Friendly Skies

Fun things you can do and tips when flying with kids.

March Break's here, and it's the trip of a lifetime… the one you worked hard for all year long. The hitch? You're flying with your kids! Here are a few tips and fun things to do to make the skies friendlier and trouble-proof your trip!

Try to book your flight during non-peak times! Fewer crowds mean less stress.

Direct or Layover? 2 schools of thought: Some like non-stop flights and feel that the fewer the number of trips, the easier. Some feel that an hour or so break in an airport in the middle of a long journey can actually be a good idea. See what scenario works best for your family.

Try to book a flight with a movie - kids will love it and it will help pass the time.

Invest in an inexpensive CD player with headsets or kid-size earphones and rent CD-books and music from the library.

Order a kid-friendly meal at least 24 hours prior to the flight. Check your airline's policies. If meals are not available, make sure you pack some well-liked healthy snacks. This isn't the time to introduce new foods - midair allergies are just plain ugly. Bring extra snacks and drinks to keep little mouths busy. And don't forget your antibacterial Wet Ones.

Ask for blankets and pillows as soon as you board to make the kids comfortable.

Bring some gum for the kids to chew (if they are old enough). This will help unblock ears. For infants and toddlers, have them take a bottle, drink out of a sippie cup or give them a pacifier. This will help little ears when the air pressure in the airplane is at it's worst.

Have your kids bring a small backpack with their favourite books, comics, toys, stuffed animal, sticker activity books and colouring gear. Bring comics and activity books (Sudoku, crosswords) and electronics for older children.

Toys that are a no-no on the plane: Things that makes noise, Playdoh or anything sticky, balls, Lego or toys that include very tiny pieces, Frisbees, board games (too many small pieces and no room to play).

Bring a loot bag for each child with some new surprises. Use it as a reward if they behave during the flight.

The important thing is to plan ahead and try to anticipate problems that may occur. When in doubt, communicate with your airline.

Happy travels!

Pick your carrier wisely! The following are links to Canada's top airlines' services and policies when flying with children and infants.

Air Canada

CanJet Airlines

WestJet