Flying with Kids

Flying with children can be a tricky and trying proposition.  Though an hour-long trip in the air might be a novelty for young flyers, any more time than that in the confined spaces of an airplane can test the patience of both kids and parents.  All kids react differently to being in an airplane.  Unfortunately, it is hard to tell how a child will react until they are actually in their airplane seat. 

Here are a few tips for traveling by airplane with youngsters.

• Find an airline that works for you.  Do a little research before your flight, and if possible, before you book.  Most airlines make accommodations for children, but not all are equally helpful. 
• If you have a child who wears diapers, pack a small bag with one or two diapers and a few wipes and anything else you might need.  This can fit easily in the seat pocket in front of you and will save you from having to dig things out of the overhead compartment.
• Bring toys.  And take advantage of any in-flight entertainment that you can.  If you have a laptop or portable DVD player, bring it.  Often times, a movie is just the thing an antsy young traveler needs to make it through the flight. 
• If you have older children, or even toddlers, get them to carry some of their own things.  This will lighten your load and also help them feel like a real traveler.
• Take advantage of family lines at security checkpoints.  And don’t be afraid to ask if you need help.  Sometimes (but not always) security personnel will be able to whisk you through checkpoints by opening up another lane especially for you. 
• Arrive at the gate early.  Parents with children are always allowed to board first.  Getting settled on the plane early is always preferable.