Flying with Kids...No Magic Cure

I live overseas, so we travel quite a bit with our kids. About every 3 to 6 months, we load them up for a whirlwind adventure that usually takes us about 24 hours total door-to-door. The longest stretch of flight, though, is usually about 10 to 12 hours. I can`t count how many flights we have been on, but what I have discovered is that you win some and you lose some. Just be mentally prepared to lose and physically prepared to win and you will probably be ok.

As for some suggestions, there are a few things I do to book my flight, prepare for my flight, and then while I am on my flight. When you book your flight, ALWAYS request a bulkhead seat if it is available on your aircraft. This makes a huge difference and if you call fairly early to make your reservations, you usually should not have a problem getting it. And when booking your flight, I have found that if I book a night flight or red-eye that is the best time for my kids to fly, because they are already naturally tired. They may be a mess before getting on the plane, but once they are on, that gentle hum (ok loud roar) of the aircraft puts them right to sleep. Depending if a meal service is given on your flight, call at least 24 hours in advance and the airlines will provide you with a baby or toddler meal. Even if they don`t eat it, something new being brought to them keeps them interested for awhile. Also be aware that most 737s do not come equipped with any changing tables in the bathrooms. I usually find a place in the back of the plane, lay down one of the airline blankets, and do it there, but it isn`t fun. So, plan ahead for this.

As for preparing for your flight, be sure to take a couple of sets of extra clothes. I was on one flight, where my one-year old went through 4 sets of clothing. We were totally out by the time we got home and he was running around in a dirty onesie. We were so glad to get home! But also, be sure to give yourself lots of extra time at the airport. The last trip we took, my oldest was about 22 months and my baby was about 4 months. For me, I had to mentally walk through the trip, how we were going to get through security, get the stroller folded up, board the plane, get carseats on the plane, the whole bit. I probably make it way too complicated, but I definitely have to think through every step so I feel prepared for the trip ahead.

As for activities while on the plane, I have tried two things. One, I head to the dollar store before the trip and pick up 5 or 6 new toys and then wrap them in wrapping paper. Then about every 30 min or so, you can bring out a new toy for them to unwrap and play with. That buys you a few minutes of fun until the newness wears off and then you can whip out the next toy. I also make sure to bring lots of their favorite snacks, the ones that I know will do the trick. After this, I just plan on walking with my kid up and down the aisles. I know it probably bugs people to have me hitting their knees, but better to have that than to listen to my kid scream. Kids just aren`t meant for flying.

Finally, I always try to make sure we get to the airport plenty early. I try to feed and change them right before we get on. Many times, you get stuck on the runway and you are stuck in your seat. So, if you board knowing that your kids are fed and clean, it makes a big difference. The trick is to just be prepared.

Hope this helps. Good luck!!

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