Entertaining small children on a long journey is never easy.
But don't let that put you off a family holiday
overseas – just follow our
guide to travelling with kids
. We'll help you enjoy the best the world has to
offer.
Plan ahead
Think carefully about the timing of your flight and where
you want to sit.
If it's a long flight, book an overnight flight
– it's easier to get them to sleep, which means
less time dealing with on-board boredom.
If your child is under 18 months, they should be able to
sleep in the on-board bassinette (so much more comfy than
your lap!). You'll need to request that in advance
with the airline, and make sure you pre-order the kids meals
at the same time.
On board survival kit
Try to keep on-board bags to a minimum. Toddlers can wheel
their own small bag of toys and snacks on board –
ideally it should fit under the seat in front. Stickers,
colouring in books and a favourite teddy should be enough to
pass the time – plus a portable DVD player if you have
one.
Babies will need the usual vast quantities of nappies, spare
clothing, milk bottles – but they don't need any
toys. You'll be surprised how much time can be passed
playing peek-a-boo with a napkin.
Expect the worst
Lower your expectation about how much sleep you'll get
on a long flight with small children. Then lower it some
more. If
they
sleep – that's a bonus. If you're worried
that they're disturbing the passengers around you,
just remind yourself that you'll never see those
people again.
Break up the journey
24 hours is long time to listen to the 'are we there
yet?' mantra. So if you can, make a stopover.
It's a great way to avoid jetlag too – pick
somewhere that is close to the same time zone as your
destination. Some kid-friendly stopovers include Dubai, Hong
Kong, Singapore and Las Vegas.
Be prepared
Delays and missing luggage can create family travel
nightmares. So spread everyone's clothing between
several bags, make sure you have enough snacks and drinks to
cope with long delays on the tarmac, and check that your
travel insurance covers any unexpected extras.
Now you can relax and enjoy the experience of seeing the
world through a child's eyes.
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