Surviving a Plane Ride With Your Little
As moms we have to think of every scenario when it comes to our littles. The ones that we can’t prepare for are the scariest (think of new word for scariest) but we end up learning a lot. After a few experiences from flying with our little to and from Hawaii, I wanted to share a few things I learned along the way.
Always Have Food
Have you ever just sat around and found yourself eating because you are bored? Well that’s exactly what happens on that flight to your little, no matter how short or how long your trip may be. I found out very early that having extra foods and snacks are a true life savor. Depending on what your little snacks on, it’s best to have a variety of things, but just offer different snacks at different times. We used to travel with fruits, but quickly found out that they end up smelling and becoming messy. These days we do easy accessible snack packs to be eaten during traveling days to make it easier for us and our little. It’s also really helpful if the flight offers foods besides the peanuts or pretzels.
Constant Entertainment
Their Favorite Toys
Your little is going to be able to feel more comfortable and might even settle down easier with something that has familiarity. Wether it’s their blanket, stuffed animal, doll or just a toy they enjoy their time with we definitely recommend bringing it on your trip. Just make sure it doesn’t get lost if it is something that is of value and closeness.
Something New
Growing up our family took a lot of road trips to the beach, or to see family who lived a ways out. I remember always getting a “goodie bag” from my mom as she would pack it full of new activities, toys and snacks to entertain with. After trying this on our first flight with our little, I was hooked and always made it a priority to get something new for her any time we were taking long flights or drives.
Prepare for Accidents
It’s going to happen and if it doesn’t, what a win! With your little one there are bound to be situations that are either bathroom accidents or spills, but if you’re able to be ready for them it will make your travel day so much more helpful.
Bathrooms
From ages 0-4, there is always a chance of your little having an accident either before reaching the bathroom or in the bathroom itself. We all know that babies blow out so as a parent you always have to be prepared for that. Later on when they are older and get to the potty training stage, it’s either a hit or miss, so having a change of clothes or two is going to be wise. If your little is like ours we are currently going through the stage of being fully potty trained, but having some instances where there may have been a little accident when needing to go No. 2. In these scenarios we keep a couple pairs of underwear for backup and maybe a pair of extra shorts.
Spills
We can’t cry over spilled milk, no matter how frustrated it makes us. Instead of going through scenarios of what could happen, the best helpful hint I want to give is just expect that spills are going to happen. I’ve found it so much easier to get through if I can keep an eye out for any possible scenarios of a spill, and keep calm and have forgiveness. It’s not worth getting upset at yourself or your little, unless there was intention behind making the mess.
Sleep.. Not Likely
Everyones experience with sleep is so different so this tip could be helpful, but you will have to also figure out what is best for your little. On our last trip we made sure to keep the entertainment paused until we were on the flight, then once we were in the air our little was pretty content. After a few hours, she was pretty restless, but ironically enough she showed to have a great experience with all of the games, shows and snacks we had. She ended up not sleeping! Sometimes you’ll be able to get your little down during a long flight, but if not, it might be best not to push it because the more frustrated they get the harder it is to deal with others on the plane as well.
We have had experiences where there was constant crying so we knew, it was time to get her to sleep. In those cases I would always suggest having a blanket or lovey that brings them comfort, and even a sound machine. Planes are so noisy in general and they over stimulate even adults. Having a soothing sounds that might be at low volume but close to their ear can help sooth and put them to sleep quickly. (Check out this blog about the best sleep your little can have which includes top rated resources and tools to get your little to sleep).
Take the Support
When traveling in the past, there have been times where I have done it with an extra hand and without one. If the opportunity presents itself, I would always take the extra help from someone else joining me on the trip like a significant other or a family member. Either way there is always support.
For the single parent flying..
Let me just start this with: Mom, you CAN do this. There is something that happens to those who become moms, and I believe it’s almost like a super power. If you are traveling with your little(s) alone, the same goes for you too. There is always an extra hand around. In traveling alone, I have found myself being incredibly stronger but also more reliable on those around me. Please don’t take that the wrong way when I say it, because there are some people that just won’t help you. But I have had many encounters of other women and men who helped and also respected me differently when traveling with just my little. Flight attendants and staff are supposed to help you, so don’t hesitate to ask if you need anything.
All in all, preparation is key and at the best way to have a successful trip, is to prepare. There are going to be many things you learn along the way, and that doesn’t mean the trip ends up failing. But with these helpful tips for your plane ride, you’re sure to be better prepared.
We wish you the best of luck!