Traveling With Kids Survival Tips
At The Airport/On The Airplane 
At The Hotel
- Try to pack light and not carry too much on the plane with you. If you have carry-ons, a bag for the child, in addition to a car seat and stroller, you’ll have a lot to balance as you make your way through the airport. The stroller will help you get all those things to the gate, but it’s still quite cumbersome. Check all that you can. The other plus to traveling light: If you get searched, you’ll have less stress as you are searched and have to keep an eye on a curious child.
- If you have a child under 2, you can get away with not buying a seat and just holding the child on your lap. But it’s safer to bring the car seat and pay the money for the ticket -- safer for the child and more comfortable for you. If you do bring a car seat, call the airline ahead of time to make sure the car seat is airline-approved. And when you arrive at the gate, make sure the gate agent checks the seat and attaches a carry-on sticker to it.
- On the flight, bring a water bottle or cup that doesn’t leak so your child can sip little bits to combat ear pressure problems. And remember the airlines don’t have unlimited snacks -- bring a few of your own.
- Keeping kids occupied during a long flight is tough. Before your trip, buy a bunch of small, quiet toys (books, games, coloring books, etc). Pull them out of your bag as the flight progresses.
At The Hotel - Call your hotel ahead -- you might be able to leave the pack-n-play at home. Some hotels have cribs and high chairs you can use for your stay.
- If you have a young toddler, it’s a good idea to bring outlet plugs along, and other home safety devices.
- Many hotels, especially the all-inclusives, offer supervised children’s programs. They are typically for ages 6-12. If you’re traveling in the off-season, call ahead to the hotel to make sure the programs are operating during your stay. They sometimes will go on a hiatus.
- In any public place and especially on vacation, take steps to easily identify your kids should you become separated. Have a recent identification photo taken before you leave. If there are many kids traveling, have them pair up with a travel buddy, or have them wear similar shirts or outfits.
- Single parents traveling with children -- whether you are married and just traveling with your child and your spouse had to stay home, or you are divorced or widowed. You need to have a notarized authorization from your spouse to take your child out of the country, or a notarized copy of a death certificate or other proof that it’s OK for your child to leave the United States with you.
Content Provided By NWA WorldVacations and Worry-Free Vacations.
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