Flying with kids can be an adventure, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. At flyermedia.net, we provide you with expert tips and tricks to navigate air travel with your little ones, ensuring a smoother, more enjoyable journey for everyone. From booking flights to in-flight entertainment, we’ve got you covered with practical advice for family travel, air travel with children, and family vacation planning. Discover helpful insights and resources to make your next trip a breeze.
1. How Can I Make Booking Flights Easier When Flying With Kids?
Book direct flights and minimize stopovers. When flying with children, especially babies and toddlers, the fewer stops, the better to avoid additional headaches like rushing to make connecting flights, delayed layovers, multiple takeoffs, and increased risk of lost luggage. If you can’t avoid a long-haul flight, consider breaking it up with a well-planned stopover to give everyone a chance to stretch their legs and recharge.
Travel insurance can help protect you in many of those instances, but it doesn’t alleviate the stress at the moment when you’re trying to juggle a fussy baby, an overtired toddler, and wondering where your checked suitcase has gone.
If you can’t avoid a long-haul flight, our tips for handling long and connecting flights can help you prepare.
Consider buying a separate seat for your child.
Buying a separate seat for your child is a wise investment for comfort and safety. According to the FAA, children under two can travel on your lap, but having their own seat allows you to use an FAA-approved car seat, providing a familiar and secure environment for your child. This also frees you from holding them for the entire flight, which can be physically demanding.
“If you’re traveling with a baby, if you can afford it, you want to buy a seat for them. Presumably, on the other end, you’re going to need a car seat,” said Victoria. “Your baby is more comfortable traveling in their car seat. They sleep really well there (compared to the airplane seat), and you don’t have to worry about holding the child the whole time.”
The appeal of not paying for a seat for a child under two years old is strong, especially if you’re flying at peak times like holidays and with the general increases in the cost of air travel. At least consider the trade-offs, though, before you decide.
“You’re not paying for it with dollars; you’re paying for it with a squirmy child in your lap,” said Victoria. “Then you get trapped because the baby’s asleep on your chest, and you’re like, ‘Well, now I can’t move.’ Maddy’s almost two. I would still love her to be in her car seat on the plane because it contains her; it’s a place she’s familiar with. We’re not reinventing the wheel every time we travel.”
Some airlines like United even provide free onboard bassinets. These are limited to business class passengers and those in economy on some international flights, but it’s certainly worth asking about.
United has an entire section on its website about traveling with children, including info about approved car seats and family boarding, that’s worth a quick read.
Car seat on airplane window seat
Alt text: FAA-approved car seat securely installed in an airplane window seat.
Reserve your seats in advance.
Reserving your seats in advance guarantees that your family can sit together, reducing stress and making it easier to manage your children. Many airlines allow you to select seats during booking or check-in, and some may charge a fee for this service. However, the peace of mind knowing your family is seated together is often worth the extra cost.
You can always ask the other passengers to trade, but as Victoria says, there’s a certain risk in that.
“You’re relying on the kindness of strangers or gate agents to switch you into seats all together, and sometimes you might not get that. Sometimes your five-year-old might be sitting somewhere else, not next to you.”
Especially when traveling with multiple young children, it’s just not worth the added stress or risk.
Choose an airline with kid-friendly perks.
Opting for an airline with kid-friendly perks can significantly enhance your travel experience. Airlines like JetBlue, Virgin America, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines offer amenities such as priority boarding for families, entertainment options for kids, and even snack baskets to keep them happy. These perks can make a big difference in keeping your children comfortable and entertained throughout the flight.
Here’s a quick list of airlines with kid-friendly perks.
Kid-friendliest airlines
- JetBlue: When you’re trying to leverage your frequent flyer miles, JetBlue’s TrueBlue is great for families. The program lets you combine up to seven people’s points. Imagine how quickly you can earn a free flight when the whole family is chipping into your miles total. If you’re worried about keeping your kids entertained before or during the flight, JetBlue has you covered there. Some of the airline’s terminals feature some pretty fantastic playgrounds to help your kids work out some energy. And with free in-flight Wi-Fi and personal TVs on each seat, no one has to share the tablet.
