Our family has taken several  family vacations now that include flying, and I can truthfully tell you that it is not a bad way to travel if you do a little planning ahead! 

No matter the age of your children, family airline travel will be easier and less nerve-racking for the parents if you allow yourselves plenty of time to check in and get through security without having to rush.  The security process is long and challenging, but if you are in a hurry to get through, it will take a toll on your emotions!

Kids of all ages like to feel that they are a part of the family vacation planning, so get them involved in the packing and airline travel preparations also.  What can kids do to help?

• Help decide what they want to carry along to help keep them occupied during the flight.
• Help decide what they want to carry that "fun stuff" in - a book bag, or small satchel.
• Help decide what they want to wear on the trip - if they are wearing what they like, they will be happier.

Get your kids involved in the "memory making" aspect of your airline travel also, including taking video. The video at right is a video that my 14 year old daughter took as our Allegiant Airlines flight took off from Orlando/Sanford Florida airport in January 2008.

She enjoyed taking the video, and it kept her occupied while the plane was taking off, AND I was sitting right beside her to make sure the electronic equipment was not harmed!

Now.... some tips that might help you plan.....

Airline Travel with Young Children

Younger children can present more of a problem when traveling by air, but you too can get past this...... First of all, know the FAA regulations.  The Transportation Security Administration website has some great information about air travel with children available. 

Take along some books and coloring things for the young children.  Check out our Free Kid Printable Activity Pages for things to print and take along.

The 3-1-1 for carry-ons (the liquid rule) does not apply to some things that you will need for very young children.  Medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.

A good rule of thumb is - carry along your child's birth certificate if he is under two years of age.

Air Travel with Older Children

Older children are a little easier to travel with, for the mere fact that you do not have to carry them!  Older children still have to be entertained though!

I let my children carry along their handheld electronic games and mp3 players.... they are going to have to sit still for the entire trip anyway right?

Children under the age of 18 years do not have to show identification. 

Our kids don't necessarily enjoy the planned group activities as much as they enjoy reading and playing individual games.  Over the years, the handheld games have really worked to make life much easier for those of us who travel..... YAH!!!  But, I do like to keep some game books or printable activity pages on hand.... here are some links to printable pages that will make the family vacations airline travel a little easier...

As you are reviewing information about flying with children, I invite you to review the following site....

Florida Flydrives - Your one stop resource for planning a driving Holiday in Florida and beyond. Get a plane; get a car; GET GOING!

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