Fuss-Free Flights – 10 Tips for Travelling Longhaul with Youngsters
will sleep! There could be too much going on around them, or they could be over-excited. Some children have no problem sleeping at their regular time no matter where they are, but be prepared for the fact that yours might not be one of them! Taking a small pillow and familiar blanket might help to settle them quicker.
8. Whatever you do, make sure you take any essential snuggle toys! Even if you have to turn the car or taxi around half-way to the airport, make sure that favourite teddies or dolls that can't be slept without are not forgotten in the excitement to get going! Once you're cruising at 30,000 feet at 1.00 am it's too late to do anything about Raggles the bunny still sitting on the sofa at home, despite your daughters hysterical pleas to go back for him. For smaller children, find a way of safely attaching them to their snuggle toy so that nothing is lost en route - if you have a spare one, pack it secretly amongst your own luggage just in case!
9. If you don't know whether or not your child gets airsick, give them a travel pill just in case. Carry a minimum change of clothes for each child just in case and a towel. Issue them with something to chew on for the take off and landing when the most pressure is put on your ears. For babies, pacifiers with something on them that they can suck off works great. If your children complain that their ears hurt, try getting them to yawn, this usually eases the pressure.
10. Lastly, enjoy the flight. Relax. Children have been doing this for a long time and even if despite all your efforts they still manage to get bored, take solace in the fact that the flight will end eventually!
Katie-Anne Gustafsson, May 2003
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