Traveling with children can be challenging.
Not only do parents have to worry about making sure everything that their child needs is packed for the trip, but the flight to the destination can be stressful and rough.
I have experienced flights where babies and young children cried incessantly, and kids yelled, fought and annoyed nearby passengers.
By the time their parents reached their final destination, all hopes of rest and relaxation have disappeared.
The following are some tips to help parents traveling with children.
Traveling with Babies and Toddlers The flight should be booked as early as possible to get the best seats.
If it is possible, obtain seats at the bulkhead - the physical partition that divides a plane into different classes or sections.
The bulkhead typically has more leg room and generally allows for greater movement for agitated children.
In addition, some bulkhead seats have bassinets that are stored on the wall in front of the passenger seats where infants or very small children can sleep.
Further, because there is no row of passengers in front of the bulkhead, the child is less likely to disturb other passengers.
Although most major airlines allow children ages two and younger to fly for free if they share a seat with their parent, consider purchasing a separate ticket for the child nonetheless.
Because seats on airplanes are small and offer little leg room, holding a baby or having a toddler on the lap for the duration of the entire flight can be extremely uncomfortable for both the parent and the child.
An extra seat will allow the child to move around a bit and not cry from discomfort.
It will also give the parent extra room to put the child's toys, snacks, diapers, bottles, and other necessities.
When traveling with a baby, it is especially a good idea to bring a pacifier on the flight, as sucking on the pacifier will help reduce ear pain from increased air pressure during take-off and landing, and will quiet the baby if he or she begins to cry.
In addition, security has gotten a lot tougher since the September 11 terrorist attacks.
While the TSA requires that all liquids, gels and aerosols be in 3.
4 ounce or smaller containers, exceptions are made for prescription and over-the-counter medicines, baby formula, breast milk, and juice.
Mothers are allowed to bring formula, breast milk, or juice in quantities greater than three ounces as long as it is declared for inspection at the security checkpoint.
Traveling with Children The key to traveling with children over the age of two is to keep them entertained.
Children are generally restless, and do not like to sit still for long periods of time.
Therefore, choose flights that have personal televisions and video games to keep children occupied.
Also be sure to bring along cards, books, snacks, and other games for the child.
Whenever possible, book direct flights with no connections to avoid problems with missing connecting flights and longer travel time.
In addition, taking an early flight will reduce the likelihood of flight delays.