Bonjour lecteurs! Are you already looking at your next travel abroad for this year or next? I have been watching some Danish shows lately, and I am dreaming of a Scandinavian escape for Christmas. Une autre destination on my radar? I would love to make it to Italy next year and enjoy something like a food and wine tour… To be discussed with Grumpy Boyfriend! Whatever your next travelling plans are, it can be stressful with young children. So I have put together all my best tips for a successful flight with kids. If you are worried about anything, follow this guide. Bon voyage!
Flying with little ones does not have to be a nightmare. Here are 7 tips for the family to enjoy the journey and arrive relaxed at your dream destination.
Pack Bright & Light
I know it can be tempting to pack everything you need. But you will end up carrying the bags on top of the children. So, stick to one carry-on bag per person.
Or even better, get one of those magic ride one suitcases that also turn into a scooter type. We had one and it was so handy when Stanley was little. Plus, we got quite a bit of attention…
I also recommend you pack a bright or different bag. This way, it’s easier to spot it at all times. I never bought a black or navy luggage. I always go for pink so that it’s easier to spot on the baggage carousel.
Strap Your Kids In / On
Airports are mega busy and you don’t want to take the risk to lose the little ones in the crowd. It is quick to happen! In between passports checks, customs and waiting in lines, there is so much to pay attention to, so you want them to stay with you at all times!
If they are under 2, la solution is a baby carrier. If they are up to 4, I recommend you opt for a travel pram that can go on-board with you. We loved the ICandy when we went to Spain, but I am there are many similar styles nowadays.
It’s also worth dressing up the children with bright tops or recognisable clothes so that you can spot them quick if they get off your sight!
Flights Cancelled or Delayed
Unfortunately, it’s very likely that you will come across some unexpected problems. Cancelled flights and delays are common, so you need to be prepared for them! AirHelp is a good place to start looking to help you. like any other passenger, families with children are eligible for flight cancellation compensation under EU law!
We had about 1 hour delay when we went to Rhodes. Now Stanley is bigger and he can easily entertain himself. But with younger children, it can be a bit tricky. I would pack some extra snacks and colouring books. You can also pack an audio book to keep them busy and hopefully get them to nod off while you wait!
Get Them To Sleep
To make the journey easier and go quick, do whatever it takes to make them go to sleep. No, this is something personnel as children respond differently to travelling. While some might doze off quick because of the excitement, some might take longer. Don’t worry about your sleeping routine for once.
Babies under 1 year old really can’t cope if they are over-tired so get a spare bottle of milk or two and soothe them with it before the flight so that you can have a tranquil journey.
I would also avoid sugary snacks and other exciting food before boarding. Just so that they are not hyperactive during the flight. It would become your worst nightmare… You can book a bassinet row for babies too, especially if you have a long flight. You might not end up using it, but it will give you more leg room.
Work As a Team
If you travel with your other half, take it in turns! It’s all about being a great team so that everyone gets the best experience possible. Children are not only the responsabilé of mamas…
Get your partner to get on board first so that he can places all the bags etc. This way, it will be less chaotic and you can then board on the plane with the little ones without having to worry about anything else.
Even better if you can travel with grandparents or other family members. They can take in turns to take care of the littles so that you are not the sole entertainer. I loved it when my MIL came with us to Spain. It was parfait as she had Stanley in her room overnight and we could have un dîner romantique just the two of us.
You know what we say, it takes a village to raise a child. Well, it’s even so true when you fly with kids!
Snacks Again & Again
I usually try to make sure Stanley does not over indulge on snacks. After all, he is a well-fed boy, haha. But when travelling, I am not following my own rules. Kids can get bored and hungry with all this waiting around. So pack endless snacks to make sure you don’t get the dreaded ‘I’m hungry’.
Sure, you can buy some stuff on the plane, but it’s often over-priced and there is no way you will end up getting an apple on board…
I would also allow extra time to have a full meal at the airport before you board your plane. This way, the kids are already full and more likely to have une sieste during the flight.
Extra Clothing
I also recommend you take some changes of clothes for both le bébé and you! Often mums think about extra clothes for the little ones. But what about if you get some sick on your clothes? It’s the worst feeling to travel and feeling gross! So pack an extra personal change for yourself.
As for the baby, some parents puts 2 nappies on while flying just in case of a poop accident. It can be une bonne idée. Bien sûr, pack all your supplies such as nappies and wipes. But if you happen to run out, the flight team should have some spare ones.
Here are my Top Tips For A Successful Flight With Kids. It goes without saying that you also need a travel insurance. I would also check the airport website you will travel with. They have more specific tips to help families fly with ease. Traveling with kids might be a bit daunting at first, but you can still have a relaxing experience if you are bien organisée.
Now, the question is, where will you go next with your little ones?
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