Flying With Children

Choosing the perfect time to take your kids on a plane is key to making sure you keep the stress to a minimum. Midweek flights are generally less full than weekend flights which means that, with less people around you, you will feel less anxious about them being disturbed by the occasional loud laugh or cry. 

Being prepared for a long (or short) flight is key for keeping your kids entertained. While the seatbelt sign is on, give them gifts to unwrap to keep them busy while they can't move from their seat. Even if they are old toys wrapped up, it will help to avoid tears and boredom.

On take-off and landing, the quick changes in pressure can make your ears feel funny. Although this is normally solved by swallowing, try telling your kids that! A useful tip is to give them boiled sweets or lollies to suck on - it's the easiest way for children to swallow, causing their ears to pop and adapt to the changes. For babies, time their bottle feed during take-off and landing.

There are 2 good options of where to seat a child on the plane. Sitting them by the window means that they will be able to look out and be entertained by the view. It can also be easier to get a child to sleep in a window seat, as they have something solid to lean on.

Alternatively, if toilet breaks might be frequent, sitting near the aisle could be the best option, so that you don't disturb other passengers every time you have to get out of your seat. If you are flying with an infant, you may like to consider sitting near the back of the plane because the baby changing facilities are often located in the rear toilets (check this with your aircraft).