Flying with Children

Your mileage will vary depending on age and disposition but this is what works for me.

TSA Pre-Check via Global Entry

I hate this in principle but here I am. If you don’t have this get Global Entry which includes TSA Pre. When you book your flight with children 12 and younger are covered by this. I would advise you to set a reminder 3 months before your child’s 13 birthday to apply on their behalf.

Nausea Medication

Dramamine is the go-to but you should ask your doctor about Ondansetron Orally Disentegrating Tablets USP as they are prescription only.

Packing

  • Vomit bags saved from previous flights plus tissues/wet-wipes, all in a ziplock back.
  • Fun but healthier alternatives to over-priced airport snacks.
  • Lip balm.
  • Empty water bottle – fill after clearing security.
  • Paperback books. Usually two, ideally one new.
  • Mad Libs, pencils and a sketchpad go a long way.
  • Charged iPod/device and headphones.
    • Bonus points for podcasts, music & audiobooks and no video.
    • Pack charger (or extra battery) and cable
  • Download offline media the night before
    • Netflix and Amazon Prime support offline movies.
    • Spotify allows songs to be stored offline.
    • Update podcast subscriptions before you head to the airport.
  • An extra light-layer.

Boarding

  • If you have a kid aged 2 (sometimes 3) you can board first.
    • With American Airlines you need to ask in advance and they have discretion to allow slightly older ages.

Seating

  • When you fly into LGA, for the best view of NYC aim for a window seat on the left side of the cabin.
  • Book the Aisle and Window seats in the hopes it remains empty. I’ve never had an issue asking someone to switch from that Middle seat when the gamble didn’t work.
  • Airlines are required to seat families with kids under the age of 13 together via FAA rules.