Flying internationally with children can be a challenge, but as we saw in our last blog a little preparation can go a long way. Today we’ll explore 18 dos and don’ts that should help make your next international trip more enjoyable.
-Do ask your Ministry Travel consultant about reduced rates for children. Although discounts are not common for children above age 2 on domestic travel, they are quite common for international travel. Knowing that you saved money will definitely make your trip more enjoyable! Your Ministry Travel consultant can give you all the details.
-Do take a bag of inexpensive toys and goodies. Consider getting some new toys specifically for the flight. This can make the flight special for your child and keep them better occupied.
-Don’t pack so much you are unable to carry it, and your sleeping child, off of the plane.
-Do pack medicines for fever, travel sickness, allergies, or for anything else your child might suffer during the flight. Keep them in original packaging, or you might be sitting in customs for a while. Do be aware of limitations on the amount of liquids you can carry on a plane.
-Do consult a doctor if your child is ill with a virus or other disease prior to your trip. In some cases you can go ahead, but some things, like ear infections, may keep you on the ground.
-Do pack plenty of chewing gum for take-off and landing.
-Don’t expect chewing gum to work like a charm. Swallowing and yawning also help.
-Do give your infant a bottle during take-offs and landings. If your baby takes a pacifier, pack more than one.
-Do educate your kids in advance about what to expect on the airplane, from popping ears to proper etiquette.
-Don’t worry about what other people are thinking when your child has a meltdown. Anxiety over other passengers won’t help your child. Be assured you are suffering the most. Take a deep breath, and do the best you can.
-Do ask about child menus in advance of the flight, not on the plane. The same is true if your child has food allergies. Children allergic to peanuts, for example, can get sick just from breathing the peanut dust created when other passengers open their peanut bags. Check with the airline as far in advance as possible and let them know your needs. Many airlines that offer peanuts, for example, will make your flight peanut-free as long as they have enough notice.
-Do make sure your family drinks plenty of fluids; plenty of juice and water will best help you overcome jet lag.
-Do pack a few snacks and a couple packaged meals in case your kids hate the airline food.
-Do take advantage of all forms of distraction: in-flight cartoons, kids’ music on the headphones, and kind seatmates who offer to entertain your children for a while.
-Don’t forget to pack security blankets and other small comforts from home.
-Do let your walking children carry a small backpack with their own things.
-Do prepare for accidents, whether for potty-trainers or travelsick prone children. Keep airsick bags even after you disembark, as some kids continue to feel ill after disembarking.
Most of all…
Don’t let the fear of problems keep you from traveling with your children. A whole world awaits your exploration; the flight is only the first adventure.