- Virgin America: Lavatories, regardless of the airline, are gross. Virgin America makes our list of kid-friendly airlines because its rear lavatories have diaper-changing stations. It’s cleaner and safer than balancing your baby on a seat or, worse, any surface in the bathroom. If you have kids under five, you also get priority boarding, and kids’ meals can be pre-ordered, perfect for when your future pilot will only eat chicken nuggets.
- Southwest Airlines: If you remember from the ads, “bags fly free.” That means that when you have extra gear because of your little one, you won’t break the bank checking it all. With Southwest’s Companion Pass, you also can snag even better deals on airfares for your mini travel buddy.
- Alaska Airlines: Flying with Alaska Airlines as a family has a unique advantage. The airline reserves a couple “family rows” for each flight, improving the chances of you being able to sit together. We’re also fans of how they provide a snack basket for kids shortly before landing. It’s usually when kids fidget the most, so what better way to calm them down than with a little treat?
Reserve kids
Alt text: Family at airport smiles, demonstrating the benefits of airlines that cater to kids with family-friendly services.
Reserve kids’ meals in advance.
Reserving kids’ meals in advance ensures that your children receive their food promptly and that you have a variety of options to choose from. Many airlines offer special kids’ meals that are more appealing to younger palates, and reserving in advance guarantees availability. Special meals are always served ahead of the regular meal service.
By reserving kids’ meals in advance, you’re ensuring your kids will be fed first, which allows you time to help them get set up and fed before your meal arrives.
Make sure their car seats are airline approved.
Ensuring your car seat is airline-approved is essential for using it safely and legally on the plane. The FAA provides guidance on approved car seats and child restraints, so check the label on your car seat for the FAA approval sticker. Using an approved car seat ensures your child’s safety and comfort during the flight.
Before planning to use your car seat on the flight, make sure it is FAA approved so there are no surprises at the gate. The FAA does provide guidance on approved car seats and child restraints for anyone flying with children, so be sure to check before you fly.
Apply for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
Applying for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry expedites the security screening process, saving you time and reducing stress, especially when traveling with kids. TSA PreCheck allows you to go through a dedicated security line without removing shoes, belts, or light jackets, while Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits and speeds up customs processing when returning to the United States.
To save time at security, it’s worth applying for TSA PreCheck. If your children are 12 and under, they can use the TSA PreCheck lane with you.
Check out Travel + Leisure’s quick guide to TSA PreCheck — and how it’s different from Global Entry — if you’re still on the fence about applying.
2. What Should I Pack to Keep My Kids Happy and Comfortable on the Flight?
Download movies and shows ahead of time to keep them entertained. Make sure you load up your kids’ electronic devices with downloaded movies and shows to keep them occupied throughout the trip. This is a good idea even if the airline has in-flight TV or movies. You can never be sure what will be available and if those shows are kid-friendly.
Charge electronics and bring fully charged power banks.
Keeping electronics charged prevents boredom-induced meltdowns. Ensuring your kids’ iPads, tablets, and phones are fully charged and you have back-up, fully charged power banks in your carry-on will prevent the inevitable meltdown that comes with an episode of Bluey getting cut short by a prematurely drained battery.
Pack your kids’ favorite snacks.
Packing your kids’ favorite snacks can stave off hunger and boredom, making the flight more pleasant for everyone.
First on Victoria’s packing list is food.
“Bring all the snacks. Your child will turn into the hungriest person on the planet on the plane, and you’ll be stuck with pretzels and cookies, and they’re going to hate that.
“Even if we’re going on a short flight with Maddy — I flew from Dallas to Austin, which is a 45-minute flight — I packed a full meal and every easy snack I could think of. She basically ate all of it because you’re like, ‘I don’t know what to do with you. You’re crazy, you’ll eat. This is perfect.’”
