There are some ideas that make you question their validity when suggested to you. As a matter of fact, I would not doubt if some readers of the travel blog question my credibility. That’s understandable. But what if I shared with you the best travel tips for parents flying with children written by a flight attendant? Not only that, she has a toddler of her own that she flies with frequently. Can’t find a better source than that!
The flight attendant, whose name is Sharon, shares nine suggestions on how flying with kids can be made easier for the parents as well as the flight crew during the flight. Her suggestions are:
Books- Bring along reading books, coloring books and crayons. If it’s economical, purchase a portable DVD player.
Bathroom- Make the kids use the bathroom before boarding the airplane. She points out that the bathrooms are bigger and much cleaner compared to those on the airplane. Also, carry baby wipes for those quick wipe ups. Keep them in an easy to reach place.
Seat Choice- The only reason that you may want to select the bulkhead seats is if your baby needs a bassinet. Other than that, the armrests in the bulkhead seats cannot be moved. In the regular seats they can be moved. This is more beneficial if your child would like to stretch out in the seats and lay their head on your lap.
Food- Bring along the usual snacks such as water, juice, and cookies for your kids. She also suggests bringing along your own milk because there generally is a shortage of milk on flights. Since flight attendants already have a million and one other things they’re responsible for, you can’t blame them.
Ear Pressure- If your child is still on a bottle or you breast-feed them, she advises giving the child the bottle or the breast for taking off and landing. This will be helpful for their ears and keep them relaxed. For older children who might not know how to pop their ears, cotton balls or earplugs will do. Put them in as soon as you board the airplane. Hold onto them though. The crew might not have any extras.
Health- She advises that you take your child to a doctor if he or she is suffering from a cold. If the child is congested and is unable to pop their ears, it can be very painful to them. Even if the doctor gives the green light, she recommends that you use your best judgment.
Bottle Heating- If you need a baby bottle warmed up, the crew can do it for you. Just be certain to check the temperature beforehand. It’s not too wise to depend on the crew since they are usually very busy. She also pointed out that the economy class crew are usually younger and not mothers themselves. They therefore would not know the proper temperature for the bottle anyway.
Trash- Make an effort to carry fragranced bags to throw away used diapers.
Clothes- Carrying an extra pair of clothing for the kids and an extra t-shirt for you is a suggestion, too. You never know when you’ll need it.