Today I’m sharing with you ten tricks I learned from traveling on long flights with my twins that can help you have a flawless trip.
Ever since my twins were born, we haven’t stopped flying #blessed. We love flying alone butttt we don’t always have a babysitter (my mom) available to take care of them so we have no choice but to expose them to different cultures. Many parents avoid flying with their baby during their first year of life for many reasons like fear but I think this is the best time to travel as a family, specially since children under two fly for free. I have learned so much about flying with babies that I feel expert enough to share some cute tips and tricks that I have acquire from traveling on long flights… here we go!
Tip #1: Travel Light!
The airport process can be so much easier if you don’t have a lot of bags. My husband and I mainly fly with a hiking backpack because it frees our hands for whatever could present itself. We know our style of travel is not for everyone so the best tip I can give is to check everythinggg in. Try to pack everything you won’t need on the airplane in your check in bag. The only bags you should have while going through the airport is your purse or backpack and the baby bag. Sounds impossible but trust me you’ll fly through security, feel free, and be less likely to loose something.
Tip #2: Change diapers prior to boarding
I always changes the boy’s diapers prior to boarding because is one less thing they could cry about while we are in our seats. Even if their pampers are slightly damp, I put on new ones. Make sure you go to the restroom near your departing gate, prior to the boarding process and be attentive to any announcements made about your flight. Your baby will thank you later when he falls asleep during taxi.
Tip #3: Pack snacks!
Other than your passport, DO NOT forget to pack your baby’s favorite snacks in their diaper bag. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is very lenient when it comes to baby food. I have passed through with juices and water for their formula and they have never taken it away. My twins love eating so there is no better way of calming them than basically bribing them with treats. You will also save money from buying overpriced snacks in the airport. Check out the airport and TSA rules in your destination.
Tip #4: Don’t let them walk on the plane
On my flight to Bangkok, I was so tired of sitting down that I decided to walk around the plane while holding my son’s hand. Five minutes later, we had to sit down due to turbulence and because of that walking experience my son refused to sit down and started having a tantrum in our seat. I had to fight with him until he gave up and fell asleep. Now when we fly, I carry them around the plane so that they don’t think it’s a playground where they can run around. Obviously this tip won’t last forever because they will continue to grow but it doesn’t hurt to have control when they are young.
Tip #5: Entertainment
In long flights, a window seat or movie monitor is not enough to entertain babies, at least not for mines. I like to bring two of their favorite toys, a book, a tablet, and infant headphones. All this, I carry in their diaper bag that’s why its important to have a decent size diaper bag for travel. During the flight, I take out one item at a time so that they are entertained longer and I use infant headsets because they are durable and protect their hearing. I bought the ones in the photo above on amazon here.
Tip #6: Food + Comfort = Happy Baby
When traveling on long flights, or pretty much any flight, I always dress my kids in the most comfortable outfits. I think it makes their experience much more relaxing and they feel at home. I mean who doesn’t like wearing leggins and oversize shirts? Well same goes for babies. I recommend dressing your baby in onesies or even pajamas for all flights. It’ll even benefit you when you have to change their pampers in those small aircraft bathrooms.
Tip #7: Connecting Flights
When flying with babies, it’s best to buy a direct flight but every once in a while you have no choice but to connect and this doesn’t have to be the end of the world. We had a two hour connection in Detroit between our flights from South Korea to NY and we utilized the time to let the boys run around. Sometimes we forget that babies also get tired of sitting down or being carried and connections are great for the entire family to stretch their legs. On your next flight, find your gate and let your baby explore the surrounding area.
Tip #8: with or without the stroller?
Strollers and carriers are a parent’s best friend. If your baby is small enough to fit in a carrier then more power to you, leave that stroller home. Less is more right? But if you have two heavy super active kids like mine, a light easy to close or umbrella stroller will do.
Tip #9: Seat Protector bag
If you have a two-piece stroller where the seats come off in order to close like we do, I recommend buying a seat protector bag to prevent your baby’s seat from getting dirty from dirt or oil stains. You’ve seen the aftermath of your checked in luggage, it all gets stored in similar areas. I got mines on Amazon.
Tip #10: Life is a Carnival
Last but not least, enjoy life and don’t take everything so serious. Arrive to the airport with plenty of time to spare and enjoy your family trips. These moments will last a lifetime and you do not want to be remembered as the stressful and grumpy one of the group. I hope my tips bring you some relief on your next travels and if you have any questions or concerns let me know. Until next time ✌ Xox