It’s not just short flights either. “There’s going to be food on a longer flight, but you never know what your kid is going to hate all of a sudden. Pack every snack you’ve ever thought of.”
Pack extra clothes for you and your kids.
Packing extra clothes ensures you’re prepared for spills, accidents, or unexpected messes.
What else goes in your carry-on bag with your snacks? Extra clothes.
“Pack way more extra clothes that you think you need because this is when your kid is going to decide to puke or poop everywhere. And you’re going to be like, ‘Cool, I packed you one outfit,’” said Victoria. “If your child’s really little and you’re carrying them, pack yourself an extra outfit because it could end up all over you.”
Talk to your kids about what to expect.
Preparing your kids for the flying experience helps reduce anxiety and makes the journey smoother.
This is especially important if your kids are first-time flyers or haven’t flown in a while. Tell them all about the airport. What is the check-in process? What will security be like? Who are the helpers at the airport? What is boarding and riding on a plane like?
The more they know in advance, the less overwhelming the experience will be for them. You might also like to watch a YouTube video tailored to kids explaining the flying process. The TSA has an entire TSA Kids video series you might find useful: TSA KIDS-Getting to know the airport.
Pack a soft blanket.
A familiar blanket can provide comfort and help your child relax and sleep on the plane.
If your child has a favorite blanket or one they use regularly for naps, and you have the room, bring it with you. This will help them feel comfortable and ready for a nap.
Pack lollipops, gum, or pacifiers.
These items can help alleviate ear pressure during takeoff and landing.
Babies’ tiny ears are especially susceptible to cabin pressure changes during takeoff and landing. Bring a pacifier for them to suck on. This will help alleviate the pressure and make them more comfortable.
For older children, you can bring gum or lollipops to help them “pop” their ears.
Bring extra bags for your kids’ trash.
Extra bags keep your area tidy and are appreciated by fellow passengers and flight staff.
Between wipes to clean up spills, leftover snacks, dirty tissues, and empty water bottles, trash can pile up quickly when flying with kids.
Having extra bags to store your trash will not only keep your row tidy but will be greatly appreciated by your seat neighbors and flight staff.
Pack all baby and toddler essentials.
Ensuring you have all necessary supplies for babies and toddlers is crucial for a comfortable flight.
When you are flying with babies or little ones still in diapers, it’s important to triple-check your carry-on to ensure you’ve got everything you need, including:
- Wipes
- Diapers (pack extra)
- Formula/Bottles
- Pacifiers
- Comfort toys like special blankets or soft toys
- Baby food
- Bags to put waste in
- Feeding spoons
- Medication like pain relievers or nasal spray (as a precaution)
- Extra tissues
- Hand sanitizer
- Antibacterial wipes
- Any other “must-have” items to keep your little one comfortable
Check as much as you can.
Checking luggage reduces the burden of carrying items through the airport.
You don’t want to haul big items through the airport. They’re tough to maneuver in the best of times, but when you’re trying to get from one gate to the next with arms full of bags and maybe even the child itself, carrying one more thing just might be what breaks the camel’s back (more on this later).
According to Victoria, borrow what you can and consider renting the rest at your destination.
“Whenever we travel, we try to see if there’s a Pack & Play we can borrow from somebody. When we’re going to see friends or family, even if it’s a friend of a friend who has a Pack & Play, that’s one less thing we have to bring because Lord knows we’re already bringing too many things.
“There are also companies that will rent you baby equipment. One of them is called BabyQuip. It’s a way to rent stuff so if you need a highchair, you’re not bringing your highchair with you. Or if you need multiple Pack & Plays, bassinets, whatever.”
Use a stroller or carrier.
Strollers and carriers make navigating the airport easier with young children.
