Flying with kids can be challenging, so preparation is key. The more you prepare, the better you can handle any problems and issues as they arise. To assist you with your plans, we have a variety of advice to help you get ready for your next trip.
Are you feeling a little overwhelmed about an upcoming trip? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are 16 travel tips for moms.
To minimize the number of layovers and connections, book direct flights whenever possible. Boarding and de-planing with kids can be challenging, so the fewer times you have to do it, the better.
Depending on the length of your flight, consider booking either a red-eye or a midday flight. Red-eye departures are good for long flights of eight hours or more because your kids will likely sleep most of the time. Midday flights are good when you don’t want to wake young children up too early and struggle to get them ready.
It’s always a good idea to reserve your seats in advance when you’re flying with kids to make sure your family can sit together. Also, if you’re traveling with a car seat, make sure it’s approved by your airline before you take it with you.
With food carts going up and down the aisle, it can be dangerous to sit a toddler in an aisle seat. You don’t want to take a chance of them getting injured or knocking something over putting their little hands out in the corridor.
Before the day of your trip, it’s important to talk to your kids about what to expect. Let them know what will happen from the time your family checks in until you get off the plane. You could even do some role-playing to make it fun and help them to understand the procedures.
A good tip for getting through security with less stress is to make sure your whole family is wearing shoes with no laces. You don’t need the extra effort of unlacing your children’s shoes before taking them off and putting them back on again.
Check whether your airline offers early boarding for families flying with kids. Then make sure your family is up and ready to board as soon as the announcement for early boarding begins.
Add extra fun to your trip by packing a small gift or surprise for your children. It could be something as simple as a small toy or a coloring book from the dollar store. Your kids will love it and the new activity can effectively keep them calm and settled. Here are some favorites we packed for our recent flight with my 4 and 1 year old!
It’s hard maneuvering through the airport with a stroller, especially a large one. For your trip, consider taking a smaller one that’s easier to get around with and simple to fold. Once you’re at the gate, be sure to check it in so the crew can have it out and ready for you when you get off the plane. The Summer 3D Lite is our favorite!
Before packing, make a list of things you plan to pack for you and your children. Then, narrow it down to only the things you’ll need. This will help you remember what to pack and keep you from taking too much. I love this list for keeping it organized.
As a parent, you want to be prepared for everything on your trip, including accidents. A good tip for this is to pack spare clothes in your carry-on bags in case you or your children need a quick change. When flying with kids, accidents often occur. Pro tip, EXTRA baby wipes!
It’s not unusual for your kids to want a snack before, during or after your flight. You can prepare for this by keeping a few extra snacks in your pocket or carry-on bag. Include a small pack of hand wipes for cleaning their little hands, too. We love this collapsible snack cup for travel.
One place you won’t want to go with your kids is the airplane bathroom. You can avoid this by taking them to the bathroom before you go through security and before boarding the plane.
At Simply Sales With Alyssa and Sarah, we know how hard it is to be a mom. No matter how much you plan, traveling with children can be stressful and requires lots of patience. Even so, remember to keep your composure and have a good attitude as you interact with everyone. This will help keep your children calm in the event of any problems or delays.
If you need to fill out an arrival form, it’s best to do that before you land and while your children are sleeping. That way you will be able to concentrate and not be distracted by a crying or grumpy child who is impatient and ready to get off the plane.
While flying with kids, it’s always good to pack some non-electronic toys to take with you. This can be useful when electronics need to be off and there is no onboard entertainment available. It will also help you keep them occupied and hopefully avoid any potential tantrums. We love water painting, color wonder, and these drawing tablets!
Flying with kids doesn’t have to be a nightmare. In fact, with careful preparation, it can be a complete joy. By following these tips and planning ahead, you and your family will be set for a trip that you’ll all love. For more helpful mom tips, check out our other blog posts, and let us know if any of these travel trips were helpful for you.