OT- Advice traveling with 4 kids by myself

[islangrl]

I just booked our tickets last night. We leave next week for half way around the world. I am taking my 4 kids 10, 9, 4, and almost 3, to visit my dad, who is sick. We had to borrow air miles to go, 480,000 of them. We cant get enough for DH to go, so it looks like I am on my own. I am so nervous to take them by myself. We have 3 flights; a 3 hour, an 8 1/2 hour and a 7 1/2 hour, with short layovers in between. I am overwhelmed. I have made this trip plenty of times by myself, but never with all the kids. Any creative ideas for what to pack in the carry-ons... besides lots of wipes ? Quiet activities, must haves, etc. I'm scared I'll get on the plane and realize I've forgotten something important, hopefully not one of the kids . This may sound insane, but I'm thinking I may not bring the stroller, so that I'll have one less thing to lug around and so the 2 youngest can stretch their legs, am I crazy?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated

 

[labdogs42]

Wow, I have never done such a long trip with my one kid, so I'm not sure I'm qualified to offer much advice, but here are some things that keep my 3.5 year old occupied these days:

mini dry erase board and marker from the dollar spot at target
Dry erase books and pens
Magnet books
The old standby -- the portable DVD player or iPod video loaded up with kid's shows
pipe cleaners (bend and make into animals, your older kids can probably make cool things for the younger ones to play with)
Leapster
Nintendo DS
window clings

Good luck with your trip. I should ask my cousin and his wife for some tips for you. They moved to Japan with their four kids three years ago and have flown all around the world with those kids. My cousin is bringing three of the kids with him to visit next week. The kids coming with him are 10, 7, and 5. The mom and the three year old are staying back in Japan this trip. They are expecting their 5th child in a month!

 

[exwdwcm]

just wanted to say good luck. hopefully you have some nice folks on the plane and airport willing to help out. don't forget to bring snacks, juice/water etc. just be prepared for anything (delays on the tarmack etc.). where are you flying to- those are some long flights.

i would think a portable DVD would be good so they can watch something they want.

i would bring a stroller- won't it be hard to corral the 2 young ones in the airport during layovers without one? even with the 2 older helping, i just can't imagine keeping everyone together very well. but you know your kids and situation best of all. so you do what you think will make it easiest for you.

i was surprised at the strangers that helped me when i travelled alone with my 4 month old. i travel a lot on business, so know the ropes, but it was still nice having someone help load the stroller at the gate onto the cart for me to go into cargo etc.

 

[islangrl]

Wow, I have never done such a long trip with my one kid, so I'm not sure I'm qualified to offer much advice, but here are some things that keep my 3.5 year old occupied these days:

mini dry erase board and marker from the dollar spot at target
Dry erase books and pens
Magnet books
The old standby -- the portable DVD player or iPod video loaded up with kid's shows
pipe cleaners (bend and make into animals, your older kids can probably make cool things for the younger ones to play with)
Leapster
Nintendo DS
window clings

Good luck with your trip. I should ask my cousin and his wife for some tips for you. They moved to Japan with their four kids three years ago and have flown all around the world with those kids. My cousin is bringing three of the kids with him to visit next week. The kids coming with him are 10, 7, and 5. The mom and the three year old are staying back in Japan this trip. They are expecting their 5th child in a month!

Hi Labdogs42, thanks for helping. I don't have a portable DVD, but we do have 2 video nows, so I'll bring those. Dry erase boards and magnet books, awesome, why didn't I think of that? Pipe cleaners and window clings, genius idea, I will definitely pick some of those up. Hopefully we get window seats, but maybe they will stick to the back of the seats!

just wanted to say good luck. hopefully you have some nice folks on the plane and airport willing to help out. don't forget to bring snacks, juice/water etc. just be prepared for anything (delays on the tarmack etc.). where are you flying to- those are some long flights.

i would think a portable DVD would be good so they can watch something they want.

i would bring a stroller- won't it be hard to corral the 2 young ones in the airport during layovers without one? even with the 2 older helping, i just can't imagine keeping everyone together very well. but you know your kids and situation best of all. so you do what you think will make it easiest for you.

i was surprised at the strangers that helped me when i travelled alone with my 4 month old. i travel a lot on business, so know the ropes, but it was still nice having someone help load the stroller at the gate onto the cart for me to go into cargo etc.

