Summer is finally approaching, and if you’re anything like us, you’ll be counting down to that much-anticipated family break. Playing on the beach, or splashing around in the pool with the little ones, is the stuff of precious memories – but before you reach your sun-drenched destination, there’s the small matter of getting there.
Air travel can be a real challenge for parents of young children, with even the best-behaved ones prone to crying from tiredness, hunger, painful ears, or simply because their routine has been disrupted. Add to that the fact that we’re all-too-aware how disgruntled other passengers get when there’s a grizzly baby on board, and you could end up feeling frazzled before you’ve even taken off.
So, how do you ensure baby is as relaxed as possible for the flight? Peter Jenkins, from luxury travel specialist Sun-hat Villas and Resorts, has these tips.
Plan ahead
It’s always fun to choose your accommodation and pick out restaurants in your resort, but don’t forget the practical stuff too. Look out for any family priority boarding services that allow you to skip the queues, board the plane ahead of everyone else (and settle the kids with toys and snacks), and be first to collect your luggage from the carousel, meaning you don’t have to wait around for too long.
credit : shutterstock
While older children see airports as a big playground, travelling with babies can be tricky. It’s worth checking whether the airport you’re flying from has a place to warm their food and where the changing facilities are, so you don’t have to frantically search for the facilities when you arrive.
Staying well
Flying is never pleasant if you’re under the weather, especially for tiny travellers who do not understand why they are feeling poorly. Ensure you have any medication they need to stay comfortable during the flight, such as cold remedies and cough syrups. Popping ears may also be a problem, and while we can eat a boiled sweet, you should be able to ease baby’s pain by encouraging them to suck on their bottle, thumb or a dummy.
Carry a carrier
While most airlines allow you to check a pushchair into the hold free-of-charge, it is an unwieldy piece of luggage to handle, especially when holding an infant. Instead, why not opt for a lightweight carrier? Not only does it leave you hands-free, many parents say their baby is more relaxed when they are nuzzled next to them. It also means that if they do get a little restless during the journey, you can take them on a gentle walk.
credit : @erinweindel
Something to eat
Who doesn’t get a little grumpy when they are hungry? Always ensure you are prepared with plenty for your little one to eat. Remember that you are allowed carry up to two litres of breast milk as hand luggage for your journey, as well as formula, food and other essentials.
Make friends with fellow passengers
No matter how worried you are about flying, try to stay as relaxed as possible when you get to your seat. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourselves to those sitting next to you – you’d be surprised how many people love the novelty of having a baby next to them, especially when they are in the holiday mood.
Time for bed
If you’re flight coincides with bedtime, make sure you carry everything your baby needs for a good night’s sleep, including their favourite blanket, book and teddy bear. With any luck, they’ll sleep for much of the flight, and you’ll all arrive (relatively!) refreshed.
Travelling with little ones is always an adventure, but if you stay relaxed and plan ahead, your journey should be relaxing and fun.
credit : shutterstock
Brought to you by Peter Jenkins – Sun-hat Villas
Peter Jenkins is a holiday and travel expert, with over 30 years experience in the travel industry. Taking his passion for the Algarve, he founded Sun-hat Villas & Resorts, a villa rental company specialising in luxury Algarve villas, but operating all across Europe and the Caribbean.
