10 Tips for Flying with Kids
Before my husband and I had kids we traveled everywhere. Honeymooned in New Zealand, went on a few tropical Cruises, traveled to Europe and did a few adventures with our friends domestically and abroad. When we got pregnant with our first child we were naively optimistic. “This kid will be one great traveller” we said. “They won’t change our lifestyle” we proclaimed. “They will adapt to our life”. Well… that’s not exactly how things worked out. In reality yes, we have travelled quite a bit with our daughter but things don’t always go as smoothly as planned, and ultimately you do what works and care about the lifestyle “adapting” after the fact. Here are some tips we’ve learned along our journey of traveling with children. 1. Consider the Bag
After a few trips of carrying my daughter and the diaper bag through security lines and multiple airports, I got smart. One day in the airport I spotted a savvy little roller bag that looked like the perfect swap for my diaper bag. That was it, rolling that diaper bag around was a lifesaver.
Consider exchanging your usual Diaper Bag for a Roller Bag and save yourself some extra work. Also, pack light and use the quality vs quantity method, you’ll be glad you did!
Consider Exchanging a Stroller for a Sling or other lightweight carrying device. The stroller does have the benefit of being able to carry items below, but for me this does not outweigh the hassle of trying to get through security and having to check it in before you get on the plane and wait for it after. I want to be able to get up and go, so for me, pulling that roller bag and having baby attached to me is more convenient, especially if you are rushing to catch another flight. It could mean the difference between having time to run to the bathroom or not.
Not sure what a family bathroom is? It’s a singular bathroom meant just for families. Don’t battle the mad rush waiting in line with baby, luggage, and any other kids you have with you. Instead, find the closest family bathroom and feel safe knowing you have all your kiddos and luggage in sight. Usually there is a changing table provided as well which is much more convenient than changing them in front of the crowd in the public bathroom.
Get Free Like Birdie, a new line of travel bags designed to help make traveling with kids easier. I love this weekend bag that gives you a diagram of what to pack, and also has separate compartments for clean and dirty clothes. Brilliant!
Or, raid another families fast food toys. We all have them, and too many of them at that. They will be new to your child and carry novelty long enough to get you through, and at that price you won’t mind if you lose them. Divide and hide so you always have a trick up your sleeve. Traveling prepared will save you money from buying in the airport gift shops.
The moment my daughter had “that accident” at Disney, I worried not and patted myself on the back for being so prepared by bringing extra clothes (even though she was 5). Accidents happen. Come prepared so you don’t get stressed and can resolve life’s little hiccups more easily, this is especially so when flying.
Aint nobody wanna smell a dirty diaper on a plane. It’s a great idea and takes up very little space to bring along some ziploc bags for dirty diapers and any clothes you intend to rescue in case of an accident.
There you have it. I’d love to hear your great advice and any tips you might have on traveling with kids. These were mainly geared for preschoolers and younger but give me a shout out if you have tips for older kids too.
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