Victoria has one exception to the “check as much as you can” hack. Every airline will gate check strollers and car seats for free. Strollers especially can make transporting your tiny traveler through the airport easier because you aren’t physically holding them the entire time.
“They make strollers now that fold up and can fit in an overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Those are primo because you don’t have to gate check it, you don’t have to worry about it getting destroyed by baggage handlers. You can have it with you the whole time, you know the second you get off the plane, you’ve got your stroller ready,” she said.
“We got one of those used on Facebook Marketplace, and it’s the best because I don’t have to worry about not having a stroller.”
3. How Can I Streamline the Airport Security Process With Kids?
Utilize the TSA Cares line to make the process easier. Parents with special needs children can call the TSA Cares line 72 hours in advance to request special assistance through airport security.
For adults and children on the autism spectrum, TSA Cares has special screening procedures they can employ to make the security screening process more comfortable.
To learn more about how to utilize TSA Cares, watch this brief video.
Arrive early at the airport.
Arriving early reduces stress and allows ample time for security and bathroom breaks.
Leave yourself plenty of time to avoid any mad dashes to the gates with little kids in tow. For domestic flights, arrive at least two hours before your flight. Leave even more time for international flights.
This will ensure you have plenty of time to get through security, get those bathroom breaks in, and allow for extra time in the event of unforeseen lines or delays.
Make life even easier by using our checklist for flights.
Avoid shoes with laces (if possible).
Slip-on shoes expedite the security screening process, especially for young children.
One way to expedite the airport screening process is to wear slip-on shoes. This is especially important for young kids who may not be able to untie and tie their shoes quickly.
Avoid bringing unnecessary liquids.
Minimizing liquids in carry-ons speeds up security checks.
Another slow-down at security is bringing liquids in your carry-on bags. But sometimes liquids are unavoidable. In fact, the TSA has said that formula, breast milk, juice, baby food, and even liquid medications in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
However, you will have to take out all liquids to be screened separately. If you are traveling with a lot of extra liquids, make sure you leave extra time for screening.
4. What Are the Best Strategies for Boarding the Plane With Kids?
Check your seats before boarding to make sure your family is sitting together. As we said earlier, Victoria advises booking your seats in advance, even if it means paying a little more.
If you didn’t do that, or even if you did, confirm that your family is sitting together before you board. Last-minute scrambles to switch seats to accommodate families separated from small children can delay the boarding process.
Let your kids burn off energy before boarding.
Allowing kids to burn energy reduces restlessness during the flight.
Once on the plane, your child will have to be somewhat contained. And once they’re mobile — no longer an infant — keeping them in their seat can be a struggle. So before they start calling groups to board, give your child a chance to wear themselves out a bit in the airport.
“I would let your kids walk as much as possible to tire them out. This is their chance to be free,” Victoria suggested. “So much about traveling is being cooped up. If you’re going from gate to gate, let them walk as much as possible so that you’re not having to carry them. Let them burn that energy.
“If you have a layover where you’re sitting for a long time, try to find an area where there’s fewer people. There are always weird little random spots, a gate where there’s not a flight going out of. Just let your kids roam free.”
Take advantage of the moving walkways, too. “These are great to do loops with kids. It kind of doesn’t even matter if they’re learning to walk and are one or two years old, or if your kid is seven. It’s the perfect way to do loops, you can walk backwards on them, you can do all sorts of stuff, and it will help you burn energy.
“I think that’s the biggest thing, when you have time in the airport, burn your kid’s energy. You don’t want them on the plane to be like, ‘Now I want to run like a crazy person!’ Because then you don’t have options.”
Time your bathroom breaks well.
Strategic bathroom breaks prevent mid-flight emergencies.
Make strategic trips to the bathroom before the boarding process has begun to avoid any last-minute bathroom emergencies that could delay takeoff or boarding.
Explain to young children that they won’t be able to use the bathroom at the beginning of the flight, so it’s important to go potty before getting on the plane. Have them try to use the bathroom, even if they insist they don’t have to. Additionally, you may want to put a Pull-Up on younger children who are still prone to accidents.
