As I write this, I am on a 22-hour flight from London to Sydney. This marks our family’s sixth long-distance flight in five weeks and we enjoy flying with kids. It’s been a hectic time! And it’s enjoyable!
While standing with my three-year-old, a fellow traveler commented, “It is a LONG flight…” Indeed, he was correct; but, it occurred to me that I do not say it to myself. Instead, I state, “It is what is.” To appreciate these travels and have fun in the sky, I reflected on my thoughts, feelings, words, and actions.
When I awoke in London in the morning, I had barely slept, had a migraine, and was on my period. It was not an ideal start to a flight with two children, one preschooler and one school-aged. Acceptance was crucial in this situation, so I accepted that “it was what it was” and we went.
Preparation the day before:
When preparing for a journey, I remind myself that it is my decision to travel, and that it always entails packing and organizing. This permits me to understand that the preparation is not forced on me. I know I made a decision, and that helps me feel empowered and less resentful of everything we have to do.
Organizing hand luggage:
For flights over long distances, we utilize three bags. My husband and I have backpacks that we wear and store under the seat in front of us on the airline. We have a wheelie bag for the kids to take turns with, which fits in the overhead locker.
Snack bag (backpack) – Bring plenty of nutritious food and goodies! In this bag, I also keep medications for the family. All liquids are placed in a tiny, transparent food bag. Our water beakers are emptied right before entering security, then replenished in the exit lounge.
Entertainment bag (backpack) – Include the iPad, laptop, children’s DVDs, headphones, novels (adult and children’s), and coloring activities.
3) Clothes bag (wheelie bag) – Pack a change of clothes for each of us in case of accidents or spillage, as well as any other items that are not needed frequently during the flight.
In between flights:
Running and playing games – Locate a calm area at the airport where they can burn off some energy. Look for spots where you can view all of the planes, as well as vehicles preparing and assisting them. We sat on a bridge, which captivated the boys for 45 minutes.
Water beakers should be emptied right before security and filled afterwards or on the plane. We sailed with Virgin Atlantic, and there were several conveniently placed drinking stations on board.
Frequent wee stops (every two hours if awake) – Helps lessen the chance of a dire situation involving a freshly toilet-trained preschooler and a long line!
On the plane:
Feeding the family. Choose the “go with the flow” mentality. If the children aren’t hungry when their lunch arrives, ask the stewardesses to keep it warm for them. Check to see how long the food can be safely kept warm, and then request that they bring it out as needed or just before the timer goes off.
Handling children’s queries. Use a calm and steady tone, and respond clearly. Transfer authority as necessary, such as when the fasten seat belt light illuminates. “The air stewardess has requested that you remove your headphones for take-off. When the “fasten seat belt light” goes off, you can put them back on.
Inflight entertainment – Find out when, where, and how much it costs so you’re prepared if you need it.
Dealing with demands – do so within reason. Changing channels for them, particularly when they are fatigued, will assist to prevent tantrums. Teach older youngsters how to change the volume and channel. My five-year-old accomplished it simply, and my three-year-old understood how to pause and play.
When the tears fall, as they will, look at the big picture. Long travels, disrupted routines, and little sleep will all have an impact on them. Remember that children cannot rationalize or communicate their emotions in the same way that adults can. Understanding this will allow you to maintain control of your emotions while dealing with others’.
To survive and enjoy plane travel with my children, I believe that I must moderate my own expectations.
I have no expectations regarding time or what I can do, whether it is reading a book or writing this post. If it happens, it happens; if it doesn’t, it’s fine. It is all about being realistic.