Flight tips for travelling with toddlers

[Emma Steer]

Hi

I came across this website today and found it really interesting! I was wondering if anyone had any good tips on doing a long haul flight with a toddler! There will be 3 adults travelling with my daughter on my lap as my travel agent incorrectly advised me about buying a seat! I have got stickers, colouring books etc but would be greatful of any advice.

Thanks

Emma

[Steve Wooler]

Hi Emma

Welcome aboard!

Never having travelled with a toddler I can't comment, although I find the best tip is to drink half a bottle of your favourite tipple then you'll sleep through the whole thing. Only joking..

I'm sure that a few parents with youngsters will be happy to pass their comments on over the next few days.

[Mandy]

Hi Emma,

Who are you flying with? we flew with virgin with our 6 yr old and they supplied a great kids ruck sack with loads of things for all ages to do, also they had in flight entertainment which helped.

Maybe a new puzzle, a you said you have sticker books and crayons. I would also take some favourite foods, and maybe some crisps, sweets (if you give them) just in case they suddenly don`t like the food.

Have a great time.

cheers

[Richard B]

How old?

If 2 or over they really need their own seat.

If small enough and eather is calm and you seats with leg room you may be able to make a nest on floor. Make the experience fun for them. Say hello to everyone, especially staff.

Try on encourage a change in sleeping as in the tropics it will be better to get them to sleep through the "heat of the day" and them come out for a meal with you a tad later than at home. Since flights out seem to leave UK in morning, allow for hours at airport this may be easier than you think.

Flights back are overnight so you can use this to help them back to UK sleep patterns.

[Emma Steer]

Hi

thanks for the replies. She will be 20 months when we go and are flying with bwee. I have got loads of stickers so hopefully that may keep her amused!

Thanks for your ideas.

Emma

[Chris Runciman]

See if you can get seats in the row facing the division between sections. Although you will be facing a wall your children will be less likely to annoy those around you ( i.e. in front of you and they will have more room as well as being very handy for the loos. I always found Virgin and BA good about this as long as you give them some notice and not wait until the last minute or try to do it at the airport! You never know if you are really lucky and Club is empty they may upgrade you so as to maintain the quiet and peaceful atmosphere in steerage..................