Family holidays are a brilliant way to spend quality time together and make memories but, as any parent will know, flying with children isn't always the smoothest process.
From trying to stop their ears hurting during take-off to navigating flights with a baby for the first time, all it takes is one tantrum to make for a stressful journey. Luckily, cabin crew are on hand to help, and we don't just mean in-flight.
Members of Emirates' cabin crew have shared some of their top tips for flying with children, covering everything from things to consider when booking your seats, to in-flight hacks and even some top tips for when you arrive.
Check out their top tips below...
Have you got any tips you think could help other parents flying with kids? Let us know in the comments below.
When booking your flights
- When possible, try and time your flights with your child's daily routine - for example, plan to travel during mealtimes or naps which can reduce the likelihood of a tantrum!
- Don't assume your kids will sleep through a late night or overnight flight. The excitement may keep them awake, and you could end up dealing with exhausted toddlers halfway through the journey.
- Choose your seats wisely. Consider the advantages of sitting closer to the toilets as this could be convenient, or choose bulkhead seats with no seats in front but some extra space for children to play in.
- You may want to consider booking in the back third of the plane as these areas tend to be less populated when a flight isn't full.
- Pre-book children's meals to ensure your little ones get appropriate food and snacks, to save you scrambling around trying to put something together for them. Emirates for example offers both baby and children meal options.
Before travelling
Pack some fruit gums and other sweets as these can be great for take-off and landing because they help reduce the pressure on a child's ears.
Let your children bring their own carry-on bag and a couple of toys. It can make them feel more grown up and add to the excitement of travelling - although it's a good idea to ensure toys don't have small parts/are brightly coloured in case they are dropped or lost.
Planning the outfit they wear carefully and pack a mini travel pillow for them, to make the journey as comfortable as possible. It’s also a good idea to have a spare change of clothes and a spare shirt for yourself in case of accidents or unexpected spills.
At the airport
- Explain the security screening process to your children before you travel. It can be a confusing experience when they have to put their favourite toy onto the conveyor belt or be briefly separated from their parents to go through a scanner.
- Think about your buggy. If you want to take a pram through the airport, consider investing in a folding one that can be taken on the plane.
- Snacks can be a saviour if you find yourself facing unexpected delays or when moving between time zones. Your little one’s body clock and appetite may be affected, and they may not be hungry when meals are served.
- Try to board the plane first or last. Most airlines offer families priority boarding, but some parents prefer to board last as it minimised the time little ones are on the plane. However, if you're travelling with multiple children and have lots of carry-on, boarding first gives you more time to settle into your seats.
During the flight
- Dehydration can exacerbate jet lag, so make sure they're taking sips of water as often as possible if you're travelling between time zones.
- Make use of the in-flight entertainment! Giving your children permission to watch more television shows and films than usual can be an easy way to keep them occupied. Airlines often have plenty for children to watch - Emirates has over 130 kids' TV channels.
- Never underestimate the power of a new toy. It can be a great distraction when presented at the right moment!
- Enlist the help of cabin crew. They can help with warming bottles, keeping baby food refrigerated, offering kids activities, and even holding meals until a convenient time.
After landing
- Disembark last. Unless you have a connecting flight or are in a hurry, take your time. It means you won't be rushed when packing everything up - and there's less chance of forgetting a beloved toy.
- Look for airports' family lanes; most have these for parents travelling with children, which could save you a long wait.
- Trying to manage jet lag? Expose your children to as much daylight as possible, try to avoid naptime too late in the day, and try to ensure their mealtimes are regular.
You can find out more on Emirates.com.
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