Toddler Travel 106 - By Plane

Gadling has some good ideas listed in Kid Travel Help on traveling by plane with small children.  Here are some ideas if you're traveling with infants, babies, or toddlers:

• Consult your doctor about the destination and time of your travel. Your doctor may have special instructions for you. For infants, consider scheduling your Doc appointment one week before your trip.
• Make sure you have the proper travel documents for your baby. Read Does my baby need a passport? If you are a US citizen, check out The US Dept of State.
• Try getting nonstop flights if possible and affordable. If you need to change flights, make sure you have enough time schedules between flights so that you can traverse the airport easily and take care of baby/toddler's needs.
• Avoid the aisle seat if you're holding your baby for the length of the trip. You don't want to get bumped by a passenger, get hit by the food cart, etc.
• If possible, consider adjusting your child's sleep schedule before you hit the plane. I know some parents will scream 'my child needs to be on a schedule', but any plane trip is a curve ball to whatever your child calls 'normal'. If you can hold off nap time to the plane, you'll be doing yourself and your child a big favor!
• Make sure that food, including milk/water, medication, cleaning wipes, and diaper materials are easily accessible. For babies, this ClubMom article has a really good list.
• Yes, do bring some books and toys, but do keep it simple. Shuffling through your bags to find the one toy that toddler wants is frustrating.
• Establish a new 'quiet' activity a couple of days before the flight. This could be a special new book, a game, or even a dvd/music cd. Turn to this activity on the flight if you're child becomes restless during flight.   
• Explain to your toddler about flight travel. He/she understands a lot and may be more relaxed if they are not surprised.
• Avoid sugar snacks. (Need I say more?)
• If you're toddler is acting up on the flight, my best suggestion is to pick him/her up and take a walk to the back of the plane. The distractions may calm them down.

Other good links:

• Traveling on an Airplane with a Baby - Very Good!
• Baby Travel Questions
• Top Ten Travel Tips for Airplane Travel with Toddlers
  
• Hot to pack a Toddler Suitcase
• Flying with Kids Travel Tips
• UK Passport Service
• American Airlines Traveling with Children and Infants
• Air Canada Young Travelers

Comments

[Posted on Nov 21, 2006 9:32:48 PM by Leslie]

Some more tips for plane travel with toddlers:
http://the-wild-rumpus.blogspot.com/2006/11/tips-for-flying-with-toddlers.html

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