Make the trip special for them.
Special treats and activities make the trip more enjoyable for kids.
Many travel pros advise finding ways to make the trip special for kids. Maybe they get to choose a special treat at the gift shops, or they’re allowed to purchase French fries from the food court to take on the plane.
5. How Can I Manage the Flight Itself When Traveling With Kids?
Try to stick to their sleep schedule. Adhering to your child’s sleep schedule can help them rest on the plane.
When Victoria was based out of Dallas with family in Houston, short flights with Maddy weren’t out of the question.
However, if you’re taking your little one on a long flight, either cross-country or overseas, what else should you consider?
First, think about timing. “If you’re going on a short flight, I think it matters a lot less what time you’re traveling,” said Victoria. “If you’re going on a much longer flight, I would try to think strategically.
“If it’s, say, a six-hour flight, if you can suck it up and do a red-eye, it will be slightly more miserable for you as an adult, but it will make your kid’s life a lot easier because they are used to sleeping. Even though you’ll be tired, they will hopefully also be tired and will be sleeping, which makes your life way better.”
In other words, sleeping passes the time, and that’s less effort you spend trying to entertain or pacify your child.
Not sure if your child will be able to sleep in a plane seat? Victoria has a tip for that, too.
“There are some things that are approved through airlines to use as a blow-up bed that you can put where your kid’s feet would go, and it kind of makes their seat a little bit bigger.
“The biggest key is if you have anything you want to put with a seat, it cannot attach to a window or a tray table. It can’t attach to anything, but you can fill that space when you’re in flight and make a bed for your kid.”
Sleeping toddler on airplane
Alt text: Young child peacefully sleeping in an airplane seat during flight.
Be prepared for cabin pressure changes.
Having pacifiers, bottles, or snacks ready can help alleviate ear pressure.
We touched on this earlier, but it’s worth noting again. Have a pacifier, bottle, or lollipop ready to go before takeoff and landing to help mitigate the effects of changing cabin pressure on little ears.
Have a surprise ready for the middle of the flight.
New activities or toys can break up the monotony of long flights.
This tip is especially helpful for long-haul flights.
Bring a new activity book or small toy for your child in the middle of the flight. This will give them a device break as well as break up the monotony of a longer flying time. It’s another way to make the flight experience fun and exciting for your kids.
Do your best to relax.
Staying calm helps manage your stress and your child’s behavior.
You’re probably being hyper-vigilant and doing everything you can to ensure your child is okay and that you aren’t ruining the flight for everyone else, yourself included. When your child starts to cry on the plane, know it’s probably worse for you than anyone else.
“My biggest advice to parents of kids who are crying, your kid will always sound louder to you. You don’t need to feel bad about your kid crying on a plane because everyone should have their own headphones. That is how adults travel. If they don’t have them and they’re freaking out about a kid … Sorry, but it’s kind of their fault for not planning ahead and realizing there might be noise in a public place.”
Lastly, try not to stress about your child being the perfect little angel.
Airline workers know that kids are kids, and they’ll likely cut you all a bit of slack if they see you doing your best. It’s all about effort.
“If you’re a parent and you look like you’re trying to contain your kids and not be a bad parent and not trashing the plane and following directions, that’s the best thing. Flight attendants really appreciate you trying.
“If your kids are eating stuff, try to not let them grind every Cheerio into dust on the floor. Try to not let them leave trash everywhere. Try to not let them run up and down the aisles. We get that it’s hard and you can’t expect your kids to be perfect, but appear like you care. That goes a long way.
“I expect that children are going to be kind of crazy and hate sitting. When adults act like children, that’s a problem, but kids are fine.”
Dad and toddler in airport
Alt text: Dad holding his toddler in airport, showing a moment of connection amidst travel.
So does Victoria like having kids on her plane as a flight attendant?
