Tips for Long-Haul Plane Trips with Young Children

We have extended family in South America and let me tell you, this is one trip I love and loathe at the same time. Since we live in New York state, going to toasty-warm Chile is a treat just after the winter holidays… the flight and travel time, not so much.

The thought of packing up four boys, ages 9 and under, for an 8+ hour flight brings makes me feel like I might break out in hives. The packing, actually, is less daunting than the actual flight itself. Traveling with high-energy boys long distances can bring any parent to a stress-induced sweat.

We have developed a loose strategy that has helped for us. I can’t guarantee travel-with-kids nirvana, but hopefully these tips will at least help make your next flight a little easier and enjoyable.

Book late flights when flying long distances, making sure our kids are well fed and exhausted. This helps to ensure that they sleep. We also withhold naps for that day (at least for the younger ones) so they are extra sleepy. It seems to work.

Review any recently implemented travel rules via your airline’s website (or pick up the phone). You’ll want to confirm any recent rule changes regarding customs, federal regulations, and what you can and cannot bring on a flight, such as child seats and food — you do not want your snacks confiscated. If you’re flying domestically, check out the latest information from the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) website for “What to Know Before You Go” (on the home page).

Bring a stroller for the kids under 4. Airports are big and why add stress to an already stressful situation by making a little kid walk. They will get tired and whine and you’ll either get upset or end up having to carry the child. I have a double stroller that I use for the two youngest. Usually, my 3-year-old tell me he wants to walk, so he strolls his little suitcase (packed with activities such as crayons and books, a tape player, snacks and a disposable camera) but he always gets tired – so he ends up in the stroller.

Book a nonstop flight whenever possible.

Ask for a bulkhead seat. Seems like there’s more space. (This is different from an exit row, where airlines will not allow children to sit.)

Arrive at the airport early so you don’t feel rushed.

Dress everyone comfortably. I usually change the kids into pajamas before we board an overnight flight. On a daytime flight – pj’s are not necessary, but comfort is a must. Bring a sweater or grab a blanket and a pillow on your way in (they’ll be scooped up if you don’t and you’ll wish you had one) in case your child gets cold. It always seems cooler on a plane to me.

Get your older children involved with planning, as they can be more helpful when they’re excited because they want to get there too.

Explain the plan for the entire trip. Communicate what the kids should do if they get lost in the airport, and for new, young flyers, explain about in-flight bumps and noises so they know what to expect.

There’s a lot you can’t control when it come to long plane trips, but if you take charge of what you can, you’re sure to have a better flight. My boys always complain that they don’t like long flights, but when we talk about going on trips, the flight is the part of the adventure they talk about: getting up early to leave, watching all the planes in the airport, and chilling out with  a movie on the plane. Plus, some of our best conversations occur when we’re en route to our vacation. These are part of the memories they will remember when they’re older – so try to enjoy them, even if they start whining a lot.

FlyGal Renee Martinez blogs at Raising Boys World, an online community for parents raising boys.