Traveling used to be fun, carefree, quick, and easy until you had children, and then the never-ending headache began, or did it? Traveling with kids is not as bad as most people think it is, and it does not have to be. Children love seeing new sights, experiencing new things, and seeing the world at work, so taking them traveling can be beneficial to them in more ways than one.
When traveling with kids on an airplane, a bit of organization goes a long way. Kids can get overstimulated, and this can result in tantrums and meltdowns at the worst possible times (think security gates and boarding the plane). To avoid overstimulation and tantrums, you need to think about what your children need and want. For example, if you are on a long journey, lots of entertainment, food, and drink are essential, whereas a new sticker book or coloring book may be beneficial if you are on a short journey.
Book in Advance
With kids, booking in advance as much as you can is a way to ensure stress levels are kept to a minimum. Kids hate standing around, waiting while you sort out something such as accommodation or onward travel, and therefore booking in advance is recommended. From booking your airport parking at Parkon.com to save you time finding a car parking space on the day of travel to booking your in-flight meals, you can help make travel easy and enjoyable for all members of your family. Quite often booking in advance will save you money, so there are benefits to be had all round.
Extra Supplies
No matter how young or old your children are, accidents happen, and therefore it is important to carry extra or spare clothing with you. There is nothing worse than a child of any age being stuck in wet or soiled clothes for hours on a busy long-haul flight. It is uncomfortable for all involved and will inevitably lead to tantrums and poor behavior, so ensure that you carry extra clothes that are readily accessible.
Food and Drink
Airport food, drinks, and snacks can end up costing you a small fortune, and as kids want to be constantly eating and drinking, it is important to make sure that you have the necessary provisions to get you through your flight and onward journey. You may need to buy drinks within the airport due to security restrictions, but there is nothing stopping you from taking adequate amounts of food and snacks.
Do not Forget the Entertainment
Flight delays, bored, tired or hungry kids can spell disaster, so where you can keep them entertained by taking along new books, games, or puzzles for the journey. For younger children, sticker books are ideal and for older children reading books and new video games will ensure that time passes quickly and with ease.
Children of all ages love to travel, and although there will be times when you feel like pulling your hair out, you should try and enjoy the experience with them as much as possible, especially if it is their first time flying.