“I do because I really like kids, and I think they’re so fun.”
When you start to feel the tension creeping in, remember that there’s good news. First, help is available, from when you get to the airport all the way through your arrival gate and everywhere in between. If you end up on Victoria’s flight, she’ll jump at the chance to hold your baby when you need a bathroom break.
And second, it’s usually not as bad as you think. Your perspective as a parent makes things feel worse than they are.
So, take a breather, take a bathroom break, and ask your flight attendant to hold your baby if you need help.
6. What Kind of Travel Insurance Should I Consider When Flying With Kids?
Purchase travel insurance to help protect the money you spent for your trip. Traveling with kids raises questions you don’t normally have to think about if you’re used to traveling solo. The logistics and possibility that someone’s going to get sick before a trip increase exponentially with each extra being.
Purchase travel insurance to help protect the money you spent for your trip. Seven Corners can help find the right coverage for you and your family.
7. What Are Some Tips for Handling Long Layovers With Children?
Find play areas, take walks, and use airport amenities to keep kids entertained during long layovers. Airports like Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offer play areas designed for children to burn off energy. Use moving walkways for fun loops and explore quieter areas for kids to roam freely.
8. How Can I Ensure My Child’s Comfort During Night Flights?
Dress your child in comfortable clothes, bring a familiar blanket, and try to maintain their regular sleep schedule to ensure comfort during night flights. Consider using airline-approved inflatable beds to make their seat more comfortable for sleeping.
9. What Are the Best Ways to Handle a Crying or Fussy Child on a Flight?
Stay calm, offer distractions, and attend to their needs to manage a crying or fussy child. According to flight attendant Victoria, it’s often worse for you than anyone else, and most adults have headphones. Be prepared with snacks, toys, and entertainment to keep them occupied.
10. What Should I Do if My Child Gets Sick During a Flight?
Bring necessary medications, inform the flight crew, and follow their guidance if your child gets sick during a flight. Carry essentials like pain relievers, nasal spray, and antibacterial wipes as a precaution. Flight attendants are trained to assist with medical situations and can provide support.
FAQ About How to Fly With Kids
Q1: What is the best age to start flying with kids?
There’s no best age, but many parents find it easier to travel with infants before they become mobile or with older children who can understand instructions.
Q2: How early should I arrive at the airport when flying with kids?
Arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights to allow for extra time at security and check-in.
Q3: Are strollers allowed on airplanes?
Yes, strollers can be gate-checked for free, and some compact strollers can fit in overhead bins.
Q4: What are the rules for flying with breast milk or formula?
The TSA allows breast milk, formula, and baby food in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces, but they must be screened separately.
Q5: How can I prevent ear pain during takeoff and landing?
Offer a pacifier, bottle, gum, or lollipops to help alleviate ear pressure during takeoff and landing.
Q6: What should I do if my child refuses to wear a mask on the plane?
Check the airline’s mask policy before flying, and practice wearing masks with your child beforehand. Bring distractions and rewards to encourage compliance.
Q7: Can I bring my child’s medication on the plane?
Yes, you can bring liquid medications in reasonable quantities, but inform the TSA officer during screening.
Q8: What are some good ways to entertain kids on a long flight?
Download movies and shows, pack activity books, bring small toys, and plan surprise activities to keep kids entertained on long flights.
Q9: How can I make the airport experience less stressful for kids with special needs?
Utilize the TSA Cares line to request special assistance and screening procedures for children with special needs.
Q10: What should I do if my child has a meltdown on the plane?
Stay calm, offer comfort, and try to identify the cause of the meltdown. Use distractions, attend to their needs, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from the flight crew.
For more tips and resources on flying with kids, visit flyermedia.net and make your next family trip a soaring success. Flyermedia.net offers valuable information and services to help you plan and execute stress-free travel with your family. From choosing the right airline to packing the perfect carry-on, we’ve got you covered.
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