Flying with Kids: How to Keep Your Family Happy and Entertained on a Plane

Taking your family on a long flight can be both exciting and challenging, especially when you’re traveling with kids. A trip from the USA to India, for instance, can span over 15 hours, and ensuring a pleasant journey for everyone can make a world of difference. Whether you’re looking for last-minute flights to India from the USA or planning a vacation in advance, keeping your kids entertained and happy on the flight is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you manage the journey smoothly.

Planning Your Trip

1. Book Smartly

When looking for last minute flights to India from the USA, flexibility is key. Use travel comparison sites and apps to find the best deals on Flight Tickets to Thiruvananthapuram or other destinations in India. Booking flights that align with your kids’ sleep schedules can make a big difference in their comfort and behavior. Consider flights that offer convenient layover times and kid-friendly amenities.

2. Seat Selection

Choosing the right seats can greatly influence your flight experience. Aim for bulkhead seats if available, as they offer more legroom, making it easier for kids to move around. Some airlines also provide bassinets for infants in these seats. If traveling with a partner, consider booking aisle and window seats, leaving the middle seat free in hopes that it remains empty. If someone does book it, they might be willing to switch, giving you and your partner the aisle and window seats together.

3. Prepare for Security

Security checks can be daunting with kids, but preparation helps. Keep all travel documents and boarding passes accessible. Explain the process to older kids so they know what to expect. Have a plan for taking off shoes, jackets, and emptying pockets quickly to avoid unnecessary stress.

Packing Essentials

1. Carry-On Bag Essentials

Pack a well-organized carry-on bag with essentials like:

• Snacks: Non-messy, nutritious snacks like granola bars, fruits, and crackers.
• Drinks: Empty bottles you can fill after passing through security.
• Extra Clothes: A change of clothes for each child in case of spills or accidents.
• Wipes and Sanitizer: For quick clean-ups and maintaining hygiene.
• Medications: Any necessary medications, including motion sickness tablets if needed.
• Comfort Items: Blankets, pillows, or favorite stuffed animals to help them feel at home.

2. Entertainment Kit

Create an entertainment kit tailored to your kids’ ages and interests. Include:

• Books and Coloring: Lightweight books, coloring books, and crayons.
• Tablets and Headphones: Preloaded with movies, educational games, and apps.
• Toys: Compact toys like action figures, dolls, or small puzzles.

3. Electronics and Chargers

Don’t forget chargers and power banks to keep devices running throughout the flight. Noise-canceling headphones can help block out the hum of the plane and keep kids focused on their entertainment.

In-Flight Strategies

1. Takeoff and Landing

Takeoff and landing can be uncomfortable for kids due to changes in air pressure. Encourage older kids to chew gum or suck on lollipops. For younger children, breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or offering a pacifier can help alleviate ear pressure.

2. Snacks and Meals

Airline food might not always be to your kids’ liking. Pack familiar snacks and meals that you know they enjoy. You can also request kid-friendly meals when booking your flight tickets to Thiruvananthapuram. Keep portions small and manageable to avoid messes and ensure that they eat at regular intervals to keep their energy levels stable.

3. Maintain Routine

Try to stick to your kids’ usual routines as much as possible. This includes meal times, naps, and bedtime. Keeping to their normal schedule can help reduce anxiety and restlessness. Bring along their favorite bedtime story or a familiar bedtime song to help them settle down.

4. Breaks and Movement

Long flights can make kids restless. Encourage them to take short walks up and down the aisle or do simple stretches at their seats. This helps in preventing stiffness and keeps them from getting too antsy.

5. Engage and Entertain

Mix up the activities to keep them engaged. Start with something low-energy like drawing or reading, and then move to more interactive entertainment like games or movies. Be prepared to switch activities frequently to keep their interest alive.

6. In-Flight Entertainment

Many international flights offer in-flight entertainment systems with movies, TV shows, and games. Let your kids explore the options available. This can be a lifesaver for keeping them entertained during long stretches of the flight.

Dealing with Challenges

1. Managing Tantrums

If your child has a meltdown, remain calm and patient. Sometimes a change of scenery or a different activity can help. If possible, walk them around the cabin to distract them. Offer comforting words and reassure them that everything is okay.

2. Handling Fears

Some kids may be scared of flying. Explain the process in simple terms and reassure them about safety. Bringing along familiar items can provide comfort. Letting them watch planes take off and land from the terminal can also help reduce fear by making the experience more familiar.

3. Dealing with Discomfort

Kids might experience discomfort such as ear pressure or feeling too hot or cold. Dress them in layers to easily adjust to the cabin temperature. Encourage them to drink water to stay hydrated and stretch to alleviate any discomfort from sitting too long.

Arriving and Beyond

1. Transitioning Smoothly

Once you land, give yourself some time to gather belongings and prepare for disembarking. Explain the process to your kids so they know what to expect. Have a plan for the transition from the plane to baggage claim and onward to your final destination.

2. Jet Lag Management

When traveling across time zones, kids can be more affected by jet lag than adults. Try to adjust their sleep schedule gradually a few days before departure. Once you arrive, spend time outside in natural light to help reset their internal clock.

3. Local Considerations

If your destination is Thiruvananthapuram, research child-friendly activities and dining options in advance. Familiarize yourself with local customs and transportation options to make navigating the city easier with kids. Knowing where the nearest park or child-friendly attraction is can help you quickly address any restlessness or need for activity.

Conclusion

Traveling with kids on a long flight doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With careful planning and the right strategies, you can keep your family happy and entertained from takeoff to landing. Remember to stay flexible and patient, as kids can be unpredictable, but also incredibly resilient. By preparing in advance and keeping their needs in mind, you can ensure a smoother journey on your next last minute flight to India from the USA or any destination around the world. Happy travels!