We are parents, and it’s normal to feel the anxiety of bringing your young children on their maiden flight, preparing and conditioning some time ahead is necessary. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth journey with a child below 3 years old on a flight. It’s important to make a comprehensive checklist of all the essential items you’ll need. Here are some items to consider:

Prepare a Comprehensive Flight Checklist

• Diapers: Bring enough diapers to last for the duration of the flight, plus extra in case of delays.
• Baby wipes: These are essential for keeping your child clean and fresh during the flight.
• Formula/breastmilk: If you’re traveling with a baby, make sure to bring enough formula or breastmilk for the flight, plus extra in case of delays.
• Snacks: Pack some healthy snacks that your child enjoys to keep them occupied during the flight.
• Extra clothes: Accidents happen, so bring at least one extra outfit for your child.
• Blanket: A soft, cozy blanket can help your child feel more comfortable and secure during the flight.
• Stroller/carrier: If you’re traveling with a baby, consider bringing a stroller or carrier to help transport them through the airport.

By preparing a comprehensive checklist ahead of time, you’ll ensure that you have everything you need to keep your child comfortable and entertained during the flight.

Conditioning Your Child Before their Maiden Flight

Preparing your child for the flight can help reduce anxiety and ensure a smoother journey. Here are some ways to condition your child before the flight:

• Talk about the trip: Explain to your child what they can expect on the flight, including the takeoff, turbulence, and landing. You can use books, videos, or even toys to help illustrate the experience.
• Practice sitting still: Encourage your child to practice sitting still for short periods of time leading up to the flight. This can help prepare them for the long periods of sitting required during the flight.
• Familiarize them with the airport: Take your child to the airport ahead of time and show them around. This can help them feel more comfortable and less anxious on the day of the flight.

By conditioning your child before the flight, you can help reduce anxiety and ensure that they’re prepared for the journey ahead.

Choose the right time to fly

Choosing the right time to fly can make a big difference in how smoothly the journey goes. Here are some tips for choosing the best time to fly with a child under 3 years old:

• Avoid peak travel times: Flights during holidays and weekends tend to be busier and more stressful. Consider flying during off-peak times when there are fewer crowds.
• Schedule around your child’s sleep schedule: If your child is a good sleeper, try to schedule the flight around their naptime or bedtime. This can help them sleep through most of the flight and reduce the chances of them becoming cranky or fussy.
• Choose a non-stop flight: If possible, choose a non-stop flight to reduce the amount of time spent in transit. This can help minimize the amount of time your child needs to sit still on the plane.
• Consider the length of the flight: If you’re traveling long distances, it’s important to plan for breaks and downtime during the flight. Look for flights that have built-in breaks or layovers to help your child rest and recharge.

For example, if you’re traveling with a toddler who loves to nap, consider booking a flight that departs in the late morning, just after their morning nap. This way, they’ll be well-rested for the flight and can take their mid-day nap on the plane. Alternatively, if you’re traveling with an infant who is still breastfeeding, try to schedule an evening flight.

Keep Comfortable

Make sure your child is comfortable during the flight. Dress them in comfortable clothes and consider bringing a blanket or jacket in case they get cold on the plane. You might also want to bring their favourite small pillow or neck pillow to help them sleep.

Pack Snacks and Drinks

Pack snacks and drinks for your child. This can be especially important for picky eaters or for children with dietary restrictions. It’s a good idea to pack more than you think you’ll need, just in case of delays or unexpected hunger. You know what your child likes to eat best, and there is only a limited amount of choices on the aircraft, so pack ahead of time and bring that comfort food that you know would calm your child down as soon as she sees it.

Keep them occupied and choose a window seat

Bring a tablet or smartphone loaded with age-appropriate games, movies, or TV shows. This can help keep your child entertained during the flight.
On the same note, bring your child’s favourite toy because the free toys they have on board hardly works, what’s a cardboard puzzle going to help when your kid is wailing off.

Choosing a window seat would help as you show them the view and help them to identify landmarks as the plane is moving, keep them curious about flying and what to expect when they are up in the skies. It’s a good opportunity to educate them as well.

By showing them what’s out there during the take off, it keeps their curiousity and keep them thinking about what the view is like when the plane is about to land. This way you set yourself up properly for a great distraction when the plane is about to land, which is another difficult phase due to the air pressure changes.

Take Breaks

Take breaks during the flight to let your child move around and stretch their legs. This can help prevent them from becoming restless or fidgety during the flight.

Depending on the length of your flight, you have to schedule the breaks, and bring them to walk up and down the aisle, this not only stretches their legs but also relieves tension as he/she gets familiar with the environment, everyone gets more comfortable as you know your surroundings, especially on long flights.

Plan for Take Off and Landing

The pressure changes during takeoff and landing can be uncomfortable for children, especially infants. Plan ahead by breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or giving your child a pacifier during takeoff and landing. This will help ease the pressure in their ears and make the experience more comfortable for them. If they are able to, teach them before flight how to relief the pressure by pinching their nose and blowing through it. Make it interesting for them by making it a game or a funny face. Remind them to do the funny face if they feel uncomfortable

Relax and Stay Positive, that’s you

Remember that traveling with young children can be stressful, but it’s important to stay relaxed and positive. If your child becomes upset or unruly during the flight, don’t worry about what other passengers think. Stay calm, offer comfort, and do your best to make the experience as positive as possible for your child.

Traveling with a young child can be a challenge, but with some planning and preparation, you can help ensure a smooth journey. Start by making a checklist of everything you’ll need for your child during the flight, including snacks, entertainment, and comfort items. Consider the timing of your flight and plan ahead for takeoff and landing. Remember to stay calm, positive, and flexible, and be prepared for any emergencies that may arise. By following these tips, you can help make your next flight with your child a success.

Suggested Reading: If your child is not sleeping early