If you’re flying with your child for the first time, it’s normal to feel some anxiety. However, with proper planning and some forethought, you can make your first flight with your child a smooth and memorable experience.
The preparation for your child’s first flight will vary depending on their age. But no matter how old they are, it is possible to feel confident and ready to embark on your airport adventure!
Travel Preparation Tips for All Ages
When traveling with kids, here are some general family travel tips that work for any age group.
Bring an emergency kit
That means band-aids, over-the-counter medicine, and extra clothes.
Even older children sometimes need a change of clothes, as well as parents. Everyone should have a backup outfit, just in case something spills or someone throws up.
Ensure everyone’s rested and hydrated
For any age group, getting proper rest and nutrition the night before traveling is the best way to minimize the challenges of flying.
Drinking electrolytes can also help, as flying can sometimes leave you feeling dehydrated.
Always prepare devices ahead of time
If you’re planning to bring an iPad, Kindle, or another device to entertain your children on the plane, make sure to charge it and download shows ahead of time.
Many kids, especially those new to flying, may not realize they can't access their favorite shows during flights.
Get ahead of this by storing shows on their device, just in case wifi isn’t available on the plane.
Review airline policies for travel
This is one of the most important things you can do ahead of time when traveling with children.
The TSA website provides information about what you can bring through security for your child, including liquid formula, breast milk, and baby food.
Tips for Flying with Infants (0–12 Months)
Although it can be nerve-racking to travel with an infant, there are things you can do to prepare for a smooth flight.
First, recognize that traveling with an infant can be unpredictable. Babies are susceptible to cabin air pressure changes, but can't clear their ears like an older child or adult can.
That said, many parents swear by nursing babies or offering a bottle or pacifier during takeoff to help clear their ears. If you're nursing, consider choosing a window seat or requesting a bulkhead seat to have more space and privacy.
If possible, and if your baby is on a nap schedule, try to book your flight at the same time as nap time. That way, their body is already accustomed to going to sleep.
Dress your baby in layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate between very hot and very cold.
It's also helpful to have a new toy or stuffed animal to keep them interested and engaged. Of course, if your baby has a special stuffed animal or pacifier, bringing that on board can go a long way in helping them feel comfortable.
READ MORE: Packing Tips for Traveling with Babies & Toddlers
Tips for Flying with Toddlers (1–3 Years)
If you're flying with a toddler, the biggest challenge is that toddlers love to move.
Although you can travel with a lap child up to age two, it might be beneficial to purchase your toddler a plane ticket. This is especially true if you are traveling with your partner so that you can give your toddler space to move between you in the middle seat.
Toddlers are also curious, so purchase new toys specifically for the trip or download a show they can listen to with noise-canceling earphones.
Like with infants, if your toddler has a specific nap time, try to schedule your flight around then, hopefully helping them to sleep on the flight.
Finally, while it seems like a good idea to pre-board to get settled, the less time you spend with your toddler in an enclosed area, the better. Before getting on the plane, let your toddler walk around the airport with you and help them expend energy before they have to stay in an airplane seat.
Tips for Flying with Preschoolers (4–6 Years)
When your child is 4 to 6 years old, open and clear communication goes a long way. You can role-play with them ahead of time and show them what it will be like to go through security and board the plane. You can even show them videos of what it's like to be in an airport.
You can also give them autonomy by asking them what they want to bring on the plane and creating a list with them of things they can do during the flight.
Another idea is to ask them to help choose new items to use on the plane.
For example, they can choose a new sticker book or coloring book specifically for the flight. Or you can ask them what show or movie they want to watch on the plane.
Don’t forget to explain to them that good behavior and quiet voices are essential on board. You can even offer them a reward for behaving while traveling.
READ MORE: Creative Ways to Keep Kids Busy During Long Trips
Tips for Flying with School-Aged Kids (7–12 Years)
Children aged 7 to 12 can be great travelers. Unlike younger children and toddlers, children in this age group are typically more independent. Additionally, they’re old enough to understand when you explain what the flying experience will be like.
Before you travel, tell them what it's like to wait for a flight and what it's like inside the airport. Once there, point out things inside the airport to make it a learning experience.
This age group can concentrate and sit still for longer periods than younger children, so get them involved in choosing an in-flight movie. Bring their favorite snacks, and have a few different options of activities they can do on the plane.
Ultimately, kids in this age group love feeling like they’re involved in the process. Having them pack their own carry-on can get them excited about traveling and make for a smoother flight experience.
Tips for Flying with Teenagers (13+)
When you fly with teenagers, consider it an opportunity to help them prepare to fly on their own one day.
Ask them to help navigate through the airport, check departure times, and locate the gates. Involving them rather than telling them where to go can give them a sense of independence.
If your teenager is anxious about flying for the first time, work on mindfulness before traveling. Teach them deep breathing techniques, buy them a journal to write about their travels, or download a tapping app.
Wrapping Up: Managing Expectations
Traveling with a child can be unpredictable. Even if you prepare well, it’s possible that your flight could be delayed or your schedule disrupted.
That's why it's important to manage your child’s expectations and your own ahead of time.
Understand that just because you love traveling doesn't mean your child will adapt quickly. They might be stressed and worried as well as excited. Try to take the day in stride.
And remember that even though travel doesn’t always go as planned, the more you fly with your children, the more equipped they'll be to go on more adventures with you.
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