Travelling with kids? These tips will ensure a smoother journey

Last updated on 5th January, 2024 at 12:10 pm

Travelling internationally can be stressful alone, but when you have kids in tow it can add a whole new dimension to a trip. Here are some things to bear in mind to make the journey less stressful.

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In this article you’ll learn:

• How to prepare for travel with kids, with expert tips from a travel agent.
• How to handle being in transit with your child.

Whether you’re travelling with an infant or toddler, embarking on any lengthy journey with them can be an stress-inducing experience. However, with a little bit of planning, you can help make the trip more comfortable for both you and your child.

Before you take off

Opt for layovers over direct flights

You may be tempted to go direct, as it will cut down your travel time, but according to travel agent Mandy Lyons of Tourvest Travel Services, layover flights are a better option, as they give you a much-needed breather between flights, and allow your kids to let off some steam.

Choose your seat carefully

“Babies up to the age of two don’t need tickets to fly if they’ll be sitting on your lap throughout the flight,” says Lyons. “Opt for a bulkhead seat, as it offers a bassinet for your baby, and more legroom.” You can bring a car seat onto the plane, but you’ll have to book a separate seat and pay a child’s airfare if you go this route.

Pack in all your child’s essentials

All airlines offer children’s meals, but don’t assume your kids will eat what they’re offered. “If you know your child is a fussy eater, bring along their favourite snacks,” says Lyons. She also recommends packing in a plush toy or blanket that smells of home, as this can help quell their anxiety.

Download a binaural or white noise playlist

Binaural tone patterns are low-frequency sounds that are often used in meditation to relax the mind. Audio-streaming apps like Spotify have playlists that you can download and play offline, which can come in handy when your child is struggling to sleep. Remember to pack in a pair of noise-cancelling headphones.

While in transit

Ask for help at the airport

If you’re flying alone with kids, you can ask for special assistance for when you’re boarding and transferring to connecting flights. Most airlines also offer complimentary strollers to help you navigate your way through the airport with ease. 

Help equalise the air pressure

Most of us are familiar with that ear-popping sensation that happens during take-off and landing, but for children, it can be a painful experience. “Children’s Eustachian tubes, which work to balance pressure in the eardrums, are narrower than those in adults, and are sometimes clogged with mucus due to an ear infection or cold,” says Lyons. “If your child is fussing, try offering them a breast (for those who are breastfeeding), bottle or a dummy to suck on.”

Relax the rules

When you’re travelling, there’s very little you can do to keep little ones occupied in a confined space for a long period of time. “All the rules that would usually be enforced at home go out the window when you’re in transit, so don’t feel guilty about giving your kids sugar or letting screens keep them entertained,” says Lyons.