Many families fly together each year. Flying with children can be an enjoyable experience or a stressful one. This is often based on how well the family is prepared for the flight in advance. There are many factors that need to be planned or organized, from how to get to the airport to packing the right items for children while in transit. Flying with infants can be a particularly challenging experience, as there are many things to consider when traveling with a baby or a pint-sized toddler.
Flying with children can bring on anxiety attacks for even the most seasoned travelers. The thought of staying calm and collected while keeping a child entertained and contained in a cramped airplane seat for several hours can be overwhelming. However, with proper preparation, the family travel experience doesn’t have to be stressful or something to dread. There are many things that can be done before take-off, at the airport, and on the plane that will at least help the flight go more smoothly, if not completely eliminating the stress of flying with children.
There are many different travel scenarios. A family might be taking their baby on their first flight or their toddler on a longer flight. Each family situation is different, so the preparation that is done should be based on the family’s travel experiences, the child’s age, and any travel difficulties that have occurred in the past. Families that frequently fly already have most of the essentials figured out, but they might be curious about a few new tips. Families that are flying together for the first time should consider how they think their child will react to flying. If a child is naturally anxious or fidgety, then planning some activities of diversion will help keep their attention during the flight.
Choosing the Right Flight
When traveling with children, choosing the right flight can significantly enhance the travel experience. There are various aspects to consider when selecting a flight, including direct versus connecting flights, as well as ideal flight times, to maximize comfort and minimize stress.
Direct flights are typically the best option for traveling with children, particularly if the flight itself is four hours or more. Fewer take-offs and landings result in less time spent wrangling children with seat belts and less time waiting at the gate. If a direct flight is not available and a stopover flight is the only option, opt for a long layover (at least two hours) to avoid the added stress of rushing from one gate to another in a new airport.
Next, consider the ideal flight times based on the children’s age and travel experience. Younger children (ages 0-2) are easier to travel with during the day when they are already awake. Late-night flights from 10 pm onward may present a challenge as they require wide-awake babies, who must be soothed to sleep at a completely different time. On the other hand, older children (ages 2-6) are often better suited for late-night or overnight flights, as they enjoy sleeping on the plane.
Direct vs. Connecting Flights
One of the first things to consider is the flight. The days of the non-stop flight being the gold standard in terms of ease of travel are long gone. Depending on time, number of flights, and length of lay-overs, it may be advisable to look at connecting flights. That being said on frictionless journeys, direct flights are still the best option. Some pertinent things to consider for both direct flights and connecting flights are laid out below (Swann, 2019).
Direct Flights
Benefits: A direct flight is by far the simplest option. You embark and disembark (and possibly change planes) at the same airport. Consequently, luggage generally goes from point A to point B without fussing traveling down then rechecking it through security. A sleeping baby is a wonderful thing. Some experts argue that babies sleep better on planes than on the ground. It could just be the air pressure change or noise of the engine, but on a long journey why take the chance? After weighing choices parents might decide that a direct flight is their safest option. Drawbacks: New babies or toddlers tend to get bored in the same place for hours. A stroller can do wonders, but just as important is freedom for children to run if they want to. Long layovers can seem overwhelming for first-time parents but can be conquered with some foresight, toys, food, and other essential distractions. San Diego didn’t help but it did make the authors rethink flight choices in the future. If possible, try to avoid any lay-overs longer than two hours.
Connecting Flights
Benefits: When sharing a flight with a baby, consider the developmental stage the child will be in at the time of travel. If the child is 11 months before travel but 12 months on travel day that one additional free lap child ticket will save a small fortune. The savings will nearly pay for one parent’s plane ticket and set of luggage. A lap child cannot be alone in their row of seats if there are multiple seats. Having two row parents would not only be impossible but also comically unfair to those around the other child and parent. Together they would have child wranglers while the other each got a jerk in every aisle. Drawbacks: Someone once described the feeling of flight delays as being the worst. Having a flight at 6:00 am or 8:00 pm brings many of the same problems:
– Getting to the airport in the dark.
– Dropping off rental cars at lonely city fringe swap and ride stops.
– Late night working days beforehand to prepare.
– Timing a final feeding to make the early rise even more difficult.
– Time spent waiting hours when not ready to sleep.
