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12 Tips for Flying With Kids
by Anya Clowers, RN
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Flying with kids can be a nightmare if you're not prepared for the journey. Whether it is a sick child, weather or traffic delays, or viewing the word 'canceled' next to your flight number, travel with kids requires flexibility and preparation. Here are 12 Tips to help you prepare.
- Arm your family with flexibility and back-up plans for delays and cancellations. Allow extra time for everything. Smile, breath, remain calm. Family time is family time - make the most of it!
- Make health a priority before and during travel. Boost immunity, wash hands, eat well and rest (and wash hands again!). Teach young children to wash hands, use hand sanitizer while traveling, and keep hands out of mouth. If in-flight ear pain is an issue, consult with a physician regarding the EarPopper.
- Prepare for the flight process. The Parent & Toddler Flight Kit will help prepare all members of your family. Everyone benefits when they know what to expect.
- Know what is allowed through airport security; obey the rules, and be patient. Visit www.tsa.gov for up-to-date guidelines.
- Provide in-flight comfort and convenience. The CARES harness, Tray Bien, PlaneComfort, PlaneSheets, and IcyBag are my top picks.
- Pack your carry-on wisely. Provide for your family. Pack to cover hunger, thirst, boredom, spills, sickness, fear, tired kids, medical emergencies, and delayed flights. Pack all medication in carry-on.
- Remember the small things. Charge cell phones and other electronics. Program cell phones with numbers of airline, travel agent, hotel, rental car, travel insurance, and MedJetAssist medical evacuation membership info!
- Keep kids safe. Purchase a seat for every passenger in-flight, regardless of age. Use a car seat for infants and the 1 lb. CARES harness for kids 22-44lbs. Use a Two in One Harness Buddy or KinderKord to keep little ones near. Carry a current photo of all family members as well as important medical records and a medical treatment consent form. Wear identification (we like RoadID).
- Do not expect anything from the airline beyond basic transportation. Be self-sufficient with supplies and have an understanding of policies. Expect delays, changes, and lines at the airport.
- Obtain seat assignments when flight is booked. Check in online 24 hours in advance and confirm seat assignments. However, realize aircraft changes may occur. Be flexible and patient.
- Take responsibility for your family. Respect boundaries of other travelers. Use headphones for music and videos, don't allow children to kick seats, wander the aisle (unsafe), or be disruptive. Plan accordingly. Think twice about sedating children - a paradoxical effect can make them hyper.
- Do NOT dread the flight process! Children pick up on tension, anxiety and panic. Airplanes and airports are new and exciting for kids, but can be overwhelming - acknowledge this. Involve them and interact with them each step of the way. Flying can be fun - my son and I fly every few weeks!
With the right attitude and preparation, you can enjoy the journey with your kids. Appreciate this time with your family; you may look back and remember these journeys as some of the best times together!
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Anya Clowers is a registered nurse, travel expert, consultant, and author of the book, Jet With Kids. Actively involved in the travel, medical, juvenile, and senior product industries, she assists thousands of families to travel safely and self-sufficiently. Anya flies monthly with her world-traveling preschooler to research and consult on travel. Pack peace of mind - visit www.JetWithKids.com
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| © JetWithKids.com. This article may not be republished without permission.
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