Family vacations are a time for making lasting memories with the ones you love, however getting through the airport – past the gift shops and fast food restaurants – to your flight and on your way to your destination can be stressful when you have kids in tow.
Whether you’re heading to the mountains, beach, or grandma’s house, flying doesn’t have to be a dreaded hurdle to leap over on your way to vacation bliss. Follow these mom-tested family air travel tips, and you and your little ones will be airborne and on your way to having fun in no time.
1. Check-in with your airlines before you leave
Most airlines allow passengers to check-in for their flight and print their boarding passes at home, and some even offer the option of check-in using your smart phone. By checking in ahead of time, you and your family will avoid standing in a long line for your boarding passes, which is tedious for anyone, but it’s especially difficult for antsy little ones. If you don’t have a printer or forget to check-in prior to arriving at the airport, you can also use a self-serve kiosk to speed up the process.
2. Travel light
If possible, limit what you and your family brings on the trip to what will fit in your carry-on baggage. Most airlines allow each passenger one small piece of luggage and one personal item, such as a purse, small backpack, or laptop case. Tell kids that they will have to carry their own bag for the trip, so that they don’t pack more than what’s necessary. Carrying on your bags will also save your family money since most airlines are now charging fees for checked luggage. If you have to check luggage, make sure to find out your airline’s baggage limits prior to departing, since the rules vary by company. Also, make sure all bags – especially children’s – have an identification tag, whether they’re being checked or not.
3. Fuel up
Have your family eat a meal or substantial snack prior to leaving for the airport.. This is especially important if you have kids who tend to get grumbly tummies when flying. Eating beforehand will help you avoid unnecessary trips to the airport food court where the options tend to be unhealthy and pricey. If you’re going to be airborne for an extended amount of time, pack a healthy snack for your family to eat while they’re en route. You may also want to bring empty water bottles to fill once you’re past airport security, so you can avoid purchasing drinks near your gate or on the flight.
4. Be prepared for airport security checkpoints
This can be one of the most stressful parts of traveling with children since it requires showing IDs and getting through the x-ray machines. The Transportation Security Administration is required to screen everyone and their bags, regardless of age, so be prepared to show your family’s IDs and know what you can and cannot carry on to the plane. If you are traveling with an infant, you must carry him/her through the x-ray machine. You cannot leave the child in their stroller or carrier. Some good news about security checkpoints is that the TSA now allows travelers ages 12 and younger to leave their shoes on through the security checkpoint, so no more wrestling with shoelaces before and after screenings!
5. Reserve your airport parking
Online sites, such as Airport Parking Reservations, now allow travelers the convenience of pre-booking their airport parking space. With these sites you can check rates and availability for any type of parking you’re looking for – whether you prefer a garage space, covered lot, outdoor parking, or valet service. By reserving your parking space ahead of time, you save time and money, and you don’t have to stress about searching for a spot once you arrive at the airport. Plus, a reserved spot is extremely helpful if you and your family are running late for your flight or if someone has to use the bathroom!
So what other tips you have to help reduce stress on family air travel?
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