Flying as a family can feel like an Olympic sport… strategic planning, flawless execution, and, sometimes, a few tumbles along the way. But with the right preparation and a touch of humor, even the most chaotic airport adventures can turn into memorable experiences.
Whether you’re traveling with a baby, toddler, or teen, here are my favorite tips for keeping your journey smooth and (relatively) stress-free.
13 Essential Flight Tips for Families
1. Plan for Buffer Time and Then Add More
Getting out the door with kids is like herding cats, if those cats also needed snacks, extra clothes, and three bathroom breaks before leaving. Build in extra time for the inevitable last-minute delays, whether it’s a missing shoe or a diaper change.
Arriving early to the airport not only saves your sanity but gives you a chance to grab food, refill water bottles, and let the kids burn off some energy before boarding. Trust me, nothing makes for a smoother flight than well-fed and happily exhausted little travelers.
2. Hydration Station: Pack Refillable Water Bottles
Airplane air is dry, so pack refillable water bottles for everyone. For little ones, a trusty sippy cup works wonders. We’re obsessed with Simple Modern ones, they don’t leak! Fill them up after passing through security to save on airport prices and keep everyone hydrated throughout the journey.
Bonus tip: Add LMNT packets or other hydration powders for an electrolyte boost, especially if your flight is long or involves multiple time zones.
3. Snack Attack: Pack Like a Pro
The golden rule of family travel: You can never have too many snacks. Pack a variety for kids and adults. Fresh fruits like apples, grapes, and oranges are lifesavers, as are veggies like carrots and celery sticks.
For packaged options, my go-to’s are protein bars, fruit leather, jerky sticks, cheese crackers, and Lesser Evil popcorn. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in some treats like Unreal candies or SkinnyDipped chocolate almonds.
And let’s not forget the ultimate travel snack: Uncrustables or their healthier cousins from Nurture Life.
4. Wipes, Wipes, and More Wipes
Baby wipes, wet wipes, Clorox wipes, and hand sanitizer are all necessities. You’ll need them for sticky hands, spilled juice, tray tables, and anything else that mysteriously gets messy mid-flight.
My favorite hand sanitizer is Touchland Power Mist, it is flat so you can toss it in your bag without taking up too much space!
5. Diapers, Pull-Ups, and Extra Outfits
Traveling with little ones? Always bring more diapers or pull-ups than you think you’ll need. Flights get delayed, layovers stretch longer than expected, and accidents happen.
Toss in an extra outfit or two for good measure, one for the kids and one for yourself (you just never know).
6. Know What’s Free (and What’s Not)
One of the best perks of family travel is that car seats and strollers are free to check! You won’t pay a dime whether you check them at the counter or gate. This makes navigating the airport and keeping your kids safe during travel so much easier.
However, be aware that travel cribs usually come with a fee if you check them, so plan accordingly.
Pro Tip: I highly recommend the WAYB Pico car seat for families with toddlers who travel often. If you’re traveling with kiddos between 3-8 years old, consider investing in the JetKids BedBox. It provides them extra room to play and can also turn their airplane seat into a cozy nap spot.
7. Entertainment Arsenal
Bored kids are cranky kids, so pack plenty of entertainment. For babies, window clings and spinner toys are magical distractions. Jack is loving reusable sticker books, mini magnetic tile sets, and Melissa & Doug water paint pens right now. For older kids, iPads loaded with pre-downloaded shows, movies, and apps are lifesavers.
Pro tip: Bring kid-friendly headphones so everyone around you can enjoy their own peace and quiet.
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8. TSA PreCheck or Clear is Worth Every Penny
If you haven’t signed up for TSA PreCheck or Clear yet, this is your sign. Skipping the long security lines is a game-changer, especially when you’ve got little ones in tow. Less waiting means less stress and fewer opportunities for meltdowns.
9. The Great Preboarding Debate
Most airlines offer preboarding for families, but whether to take advantage depends on your situation. If you’re installing a car seat or need to ensure your carry-on makes it into the overhead bin, go for it.
Otherwise, let your toddler run off some energy while everyone else boards. Trust me, those extra few minutes of freedom make a world of difference once you’re confined to a tiny airplane seat.
10. Gate-Check the Stroller
Your stroller is your best friend in the airport, so bring it all the way to the gate and check it there. This way, you have it handy for navigating the terminal with ease. Plus, having it ready and waiting when you land makes those post-flight treks to baggage claim much smoother.
11. Dress for Comfort and Layers
Planes can swing between freezing and stuffy, so dress everyone in comfy, breathable layers. For babies, a zip-up sleeper is ideal – it’s cozy, easy to change, and keeps them warm. For older kids, a hoodie or sweater can double as a makeshift pillow.
12. Don’t Forget the Essentials
Some items are non-negotiable for any family flight. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Passports or IDs
- Boarding passes (print them or save them on your phone)
- Headphones and chargers
- Travel pillow or blanket for longer flights
- Medications (keep them in your carry-on)
- Small first-aid kit (think Band-Aids, pain relievers, and motion sickness remedies)
13. Embrace the Chaos
No matter how well you prepare, flying with kids will have its unpredictable moments. Someone will spill juice, a snack will go flying, or a toddler will loudly announce they need the bathroom just as the plane begins its descent. The key is to roll with it. A sense of humor and a deep breath can go a long way in turning travel hiccups into funny family stories.
Traveling as a family isn’t always smooth, but it’s always worth it. With a little preparation and a lot of snacks, you can conquer any flight—whether it’s a quick hop or a long-haul journey. And who knows? Those little moments of chaos might just become some of your favorite travel memories. Safe travels!
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