Flying with children and flying with babies can be a tough ask for parents. But with the right planning, travelling with a young family can be a lot of fun. 

To help you alleviate stress, we have prepared some family travel tips to help make the experience more enjoyable for you and your kids.

In addition to our top family travel tips, we have also included tips for flying with children, flying with babies and things to do with under 3’s,

By following these family travel tips, you can make your flight with children a positive and memorable experience for everyone involved.

Our Top Family Travel Tips

Plan ahead: Research your destination and make a plan for your trip. Consider things like transportation, accommodations, activities, and dining options. It’s also a good idea to involve your children in the planning process so they feel invested in the trip and know what to expect.

Pack smart: Pack for each family member with all the essentials, such as snacks, water bottles, and electronics. Don't forget to pack appropriate clothing and footwear for the activities you have planned. If your children are old enough to carry a backpack, help them to pack their own luggage. 

Keep everyone entertained: Children will get bored on long journeys. The waiting times at airports feel laborious so bring activities to keep them engaged such as colouring books, small toys (preferably that don’t make a noise), and electronic games. You might also want to consider bringing a portable DVD player or tablet for movies and TV shows. And don't forget to pack headphones to keep the noise level down.

Be spontaneous and flexible: Keep in mind that unexpected things can happen when flying with children. Prepare to be flexible when the kids are tired or cranky. If you notice alternative activities you can use to fill in the time in the airport or on the plane, take the opportunity to entertain your offspring with something new. This will help them to feel less bored doing the same things all the time.

Get everyone involved: When you’re flying with children get all the family members involved in activities and let them have a say in things to do once you reach your destination. This will help keep everyone happy for the entirety of the holiday.

Have a budget: The cost of travelling as a family can quickly stack up when you’re on holiday. Plan a budget for your trip and stick to it. Consider using budget apps like Mint or YNAB to help you keep track of your spending.

Keep everyone safe: Make sure that everyone has appropriate travel documents and that you have a plan in case of an emergency. Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your finances in case a member of the family is taken ill or is involved in an accident that requires medical care.

Flying With Children 

Flying with children can be a daunting task. But with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be a fun and exciting adventure for the whole family. Here are some family travel tips to help make your flight with children go smoothly:

Plan ahead: Make sure to book your flights well in advance and purchase seats at the front of the plane where there is more legroom. This will make the joinery more comfortable for you and your children. Alternatively, consider choosing seats or on the aisle for easier access to the bathroom and quicker exit upon landing.

Pack wisely: Pack a carry-on bag for each child with their favourite toys, books, and snacks to keep them entertained during the flight. Make sure to also pack any necessary medication or items like nappies, wet wipes, and clean clothes.

Explain the process: Before the flight, explain to your children what they can expect during the flight. You might even want to play out the procedure at home before you travel including the security checkpoint, boarding process, and what to expect during takeoff and landing. This can help alleviate anxiety and make the experience less stressful for the little ones.

Dress comfortably: Make sure you and your children are dressed in comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the climate at your destination. Layers are always a good idea, as the temperature on the plane can fluctuate.

Be patient and flexible: Travelling with children can be unpredictable, so it's important to be patient and flexible. Allow for extra time to get through security. This is particularly the case if you are flying with babies and carrying milk. Since 9/11 mothers with bottled milk and baby food routinely get stopped by airport security. Be prepared for delays or unexpected changes, and try to stay calm and positive before getting settled on the plane.

Consider technology: Tablets and other electronic devices can be a great way to keep children entertained during the flight. Make sure to download any necessary games, movies, or apps onto your smartphone or pack a handheld computer for your child to play to stave off boredom.

Take breaks: Encourage your children to take breaks from sitting during the flight. Walk up and down the aisle or do some stretching exercises to help alleviate restlessness and boredom. The little ones are always fascinated watching the planes take-off and landing. 

Things to do with under 3’s when flying with children

Flying with children under 3 is the most challenging part of a family holiday. At this age, they are too young to fully understand what's happening and can easily become restless during the flight. 

To keep them entertained and comfortable follow these family travel tips:

Bring snacks: Pack plenty of snacks, such as crackers, fruit, and cereal bars, to keep your little ones fed and happy during the flight.

Bring toys: Bring a few of your child's favourite toys or stuffed animals to keep them occupied during the flight. Avoid bringing noisy toys that may disturb other passengers.

Download apps: Download age-appropriate apps or games on your phone or tablet to keep your child entertained. There are many educational apps for children that can be both fun and stimulating.

Bring a blanket: Bring a small blanket or lovey for your child to snuggle with during the flight. This can help them feel more comfortable and secure.

Read books: Bring a few of your child's favourite books to read together during the flight. This can be a great way to pass the time and help them relax.

Play peek-a-boo: Playing peek-a-boo with your child can be a fun way to pass time and keep them entertained in the airport and during the flight.

Walk around: Explore the airport and watch the planes take-off and landing. During the flight, take your child for a walk up and down the aisle of the plane to stretch their legs and burn off some energy.

It’s important to be patient and flexible when flying with young children. Bring plenty of supplies and be prepared for unexpected situations. With a little preparation and creativity, you can make the flight a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your child.

Flying with babies

Flying with babies can be unpredictable. It all depends on the temperament of your infant and how they react to the experience of flying. Some babies don’t mind flying one iota. Others are terrified. 

Book ahead: If you book your flights in advance you will probably be able to sit at the front of the plane where there is more legroom. This will give you baby space to crawl around and of you extra space for a bassinet or baby carrier.

Pack essentials: Pack a carry-on bag for your baby with essentials like nappies, wet wipes, baby formula, sterilised bottles, and baby food. Clean clothes and a blanket is also a good idea. Planes can feel a little nippy, especially if you’re flying at night.

Consider a baby carrier: A baby carrier can be a lifesaver during the flight, as it allows you to keep your baby close by without having to cradle. Having your hands-free gives you more opportunity to read, eat or play games on the flight’s console. It also makes getting through security and boarding easier.

Feed your baby during takeoff and landing: It can often be the case that take-off and landing is the most difficult part when flying with babies. The change in altitude can cause ear pain for babies, so feeding your baby during takeoff and landing can help alleviate the discomfort.

Bring toys and books: Pack a few of your baby's favourite toys and books to keep them entertained during the flight.

Be prepared for nappy changes: In all likelihood, your baby will need a nappy change at some point in the journey. Pack nappies and wet wipes at the top of your travel pack or consider investing in a baby changing bag that is specifically designed to allow for easy access during a flight.

Ask for help: Don't be afraid to ask flight attendants for help. Or if needs be, other passengers. They may be able to assist you with carrying your bags or holding your baby if you have your hands full and need to retrieve something from out of your bag. 

We trust these family travel tips are useful. And don’t forget to protect your finances before you go on your next adventure. Contact us today and ask a friendly member of our team about our travel insurance.