Ideal Flight Times
In addition to the directness of the route, another consideration for determining the ideal flight time is the time of day. There are many factors that impact the best time to fly with children, including travel distance and destination, the personality of children, and personal choices in terms of what activities you plan to engage in on vacation.
With younger children, generally, an early morning flight or late evening flight is likely best to avoid travel time interfering in the middle of your day. If you plan on packing all your activities into a short time at your destination, a direct flight is also likely best to minimize wasted time at the airport. In this case, if flying early morning, consider eating breakfast at the airport prior to going through security. If flying late evening and the child normally goes to bed early, be sure to pack items to help relax them and get them comfortable on the plane quickly.
For older children, another option to consider for a better flight time may be flying during typical meal or snack times. Eating can distract children and keep them entertained for 15-30 minutes. If a snack box is brought on board, let them pick out a few items before leaving the gate. Kids love snacks, and it is a great way to avoid boredom.
The most important thing to realize when determining the best flight time for your children is that there is no one right answer for all families. Similarly, if these tips do not work for you one time, don’t fret; flying with children takes patience and practice, and what works for you one time may not work the next.
Preparing for the Flight
Preparing for a flight with children requires careful planning to ensure a smooth journey. There are practical considerations to factor in before traveling with young children, whether it’s a toddler or a baby, because they require extra preparation and awareness of your surroundings. You’ll also find, if this is your first flight with your child/ren or baby, that flights and airports are a whole different world with children and it’s important to educate yourself on the expectations before you fly.
A good place to start is to pack wisely. Specific things that are often overlooked are earmuffs or noise-canceling headphones that some children find helpful to reduce stress. A favorite stuffed toy is essential to help your child feel safe and comforted by something familiar. Lightweight, foldable strollers are also easy to pack and useful to ferry children around the airport. Consider packing a reusable water bottle that can be filled after airport security due to the change in cabin pressure during take-off and, more importantly, landing. A few snacks are also useful to have at hand, with options such as berries, cheese, crackers, and apple slices being interesting enough to keep children focused and busy to eat when feeling discomfort in their ears from the plane’s cabin pressure. An extra change of clothes for both yourself and your child is also a good idea in case of unexpected problems. Something children love is something they are able to stick to during a big transition, for example, offering them special treats such as a new toy or book that has never been seen before or a surprise destination on arrival. You could also plan a short visit to a nearby park, beach, or zoo so that there is an expectation of more fun to come after the flight which will likewise distract from any of their concerns, worries, or fears that may arise. Since it is very easy to forget anything when running late and dealing with a toddler, writing a checklist beforehand is also a good idea.
It is important to take children’s entertainment into consideration as well. It doesn’t hurt to pack a few extra goodies that will help keep your little one occupied such as coloring books, crayons, sticker books, magnetic toys, or educational toys for older ones. You could also create an activity bag filled with your child’s favorite toys to help keep them involved and engaged for the entire trip. On a child’s first flight, it would be a good idea to go over new expectations or changes in routine beforehand. Children do not understand the world of adults, and when visiting an airport they need to know what will happen and what is expected of them. Understanding all the new sights, sounds, smells, and people will be overwhelming if they have never been exposed to it before. Consider reading a book about airplanes to them and watching educational YouTube videos together. It may also be helpful to plan on engaging the children with the air travel experience from the get-go.
Packing Essentials
Traveling with children can be daunting, but packing wisely can make the experience much easier. First, it is important to have an adequate bag to carry everything you need. Although a stroller or other wheeled item can be handy, mothers should think about a backpack or bag that will leave one hand free for holding a child’s hand or handling a ticket or door. A large, easy-to-reach bag will keep some stress at bay. This bag should have essential supplies for everyone in your family. A change of clothes for young children is important in case of an unexpected spill or accident. Another must-have supply includes snacks and other necessities.
Packing healthy, filling snacks can ease hunger-induced temper tantrums. Granola bars are highly recommended. If you are flying, it is important to check what food is allowed on the plane. Coming prepared with foods that are easy to unpack and eat (like muffins, crackers, or fruit leather) will keep mobility issues to a minimum. A toy or activity is another hit family travel must-have. Each child will usually appreciate their favorite toy or stuffed animal. A few new toys or surprises, like stickers, magnetic travel games, or books, can make the ride easier. Activities that require participation (like musical games, reading aloud, or storytelling) are perfect for keeping kids engaged.
