How to Fly With Kids (and Actually Enjoy It)

Before you go

• Pre-book seats together, even if it costs extra.
• Pack a carry-on per kid with snacks, screens, a comfort item, and a change of clothes.
• Bring child-safe headphones (volume-limited).
• Confirm car seat policy if you're bringing one.

At the airport

• Family lanes at security exist at most major US airports.
• Pre-boarding for families with kids under 2 — every major US carrier offers it.
• Stroller and car seat fly free; you'll gate-check them at the door.

On the plane

• Boarding: get the kids settled fast, then deal with bags.
• Takeoff and landing: gum, a bottle, or breastfeeding helps with ear pressure.
• Mid-flight: alternate screen time with games and walks to the back of the plane.

Sleep

• Bring a small pillow and blanket from home.
• A red-eye is sometimes easier than a daytime flight if your kid sleeps better.
• Don't fight a 2 AM sleep schedule; tomorrow is for adjusting.

When things go sideways

• A delayed flight with a tired toddler is the worst-case scenario. Pin the flight in FlightyFlow so you see trouble coming early — sometimes early enough to delay heading to the airport, or to choose a meal stop on the way.
• Snack hoard: even when an airline runs out of food, your bag has crackers.