There’s a myth that traveling after having kids is impossible. However, as a parent of a young child, I can tell you that it’s not impossible to travel once you have them. I’m here to tell you that it’s possible to do so as long as you take it slowly and plan ahead. There are also some great strategies that will allow you to survive and have fun while traveling with your child.
Each child should have a small backpack, but they should also know that they have to carry it. After they have filled it with their toys, go through it and take the ones that are absolutely necessary to keep them entertained.
In addition to the toys, make sure that you have an extra pair of clothes for each child. This will allow them to keep their clothes clean and keep them from getting injured.
One way to break the rules about screen time is by equipping your child with a digital device that has kid-friendly content. This will allow you and the other passengers to occupy the plane without having to deal with the kids getting bored. Since screen time is only for travel, kids do not develop a habit of using it.
You should also ask the airline attendant for snacks for the kids. They will most likely help you out if you are nice to them. Even low-cost airlines such as Allegiant or Spirit may not be able to provide you with the proper snacks.
Doing laundry while traveling will allow you to save room in your suitcase. You can also use a small bottle of liquid detergent to wash your clothes in the sink if there’s no laundry facilities nearby.
By signing up for TSA preapproval, you can get through security much faster. After you have checked in, head to the gate early to enjoy some of the best seats in the plane. There are plenty of people working at the airport, and they can often be seen guiding planes with orange sticks and carrying luggage. My daughter, who is usually into cars, enjoys watching the people working at the airport. They often wave back and smile at the workers as they walk out onto the tarmac.
The fees for checked bags can add up quickly, especially if you are traveling with multiple people. If you are traveling with a child, you can also check a car seat and a stroller for free.
Make sure to check your car seat at the gate. Some airlines, such as Alaska Airlines, have large plastic bags that they can use to secure their seats. If the plane is delayed, try to get your child to sleep in the stroller while you wait for security to check in. If you’re late, try running to the gate to catch the security screening.
When traveling with young kids, hotels with kitchens are a must. They will allow you to make healthy food choices and save you money. We often travel so much that we don’t have enough time to eat out. Having a kitchen allows us to save money and make healthier food choices.