Some parents cringe at the thought of flying with children.

I am here to try and take that sting away. While I will not sugar coat the obvious challenges of flying with kids, I will maintain that is is always worth it. Being a pretty well-traveled family I have picked up some wisdom of what works and what doesn’t. For the most part kids really enjoy the novelty of air travel and it is an exciting event for them. So, with a little bit of intention in your planning you can set them up for success.

Timing is everything.

Well rested children make much happier travelers. So give them a good night’s sleep before your day of travel. Rule of thumb: if they must change into jammies for the flight or change out of them right before the timing is not ideal. Choose an early flight over later in the day but, don’t choose the earliest flight.

Bring snacks.

Snacks are the key to success with all activities when it comes to children. The airport will have snack but, most of them will be sugary. I don’t recommend lots of sugar before a flight for obvious reasons. I have seen some moms who are so creative using tackle boxes to include a variety of snacks. I have personally never tried this but, it looks cute. For toddlers 2 and younger snacks are basically an activity and probably the only thing that will keep them content on a flight.

Keep entertainment simple

Crayons roll off your tray table, toys fall under the seat, and the sun might be too bright to keep your window open. Flying is not the time for grand ideas. I have found that technology really works well for in-flight entertainment. iPads, tablets, anything that has your favorite streaming app will do. While I do think having a few extra tricks up your sleeve are good just in case you find yourself in an unexpected travel predicament but, you won’t need much.

Stick with family friendly airlines.

We frequently fly Southwest for many reasons. Mainly their very family friendly policies such as family boarding and open seating. Airlines that cater towards families will also make the extra effort to make sure not only you as an adult passenger are comfortable but, that the littlest passengers are comfortable too. I think these interactions also add to the experience children have flying and contribute to the overall excitement of travel.

Allow your child to bring one personal item of choice.

I know, the last thing you want is another bag to carry and item to keep track of. But, I feel strongly that children will feel more content and ultimately enjoy their travel experience when they can really participate to the full extent. Our kids love to observe and mimic us. If they see us with carryon luggage, headphones, and a backpack they want to be prepared too. Definitely screen the items they pack as you never know what will end up in their suitcase. We were once stopped by TSA security for a “suspicious item” in my son’s carryon luggage that ended up being a rock. The TSA agent was so kind and said he knew right away what the item might be but, had to check none the less.

Hopefully, now you feel ready to sit back, relax, and enjoy your next flight with your family.