If you’re anything like me you will love flying around the world to explore all the wonders the planet has to offer – but when kids arrive you’ll find this isn’t so easy.

The dilemma of when to go out of England on holiday with youngsters in tow usually begs the question, “Are the kids old enough to fly?”

The answer to this question is simple……..Yes, even babies are okay to travel by plane – although it’s best you don’t let them travel alone. They may be a little annoying for the surrounding passengers and you will want to plan your trip out carefully in advance but other than that don’t feel like you can’t go away by aeroplane with the kids in tow.
In recent years due to the security restrictions air travel has become a little more complex and stressful generally and travelling with a child is now even trickier than before. The thought of being in the presence of a crying baby or whining child for a lengthy flight can be quite off-putting but don’t let it deter you from flying. Careful planning and a few little thought is all you need to have yourself a pleasant trip.

Planning is key…

In my opinion the most important thing in ensuring any trip goes well is to plan it out in advance and when you’re travelling with youngsters this is more important than ever.

Key points to planning you flight include:

Check with the airline if any requirements or regulations need to be adhered to when flying with a baby. There shouldn’t be anything to hinder your trip but it takes only a couple of minutes now to ensure you’re not going to face problems later
Find out what the luggage limit is and how many pieces you are allowed to have (consider stow and hand luggage) You will then have to take this a step further and find out what restrictions there are on the contents of hand luggage. For example, with liquid restrictions in lace on many flights, breast milk, juice, or other items required for your childs welfare may not be allowed on the flights. Whatever the contents of your hand luggage it’s best to declare any items of a liquid nature and show them at the security gate. It’s recommended that you only bring enough to get you and the baby through the flight. Most airlines will be able to provide water for the bottle aboard the flight and can even heat bottles for you but don’t assume this will be the case when you fly – check in advance.
Check age requirements for a child sitting in your lap. You will also need to consider whether you will be comfortable having a child on your lap for the duration of the flight even if it is permitted. In addition if your child is young enough and you don’t purchase a ticket for the baby many airlines require you to notify them that a baby will be sitting with you.
Find out whether you can store a push chair or car seat on the flight and the cost, if any, that this will incur. You may need to check your push chair and car seat as luggage in the stow but some airlines do allow parents to take them directly to the gate for storage in the cargo hold.

A little something for the flight…

Boredom on a flight can get to the best of us so with the kids in mind it’s best to ensure that you pack something to keep them busy – Colouring books, handheld games, cards, Portable DVD, toys etc. ( As an added bonus when the kids are playing with them Daddy gets a go!! )
Don’t rely on airline food to satisfy your child. Ensure that you carry aboard food and snacks that will help your kids happy – Probably best avoid anything messy as that will create too many headaches for you.
A change of clothing for your baby or child is a good idea as toiletry accidents and drink spills can happen. Whilst on the subject of clothes maybe bringing an extra shirt for yourself will be useful to protect against the smears of juniors dinner across you collar, his sick on your chest and dribble on your sleeves

That little bit of extra advice you’ll be glad listened to…

Make sure that you’ve done the family trip to the toilet before getting on the plane. This may just save you a far bit of hassle when you’ve boarded.
Booking seats near the front of the plane will help ensure that you can mark a sharp exit at the end of the flight.
During takeoff and landing air pressure changes in the cabin can put pressure on your ears. If your child is too young to suck on a sweet (recommended for adults/older children), breastfeed or bottle feed the baby during those times. Some Doctors recommend offering your child pain medication such as Tylenol or ear drops. Check with your healthcare provider to get recommendations for flying.

If you’re soon going away soon, Superdads would like to wish you all the best for a great holiday. Let us know how you got on whilst away with you kids via our forum when you get back.

Author: SuperDads

We’re here to make a difference. Superdads not only offers advice but we are her e to promote the importance of fatherhood. Many people are oblivious to the fact that Dads really do matter and this is something we’d like to put right.

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