BEFORE YOU HEAD TO THE AIRPORT

Once you’re on the road, there’s no turning back, so it’s important to make sure everything is squared away while you’re still at home.

• Double- and triple- check to make sure you have everything your child may need.
• Pack something that reminds your child/children of home, such as a baby blanket or a favorite stuffed animal.
• Talk things through with your child, and let them know what to expect throughout the travel process so they aren’t overwhelmed.
• Do a “practice run” of the security process, including waiting patiently while Mom and Dad remove their own shoes.

Keep Them Entertained

A great way to keep children entertained on a trip is bringing new toys along  – ones they aren’t already familiar and bored with. Another attention grabber is a portable DVD player, laptop, tablet, iPad, or smartphone. Pre-load child-friendly games, movies, or television shows for longer trips to keep your children occupied for hours. Not only will you be thankful, but so will the travelers around you.

Don’t forget to pack your child’s favorite snacks since there may not be food at the airport that he or she likes, or can eat.

Keep Things Simple             

As a parent of young children, it’s easy to go overboard and pack things you’ll never even touch. Be sure not to pack too many items, since it is much easier to keep track to less baggage and a little one at the same time.

For more help with packing, check out our packing tips and luggage policy.

On Our Vehicles

When traveling in our vehicles, your family’s safety is our number one priority. If federal, state, or local law requires your child be secured in a child safety seat, we can provide you with one based on first come first served.

At the Airport

When you arrive at the airport, remind your child that the process is going to be fun, and try to remain stress free. If you look like you are calm and having fun, then your child will hopefully, too! When going through security checkpoint, TSA has set up a slightly different set of rules for parents and their children. To find out more about TSA’s children screening procedures, check out their traveling with children informational page.

Here Comes the Airplane!

You’ve prepared snacks, toys, and things to do for your child, so the plane ride should just be another form of play time. If tempers flare up, or the children get restless, just remember to breathe and remain attentive. Your focus on your child shows  surrounding passengers that you care about the impact your child is having and are doing your best to improve the situation. The calmer and kinder you remain, the more likely others will follow suit.

Even if traveling through the airport or on the plane proves rough for you and your little one, there is still the rest of your vacation to enjoy.

What are some of your favorite tips on traveling with children? Please share them in the comments below.