Hi exwdwcm, thanks to you too.
We are going to Guam. Across the huge Pacific. Snacks, juice, DVD ( or video nows), I am making a list as I read and type. I know you're right about the stroller , I'm not too worried about anyone running off, more like dawdling and slowing me down . That's cool that people helped you, hopefully we'll find some kind souls that take pity on us instead of running in the other direction . We're not really that bad!

 

[Darcy03231]

I'm taking DN (4) to WDW this fall. Here are some things I've got to help keep her entertained on the trip:

1. I-pod loaded with Disney songs
2. Coloring books & Crayons
3. Pipe cleaners
4. Color wonder books & markers
5. mini puzzles
6. stickers and notebook
7. card games (go fish, crazy eights, old maid)
8. dry erase books & markers
9. mini fuzzy poster & markers
10. A baggie of various colors and shapes of construction paper cut outs, notebook and tape.
11. window clings
12. Magnetic rocks
13. Learning workbooks (ie colors, shapes, simple spelling, simple math).

I've picked most of the stuff up at the dollar store over the last few months. For the older kids you could get word search books, books/magazines, MP3/ipods loaded with their favorite music, etc.

 

[abdmom]

I travel frequently with just myself and 3 kids, aged 3, 9 and 12. We often fly to HI. Here's what we bring to amuse the kids: portable DVD player and Nintendo DS's for the older 2. I don't like to bring much! A few months ago, when the littlest was almost, 3, I bought him a new stroller for travel. He refused to get in it at the airport. Insisted on pushing it himself! I took him on an emergency trip 2 weeks ago, just the 2 of us. I only took a carryon because we were traveling for just 2 days. He dragged the carryon by himself, all the way to the gate!

Here's some plane tips. Have you checked into compassionate fares for dh? If your father is in a hospital or nursing home, then the airlines will give a compassionate fare. Call the airlines directly for that.

Are any of your legs on an Airbus 330? These planes have inseat DVD players, truly a godsend with 4 kids that age.

I like to choose seats as far forward as possible. Especially on the big planes, it decreases the amount of time that you will have to wait to get off. Also, the lighting, noise level and service just is so much better the further forward you go.

If you have a plane with 2/5/2 seating, I would choose 2 sets of 2 seats one behind the other (at the window) with a single seat opposite the row further back. This will increase access to the aisle for those potty breaks, let you have access to the flight attendant if necessary, instead of being in the middle of a long row, increase the amount of light (can you tell that I need light to function?), and, most importantly, decrease the crankiness amongst the kids as they try to deal with close quarters with each other. Perhaps split the kids up so that one of the older ones is next to one of the younger ones. In any case, you will have more flexibility with seating if you get seats near the windows, back to back. I always sit in the row furthest back so that I can see what's going on in front of me, and can check for forgotten items when we get off. DD, aged 7 at the time, once forgot a Nintendo - not a game, but the player. Never saw it again.

Don't forget snacks! I like "dry" food, such as pretzels, crackers, the best. No smell and less messy. You can take food from home through security, but not snacks. You can't take fruit to Guam. Bring some wipes. Also a pen to fill out agricultural forms.

Lastly, but not least, I hope your dad gets better and that you have a good trip.

 

[bartleby1]

Oh wow. I can see how you'd be feeling overwhelmed! Those are long flights too.

I would definitely bring a stroller - maybe even a double! You can gate check the stroller so it really won't be a hassle. You'll be glad to have it to get through the airport and to keep at least your youngest contained.

