Before you take to the friendly skies with your children for the first time, you need to be as prepared as possible. While flying with kids can be a challenge, there are steps that you can take to make this process go more smoothly. Here are five tips for taking your kids on their first flight.
Choose Flight Times Wisely
One of the most important steps to take happens well ahead of the actual flight. Choosing flight times wisely can have a significant impact on how well the experience goes. Many novice parents make the mistake of scheduling flights during naptime thinking that the child will sleep through the trip. This approach can backfire and leave you with an overly tired and cranky child.
It is a good idea to avoid red-eye flights for the same reason. You also run the risk of annoying your fellow passengers who were planning to sleep if you have a cranky child. If you have a morning flight, it is imperative that you ensure that your child gets a good night’s sleep prior so that they are in good spirits.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Air travel can be a stressful experience with or without children. Arriving at the airport with plenty of time to spare will help to mitigate the usual stress and anxiety that accompanies air travel.
Having a time buffer will also help you to assuage any fears that your child may have about flying. Rushing through security will only make your child feel more unsure about the experience if they are already nervous. You will also be more relaxed as a parent if you have enough time to catch your flight.
Think Outside the Box
Do not be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to air travel. Commercial air travel is not your only option. A smart move is to look into the various luxury private jet charter options for your next trip with children.
With a private charter option, you will avoid the hectic scene at a busy airport. You will also have more room on the plane to spread out and enjoy the flight. Especially if you are traveling with a group, you may be surprised at how affordable this option is. This is particularly true when you consider the amount of time that you save not having to deal with a large airport.
Pack Comfort Items and Snacks
If your child is attached to a particular blanket or toy, be sure to bring it with you for the flight. You never know what may provide comfort to them if they are upset on the plane. Along this same line, you should also make sure that your kids are wearing clothes that are comfortable for them. This is not the time to try to impress with cute outfits. Comfort should be key on the flight.
Along with your comfort items, you need to bring along plenty of snacks. Most airlines have drastically scaled back the food and drink options, making it important that you board the plane prepared with enough snacks to get your child through the flight. The last thing that you want is a hungry kid on your hands, especially if you end up with a flight delay.
Track Your Flight
“Are we there yet?” is a classic question, so make the answer fun by tracking your flight. All the major airlines have tracking options available. For example, use the Alaska airlines flight tracker if you’re on their plane so you can show the kids exactly where you are. It also makes a fun lesson in the world. You can look out the window and get a bird’s eye view of your exact location on the map.
Consider Entertainment Options
Savvy parents also know to bring entertainment options to keep their kids occupied on the flight. Depending on the age of your child, you can consider bringing items such as electronic devices, books, stickers, and other fun activities. If you have young children, some parents find it helpful to bring out a new activity at regular intervals to keep the kids engaged and happy.
If you bring an electronic device to watch movies, be sure to remember to pack headphones. You will also need to download what you plan to watch ahead of time. Do not assume that you will have a functional internet connection on the flight.
These five tips will help to ensure that you get to your destination safely and in good spirits. With the right planning and preparation, you can guard against a host of the most common air travel mishaps that come with traveling with children.
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