Are you planning an international family vacation but feeling anxious about flying with kids? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this ultimate guide, we will share 5 tips to make your flight hassle-free and enjoyable for the whole family.
From packing essentials to entertainment options and more, read on to ensure a stress-free journey and unforgettable adventure. Let’s get started!
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Tip #1: Pre-Flight Preparation
Assuming you’re flying with an infant or small child, the first step is to get organized and be prepared before you even leave for the airport. This means having all of your family’s travel documents in order, as well as packing everything you need for the flight.
To start, make sure you have your passport and visa if required, as well as any other required travel documents. You should also have your tickets and boarding passes ready to go. If you’re traveling with medication, make sure to pack it in your carry-on bag in case of lost luggage.
Next, it’s time to start packing. First, make a list of everything you’ll need for the flight itself, including snacks, drinks, diapers and wipes, a change of clothes (in case of accidents), books or toys to keep your child entertained, and anything else you might need. Once you have your list, start packing everything into your carry-on bag and/or checked luggage.
Don’t forget to pack your patience! Flying with kids can be challenging, but if you’re prepared and stay calm it will be a breeze.
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Tip #2: Packing Light
One of the best ways to make flying with kids easier is to pack light. This means bringing fewer bags and packing them strategically. Think about what your family will need for the flight itself and for the destination. Pack essential items in a carry-on bag and keep it close by at all times. This way, if your luggage gets lost, you’ll still have everything you need.
When packing, keep in mind that you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. So, pack comfortable shoes and clothes that won’t weigh you down. And, if possible, try to avoid checking any bags. This will save you time at the airport and make getting around much easier.
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Tip #3: Keeping Kids Entertained
One of the most challenging aspects of flying with kids is keeping them entertained for the duration of the flight. Fortunately, there are a few strategies you can use to make sure your kids stay occupied and happy during your trip.
First, pack a few small toys or games that your child can play with in their seat. Pack a busy bag with a few quiet activities like coloring books or handheld electronic games can go a long way in keeping kids entertained on a long flight.
Another great way to keep kids occupied is to let them watch movies or TV shows on a portable device. If you have access to an in-flight entertainment system, take advantage of it! Otherwise, make sure to download some age-appropriate movies or shows before your flight.
Don’t forget the snacks! Pack plenty of healthy snacks and drinks for your child to enjoy during the flight. This will help keep their energy up and prevent them from getting too cranky during the trip.
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Tip #4: Taking Advantage of Airport Amenities
If you’re looking to take your family vacation to the next level, consider taking advantage of airport amenities. Many airports now offer a variety of services and activities for families, ranging from play areas to restaurants. Singapore‘s award-winning Changi Airport and Japan‘s exceptional Tokyo Haneda Airport are great examples.
Here are a few tips for taking advantage of airport amenities:
1. Plan ahead and know what your options are.
Most major airports now have websites that list all of the available amenities. By planning ahead, you can make sure you take advantage of everything that’s available to you.
2. Take advantage of early check-in and boarding options.
If your airport offers early check-in or boarding for families, be sure to take advantage of it! This can help make the travel process much smoother and less stressful for everyone involved.
3. Make use of family-friendly restaurants.
Many airports now have restaurants that cater specifically to families with young children. These restaurants usually offer healthier options and a more relaxed atmosphere than traditional airport eateries.
4. Take advantage of kid-friendly activities.
If your airport has any kid-friendly activities available, be sure to take advantage of them! This can help make the time spent at the airport more enjoyable for everyone involved.
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Tip #5: What to Do When Things Don’t go According to Plan
The best-laid plans often go awry, especially when traveling with kids. When things don’t go according to plan, it’s important to stay calm and collected. Here are a few tips for what to do when things go wrong while flying with kids:
1. Don’t panic.
It’s easy to get frazzled when things start going wrong, but it’s important to stay calm. If you start to panic, your children will likely mirror your emotions and become upset as well.
2. Keep a sense of humor.
Things will happen during your trip that are out of your control, but that doesn’t mean you can’t laugh about them later. Try to keep a sense of humor about the situation and remember that these mishaps make for great stories down the road.
3. Be flexible.
When flying with kids, it’s important to be flexible and go with the flow. There will be times when your plans have to change on the fly, and that’s OK!
4. Have a backup plan.
Before you even leave for your trip, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in place for if things go wrong. This way, you won’t be left scrambling if something does happen.
5. Ask for help.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you’re in over your head, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a flight attendant or fellow passenger. Sometimes all it takes is another set
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Benefits of Taking a Custom Trip for Your Family
Here’s a good tip: flying with kids is even easier when you take a custom trip.
1. Customizing your trip to include family-friendly activities ensures that everyone will have a good time.
2. You can avoid the crowds and lines at popular tourist destinations by planning your own itinerary.
3. Seeing a destination through the eyes of a local can be a more enriching experience for your family.
4. With a custom trip, you can choose accommodations that suit the needs of your family, such as hotels with babysitting services or apartments with kitchens.
5. A local in-destination travel agent can help you find deals on flights, transportation, and activities, as well as give you peace of mind that everything is taken care of before your trip.
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