Up, up and away

Three flights completed in 18 months. As a family, we enjoy traveling. Children can make traveling more interesting. After traveling three times with a child, here are three tips that I will consider when booking and taking my next flight.

1. The age of your child matters. 

If your child is under two, then you can travel with them on your lap. Your child does not need a separate ticket, which is a huge money saver. Try and choose a flight that will work best for you, spouse, child and everyone else traveling with you. Traveling with a 6 month old is different than traveling with a 18 month old. In my opinion, the 6 month old child is the better age! The baby will most likely always sleep and eat on the plane. It's perfect! The 18 month old may not sleep on the plane. The 18 months old can be entertained with food, books and a digital device. Just take time to consider the age of your child and how traveling may look for your family. It is still possible! 

2. You may need to pay more to be more comfortable. 

My husband and I try to pack as much as we can in our check bags. The first time we traveled my husband and I each had a personal item, a backpack, we had my daughter's diaper bag, a car seat, a stroller and a baby carrier. It was too much to bring through security and to get to our gate! We have learned to carry as little as possible to the gate. Pay for additional check bags if needed.

Also pay for the best flight that will work best for your family. Don't get the cheapest latest flight of the day, unless you want to travel with cranky children. Pay more for a flight that may work better with your schedule and preferences. Our last flight was at 9pm. Our 18 month old was the child that screamed on the plane. She ended up having an ear infection but she just couldn't get comfortable to stay sleeping. 

3. Roll with the punches. 

There is no need to be stressed at the airport with children along. The airport can cause anxiety. Everyone is busy and running "late." Give yourself time to arrive early to the airport. Grab a coffee. Have your children play in the child area if there is one provided. 

Also, be flexible when going through security, because the rules always seem to change.  Different airports may require you to take off your shoes, take all food out of any carry ons and set electronics aside. You could always research the airport that you are flying out of to be more prepared. Just take a deep breath and do what the TSA guards require and move on to your gate. You got this!!

Flying is possible with children along. Don't be afraid to fly with kids, you still need to have fun and take those needed trips.

And below are pictures of each trip we took with our little nugget :)