Any tips for first time flyers with toddlers?

[disneygma11]

I am planning on taking the Granddaughters to WDW in December 2011. I have only flown once in my life, when I was 16 years old and my husband and none of the rest of the family have ever flown before. Things have changed a lot since then I am sure (I am 42 now). So I have lots of questions about booking the flight and getting boarding passes for us...etc. I am looking for some tips here from some of the seasoned veterans who have flown quite a lot. Since this will be our first trip as a family, I dont wanna mess things up at the last minute, especially given the fact that I will have a 2 and 3 year old with me. I have some questions:

• How do I check in when I get to the airport?
• Where do I get boarding passes?
• Where can I find restrictions on luggage?
• If I have a layover at another airport will I have to go through security again?

These are some of the main questions that I have right now. If I think of any more Ill add them later. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[dudspizza]

I am planning on taking the Granddaughters to WDW in December 2011. I have only flown once in my life, when I was 16 years old and my husband and none of the rest of the family have ever flown before. Things have changed a lot since then I am sure (I am 42 now). So I have lots of questions about booking the flight and getting boarding passes for us...etc. I am looking for some tips here from some of the seasoned veterans who have flown quite a lot. Since this will be our first trip as a family, I dont wanna mess things up at the last minute, especially given the fact that I will have a 2 and 3 year old with me. I have some questions:

• How do I check in when I get to the airport? You can check in online or you check in at the airline counter at the airport
• Where do I get boarding passes? You print your boarding passes online when you check in or at the airline counter when you check in there.
• Where can I find restrictions on luggage? Go to your airlines website. Most have a size restriction of about 62 total inches (LxHxW) and 50 pounds. Remember that most now charge for luggage, with SW being one of the few that don't charge.
• If I have a layover at another airport will I have to go through security again? Most likely not, as most airline gates are in the secure area. If you leave the secure area to eat or shop in the main terminal areas of some airports, then you would have to clear security again. Also, some airports make you clear security if you move from 1 terminal to another, but if you are on the same airline, that is unlikely.

These are some of the main questions that I have right now. If I think of any more Ill add them later. Thanks in advance for the help.

Do you have flights booked yet? If so, who are you flying and where are you flying from.... that kind of info will be helpful....

Duds

 

[Disflyer]

I would only add a few minor suggestions. Try to boook your airline tickets online instead of calling reservations. Many airlines have added fees for calling and booking with an agent, however, they are modest so don't let that scare you if you are uncomfortable booking the ticket yourself online. Also most airlines have a drop down box for a special service request. This will note on your ticket that you are traveling with two small children on your reservation.

Both grandchildren will need their own seat since they are older than 2.

We travel with our daughter quite often back and forth from TX to MN (she is 22 months). I can tell you that in our experience 1) she refuses to nap on the plane, there is just too much going on. 2) bring lots of snacks and books or small items to keep them engaged. 3) I always tell my daughter that an airplane is just like riding in the car she has to stay in her seat and buckled. Surprisingly this works amazingly well and I have never had her fuss about sitting for a few hours in one seat buckled in.

Good luck and enjoy!

 

[belle118]

be sure to bring gum or candy to help them pop their ears during accent and decent (or practice yawning)

 

[Ambassador]

The first time we travelled with our youngest delegate, we tried to carry-on everything: big mistake! A lot depended on our stroller, which the airline immediately lost. It was hours before they offered us a free loaner.

So we check allowable luggage limits, and packed light. Bring enough toys and snacks, but don't over do it. Gate check your stroller: we found a smaller one with some storage worked best.

The resort can provide a lot: like pack and plays, bedrails, bath mats. Check with them before overpacking.

You will need your own carseat for the plane seat and car if your are renting: check that it is a type that will fit in the seat.

Try to take care of bathroom business before boarding, and take advantage of pre-boarding.

 

[Tara]

Try bringing along a surprise plaything to keep them occupied - a small stuffed animal or sticker books or Color Wonder no-mess markers. Colorforms are awesome for this.

If you are worried about ear pressure, there is a product called Ear Planes that can help - they come in a smaller size for children, too.

Remember to allow yourself PLENTY of time because everything takes just a little bit longer when traveling with children on your own, and the last thing you need is the anxiety of being rushed.