As important as it is to have the essential supplies, function should outweigh fashion. Thick, comfortable jackets may be fashionable, but they take up a lot of space and are heavy to carry. Not including any jackets at all can lead to chilly, crying kids. Weather-appropriate but easily packed jackets can avoid these dilemmas. Children wearing things that could not have a chance to get muddy, such as a dress or a white shirt, should leave one less worry for a mother. It is also worth packing an extra set of clothes before making any major stop or activity.
Entertainment and Activities
Long flights can be challenging for kids who may become restless after sitting still for a long time. Bring along some activities that are compact and non-messy, such as stickers, books, and coloring. Try to bring a few familiar toys to provide comfort, which can be helpful for babies in particular. Bring headphones for kids using tablets and entertainment devices, and read up on age-appropriate restrictions that the airline may have before you go.
Before the flight, download entertainment options your child might like. Audiobooks and podcasts are also good options that don’t require screens and could take up lots of time. For kids with learning disabilities or anxiety, download extra episodes of their favorite show or extra books to easily offer distractions. Downloading play apps with features like tracks that kids can use to create their own toys that won’t get lost can also help keep them engaged for hours.
Sometimes, even with distractions, kids will get bored and want to get up and stretch. Most flights involve a wait before take-off, drinks and snacks being served, and some lengthy periods below (10,000 feet) in preparation for landing when fasten seatbelt signs light up. Check with the airline according to the length of the layover, as some could be 5 hours. Also, check to see if hydration stations have been available for kids wanting to use the potty. If it seems feasible, take an empty water bottle before boarding to fill at a drinking fountain before departing.
Navigating the Airport
While the actual flight can often be the most stressful aspect of traveling with children, there are still complications that can arise in the airport. From long queues at check-in to stressed out security staff, there are meticulous procedures that have to be followed in order to access the flight. However, with a little foresight and a good plan, the airport can be a smooth experience!
Check-In and Security Procedures Whether this is done online or at the airport, check-in at the airport can lead to unpredictable wait times that could still land families in trouble. If checking in luggage, be sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time. It is important to know exactly what to expect from the process, including what is required of children and strollers. Since boarding passes often still need to be presented at the gate, tickets might be completely useless without a great understanding of the airport that will be used to board the flight. It is also important to know what the requirements are for hand luggage items before anyone even enters the airport, as it is also easy to accidentally get turned away at check-in for items that cannot be taken on the flight. Many parents have regretted rushing at the airport only to get caught up on something seemingly trivial.
Small children often require help to navigate security checks, as they often have to be taken out of strollers and kept occupied until the airplane-sized metal detectors are cleared. Have accounts of this process ready if it is anything other than normal, as the required extra time may not be known otherwise. Preparation is key in making it through security without any complications that can cause a considerable headache while also being put on edge.
Airport Lounges and Play Areas After getting past check-in and security, many families can finally take a deep breath and enjoy the lay of the land. First, has this big public space now been entered into with bags and children? It can be hard not to just run with excitement, but there will probably still be time to see everything. Make sure to locate the nearest restroom with changing tables, as it will need to be prioritized with all the other delays before being introduced to the food court’s “exotic” cuisine! Likewise, if the airport is established to have both a play area and a lounge, consider choosing either or the other based on how tired the children will likely be after one or the other.
While shopping for souvenirs, watching planes arrive and depart from the gate, dining at restaurants with aircraft-themed establishments, and exploring everything else the airport has to offer can all be very thrilling, they might be overwhelming in moderation. First, take a break where the children can run around uncontested instead of nervously attending to them like hawks around curious pigeons!
Check-In and Security Procedures
While most airports are well-equipped to handle families traveling with children, it’s helpful to know what to expect in terms of the check-in process, security, and boarding.
Check-In
Some airlines allow you to check in for your flight online in the days prior to departure. In many cases, you can print your boarding pass and check your bags at that time. Others require that you check in at the airport. If you check in at the airport, you can do so at a kiosk or at the airline’s counter. Many airlines have kiosks that take you through the check-in process, allowing you to check in, select seats, and print boarding passes for your party. However, if checking bags, need to wait in line at a separate location to check bags after printing boarding passes.
