For Parents and Kids: Flying Etiquette to Observe

This is a sponsored guest post.

Let’s face it, flying with children may be draining and stressful! Unless they are teenagers, kids can cry, shout, misbehave, or just be restless during the flight. However, there are ways to deal with it. The first thing you should realize is that younger kids require much of your positive attention, so don’t expect to read a book or watch several movies during the flight. Well, maybe you’ll have some time for that, but keep your expectations low so that not to get too disappointed.

All in all, quality preparation is critical. That’s why we’ve teamed up with well-traveled parents and created this post together to provide you with tips for flying with children.

Plan Thoroughly In Advance

Flying with small children involves serious preparations; parents must be over-prepared. What to consider?

• Double-check all necessary documentation for children flying.
• Make a list of the necessary stuff to take for both you and your baby. For instance, you’ll definitely need a breastfeeding cover to feed your little one comfortably. Then, you can never have too many baby clothes, diapers or pull-ups, wet wipes. In case your plane is stuck on the runway, or the flight is delayed, you won’t panic or spend a flight smelling less than fresh after an unexpected accident. 
• Book tickets in advance; this way, you’ll have an opportunity to choose seats.
• Think about kids’ routine, and try to choose such a time when they’ll more likely fall asleep. Double-check this option if children fly with grandparents. Grandparents deserve some rest during the flight, right?
• It’s a good idea to buy an electronic child locator, so you always know where your kid is. Plus, write your mobile number on their hand.
• Talk to your kids about basic rules in the airport and aircraft, explain what to expect and how to behave. Children tend to obey the rules better if they are aware of what those rules are.

Thorough preparations are hyper-relevant when only one parent is flying with children. This way, a parent will feel more relaxed and confident; it’ll be easier to handle various situations. The flight will be an exciting adventure, not a nightmare scenario.

Respect Flying Etiquette On Board

As we touched on above, parents should explain flight etiquette to their kids beforehand.

Kicking seatbacks is a no-no, they aren’t kicking bags! Remind it to your kids before and during the flight.

A flight attendant is not a babysitter. If you treat them like that, know that this is the quickest way to make everybody in the plane hate you!

Children flying without parents must be taught these rules too since flights always create uncomfortable moments and good manners count here more than ever!

Prepare Entertainment for Kids

Parents must think over in-flight entertainment for kids. One of the best ideas is packing a plane bag for them. Don’t let children see it until you on-board; put cheap pocket money toys (coloring books, crayons, little sets of Lego, etc.) in the bag to keep them occupied for a long time.

Flying with autistic children may be a bit trickier, so do take toys or games they love and are accustomed to.

Although playing games with kids during the flight is a great idea, you shouldn’t make too much noise to leave some personal space for your flight neighbors.

Take Gadgets

Kid’s favorite gadgets are actually life-savers during the flight. Download plenty of games, cartoons, movies, and music. Maybe you’ll even be able to do your own business instead of diligently entertaining your little ones.

Gadgets are a must-take for children flying alone southwest airlines because it’ll be easier for them to stick to ethical rules when caught up in something interesting.

Protect Kids Ears

Airline passengers often complain of ear-popping during the flight. It impacts people variously depending on their anatomy. Young children need to swallow or suck a lot. Older kids can suck on a lollipop or candy to equalize the pressure.

Final Tips

Try to turn the flight into a piece of adventure for your kids! Get excited with them; explain the process of traveling in the most interesting way, show wispy clouds and all the little houses. All in all, each aspect of your trip can become wonderful if you and your kids are engaged and cooperative.

Author’s bio:

Rachel Burns is an experienced copywriter and photographer with a design diploma. She works with startups, entrepreneurs, bloggers and companies from around the world. In addition to writing articles and promotional materials, she enjoys hiking, reading, cooking and spending time with her family.