My two children, ages 4.5yo and 6 yo, are both seasoned travelers so it’s safe to say the following tips have been put to the test.

GoGo Babyz Kidz Travelmate

As my review states, this thing is the best thing ever invented. If you travel a lot, the GoGo Babyz Kidz Travelmate is a must have!

Gate Check Strollers

Whatever you gate check will go into the cargo area. However, in all our travel experience, I have found that items that are gate checked are less likely to get damaged than checking with baggage.

Bring Car Seat on Board

If you purchased your child a seat, I highly recommend you bring the car seat on board the airplane. If your child is under two years old and you didn’t purchase a ticket, bring the car seat to the gate. If a seat is available, most times you are allowed to use the car seat. Yes, it’s a slight inconvenience, but so worth it. Both you and your child will be more comfortable. The car seat is familiar, keeps child safely contained and frees up your hands.

Items to bring/do on the plane (vary according to age of child)

1. Remove your child’s shoes.

2. Introduce your child to the person sitting in front of him so you can say, “Let’s not kick the seat. You are disturbing Mrs. Smith.” (My friend, Lynn, suggested this and it worked great!)

3. Bring lots of snacks!!! (small items that take a long time to eat– cheerios, etc.)

4. Bring lots of toys – DVD player, video game, mp3 player, magna doodle, playdoh, silly putty, stickers,crayons, colorforms for window (if you bring the carseat, he’ll have to sit in the window seat), books, Color Wonder markers and paper, coloring books where you “paint” with water. I try to avoid small objects like cars, etc. that they can easily drop and then make you fish under the seat. Another great suggestion from my friend, Lynn, was taking a doll and a box of bandaids. This kept my daughter occupied for a long time!

5. Children have sensitive ears and often experience discomfort during takeoff and landing. Sucking and swallowing help relieve this discomfort. Depending on your child’s age, this may mean a bottle, a sippie cup or a lollipop. You can purchase beverages after going through security. If you need milk, I highly recommend buying it in the terminal as they don’t always have stock on the plane.

6. Layer your child’s clothing so it may be easily added/removed. I normally do clothes without buckles, etc. (sweatpants, pj’s) for comfort and make sure they are wearing long sleeves, pants and socks. I also bring a small blanket.

7. Bring a carry on bag/backpack with more snacks, diapers, wipes, change of clothes (including a shirt for you) than you think you will need. You never know if you’re going to get stuck on the tarmack for hours. If your child is potty trained, you might want to consider using a pull up on board. During take off, landing, or any turbulent weather, you will not be able to leave your seat. Children can’t always wait 20-30 minutes.

8. I always talk up the trip in advance so the kids get excited about going on the airplane.

9. Most of all, just go with the flow. Your child may love it! If not, just try reading to him, singing, keeping him entertained. If anyone says anything, just tell them off or offer to buy a round of drinks. LOL. I find most people are fairly helpful and understanding if you’re making an effort.

I’d love to hear any suggestions/tricks that work for your family.

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