Survive and Thrive: 5 Essential Tips for Flying Long-Haul with Kids

Flying with kids on a long-haul journey can feel like preparing for a mini-Olympic event—equal parts endurance, strategy, and quick thinking. But don’t worry; with the right game plan, you’ll not only survive but might even enjoy the ride! Here are five battle-tested tips to help you ace your family’s next flight and arrive with your sanity intact:

1. Pack Smart with Kid-Friendly Essentials

Having the right items on hand can make all the difference. Pack a carry-on bag with essentials like:

• Snacks: Choose non-messy options like crackers, dried fruit, fruit snacks, or granola bars. I made this mistake early-on by bringing applesauce pouches!

• Entertainment: Bring a mix of books, coloring supplies, and small toys.

• Electronics: Preload tablets or smartphones with kid-friendly movies, games, and shows. Don’t forget headphones designed for little ears! Remember, some planes do not offer Wi-Fi or even if they do, sometimes it does not work depending on the area that the plane is flying over.

• Comfort items: Include a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or pillow to help your child feel at home.

• Spare clothes: Accidents happen—be ready with an extra outfit for each child (and maybe one for you).

• Optional: Car Seat. I personally use and highly recommend the WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat. At around 8 pounds, it's the most portable and the fact that it's FAA Approved* is a BIG plus! Discover the WAYB Pico here: https://amzn.to/3PmGOf8

*Non-US airlines set their own rules, so you’ll need to check with your specific carrier to see if they allow forward-facing car seats.

2. Choose the Right Flight Schedule

Whenever possible, book flights that align with your child’s routine. Overnight flights can be a great option because kids are more likely to sleep through a portion of the journey. If that’s not possible, aim for times when your child is typically calm and rested.

3. Plan for In-Flight Comfort

Keep your kids comfortable by dressing them in layers. Airplane cabins can fluctuate between warm and chilly, so it’s good to be prepared. Encourage them to stretch and move around during the flight to avoid restlessness. Don’t forget to bring:

• Compression socks for older children to improve circulation.

• A neck pillow to support naps.

• Bottle or a sippy cup to help with ear pressure during takeoff and landing.

4. Stay Organized with Travel Documents and Essentials

When traveling as a family, staying organized is key. Use a folder or travel wallet to keep passports, boarding passes, and other important documents together. Consider downloading your airline’s app to easily access flight details and updates. If your kids are old enough, let them carry a small backpack with their own essentials to lighten your load.

5. Prepare for the Unexpected

Be ready for delays or unexpected challenges by:

• Packing extra snacks and activities.

• Having a small first-aid kit with basic medications, like children’s pain reliever or motion sickness remedies.

• Keeping your sense of humor—kids can sense your stress, so staying calm and positive can help everyone relax.

  
  

Bonus Tip: Consider Travel Insurance

Long-haul flights often mean international travel. Protect your family with travel insurance to cover unexpected medical issues, lost luggage, or trip cancellations. It’s a small investment that provides peace of mind.

Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you’ll set the stage for a fantastic trip from the moment you board the plane. Need help planning your next family adventure? Contact us today for expert travel advice and personalized recommendations!