Modern Mom: Flying with Kids

I just returned from a trip across the country and back with my three kids. The outbound journey was atrocious but I learned enough to make the return infinitely better. Here’s the list I wish I had before I left home.

Top 10 things to bring with you when flying with kids:

1. Milk. Buy it after you go through security. Three of the four flights we took did not have milk on board. Seriously.

2. Sippy cups…in which to drink said milk during takeoff and landing without spilling.

3. Snacks. The food on board, if they even have it, is expensive.

4. More snacks. You may need them to pacify your neighbors when your kids act up.

5. Aquadoodle. Thanks to Commuter Mom for recommending this totally engaging activity.

6. Small toys your kids haven’t seen before. I bought cars that change colors for $1.49 each before we headed home, and they occupied my kids for a good hour.

7. Lovey, squiddy, or teddy, whatever comforts your child. You don’t want to be stuck – like I was – trying to explain to your child that his favorite stuffed animal is “in the belly of the plane,” and why it is therefore impossible to reach.

8. A digital watch (depending on your child’s age). Tell them what numbers to look for and let them watch the time creep by. This may stop them from asking “how much longer?” every 2 minutes.

9. Portable DVD player or computer that can play movies. This was our saving grace for my eldest.

10. Patience. This too shall pass.