One answer you probably don’t want to hear is that you can’t prevent it all from happening; sorry, but you can’t turn your kids into perfect angels for your plane ride. However, you can do some things that will help you and your kids to get through the airport and the plane ride with as little hassle as possible. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you out:
Timing. Try to book your flight at a time when your child is most sleepy. Also prepare for surprises. You never know what your kids will do next so plan to be ahead of time so that you can be ready for those surprise tantrums and surprise messes and delays.
Seating. It is not required for you to get an extra seat for your baby, but if he or she is a little older and may at times want his or her own seat it may be a good idea. Also it is recommended that babies under 40 pounds be put in a secure car seat.
Asking. Don’t be afraid to ask others for help. Seriously, there are a lot of nice people out there and some of them would be perfectly fine with helping you out, they will not think of you as a burden.
Packing. Involve your kids in the packing process. If each child gets his or her own backpack that they are able to choose the contents of they will feel more grown up and they will know exactly what they have to play with. And as for you, bring everything you need… then bring some more. As a parent you need to adopt the Boy Scout saying for these kinds of situations, “be prepared.”
Walking. Walking through the metal detector can be a scary experience however it is recommended that you and your child go through separately. Children can feel uncomfortable or scared in different circumstances so make sure you ask your child if he or she would like you to go first or if they would like to go first through the metal detector.
Madison Hewerdine is an author who likes to write about visitors guides and has a passion for dancing.
