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Our Top Air Travel Planning Tips

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Plane

When You Book

  • Try first for a nonstop flight. If that's not available, fly "direct," which means you'll stop at least once but won't switch planes.

  • Book flights that depart early in the day, if possible. If your flight is delayed, you — and the airline — will have time to make other arrangements.

  • Specify your ticketing preferences, whether paper or electronic.

  • Check to see if a meal will be served in flight. If so, order meals your kids like. Many airlines offer kids' meals or a vegetarian choice that may be pasta. If not, plan accordingly.

  • Ask for the seats you'd like, whether they're a window, an aisle, or the bulkhead for legroom.

Packing Tips

  • Stuff your carry-on for every contingency. Pack all medications, extra clothes for little kids, diapers, baby food, formula, wet wipes, and snacks (they'll also help kids swallow to relieve ear pressure).

  • Have each child carry a small backpack with travel toys, a light sweatshirt, and a pair of socks for the flight.

On the Day of Your Trip

  • Call ahead to check for delays.

  • Have all photo IDs within easy reach (not necessary for kids under age 18 traveling with their parents on domestic flights; on most international flights, even infants will need a passport).

  • If you have heavy bags, check your luggage first and then park.

  • If you are early for the flight or run into long delays, don't go straight to the gate. Instead, meander through the airport's diversions: windows onto the runways, children's play areas (many major airports now have these), Web access computers, and, of course, stores where kids can find a treat to tide them over.

  • Carry on extra bottled water. It's easy to get dehydrated on a plane, and the drink service may be slow in reaching you.

On the Plane

  • Ask if your child can view the cockpit (the best time may be after the flight is over).

  • Secure pillows and blankets for family members who may want to nap.

  • Take breaks from sitting; occasionally walk the aisles and switch seats.


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Our Top Air Travel Planning Tips

lesagesarah
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lesagesarah says:
May 29, 2011

Immunizations: It is important to make sure you have the appropriate vaccinations for the health risks associated with the country you are traveling. In some countries, immunization is a requirement for entering that country. Anti-malarial medications may have to be started weeks in advance of the flight. http://www.abcorporate-aviation.com/What-is-the-level-of

Deepakudage
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Deepakudage says:
May 10, 2011

Thanks for sharing such a wonderful tips with us.This really a wonderful article from you.I really liked it very much.It will be very useful to people who are traveling for the first time by plane.Thanks!

http://www.voyageafrica.net/african-safari-holidays.html

SimonColeman
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SimonColeman says:
April 07, 2011

Thankfully most airlines also have activity packs ready for these little travelers. So that saves a bit on your bulk.

Regards,
Simon
http://www.koh-samui.travel/

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