Memorial Day is just around the corner. If you are planning on traveling and flying with children, there are a few things you need to know. Airlines are definitely not as accommodating as they used to be for families, and I’m sure you’ve heard a few nightmare stories.
As most parents know, kids under 2 always travel for free. But should you let the airline know beforehand if you are traveling with a child under 2? The answer is yes! Absolutely. Take it from me. You can’t just show up with your kid, regulations require airlines to make sure that they have enough oxygen masks for everyone on the flight. Also, don’t forget to bring proof of your child’s age, or you will be spending Memorial weekend at home. The best document you can bring is your child’s birth certificate. This will assure that you don’t encounter any problems.
It might sound obvious, but dress your kids according to the weather. Plan ahead. Comfortable kids equal good kids. If it’s going to be cold where you are going, don’t forget the gloves behind.
It’s a golden rule and it happens every single time. Kids always get sick on holidays. This memorial weekend, soften the blow and long nights by taking along a few easy to swallow medicines with you. It is a good idea to have a first aid kit with the minimums of plasters, sting treatments, thermometer, Band-Aids and wipes.
If you’re hitting the road this Memorial weekend and going on a long journey, have something to keep your little ones entertained. A collection of their favorite toys, a coloring book, puzzles, or anything that will help them past the time for that long car trip. It’s also a good idea to have a few families-games ready in case you get stuck in a traffic jam.
You probably won’t listen to this one, no one ever does. Resist the temptation of loading your kids up with sweets along the journey. You don’t want to arrive in a new place with your child in the middle of a crazy sugar rush. Instead, pack taste snacks like cheese stick, breads, fruits or anything that’s not too sugary.
If you’re traveling with older, harder to deal with children, involve them in the planning of the holiday. Ask them what they’d like to do, where they’d like to stop, and get them talking. This will avoid a depressed teen who just wants to go back home to their room and iPad.