Even when headed off on a much-needed holiday, the prospect of travelling alone with children can fill any single parent with dread. Although you can’t plan for everything or completely prevent tantrums, you can take a little time to prepare for your trip. Keeping kids well-fed, entertained, and safe goes a long way towards helping all of you enjoy stress-free travels.
Check Airplane Rules in Advance
Avoid any surprises at the airport by asking about luggage regulations when you book your ticket. Most airlines these days have quite strict regulations for hand luggage allowed in the cabin, although this will vary depending on whether you are flying domestically or internationally. There are usually restrictions on all liquids, gels, and creams, but baby food and cream tends to be allowed on board. It’s helpful to call the airline in advance to mention that you’re travelling alone with small children. They can usually make sure you’re all seated together and may even have extra amenities for you such as baby bassinets or entertainment packages for the children. You’ll also be allowed to board first, to give you extra time to get settled in with the brood. Be sure to mark every piece of luggage with name tags UK to avoid losing anything.
Fight Ear Pain on the Flight
Babies and toddlers are more prone to ear pain as the plane changes altitude than other passengers, which is why screaming seems to intensify during take-off and landing. Protect your little one’s sensitive ears by giving something to drink during any changes in altitude. A side benefit of giving liquids is that it helps fight the dehydration that’s common long flights. Older children can chew gum to help pop their ears.
Bring Distractions and Snacks
Surviving a long car or plane trip basically boils down to distraction. This can be particularly difficult if you’re all alone and travelling with more than one child, but bringing along plenty of books, games, and toys for the duration of the trip will help keep kids from getting bored. Go shopping with your kids before the trip to allow them to pick out some new toys or games for the journey. You can then place these along with a few surprises into special backpacks marked with kids labels. Don’t let them open their backpacks until on the flight or in the car, and they’ll be distracted by all the new goodies. Packing healthy snacks can also help kids fight junk food overload and keep them from getting cranky.
Child-Proof Hotel Rooms
Once you’ve arrived at your hotel room, conduct a quick safety sweep. Move heavy objects up high and bring your own electric outlet covers. Read online reviews of hotels and try to find one that’s known for being family-friendly, ordering rollaway beds or cots ahead of time so that you don’t have to stress once you get there.
By taking a little bit of time to plan ahead for the journey, you can relax once you get to your destination. The key to enjoying any holiday with kids is not to try and cram too many activities into the day, so that you all have time to sightsee and enjoy each other’s company without stress. You’ve earned this holiday, now enjoy it!
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