Flying with Kids Made Easy: 7 Tips for Stress-Free Travel
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The idea of flying with young children can be quite intimidating. Even adults become irritable and restless when sitting still for too long. While traveling with children can be challenging, we believe nothing should stop you or your family from the freedom of exploration.
That said, here are 7 tips we have incorporated into to make family travel more manageable and enjoyable.
1. Dress them in layers 👕
Stay prepared for different temperatures while traveling. Temperatures will vary in airports, on planes and from city to city. With the appropriate layers, you’ll be prepared for it all. Here are some of our favorite comfy travel clothing choices:
2. Window seats are best 🪟
Whether you’re on a plane, train or even in the car, finding a focal point of interest outside is a great way to keep children engaged (even if just for a moment). Gamifying the view is usually a great way to keep them engaged, ie. How many blue cars do you see? Eye Spy, count the mountain peaks, etc.
3. Give them activities to keep them busy 🖍️
Plane rides can be long and boring. Kids are energetic and playful! When traveling or otherwise, it’s important to stay ready for an opportunity to mindfully redirect their energy. Bring several activities to keep them busy. Below are some examples of what we bring on flights for our boys:
Small toys
Favorite Books
Learning Materials (handwriting, math, puzzles, etc.)
Skillmatics flashcards (Use code: FARUQCIRE03479 for 25% off)
Pre-downloaded movies
4. Pack plenty of snacks 🍓
Avoid being hangry at all cost when traveling; that goes for the parents as well! For children, be mindful of the sugar they consume on travel day. It’s counterproductive to pump a child with sugar and then ask them to remain calm. Instead, pack plenty of healthy snacks to keep them both nourished and occupied. Some of our favorite travel-friendly snacks are:
Fruits; all the fruits
5. Opt for a layover 🛩️
Embrace a layover! Of course, we are eager to arrive, but a layover gives children a chance to get up, stretch, walk around and exert some of their pent-up energy. This also gives us a chance for a more spacious bathroom break. Just make sure you book a layover that gives you enough time to do this. Nobody likes to feel rushed!
Not only can flying be stressful, it can also be very painful for littles. Planes reach different altitudes than we are used to, and these high altitudes can cause pressure in your child’s ear. This is commonly known as the “pop”. This can be very painful and scary for children. One way we like to avoid this is by giving our toddler an amber teething necklace. It’s helped us ease the pain caused by the pressure change, but if you’re unsure about using one, speak to your child’s doctor.
7. Opt for the Red-Eye 😴
The best hack I have for my busy toddler is a red-eye. Let them run and play in the airport as much as possible. They’ll be out for the night before you know it! (**Disclaimer. We are a family of sleepers. We all love our sleep, so results may vary depending on you child’s sleep habits.)
Flying with kids doesn’t always have to be stressful. Following these few tips can reduce the frustration and stress caused by flying. Remember to relax and don’t overthink. The flight will be over, and you’ll reach your destination before you know it. Traveling should be fun — you deserve to enjoy every second of it!
Have fun and safe travels! 😁✈️
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