What could possibly be more challenging than flying with a baby or toddler? How about tackling a long-haul flight with both a baby and a toddler? Now, add your own fear of flying into the mix. Sounds like a dream, right?
You might be skeptical, but here’s my first piece of advice for embarking on international flights with little ones: embrace denial. If air travel fills you with dread but it’s your only option, you’re left with little choice, aren’t you?
Even if you don’t particularly dislike flying, boarding a plane with small children requires a hefty dose of denial. You’ll need to deny yourself the luxury of watching that movie you’ve been dying to see, or indulging in an adult beverage—which, let’s face it, could end up spilled or downed in a hurry. Forget about lounging comfortably or catching a nap like you used to; those days are long gone (and trust me, any thoughts of using sedatives are also best left denied).
Domestic travel can be chaotic enough, what with navigating security, luggage, and gate changes—not to mention remembering to leave your switchblade and pepper spray at home (just kidding! But you might wish you had those when stuck next to an irritable seatmate). International trips, however, can feel like a whole different level of confusion—new rules, multiple languages, and trying to remember the date format when speaking with customs agents.
But don’t let these challenges deter you from exploring the world! Just because you’re now a devoted parent doesn’t mean you should miss out on amazing experiences. The sooner your kids become accustomed to flying, the easier it will be for everyone. Plus, until they turn 2, you won’t need to pay for their own seat—what a deal!
Before you book your flights, consider selecting a destination that’s at least somewhat kid-friendly; otherwise, your entire trip could turn into a nightmare for both you and your children. Maybe you’ve always dreamt of visiting the Great Pyramids, but a developing country might not be the best choice for your children’s first international adventure. Save that for their second trip!
Opt for a safer destination on your first outing—perhaps retracing Paddington Bear’s journey to London or exploring family-friendly Spain. Scandinavia could be a great option too, where English is widely spoken, making communication easier.
You might even plan your travels around airports that cater to families. One of my top recommendations is Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, which boasts a play area for kids, a quiet room with cots and baby supplies, and plenty of other amenities (and the city is wonderful for families!).
Surviving a flight with kids is all about managing the chaos. Remember those days before kids when you would rush away from parents struggling with strollers and snack crumbs? Welcome to being that parent now. You’ll want to keep your fellow travelers on your side, especially if you’re flying solo with your children. Look for a friendly-looking older lady or a kind college student and strike up a conversation. Compliment them and share how easygoing your little ones are—stretch the truth if you must, because these fellow passengers can be lifesavers when you need to make a mad dash to the restroom.
And trust me, you’ll need that restroom. I recall a 16-hour journey home to Michigan from Europe, where I barely sat down for more than a few minutes, thanks to my newly potty-trained son and my one-year-old still in diapers.
Keep in mind that typical rules don’t apply when it comes to kids. No fruit juice? Forget that—keeping them hydrated is the priority! Candy is off-limits? Not if it keeps them happy (although perhaps save it for later in the flight to avoid a sugar-fueled frenzy). Concerned about too much screen time? Embrace it—use those movies to your advantage!
Ultimately, approach your travel plans with a positive mindset (and pack a bag filled with books, toys, and snacks as bribes) while keeping in mind the fun that awaits you at your destination. If flying gives you anxiety, remember that you’ll be so busy managing your kids that the flight will feel much shorter.
So grab that guidebook, book your flights, and befriend a grandmotherly passenger at the gate. Happy travels!
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Summary
Traveling internationally with kids can be a daunting task, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be an exciting adventure. Embrace denial, choose kid-friendly destinations, and manage the chaos onboard to make the journey more enjoyable for everyone involved.