Flying With Kids: 10 Tips for Stress-Free Travel

However, many families ask Tagoo experts if it's the right time to fly with little ones or if it’s better to wait. Of course, this depends on the family’s travel habits and destination, but it is recommended that babies have received at least basic vaccinations. Some pediatricians suggest that the optimal time to fly is between 6 and 8 months. Traveling with children requires extra preparation and patience—from entertaining them at the airport to meeting their needs on board. Check out Tagoo’s expert tips on how to make your trip smooth and enjoyable for everyone.

1. Choose your flights wisely

When booking flights, consider the time and duration of your journey. Try to choose flights that fit in with your child's normal sleep schedule, such as a late night flight for a longer trip or a morning flight for shorter trips. Direct flights are ideal to avoid connecting flights and multiple take-offs and landings. If direct flights are not possible, aim for longer connections so that the family has enough time to rest, eat and relax, without having to run through the terminal with a trolley and luggage.

2. Pack smart and easy

When flying with children, the most important thing is to pack smart. Make sure you have all the essentials: nappies, wipes, clothes, snacks and any comfort items such as a blanket or plush toy. Pack them in hand luggage that is easily accessible and divided into compartments or packing bags. For older children, encourage them to take a small backpack with their favourite toys, books, crossword puzzles and a tablet to keep them entertained. It is true that long periods of screen time are irritating for children, so it is important to agree in advance that breaks will be needed.

3. Bring plenty of snacks

Snacks can be a lifesaver on a flight, especially when dealing with picky eaters or unexpected flight delays. Bring a variety of snacks that your children like and make sure they are easy to eat and do not spoil. Healthy snacks such as fruit, vegetable chunks, crackers, oat bars and cheese sticks can help them stay full. Avoid large sugary snacks, which can cause a burst of energy (or a sugar crash) at the wrong time.

4. Keep them entertained

Keeping your children entertained during the flight is essential to keep the journey stress-free. Pack a small bag with toys, books, colouring materials and electronic devices with games, films or TV shows. For longer flights, consider packing a few new small toys or activities as 'surprises' that can be opened during the journey - this can create excitement and distract children during any difficult moments. For take-off and landing, a teether can be provided to help swallow saliva and avoid ear pain.

5. Comfort plan

Comfort is key to a smooth flight with children. Dress them in layers to help them adjust to the changing temperatures in the cabin and make sure they wear comfortable clothes and easy-to-wear shoes with as few laces as possible. Take their favourite blanket or pillow with them to make them feel at home and encourage them to sleep. If they have a special item, such as a stuffed animal or a pacifier, make sure it is within reach and gives them a sense of security

6. Preparing for pressure changes

Pressure changes during ascent and descent can cause discomfort in children’s ears. To alleviate this, offer them a drink, snack, or even gum to chew. For babies, breastfeeding or bottle-feeding can be particularly effective. If they’re old enough, explain the changes to help them understand and cope. You can also teach your child how to induce a yawn to help with ear pressure.

7. Arrive early and plan safety checks

Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport with your children. Arriving early will help avoid the stress of rushing through security and give your family time to get settled before boarding the plane. Prepare for security checks by packing liquids, baby formula and medicines in easily accessible places and following airport rules. To reduce anxiety, explain the security process to older children in advance and allow them to take personal electronic devices in their rucksacks to help them learn how to behave when travelling and to gain independence when going through security.

8. Use of family boarding and airport services

Many airlines offer family boarding, so you can get on the plane earlier. Take advantage of this and take your time with other passengers to get your children seated and put your luggage away. Some airports also offer family-friendly services such as playgrounds, family hygiene rooms and priority security lines for families with young children.

9. Encourage movement before and during your flight

Children have a lot of energy, so keeping them calm during a long flight can be difficult. Encourage them to move around before boarding the plane, whether it's walking around the airport or playing in the designated play area. Once on board, let them stretch out or stand in the aisle (when it is safe to do so) to release energy and avoid anxiety. Aircrews now recommend that as much time as possible should be spent wearing seat belts to avoid the risk of an unexpected air distraction, so don't be surprised if the crew asks you to sit down and buckle up.

10. Stay calm and positive

Flying with children can be unpredictable, but staying calm and positive can help you to be in the mood for the whole trip. Expect that there may be setbacks along the way and try not to stress about things that are out of your control. Children are sensitive to their parents' emotions, so staying calm and positive will help them feel more at ease.

Conclusion: enjoy a trip your family will remember for a long time

Flying with children should not be stressful. With a little preparation and a positive attitude, you can create a fun and memorable experience for your family. Remember that the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination. Embrace the flight experience positively, be flexible and enjoy the special moments you will have when travelling with your family.
By following these 10 tips, you will be well prepared to deal with anything that can happen in the sky and ensure an enjoyable flight for both you and your little ones.

Tagoo wishes you successful flights!