Flying Without Kids: 6 Luxuries I Didn’t Appreciate Enough

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I used to adore flying. It was a highlight of my vacations—a chance to unwind and eagerly anticipate all the fun adventures ahead as I soared through the clouds. Before having kids, my partner, Mark, and I traveled frequently, dreaming of the day our little ones would join us on our flights. We’d imagined ourselves as the calm family on the plane, effortlessly keeping our kids entertained while avoiding any meltdowns. If you’re shaking your head at the old me, trust me, I’m right there with you. Now, we’re more of a road-trip family because, honestly, flying with kids is a whole different ball game.

If you still think you can survive a flight with small children without some serious emotional fallout, let me shatter that illusion. Here are six things I took for granted when flying solo.

1. Handling Flight Delays

Back in the day, a flight delay was merely a nuisance. I’d just snuggle into my seat and catch up on the latest celebrity gossip. But now, when faced with a delay, my heart sinks. What do you mean we have to wait another hour? The tablet is already at 68 percent battery, and we haven’t even boarded yet! Time to pack it up, kids. Disney World can wait until you’re old enough to fly on your own.

2. Being Unnoticed

Gone are the days when I could stroll onto a plane, settle into my seat, and enjoy the peace and quiet. Now, traveling with kids feels like being followed by paparazzi. Everyone is watching. Some are sympathetic, while others shoot you glares as if you’ve committed a crime. You’re instantly tagged as “that family” with the small children. How dare you?

3. Napping on the Plane

Once, when the pilot announced we’d reached cruising altitude, I’d simply close my eyes for a nice nap. Now? When that announcement happens, it’s my cue to start entertaining the kids. The novelty of flying wears off quickly, and suddenly, they expect me to keep them entertained for hours. The horror!

4. Bathroom Breaks

Using the airplane lavatory with a child is a nightmare. It’s either too cramped or filled with germs from every passenger. I dread squeezing in with a wiggly little one who can’t resist touching everything—and who might hit the flush button while I’m still in there. It’s enough to make me wish for a private beach with piña coladas instead.

5. Snack Time

In the past, snack service was a non-event. I’d enjoy my food and drink without a second thought. Now, when the snack cart rolls down the aisle, I break into a sweat. My kids get their treats, but a whopping 80 percent of it just ends up as crumbs everywhere. And drinks? It’s not a matter of if something will spill, but when—often on an unsuspecting passenger sitting nearby.

6. Smooth Landings

As soon as the pilot announces our descent, my kid suddenly has to use the potty. Once, I had to use a barf bag because the flight attendant wouldn’t let us up. Sure, we landed safely, but let’s just say it was not without its… incidents.

So, here’s to the days of flying solo! If you’re interested in more about pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy or learn about home insemination kits. And for further reading, you might enjoy this post on home insemination kits.

In summary, flying without kids is truly a luxury many of us take for granted. With the challenges of traveling with little ones, it’s clear that those pre-kid flights were a different kind of bliss.