57% of Travelers Would Rather Sit Next to a Pet Than Child: 10 Tips for a Smoother Journey When Flying with Kids

Flying with kids can be a daunting task for parents and other passengers. In fact, a survey found that 57% of people would rather sit next to a pet instead of a child on a flight¹. But it doesn’t have to be that way, with a bit of preparation and the right strategies, you can make the experience pleasant for everyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first family trip, these 10 tips will help keep your little ones happy and entertained throughout the flight.

1. Plan & Book Wisely

When planning your flight, consider the timing and length of the journey. Aim for flights during your child’s natural sleep time to increase the chances of them napping on the plane. Direct flights are preferable, as layovers can add unnecessary stress.

If possible, book seats in the bulkhead row, which offers extra space for kids to move around. The TSA advises that families with children under 12 can access TSA PreCheck, which simplifies the security process and reduces wait times​.

2. Pack Smart & Light

Packing can make or break your travel experience. Bring a well-organized carry-on bag with all the essentials: diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, snacks, and favorite toys or books.

Don’t forget medications and any comfort items like blankets or stuffed animals. Pack light, but ensure you have everything you might need in case of delays.

3. Snacks & Meals

Hungry kids are unhappy kids. Bring a variety of snacks to keep them satisfied throughout the flight. Opt for healthy options like fruit, cheese sticks, and crackers, but also include a few treats for those moments when you need a quick distraction.

Many airlines offer kid-friendly meals, so check in advance and request these when booking your tickets. The USDA suggests that bringing familiar snacks can help ease a child’s anxiety during travel.

4. Entertainment & Activities

Keeping kids entertained is key to a peaceful flight. Load up a tablet with movies, games, and educational apps. Noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver in reducing ambient noise and helping your child focus on their screen.

Bring along coloring books, stickers, and small puzzles to keep their hands busy. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time and balancing it with interactive activities to keep kids engaged. (ref)

5. Comfort & Sleep

Comfort is crucial, especially on long flights. Dress your kids in layers to adapt to changing cabin temperatures. Bring neck pillows and small blankets to make their seats more cozy.

Consider using sleep aids like eye masks or white noise apps to help them drift off. Creating a comfortable sleep environment can significantly improve the chances of children sleeping during flights​.

6. Managing Expectations & Behavior

Prepare your kids for the journey by explaining what to expect during the flight. Discuss the importance of staying seated with a seatbelt fastened and using indoor voices.

Praise good behavior and be ready with small rewards like stickers or extra screen time. Try role-playing security checks and boarding processes at home to make children more comfortable with the procedures.

7. Health & Safety Precautions

Flying can expose your family to germs, so take precautions to keep everyone healthy. Pack hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes, and encourage frequent hand washing.

For infants, nursing or using a pacifier during takeoff and landing can help ease ear pressure. Travelers should stay hydrated and use nasal sprays to keep airways moist and reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

8. Utilize Family-Friendly Airport Services

Many airports offer family-friendly amenities such as play areas and priority boarding for families with young children. Take advantage of these services to reduce stress and make your journey smoother.

Arrive at the airport early to allow ample time for check-in and security checks. Programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can streamline the process for families.

9. Stay Calm & Flexible

Despite the best planning, things can go awry. Stay calm and adaptable when faced with delays or unexpected challenges. Remember, your attitude can greatly influence your child’s behavior. Keep a sense of humor and treat the journey as part of the adventure. Have contingency plans and backup activities to manage unexpected situations.

10. Debrief & Learn

After your trip, discuss what worked well and what could be improved for next time. Make notes of any items you forgot or additional strategies that could be helpful.

Each trip offers valuable insights to make future travels even smoother. Reflecting on the experience helps in planning better for future trips​.

By following these tips, you can turn flying with kids from a stressful ordeal into a memorable part of your family vacation.

Sources

1. https://www.thrillist.com/news/nation/flying-with-pets-better-flying-with-kids-upgraded-points-survey