Packing the travel bags for the little ones can be overwhelming, so we have put together our tried and tested, top travel items you should make sure to pack for the plane.
First things first – what can you take?
Make sure you are clear on this so that you can plan and prepare properly. Baggage allowance for babies and toddlers varies between airlines so ensure to check the small print. If you are still unsure just give the airline a call and clear it up. Each person paying for a seat is entitled to a carry on bag; however, with under 2’s not having their own seat airlines often restrict them to one carry-on only. Be sure to check because that extra suitcase could prove vital!
Milk & Snacks…and more snacks
You can take as much formula or breast milk through security as you like – the only restriction is on frozen breast milk which is a no no. Work out how long you expect to be travelling and how much you will need..then take more – you never know when delays may happen. Make sure you don’t forget the bottles – and non spill juice cups are great for water. Do try to make sure you pick up a couple of bottles of water from the airport as flying can cause dehydration.
As for snacks, don’t hold back – we tend to do a big snack hunt at the airport – crisps, fruit, biscuits, chocolate, bribery sweeties, sandwiches – I always leave room in one of our carry on bags for all of the snacks – try to keep them all together so you can access them quickly. If your child is old enough for sweets that they can suck, these can be helpful for landing if their little ears are in pain. If your baby has a dummy, or you are still breastfeeding, this can really help ease the pressure for them too. Remember, if they do have a dummy, take several thousand – we know they have a way of disappearing!
Clothes – think light, loose and comfortable. Try and pack 2 spare outfits at least… and not just for the kids! Make sure to pack a spare outfit for yourself, you are bound to get messy and it’s great to get changed and have a little freshen up before landing. If you are travelling long haul, take pyjamas! Following your normal routine as closely as possible is a great way to settle them down in a strange and noisy plane. Getting jammies on is a signal to let them know they should probably go to sleep at some point… leaving Mummy and Daddy to sample the in-flight gin!
Entertainment – iPad’s & tablets!! One per child if at all possible and they must be in a child-proof case. They don’t look great but, my God, do they work! Make sure that the devices are fully charged with plenty of pre-downloaded content before you go – movies, TV shows, games puzzles… whatever keeps ’em busy! We found that a mix of new content and the stuff we know they already love (like that whingey pig or those crime fighting pups) was the best way to be sure they were entertained for as long as possible. If your child will wear headphones this tends to help them zone out a little more when watching a film on their tablet or the in-flight screens.
Sticker books, mess free painting books that just use water and a little paintbrush. Think light, no chunky toys or big books that will take up lots of room (or be so heavy they break your back carrying them through the terminal). Go to Poundland and find some cheap little toys and wrap them up, nothing bring joy like opening a present! Get them out when you feel them getting restless as a new activity to do. My little boy has a car collection of little mini car figures so they would be a must for us – if there is something you know will entertain them and won’t take up too much room, bring it along! If they have a special snuggly teddy or blankie make sure to give them this when they are feeling sleepy to help them feel settled and comfortable
All the extras – Don’t forget the usual necessities: nappies, wipes, changing mat, bibs, nappy bags etc. Don’t go overboard, take enough and a little extra but don’t go crazy. Remember to take a little first aid kit, try to include mini Sudocrem and Calpol satchets. The sachets are great for any ear pain your child might feel on departure and land, plus, they don’t take up too much room! Alternatively you can do a little boots shop in duty free and pick up some medicines and suncreams etc. This is what we always like to do to ensure we’re not panicking about anything being thrown away. TOP TIP – If your child can still fit in a sling, use it! It frees up two hands for luggage carrying and passport juggling.
The final thing to remember is your game face. Don’t board the plane thinking it will be a piece of cake. Make it a little mission for you to try to keep them entertained as long as possible. If, in your head, you think it is going to be hard work, any peace you do get will be a bonus. Try and relax, enjoy playing with the kids and watch them take in the experience. You will be landing before you know it.
Enjoy the flight,
The Big Dreams Family x