We know the thought of flying with young children can be daunting. In fact many of us put off taking that well needed trip due to the fear of the tantrums and meltdowns at 35,000 feet.
We have put together some of our top travel tips and tricks we have picked up along the way to make life a little easier on board.
- RING AHEAD – I would always advise calling the airline just to double check – the last thing you need is a drama at the check in desk.
- SNACKS – one thing that keeps children quiet? FOOD! and plenty of it. Our first job when we get to the airport is the snack hunt – and we go all out – obviously be careful not to fill them up with too much sugar but we always get them treats for flying – plus something for them to suck on when the air pressure gets high to try and help their little ears from aching.
- STRETCH YOUR LEGS – If your tot is getting restless and wants to explore – let them! Providing the pilot has given the all clear to take off the seatbelts – there is no harm in having a wander, your little one will burn off some steam and generally people think its cute.
- TRY YOUR LUCK – We always ask if there are any spare seats on the flight and if so, can we can be next to them – more space for the kids and all of their many belongings – 50% of the time they say yes and it makes life a lot easier!
- PREP – Don’t just be prepared – be over prepared – you can never have too many wipes, activities, toys, snacks, nappies, snacks, books, snacks, blankies… and more snacks. It doesn’t hurt to have organised you hand luggage either. Knowing where everything is allows you to respond to the ever-changing moods of your little people as quickly as possible.
- MILK – A question we always get asked – can I take formula and baby food through security? The answer is YES – there are no restrictions on how much milk and baby food & Sterile water you can take through in your hand luggage – and that goes for formula and breast milk. If you are worried however, you can always pre order your baby milk from the Boots at the airport – we generally do a Boots trip anyway for some hand luggage sun cream to lather on the kids on the other side.
- DON’T RUSH – Generally if you have small children you will be offered priority boarding, meaning you can board before anyone else – sounds great? All this means is an extra 45 minutes of used up good behaviour. However, use your initiative, if the flight is short haul and looks like it will be cramped – get on board first and get your bags up safe and close.
- RESEARCH – Research your airline, some airlines are far more child friendly than others. We found Emirates to be incredible for travelling with children – pushchairs provided between lay overs, baby blankets, activity packs, teddies, complementary formula – they really made us all feel so comfortable.
9. EXTRA CLOTHES – and not just for the kids – ensure to pack lots of spare outfits for the small ones but also for yourself! You are bound to get some form of liquid on you during the flight so spare clothes are a must! You don’t want to be arriving at the hotel like you’ve just been in a food fight.
10. CHARGE UP – Ipads, tablets and in air WIFI are your best friends – there is no shame in this! Do not feel judgement from anyone for this. I am sure the passengers would prefer your children to be watching Peppa on their tablet rather than screaming through their favourite roncom. Make sure you have full charge, lots of games and downloads ready – and try and keep them hidden until you need them – exhaust all other options and then bring out the big guns.
11. TRUNKI! – Heard of a Trunki? Definitely worth the investment – wheelie suitcases your kids can ride on around the airport – keeps them entertained whilst on the move!
12. TIMING – This is a big one if you are flying long haul – think about your child’s routine and how you can utilise this to make your experience as stress free as possible. We have found that flying overnight is a lifesaver, even if the kids only sleep for few hours, you are thousands of miles closer to your destination – drama free!
13. Final tip? STAY CALM – stay calm (as much as you can) – babies and children are so intuiative – if they think that you are stressed out they will immediately feel less secure. Try and relax – even if they are giving you a hard time – it wont be long before you are laying in that beach in the hot sunshine with a pina colada.
We hope these tips help you on your journey! Please feel free to pop us a message through our contact page if you have any feedback or questions – enjoy your family break!
Lots of love,
The Big Dreams Family
