Air Travel – Tips for Surviving a Flight With Your Family

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Several years ago, I had a family heading to Walt Disney World for a family vacation.  I did not realize that they had not been on a flight since the events of 9/11 so did not instruct them on the easiest way to get into and out of the airport with their family in tow.  Needless to say, they arrived later than they should have and consequently missed their flights.  Since that time, I’ve been conscientious in providing my clients with info on what they can take in their carry on luggage, checked baggage and information on getting through security in a reasonable manner.  I’d like to share these tips as well as tips on traveling with babies or toddlers.

1.    Check in for your flights online the day before you travel.  Most (if not all) of the airlines now have online checkin 24 hours prior to flight departure.  This will eliminate standing in one long line if you have someone take you to the airport or using the long term parking shuttles as you will be able to check your luggage at the curbside checkin.  Be prepared for this curbside check as the airlines have found they can charge you $2.00 per bag for this service (in addition to the tip for the attendant).  Read the signs over the counters if you must check in inside the terminal--some are for baggage drops only, some are for premier travelers, some are groups, etc... Make sure you get in the line which best fits your situation.  The checkin kiosks are great, just take your time when using them the first time.

2.    Arrive at the airport 1.5 to 2 hours ahead of flight time.  Yes, I know that when traveling with the little ones there is going to be some real downside to this tip, but you will be able to get through  check-in and security  with little to no stress if you arrive early.  Take things for the kids to do in the airport or plan to get some exercise and tire the kids out by walking the terminals once you find your gate.  Some of the airlines have set up play areas for the kids and from what I've seen these are a big hit--some of the kids don't want to leave to get on their flights.

3.    Make sure you have all required travel documents, and be prepared to show them to the airlines agent.  If you are flying out of the country, including Mexico and Canada, you will need a passport for each member of the family flying.  Domestic flights will need photo ID.  According to the TSA, you will not be allowed access to the secured areas of the airport without your ID (plus, if you are checking bags they will need to see your ID or they may refuse to allow you to board).  Be sure your name on your boarding pass matches the name on your photo ID.  According to TSA, middle name is not a reason for concern, but it is always best to use the full name on the photo ID just to be safe.

4.    DO NOT take any liquids, except those allowed by TSA in your carry-on!  You are allowed one quart sized plastic bag per person containing 3 oz bottles of liquid in your carry-on bags.  Exceptions to this will be:
•    Baby formula, breast milk, and juice if a baby or small child is traveling;
•    All prescription and over-the-counter medications (liquids, gels, and aerosols) including KY jelly, eye drops, and saline solution for medical purposes;
•    Liquids including water, juice, or liquid nutrition or gels for passengers with a disability or medical condition;
•    Life-support and life-sustaining liquids such as bone marrow, blood products, and transplant organs;
•    Items used to augment the body for medical or cosmetic reasons such as mastectomy products, prosthetic breasts, bras or shells containing gels, saline solution, or other liquids; and,
•    Frozen gels/liquids are permitted if required to cool medical and infant/child exemptions. Frozen gels/liquids for any other purpose are not permitted.  Check Transportation Security Administration website for complete prohibited items list.

5.    Be aware that everyone has to go through the metal scanners.  If you are carrying your laptop (if you are on vacation, shame on you), be sure to remove it from your case.  You must also remove your shoes, this includes the children as well, so prepare them in advance for what is to come.  Knowing and complying with the TSA agents will make your progress through the security lines a lot easier on everyone.  You can check online to find out how long the security line wait is by going to:  http://tsa.gov.  This website has great tips for how to expedite your trip through the security lines.  The newer, full body scanners are not that horrible, just be prepared to be slowed down.  Your carry on items may make it through the x-ray before you do.  Keep your eyes on your things, but don't try to move through those scanners until you are instructed to do so.   SMILE alot and try not to get frustrated with the folks at security--they are just trying to do their best to keep us all safe!

6.    Carry everything you will need for your children with you.  DO NOT assume that there will be something to entertain your children on the planes.  One suggestion, bring a new or unfamiliar toy with you so the children will spend time exploring the toy during the flight.  In addition, bring their favorite snack foods.  With the airlines cutting back on free snacks this might be the best way to make friends of people sitting next to you who aren’t too happy to see you with your children.  If this is a long flight you may need to bring a meal onboard—check your flight information to see if meals are being provided.

7.    Boarding the plane - If there are two adults traveling with the children, have one of you board the flight early to get bags stowed and everything prepared for the flight while the other parent remains behind in the boarding area giving the child as much time as possible before being confined to their seat.  If you are traveling alone with your child, board as early as you can to get comfortable in your surroundings and get set up.

8.    Car Seats vs. laps – Car seats are NOT required for young children, but the Federal Aviation Administration does recommend buckling your children into child restraint systems or a car seat.  You may find your child is much more comfortable and likely to sleep if they are in their own car seats, however, realize that you will be required to pay for the separate seat for your child.  If you do hold your child in your lap, avoid strapping both of you with the single seat belt as that is unsafe.

9.    Dealing with other travelers – it is no secret that some people just do not like flying with children next to them.  As long as you show that you are trying your best to control your children, most of these people are more likely to extend their sympathy.  If the children are misbehaving, gently but firmly admonish them to behave and doing so in an audible way may win you more friends and make the flight more bearable.  If you are defensive and angry it is more than likely going to annoy them more.

10.    Check out the airlines before you book.  If you can, book on one that has in flight TV or movies, or carry your own portable DVD player or iPad loaded with games and videos to entertain the older children.  Hand-held games are also a great way to keep the children engaged and less likely to cause problems with other passengers.  You can also check to see how long the wait is for security lines at the airports by going to TSA website.

Flying with your children can be a great way to bond, or your worst nightmare.  Be sure you are prepared and it will be easier than you think.

 Call me at 720-234-3762 or email melody@gimmeabreakvacations.com