Flying with a toddler or preschooler can seem daunting and may be just enough to keep you grounded until they are older. What if they act up or scream the entire flight? While you never truly can anticipate what will happen, you can be ready with an arsenal of tips and tricks to keep your little ones occupied.
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Do your homework on your airline’s charges and regulations
If you’ve flown before you know that airlines can change their fees and regulations at the drop of a hat. Make sure you check on which items such as pack n’ play, car seats and strollers are free and which you will be charged with. Knowing those items ahead of time can save you some frustration at the check-in counter.
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Plan Ahead
When flying with infants, toddler and preschooler age children plan on being over prepared – make sure you have plenty of snacks, simple games, download their favorite movies…anything that will keep them entertained. Bring out all of the stops when it comes to traveling; buy their favorite gummy snacks that are for special occasions or that big sucker they’ve been eying on at the grocery store. Even buying a few new toys and save them for when they are beginning to get bored or fussy.
3. Sanitizing Wipes
It’s no secret that that traveling during flu season means you are flying with other people – and their germs. Arm yourself with sanitizing wipes and lots of hand sanitizer. Wipe down everything you will encounter including the seat, seatbelt, tray, and window. When in doubt, sanitize it. Don’t let your kiddos play with those germ-infested magazines that are in the back of the seats. Another tip is to bring saline nasal spray and give a little spray before takeoff. This acts as a barrier and keeps your nose from drying out – which if dry it can give germs an easier passage to get in.
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Bring Back-up Clothes and Wipes
To avoid a potential nightmare – keep an extra change of clothes, extra wipes, and pull-ups or diapers handy in case of any accidents that may happen. Make sure you pack enough in case you get stuck on the runway or a flight gets canceled.
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Check In Early
Most airlines will do their best if they know you are traveling as a family – especially if there are little ones flying too. If you want to sit as a family be sure to check in online as soon as opens.