt—yes, the one that is touched by many hands. We had to start making up stories about germs to encourage him to stop.
- DONT Overpack Toys: Kids often lose interest in toys when they’re in a new environment. Instead, ask your flight attendant for some plastic cups—these simple items can provide endless entertainment without the stress of losing something valuable.
- DO Consider Lollipops for Meltdowns: If your child is having a tantrum, a lollipop can sometimes work wonders. During a particularly loud episode, a kind woman (who may or may not have been a pediatrician) handed me one, and it worked to calm my daughter down. While I wouldn’t normally advise accepting candy from strangers, it was a lifesaver that day!
- DO Allow Screen Time: Let your older child watch whatever shows or play whatever games they want on electronic devices. You’ll be too busy managing your other child’s antics to answer a million questions about airplanes or other random topics.
- DO Accept Help: If someone offers assistance, take it—even if their tone suggests they think you’re struggling. I once turned down help while juggling suitcases and kids, thinking I could manage. It was a mistake; accepting help could save you a lot of stress.
- DON’T Envy the Childless Travelers: You might see someone enjoying a peaceful flight, sipping a cocktail and reading a magazine. Remember, you too will eventually travel without kids, and when that day comes, you’ll appreciate it even more.
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In summary, traveling by air with kids is no easy feat, but with a bit of preparation and the right mindset, it can be manageable. Embrace the chaos, and enjoy the journey!
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