For most of us, flying is an unavoidable and rarely-enjoyed necessity when travelling abroad. There’s the tedious airport waits, the cramped seating, the turbulence… throw small children into the mix and you’ve got a recipe for real hassle. It doesn't need to be this way though. Follow these tips for travelling with babies and toddlers and reduce stress levels on your next break.
Pack what you think you need…. and the rest!
We all want to pack as lightly as possible, but don’t scrimp on the nappy bag! Prepare for the worst case scenario in terms of airport/flight delays and pack more than you need when it comes to nappies, wipes, spare clothes and milk. You really don’t want to be left with a screaming baby in a dirty nappy when the plane announces it can’t take off for another half an hour. Toys are an on-flight essential too; opt for small playthings that can be swapped and changed to hold your little ones attention or buy something new as a holiday treat.
Get ready for spillages
Think you’ve packed everything? Have you packed a tea towel and paper towel too? This might sound like an essential saved only for the kitchen, but sometimes baby wipes just aren’t enough, and it’s usually the case when you’re thousands of feet up in the air! Unexpected travel sickness can be very messy… and it will save yourself time and embarrassment if you have the means to just clean the situation up yourself rather than wait for the cabin crew to assist.
Buy more legroom
If you can afford it, always try to buy yourself seats with extra legroom. You will be so thankful if you have a child on your lap, you may even be able to seat them on the floor for short periods to give yourself a little rest. This extra legroom may be cheaper than you think too, especially if you’re travelling outside of peak season. Use travel comparison site Amadeus.net to compare flight tickets and try and secure that extra space for next to nothing. It will be almost certainly be worth it.
Charge up the gadgets
For older toddlers, gadgets are a lifesaver. If there’s one time you’ll want to be throwing out the screen-time rules it’s on a plane journey. Make sure your smartphone, iPad, tablet or portable DVD player is charged up and ready to use as soon as those seatbelt signs go off.
Feed baby to ease ear pressure
A simple tip to avoiding baby fussiness when flying is to help ease any ear pressure during landing and take-off. This tried and tested trick will help small ears adjust and will be just as beneficial whether you opt for a breastfeed, bottle or sippy cup of water. A dummy will also do the job. Remember throughout the flight, if your ears feel uncomfortable then give your baby another drink to aid them too.
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