Traveling with Kids on Airplanes | Your Complete Stress-Free Guide
Traveling with Kids on Airplanes is likely in your future if you were a regular traveler before having children and plan to keep doing so after having a family.
You’ve probably heard from friends and family members about the horrors of traveling with kids on airplanes. However, just as every activity changes when kids are included, so may the stress level when traveling with kids if enough packing preparation (and food) is made.
The truth is that traveling with or without children may be challenging. There are numerous things that might go wrong while traveling, ranging from airline meltdowns over the holidays to soaring ticket prices to lost luggage during a layover.
Traveling with Kids on Airplanes: Preparing for the Journey
Booking kid-friendly airlines and flights
Start your stress-free journey by choosing airlines that are known for their child-friendly services and facilities. Research airlines that provide additional amenities for children, such as kid’s meals, onboard entertainment, extra legroom, and most importantly allow you to bring the car seat and stroller on the plane.
Packing essentials for the flight
Make sure to pack all the necessary items to keep your child comfortable during the flight. This includes extra clothes, blankets, favorite toys, and snacks.
Ensuring proper documentation
Check and double-check that you have all the necessary documentation for your child, including passports, visas, and any additional travel permits required for your destination.
Onboard Comfort and Entertainment
Traveling with kids on airplanes is not an easy task. You need some preparation before traveling.
Choosing the right seats
Selecting the appropriate seats can greatly enhance your child’s comfort during the flight. Opt for seats with extra legroom or near the aisle for easier access to the restroom or walking around the cabin.
Carry-on items for kids
Pack a well-stocked carry-on bag specifically for your child. Include their favorite toys, books, and electronic devices to keep them entertained during the flight. Don’t forget to bring comforts that will make them feel safe and at ease, such as blankets or fluffy animals.
In-flight entertainment options
Many airlines offer a range of kid-friendly entertainment options, such as films, TV shows, and games. Use these things to occupy and entertain your youngster when traveling. Consider carrying noise-canceling headphones so they may fully enjoy their entertainment without interruptions.
Traveling with kids on Airplanes: Mealtime and Snacks
Special meal requests
When booking your flight, inquire about special meal options for children. Some airlines offer kid-friendly meals that cater to their preferences and dietary restrictions. Having a familiar and enjoyable meal can make the journey more pleasant for your child.
Healthy snacks for kids
Pack a selection of healthy snacks that your child enjoys. Opt for fruits, granola bars, and crackers to keep their energy levels up during the flight. Avoid sugary snacks that can lead to energy crashes or hyperactivity.
Managing food allergies
If your child has any food allergies or dietary restrictions, inform the airline in advance. They can accommodate special requests or provide alternative meal options to ensure your child’s safety and well-being during the flight.
Sleep and Rest
Essential read: What Are The Extra Items You Can Carry On A Plane For Free?
The Best Family-Friendly Airlines
Not every airline is made equally. Try to make your reservation with a kid-friendly airline to make traveling with children as easy as possible.
Here is a short selection of airlines that offer family-friendly services.
JetBlue Airways
When it comes to treating its young passengers, JetBlue delivers.
Families (with children under 2) are also granted pre-boarding privileges, and the airline offers a decent selection of kid-friendly in-flight entertainment. Its 3 dozen channels include Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and Animal Planet. On flights longer than two hours, it also makes a point to offer at least one family-friendly film.
Additionally, JetBlue provides kids with limitless free juice and snacks to keep their bellies full and well-fed. If you still want more, you can buy EatUp snack boxes.
Several JetBlue terminals provide Mamava Lactation Pods for those who are nursing or lactating. Additionally, there are two play areas and an outdoor rooftop at the airline’s Terminal 5 at JFK, which are great for kids before or after a long flight.
Alaska Airlines
There is a special benefit to taking your family on an Alaska Airlines flight. Each aircraft has a few “family rows” that the airline reserves, increasing your chances of getting a seat together. We really appreciate how they give kids a food tray right before takeoff. What better way to calm youngsters down than with a little treat? It’s usually when kids fidget the most.
All of the for-pay eating alternatives provide a selection of culinary products and accommodate vegan, kosher, and gluten-free dietary requirements. Certain airlines don’t sell any food products.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest is one of the few airlines that provide complimentary checked bags for each passenger—two up to 50 pounds each—because it is aware that traveling light with kids can be challenging. When traveling with multiple people who need to check luggage, free checked bags can drastically lower the overall cost of air travel.
Families with children under the age of six may board Groups A and B during the family boarding period. Although this isn’t as early as some carriers, it should still enable your family to secure seats together or at the very least in close proximity throughout the aircraft.
Delta Air Lines
Families flying with Delta Air Lines can board earlier after Delta One and first-class passengers and before the majority of boarding groups if they have car seats to install or strollers to gate check.
Basic Economy, Main Cabin, and Delta Comfort+ are the three levels of economy service that Delta offers. The level of benefits for each class varies, such as the ability to select your seat or more legroom. The first-class service offered by Delta is known as Delta One.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with Kids on Airplanes requires some preparation, just like any adventure, in order to go as smoothly as possible. We have no control over setbacks like lost or delayed bags, canceled or delayed flights, or grumpy airline workers. We do, however, have some things under our control.
Try your best to plan a flight for the time that will accommodate your child’s schedule the best. Bring extra clothing, games, novels, food, and everything else that was mentioned previously in this guide. The airlines listed under “worst airlines for families” should also be avoided.
Obtaining TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR will help you prepare your family for success even before you take a flight.
