Expert Advice on Flying With Children
July 13, 2007 by kate baggott
Filed under Baby Care, Mental Health
We are leaving for the airport in about 39 minutes and I am filled with pre-trip dread.
Since I fly with the kids at least twice a year, you probably think I am full of tips to help ease the pain of flying with small children.
There are some things I have figured out.
The flight is nothing compared to the waiting around and standing in line at the airport.
Always bring the stroller to the gate.
Prices for junk food and drinks are higher at the airport, but it’s better just to pay it and avoid and tantrum than to bring a picnic from home.
Breast feed for as long as possible if only because it makes life easier when you fly. Bring gum for everyone else.
Smile at everyone and apologize to the other passengers in advance so that their expectations for a peaceful flight are really, really low. Then, they’ll either be pleasantly surprised when the kids are good or prepared for them to cry and yell for the entire journey.
If the kids won’t take their Children’s Gravol before the flight, take it yourself. The drowsiness and distant feeling it gives you is kind of pleasant.
Honestly, I’d rather fly with The Boy than drive!
I like the last bit of advice!
I remember how hard it was to travel with little ones. A distracting book or toy is also good, as is the knowledge that the plane ride doesn’t last forever.
2 ways to travel– with ‘em and without ‘em.