With the addition of young children to the otherwise simple process of flying, major airports become a whole new ball game with new challenges. If your travel plans take you and your toddler up in the air, read on for our 3 top tips on getting to the airport smoothly.
From comical amounts of luggage, long check-in, and security queues to complete sensory overload, there are many hurdles to overcome for stress-free travel in a major airport. let's face it, flying with toddlers is challenging. They are fully mobile, totally opinionated, and incapable of all reason and logic at the most inopportune moments.
With some knowledge and thoughtful planning, this process can go from a potential hot mess to cool, calm, and collected. From the best-ever tips for traveling with babies, are our top 3 top tips to ensure you survive the trip to and at the airport.
Table of Contents
Suitcase Stroller or other Mobility Aids
Arrive Early
Spending an extended amount of time at any airport for anyone can be a hassle especially when you are traveling with children. Expect the unexpected so they say and not allowing enough time is one of the most risky moves. Major airports are extremely busy places, and the queues are usually long – sometimes really long.
Allowing ample time to check-in bags, proceed through customs, locate your gate and find a comfortable spot for a proper meal before your flight will do wonders for everybody's state of mind. If everyone is boarding with their needs met and bellies full, a peaceful flight for all is much more likely.
Pack Smartly
When traveling with kids, it's common to overpack. However, it's important to only bring the essentials in your carry-on and pack and travel light. This ensures that everything you need is easily accessible both at the airport and during the flight. If possible, try to limit the number of bags you bring, especially if you have a connecting flight.
It's also a good idea to leave some space for a new toy or activity book to keep your child entertained. You can even get creative and make a baby toy out of items you find on the flight. Babies love random objects, so try using a plastic bottle with something inside that rattles, or any other safe item that catches their attention. Once the flight is over, you can leave the toy behind and save space in your luggage.
Suitcase Stroller or other Mobility Aids
Airports are big places, and little legs get tired. Check with your preferred airline prior to your flight for policies on gate checking prams and strollers. Most allow a compact stroller to be taken to the gate, where it is then collected and placed into the hold under the aircraft. If the stroller is above their size limit, it will need to be checked in, so don't get caught off-guard at the gate!
An ultimate solution is the TernX Carry On suitcase stroller, the world’s first carry on luggage stroller. It complies with IATA and TSA carry-on size standards and international stroller and carriage standards, so you can rest assure that your child is safe with the TernX Carry On. Check out our guide to flying with a stroller.
Traveling through a major airport presents a whole new set of challenges for parents and toddlers, but by choosing the TernX Carry on you can pack smartly while having your toddler safe and secure, all in one convenient package.
Travel with Confidence
Flying with kids can be an interesting experience, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be a smooth and enjoyable adventure for both parents and children. Remember, patience is key when flying with kids, and a positive attitude can go a long way in creating a stress-free travel experience. Keep these tips in mind, and go create those unforgettable memories.
Happy Journeys!