If you check in with an agent at your airline’s counter, there may be separate lines for families traveling with children or for travelers needing assistance. These lines are often shorter, so if traveling with a child under age 2, be sure to inquire about checking in at a family-friendly line due to the situations.
Security Most airports want families to be able to go through security faster and easier, so that it is less stressful for parents and children. Often, there are special family lines for people traveling with kids, and if there is one at the airport, it will be located near the normal security line. In these family lines, TSA employees will try to speed things along for families. If there isn’t a family line and the regular line is long with only a few agents working, it’s helpful to ask an agent if you can go through the family line since many times they will allow it, even if there isn’t a family line.
In addition, there are some procedures at security that go differently for families traveling with young children. Usually, parents with babies or toddlers in strollers can go through security without needing to take the kid out of the stroller. Instead, they would need to take the baby out of the stroller in the line right before going through the metal detector.
If traveling with a child age 3 or older, they will need to go through the metal detector on their own and cannot be held on your lap. However, you can choose to have them screened with a handheld wand instead of going through the metal detector by itself. This usually will have to be requested, since kids are expected to go through the metal detector by themselves, and TSA agents might tell you that you can’t do this unless you ask. However, it is allowed, so be aware of it. Additionally, if your child is in a wheelchair, they will need to be pat-searched by a TSA agent instead of going through the metal detector.
Some kids are frightened by having to go through the metal detector alone or by the TSA agents pat-searching them, or they misbehave instead of listening. In these situations, be sure to request an additional screening, where the child is given a security badge and an agent keeps a close eye on them to make sure they don’t do anything wrong while walking through security. If traveling with multiple kids and need additional screening for each of them, explain this to the TSA agents, who will pickup on the situation and work to make sure it goes smoothly.
Airport Lounges and Play Areas
Airports can be noisy and overwhelming hubs with a great deal of atmosphere, and this will not be pleasant for parents and children or babies. If they are not members already, consider joining an airline lounge or purchasing a one-off pass a couple of days in advance. Airline lounges are usually equipped with comfy recliners, TVs, kids’ play areas, baby change stations, free (plentiful) snacks, and quiet zones. Here are tips to take advantage of them.
Most lounges allow children of all ages and have good kid-friendly spaces. Parents will feel more comfortable in a kid-friendly lounge while children can relieve their pent-up energy on a deserted slide or play corner. The space is also far less noisy and laced with high chairs and baby rooms.
Regardless of whether a lounge is joined through a particular airline or a credit card, always check the terms first. Some lounge memberships exclude the use of certain lounges in well-known airports. Also, confirm the doors at terminals as kids cannot carry their own boarding passes for internal security checks. The advice is the lounge is seen from the other side of security, so obtain boarding passes and clear security first.
Where lounges are not an option, nearly all international airports have free play areas. These are usually located before security. Parents can check each destination’s airport guide to find a detailed list of play areas. When travelling internationally, design a long layover in a world-class airport. This is the best bet to combine travel with exploring, and airports such as Hong Kong, Tokyo Narita or Singapore airport usually have great kid-friendly facilities.
Free softplay areas are available at Geneva, Zurich, Munich, Lyon, Amsterdam, and Heathrow airports, among others. Doha, Singapore, Paris Charles de Gaulle, and Dubai airports have one of the world’s most elaborate play areas with multiple slides and giant interactive games.
In-Flight Strategies
Once on the plane, do not let your guard down. The flight is far from over and there are a few things you should take care of right away. This in-flight checklist will help you tackle the tricky bits of flying with children. First, help children settle in. Let them pick their seats and help them to stow away their carry-on items. If there is a TV, help them pick a movie they’d like to watch, or set them up with a good book or toy. Chat or read with them while other passengers board. Focus their attention away from how cramped and uncomfortable it feels and on the adventure of flying.
After take-off, there is a mad scramble to push the button when the seatbelt sign goes off. Service will begin shortly after take-off, so don’t worry about getting kids a snack on board. You can also use snacks to help care for any remaining sorrows during the flight. Make sure to bring a variety of healthy treats. Even if they did not eat much on the ground due to excitement, kids usually spend a lot of energy on a flight and get hungry! Bring along a few hot meals as well, such as soup or rice. For drinks, juice and milk boxes are easy; just keep water bottles out of reach. On long flights, youth meals (if available) let picky eaters choose from a wider selection and make dinner fun. It may be worth letting children collect plastic utensils and a pair of cool chopsticks!
