Flying with children can be a challenge for parents, testing their ability to plan and stay calm.
Long waits at the airport, limited space on the plane, pressure changes, and other factors can cause discomfort not only for children but also for parents.
However, with thorough preparation and the right approach, this experience can be managed without any major problems. Here are some tips to help you make flying with children easier and a pleasant experience for the whole family.
1. Before the trip – Preparation is key
Before the trip, it is important to familiarize yourself with the rules of the airline you are flying with. If you are traveling with a child under 2 years of age, you need to know that during takeoff and landing, the child must be secured on your lap with a special safety belt.
However, if you purchase a separate seat for your child, you can bring a certified child car seat on board for greater comfort and safety. Some airlines offer free transport of car seats, strollers, and cribs.
2. Baggage for children – What can you take with you?
Children under 2 without a purchased seat do not have their own hand luggage allowance. However, if you are entitled to baggage allowance as an adult, your child may carry one piece of checked baggage weighing up to 10 kg and measuring up to 115 cm (length + height + width).
Children over 2 years of age are entitled to the same baggage allowance as adults. It is therefore important to think in advance about what you will need during the flight and what you can store in your checked baggage.
3. Clothing – Layering is key
The temperature on the plane can vary significantly from the temperature at the airport or at your destination. It is therefore practical to dress your child in several layers that you can add or remove as needed.
Don’t forget warm socks, a blanket, and sunglasses or a hat if you are flying to warmer countries. Comfortable clothing is also important so that you can quickly and easily change your child’s clothes, for example when visiting the toilet.
4. Prepare your child for the flight – Explain what to expect
Flying can be a completely new and unfamiliar experience for a child. To avoid fear or crying, it is a good idea to prepare your child in advance. Explain what will happen – from security checks at the airport to takeoff and landing. Books or stories about airplanes can also help, as they familiarize children with the whole process and make it more fun.
5. Adjust the departure time to your child’s daily routine
If possible, plan your flight to coincide with your child’s bedtime. Bring along a favorite blanket, stuffed toy, or other item that will calm your child and help them fall asleep. A longer sleep during the flight can significantly improve the mood of both children and parents. If your child is full of energy, consider a later flight to minimize stress.
6. Book your seats in advance
Booking seats in advance is a big advantage, especially when traveling with children. A window seat can be fascinating for children because they can watch the sky and the movement of the plane. For parents, it is practical to have seats close to the toilet, which makes changing diapers or other needs easier.
7. Arrive at the airport well in advance
Traveling with children is often unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to arrive at the airport well in advance. This will give you time to complete all the necessary formalities calmly and avoid stressful situations. Some airlines offer priority boarding for families with children, which will give you more time to settle in and prepare for the flight.
8. Keep your children entertained during the flight
Children quickly become bored, especially on longer flights. Therefore, it is a good idea to have various activities prepared, such as books, coloring books, interactive toys, or tablets with your favorite cartoons and games.
Don’t forget to download content for offline viewing from your favorite streaming platforms, like HBO Max, Disney+, Netflix, and many others. Some airlines also offer entertainment programs for children, so ask about the available options.
9. Meals during the flight
When purchasing a ticket, you can order a children’s meal, but it’s always a good idea to bring healthy snacks and drinks that your children like. Smartwings allows you to carry baby food in bottles with a maximum volume of 200 ml free of charge, but be prepared to present it for separate inspection during the security check.
10. Watch out for pressure in your ears
The change in pressure during takeoff and landing can be uncomfortable for children. Breastfeeding or bottle feeding helps toddlers, while older children may find chewing gum, candy, or drinking through a straw helpful. These simple tricks can alleviate discomfort and make the flight more comfortable.
Conclusion – Enjoy your flight and vacation
After a successful flight, don’t forget to plan some free time for your children to run around and let off steam. Traveling with children requires flexibility, patience, and the ability to improvise. However, with good preparation, you can turn your flight into a pleasant experience and enjoy your vacation with your family to the fullest.