The airport is often the starting point of a journey, and it’s essential to be prepared and organized to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Kids at the Airport
Table of Contents
Tips to help you navigate the airport with ease
Arrive Early
Give yourself plenty of time by arriving at the airport early, especially when traveling with kids. Plan to be at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This allows for check-in, security procedures, and any unexpected delays.
Check-In Online
Take advantage of online check-in services offered by most airlines. This saves time and allows you to select seats in advance. If you have luggage to check, some airports have self-service kiosks that allow you to print baggage tags and drop off your bags more efficiently.
Carry-On Essentials
Pack a well-organized carry-on bag with essential items for the flight. Include snacks, water bottles (empty before security and fill them up afterward), entertainment options (books, tablets, games), extra clothing, and any necessary medications or comfort items for your child.
Security Procedures
Familiarize yourself with the security procedures beforehand and explain them to your child. Ensure that all liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on bags adhere to the airline’s regulations (usually limited to containers of 3.4 ounces or less). Remove jackets, belts, and shoes and place them in the provided bins during the security screening process.
Stay Together
Keep your family together throughout the airport process. Hold hands or use designated child safety harnesses to ensure the safety of younger children in busy areas. In case of separation, establish a meeting point or designate a specific staff member (e.g., airport security personnel) as a point of contact.
Be Courteous
Encourage your child to be polite and respectful to airport personnel, fellow travelers, and security officers. Kindness and patience go a long way in creating a positive atmosphere for everyone.
Explore Kid-Friendly Areas
Many airports have dedicated play areas or kid-friendly spaces to keep children entertained. Take advantage of these facilities if your child needs to burn off some energy before the flight. Some airports also have family lounges or nursing rooms for added comfort.
Monitor Flight Information
Keep an eye on the flight information displays or use airline apps to stay updated on any changes in departure gates, delays, or boarding times. This helps you stay organized and prevents any last-minute rushes.
Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart
Encourage your child to stay hydrated during the flight by drinking water regularly. Pack healthy snacks for the journey, as airport food options may be limited or expensive. Avoid sugary snacks that can lead to energy spikes and crashes.
Stay Calm and Enjoy the Experience
Traveling can be stressful, but maintaining a calm and positive attitude will help create a better experience for your child. Embrace the adventure and make the airport journey a part of the overall travel experience.
Remember, each airport may have specific rules and facilities, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the airport’s website or contact the airline for any specific guidelines or assistance for traveling with children. With proper planning and a positive mindset, your airport experience can set the stage for a memorable journey.
Prepare The Kids For Airport Process
Preparing kids for an airport trip can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience for the whole family. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Explain the Process
Depending on your child’s age, take the time to explain what to expect at the airport. Talk about security checks, the boarding process, and the different areas they will encounter. Use simple and age-appropriate language to help them understand the steps involved in air travel.
Pack Together
Involve your child in the packing process. Discuss what items they want to bring, emphasizing the importance of only bringing essential and necessary items. Encourage them to pack a small carry-on bag with their favorite toys, books, or activities to keep them entertained during the journey.
Dress Comfortably
Choose comfortable and layered clothing for your child to wear during the flight. Opt for loose-fitting clothes and shoes that are easy to take off and put back on during security checks. Consider packing an extra set of clothes in case of spills or accidents.
Organize Travel Documents
Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents organized and easily accessible. Explain the importance of keeping passports, tickets, and any other required documents in a safe place. If your child is old enough, teach them the importance of taking care of their belongings.
Discuss Security Procedures
Talk about the security procedures that will take place at the airport. Explain the process of removing jackets, shoes, and electronics, as well as the importance of following instructions from security personnel. Let them know that it’s normal and part of the process to go through security checks.
Plan for Airport Wait Times
Waiting times at the airport can be long, so prepare activities to keep your child entertained. Pack coloring books, puzzles, or travel-sized games that they can enjoy during the wait. Consider downloading their favorite movies or shows onto a tablet or smartphone for on-the-go entertainment.
Snacks and Hydration
Pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle for your child to enjoy during the journey. Airport food options can be limited or expensive, so having familiar and healthy snacks on hand can help keep hunger at bay.
Discuss Airplane Etiquette
Teach your child about airplane etiquette, such as using inside voices, being considerate of others, and following the instructions of the flight attendants. Explain the importance of staying seated during takeoff, landing, and turbulence for safety reasons.
Talk about Destination and Expectations
Engage your child in conversation about the destination and what they can look forward to during the trip. Discuss any exciting activities or places you plan to visit together. Setting positive expectations and involving them in the planning process can increase their enthusiasm for the journey.
Remain Calm and Flexible
Keep in mind that traveling with children can sometimes be unpredictable. Maintain a calm and flexible attitude throughout the trip, as this can help your child feel more relaxed and at ease.
By preparing your kids for an airport trip, you can help reduce anxiety and make the experience more enjoyable for the entire family. Open communication, involving them in the process, and setting clear expectations will go a long way in creating a positive travel experience.
Good Airport Manners
Teaching kids good manners at the airport is not only important for their own behavior but also contributes to a positive and respectful travel experience for everyone involved. Here are some tips to help instill good manners in kids when at the airport:
Respect Personal Space
Teach your child the importance of respecting personal space and boundaries. Remind them to be mindful of others around them, especially in crowded areas such as security lines or waiting areas. Encourage them to keep a reasonable distance from others and not to push or shove.
Practice Patience
Airports can often be busy and crowded, leading to long wait times and delays. Teach your child the value of patience and how to handle waiting calmly. Explain that everyone has to go through security checks or wait for their turn. Engage them in quiet activities such as reading a book or playing a game to help pass the time.
Use Inside Voices
Remind your child to use indoor voices while at the airport. Loud noises and excessive shouting can be disruptive to others who are trying to communicate or rest. Encourage them to speak softly and save the excitement for appropriate moments.
Be Mindful of Luggage and Bags
Teach your child to be aware of their belongings and not to leave them unattended. Explain the importance of keeping their bags close to them and not blocking pathways or seating areas with their belongings. This helps maintain a safe and organized environment for everyone.
Follow Security Procedures
Ensure your child understands the importance of following security procedures and guidelines. Teach them about the process of going through security checks, such as removing items from pockets or placing electronic devices in the provided bins. Explain that these measures are in place for everyone’s safety.
Respect Airport Staff
Encourage your child to show respect and gratitude towards airport staff, including security officers, airline personnel, and janitorial staff. Teach them to use polite language when interacting with airport staff and to follow their instructions.
Practice Good Hygiene
Remind your child of the importance of good hygiene, especially in public spaces like airports. Encourage them to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, to use tissues or elbows when necessary, and to wash their hands regularly. This not only promotes good manners but also helps maintain a healthy environment.
Be Considerate in Public Areas
Emphasize the importance of being considerate in public areas such as waiting lounges and boarding gates. Teach your child not to hog seating areas, to be mindful of others when using shared facilities like restrooms, and to clean up after themselves if they have snacks or drinks.
Model Good Behavior
Children learn by observing, so be sure to model good manners and respectful behavior yourself. Demonstrate patience, kindness, and courtesy towards airport staff and fellow travelers. Your child will likely follow your example.
By teaching kids good manners at the airport, you help create a more pleasant travel experience for everyone involved. Encouraging them to be respectful, patient, and considerate sets a foundation for positive behavior that they can carry with them throughout their travels and in other public settings as well.