Seating Arrangements
The in-flight environment is a critical aspect of air travel with children. Once preparing for a trip and getting through the airport has been achieved, attention typically shifts to settling in on the aircraft and facing the flight itself. Seat selection is closely linked to the in-flight environment. Choosing appropriate seating arrangements is of particular importance in family travel with children (Torkashvand et al., 2019). Due to safety regulations, children are required to sit in their own seats, typically adjacent to their parents. In some cases, however, children may be in a separate cabin or rows in which case access is limited. Travel parties must assess their own family needs carefully to accommodate wishes and concerns regarding the seating arrangement. Suggestions for seating proximity can be made; families with infants and toddlers, older children, or children with special needs may wish to sit close to the parents. For larger family parties, access to a block of seats next to each other is recommended to enhance overall experience. Meanwhile, traveling alone with children or taking a flight, which is typically awkward for sitting apart could be simply avoided (A. Bakhsh, 1999). In addition, several options for intra-party separation can be suggested as well; respective family needs and preferences should be taken into account when considering these options. Separating children and parents can reduce the disturbance level on-board, while seating a child with a parent can provide them with more attention, thus increasing playtime for the child.
Snacks and Meals
Filling little bellies on long-haul flights can be a challenge, but parents can make the experience easier for both kids and the whole airplane by offering healthy snacks. When packing snacks for the flight, parents need to think about little fingers and mouths, and what would successfully make toddlers not spill drinks on the plane seats. Here is a list of great snacks for kids:
Granola bars – Granola bars are individually wrapped, fuss-free, and filled with delicious kinds of food like chocolate or yogurt.
Dried fruit – Dried fruit is a great sugar substitute and can help kids get their daily fruit servings.
Baby food pouches – Little ones can snack and eat food without a mess. There are many pureed foods available, and they are designed for babies but can be enjoyed by toddlers as well.
Goldfish Crackers – The fish-shaped crackers are perfect for tiny hands to hold and nibble on. They are available in many flavors and are healthier than other cheese puffs.
String cheese – String cheese is a fun snack that kids will love. It’s another great protein option.
Veggie Sticks – Some toddlers love veggies, and veggie sticks give kids a fresh taste. This is a healthy option to go with.
Juice pouches – Juice pouches with straws are perfect for fuss-free drink options since they can be resealed for traveling. Some juice pouches aren’t heavily sugared or can be found with low sugar options. Whole fruit – Fresh whole fruit is an option to consider as well, such as bananas, oranges, plums, grapes, and apples. These are easy to pack and healthy to munch on.
When it comes down to the meals served during the flight, they are usually of generic or vegetarian portions. Parents with picky eaters might consider packing their meals for the flight. An easy option for a kid’s meal would be pasta with butter and cheese. Parents need to pack some dry pasta, butter, and cheese to mix it in a bowl. Before taking off, parents need to check with security first, but generally, dry snacks are considered safe in carry-ons. Regarding food portions for the flight, up to 100g of non-dry food can be stored in checked luggage. Foods like breakfast burritos, muffins, and pastries are good options because they are filling and easy to store.
Preparation is key when it comes to flying with little ones. Focus on selecting convenient flights, preparing the kids for their trip, checking off items on your family travel checklist, rewarding good behavior, and bringing plenty of entertainment. Most importantly, try to stay calm, show up with plenty of time to spare, and get ready to have some fun!
Don’t compare your traveling kids to other children. Not all kids are the same. Some children take to flying like they take to water. They love it. For others, it’s a nightmare. Give your child a chance to come around. Flying is not something that comes naturally to most kids, and it can be a scary experience for some. Most importantly, parents should make an effort not to be critical of their kids or other parents. Do what you can to make it easy for your little ones, and don’t worry if it doesn’t go as planned.
Do not be afraid to ask for help. People are generally kind and accepting of families, especially when children are involved. If you need help finding your gate or getting to your connection, just ask someone. Most will be happy to assist. Once the adventure is over, kids usually have fun stories to share about the experience—not to mention cool souvenirs!