Essentials for Air Travel With Kids

You're about to take your kids on a trip, and you're not sure what to do. Whether you're at the airport, in line for security, or on board! Between snacks and tantrums, traveling with children is not easy. Even short flights can be a hassle.

Flying with kids is often a challenge. Between the long lines, crying children, and the little ones who just won't stop running around the airport, it's hard to enjoy your trip. Of course, you don't want to travel without your kids in tow. But if you want to make it more manageable for everyone involved. Here are some tips that will help make the trip easier for everyone.

Packing List

In the first place, make a list of everything that you need. This will help identify what you will need to add to the list for your fight. Pack for a change of clothes or an extra pair of shoes in case of messy accidents. Bring a blanket or pillow for the child to sleep on.

Consider things such as what will happen if a child gets sick or what to do with a teething baby. If your flight is short then this may not be an issue but be sure to prepare it in case there is a delay.

Food

Bring extra food with you in case the airplane food is not kid-friendly and your child dislikes the food served on the plane. Or you get stuck in an airport for an extended period of time. If you're taking a 6-hour flight, bring enough food for a 10-hour flight.

You will need a variety of foods, including crackers, dried fruit, cheerios, and other snacks. Healthy snacks, such as pretzels, granola bars, and fruits, should be available. You may be able to purchase some items on the plane.

Avoid giving toddlers a lot of sugar on a flight. You may need to bring some baby food or formula with you if your child is under the age of one. Don't forget to bring a few extras.

Drinks

While the TSA does not permit liquids to pass through the security checkpoint. You can buy drinks from the shops in the waiting area once you are in the waiting area for your flight. On the plane, you can also order drinks. Keep some bottled water or juice on hand in case of a flight delay or dehydration.

Diapers and Clothing

It's a good idea to have extra clothing for both the child and yourself. If your child spills or throws drinks at you, you do not want to sit in these clothes for the duration of the flight. You'll need a plastic bag to dispose of the dirty clothes in.

Make sure you have plenty of diapers, wipes, and a changing mat on hand. You might want to bring some extra wipes with you to clean your hands and face.

Entertainment

Let your kids pick out their favorite books or games that they want to bring on board. You should bring some toys or games for babies and toddlers. Teethers, stuffed animals, and good books are safe to transport and are some good ways to keep a child entertained on the flight to your destination.

Preschoolers and older children may bring their electronic devices.  Be sure to ask the flight attendant when it was safe to use them on the flight as it may interfere with other flight navigation or other flight safety features.

Tell your kids ahead of time what to expect when it comes to the use of their devices on the flight. Also, tell them to use headsets or earpieces to keep the volume low so as not to disturb other passengers on the plane. Talk to them about the upcoming flight and how to behave during takeoff, landing, and turbulence.

Medications and First Aid

If you have children who require medication, bring it with you and keep it easily accessible during the flight. You should also bring some medicine in case your child develops a fever or a headache. A band-aid can be useful in the event that they have a cut and require additional care to heal the wound.