8 Family Travel Hacks for Flying With Kids

Flying with children is tiring, but it is rarely as bad as parents imagine. The days that go well usually have one thing in common: the adults planned for the boring parts, such as security lines, snack timing and what to do when the seat belt sign is on. A little preparation protects your patience, and that is the resource you need most.

Here are eight tricks for flying with kids from infants to school-age. Airline policies differ, so check yours before the trip, and ask your pediatrician about any health concerns, especially for infants under a few months old.

1. Choose flight times that match your child's rhythm

For babies and toddlers, a flight that overlaps with a nap can be a gift. Older kids may do best on a morning flight when they are fresh. Avoid tight connections and give yourself at least 90 minutes for a domestic layover with children, since you may need extra time for bathroom breaks and gate changes.

2. Book seats thoughtfully

Try to sit together, and choose seats when you book instead of hoping for a free assignment. Window seats give kids something to watch, while aisle seats help parents move more easily. In the US, children under 2 can fly as lap infants on domestic flights without a ticket, but a seat with an approved car seat is generally considered the safest option. Look for an approval label on your car seat.

3. Streamline security

Wear slip-on shoes, and pack strollers, car seats and baby gear so they fold easily. In the US, formula, breast milk and juice for a baby or toddler can be carried in reasonable quantities above the usual 3.4 ounce limit, but tell the officer and expect extra screening. Keep a bag of wipes and a change of clothes within reach.

Tip: Carry your child's boarding passes and IDs in one effortless-to-reach pocket.

4. Pack a snack bag and a surprise bag

Bring more snacks than you think you need: crackers, fruit pouches, cheese sticks and dry cereal. Eating helps with boredom and with pressure in the ears. Add a surprise bag with little, new items like stickers, a mini coloring book or a puzzle, and hand them out one at a time to extend interest. Avoid little toys that can roll away or be swallowed.

5. Help ears on takeoff and landing

Pressure changes can hurt little ears. Offer a bottle, breastfeeding, a pacifier, a drink through a straw or chewing for older kids. If your child has a cold or recent ear infection, ask your pediatrician before flying. Do not give medication unless a doctor recommends it.

6. Plan entertainment, with and without screens

Download shows and games before the flight, and bring headphones sized for kids. Mix in screen-free options like books, drawing, a magnetic board and effortless games like I Spy. Walk the aisle when the sign is off, and let your child stretch. Flying is a good time to relax screen rules.

7. Bring a change of clothes and extras

Accidents and spills happen, so pack a spare shirt for your child and one for yourself. Add diapers, a few extra plastic bags, wipes, a little blanket and any medications in your carry-on. For babies, bring at least one more diaper than the flight length would suggest.

8. Stay calm and flexible

Kids pick up on your mood. If a meltdown happens, remember that most fellow passengers have been there, and many are sympathetic. Take a short walk, try a snack or change of activity and let go of perfection. Tell the flight attendants early if you need help.

Tricks by age group

Babies usually do best with feeding on takeoff and landing and a few familiar items like a little blanket. Toddlers need frequent changes of activity, so rotate toys every 15 to 20 minutes and walk the aisle often. Preschoolers enjoy sticker books and effortless audio stories. School-age kids can carry their own little backpack with a book, a game and headphones, which gives them a sense of responsibility. Always check with your pediatrician before flying with a newborn, and bring any medications with you in a carry-on bag.

Speedy start checklist

• Documents for every traveler, including children.
• Snacks, empty water bottles and a surprise bag.
• Diapers, wipes and a change of clothes.
• Car seat or carrier approved for airplane use if needed.
• Charged devices and headphones.

The trip will not be ultimate, but it will end. With a plan and a little humor, your family can arrive tired and happy.