Families nowadays prefer travelling by plane, as they find this a viable option after the fuel prices have skyrocketed. Air travel saves you from boredom and even reduces your tension while travelling with children. You can travel without any hassles by preparing yourself and following some simple tips, to make your flight a dream trip instead of a nightmare.
Plan your trip well ahead, as you can sometimes catch up with some good deals. Six months should be a good time, as it gives you maximum time to shop online or under the guidance of a travel agent.
It is very easy nowadays to book online and travel agents are the best people to guide you through kid-friendly flights. Some airlines provide activity packs and special meals for children. Some flights do not offer a choice of food and this makes travelling with kids very uncomfortable.
Before you finalise your tickets, be sure to check your layovers to avoid jet lag. You must also consider the arrival and departure time, as it is always best to air travel at night if you are travelling from east to west. This proves less tiring as the kids go off to sleep almost immediately. A stopover in another city provides one with the chance to take in the wonders of a new place before reaching your final destination.
While booking your seats be cautious, as it can be very embarrassing to try and bargain with your fellow passengers to exchange seats with you. If the airline doesn’t assign you the requested seat numbers by the time you check-in, then be sure to arrive early. You can also book a seat for a child that is specially designed for children, as these seats are a combination of a booster and a car seat. This is more secure than lap belts. This way you and your child will have a comfortable journey.
Some airlines permit the passengers to get their boarding passes printed a day before the journey and you should take this opportunity, as it saves time and the airport delay.
Once the travel details are taken care of, you can think of packing for your journey. Nothing can be more disturbing than travelling with an overload of luggage. Travel light and make sure your baggage does not weigh more than what airlines allow. If possible, combine the kids’ luggage with yours, to reduce the risk of losing things.
Only carry essential items like medication and passports in your carry-on bags. Backpacks are ideal for children and adults alike since they offer a lot of space and you can keep your hands free. The smaller kids can have small backpacks of their own.
Involve kids while packing and let them pack their things. Allow them to pack their favourite clothes along with games, books and toys. Crayons, colouring pads or a portable DVD player is an ideal way to keep them entertained during the flight. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries for the electronic devices, as you may not be able to buy them at the airport.
While travelling with kids, be sure to take all the necessities like medication, clothes and you can carry books and crayons as surprise add-ons in your bag. Ensure that the children consume a lot of fluids so that they do not get dehydrated and you should avoid giving them dry snacks. Always keep hand wipes ready to keep their faces and hands clean.
Travelling with kids, if planned well in advance can be very enjoyable and memorable.
