Flying with children – 8 summer travel tips

The countdown is on to the children's school holidays and if you have children, you know that taking them on a long flight requires lots of forethought and preparation. The following article provides tips to make your flight as easy and as stress free as possible.

1. Lists
   Write your packing list early to ensure you have everything you require, or have chance to purchase items without the need for a last-minute trip to the shops.
   
2. Packing
   When packing clothes make sure each suitcase you take has items of clothing for each traveller, just in case the unexpected happens and one of your cases is delayed or lost. Keep a list of items packed so that you can use it as a checklist when packing on your return – the list also serves as a reminder should a suitcase be lost and you need to make a claim on your insurance.
   
3. Liquids
   Make sure you pack all your liquids in your checked-in baggage. Although liquids of 100ml or less can be packed in your hand luggage, it's still advisable to pack them in your suitcase. If you need to take baby formula, milk, or baby food with you in your hand luggage take only what you need for your journey. You will be required to taste the baby products at security.
   
4.  Hand luggage
   Pack items to keep your children occupied during the long flight. Choose items suitable for their age ranges: a book, coloured pencils and a drawing pad, travel-friendly games, and hand-held electronic games, but make sure you have fully-charged batteries to avoid disappointment during the journey.
   
5. Clothing
   Dress your children for comfort. Go for loose, unrestrictive clothing for travel and make sure they have a warm jumper or cardigan for the flight.
   
6. Seats
   Reserve your seats in advance to ensure you are all sitting together – try to book a window seat so your child can observe the activities at the airport while you are waiting to take off.
   
7. Airport parking
   Take the strain out of travel to the airport and book meet and greet parking. With this type of parking - also known as valet parking – you can drive right up to the airport terminal with your children sitting in the comfort of their own car seats – no need to ferry them on and off a shuttle bus between the airport car park and the terminal. This also saves hassle on your return as your car is brought back to the terminal for when you exit the building.
   
8. At the airport
   Research the layout of the airport before you arrive so you know where the children's play area is. Once though security head straight to the play area to allow your children to let off steam and hopefully wear themselves out prior to the flight. With any luck they may sleep through part of the flight. If travelling with another adult, take it in turns to watch the children while you wander through the airport shops or grab something to eat.