I don't have much advice since we drive everywhere and have only flown once to Florida with our kids, but wanted to wish you luck!

 

[Disney Mommy 3]

Bless your heart!! I think you will be fine-but I would most definitely bring that stroller! You are gonna get wore out carrying everything you have to have. I have never flown with my kids without Mike, but I do fly with all 3 + him, so it can be like having 4 kids! Ha! He's really pretty good-but you do have to keep up with all of them!

I always let them each bring a backpack-not too full or they can't carry it and if it's got too much junk something is gonna get lost! For my littlest I let her have a doll/blanket or something she'll use, the boys bring Nintendos, and they each have a book, stickerbook, or coloring book. Sippy cups( if the airline lets you) and snacks. You def. need a backpack! Pack your diaper bag in your luggage, but use that backpack for the planes-keeps your arms/ hands free!! The smallest backpack I could find for my little girl was at wal-mart, everywhere else are like for school & she's sooo tiny they fall off of her.
Maybe they will take some naps. I would just try to keep them on their reg. eating times and try not to be tempted with junky snacks. I have one child that gets really moody like that-just can't handle that extra sugar intake!

Let us know how it goes. Again, I think you'll be fine-the airline people and strangers always seem to help out moms alone! Just pray for patience!! I know the Lord will be watching out for you!

 

[islangrl]

I'm taking DN (4) to WDW this fall. Here are some things I've got to help keep her entertained on the trip:

1. I-pod loaded with Disney songs
2. Coloring books & Crayons
3. Pipe cleaners
4. Color wonder books & markers
5. mini puzzles
6. stickers and notebook
7. card games (go fish, crazy eights, old maid)
8. dry erase books & markers
9. mini fuzzy poster & markers
10. A baggie of various colors and shapes of construction paper cut outs, notebook and tape.
11. window clings
12. Magnetic rocks
13. Learning workbooks (ie colors, shapes, simple spelling, simple math).

I've picked most of the stuff up at the dollar store over the last few months. For the older kids you could get word search books, books/magazines, MP3/ipods loaded with their favorite music, etc.

Hi Darcy03231!
More great ideas. What the heck are magnetic rocks, and where do I get them? Love the idea of cut outs and tape..the little ones LOVE tape!

I travel frequently with just myself and 3 kids, aged 3, 9 and 12. We often fly to HI. Here's what we bring to amuse the kids: portable DVD player and Nintendo DS's for the older 2. I don't like to bring much! A few months ago, when the littlest was almost, 3, I bought him a new stroller for travel. He refused to get in it at the airport. Insisted on pushing it himself! I took him on an emergency trip 2 weeks ago, just the 2 of us. I only took a carryon because we were traveling for just 2 days. He dragged the carryon by himself, all the way to the gate!

Here's some plane tips. Have you checked into compassionate fares for dh? If your father is in a hospital or nursing home, then the airlines will give a compassionate fare. Call the airlines directly for that.

Are any of your legs on an Airbus 330? These planes have inseat DVD players, truly a godsend with 4 kids that age.

I like to choose seats as far forward as possible. Especially on the big planes, it decreases the amount of time that you will have to wait to get off. Also, the lighting, noise level and service just is so much better the further forward you go.

If you have a plane with 2/5/2 seating, I would choose 2 sets of 2 seats one behind the other (at the window) with a single seat opposite the row further back. This will increase access to the aisle for those potty breaks, let you have access to the flight attendant if necessary, instead of being in the middle of a long row, increase the amount of light (can you tell that I need light to function?), and, most importantly, decrease the crankiness amongst the kids as they try to deal with close quarters with each other. Perhaps split the kids up so that one of the older ones is next to one of the younger ones. In any case, you will have more flexibility with seating if you get seats near the windows, back to back. I always sit in the row furthest back so that I can see what's going on in front of me, and can check for forgotten items when we get off. DD, aged 7 at the time, once forgot a Nintendo - not a game, but the player. Never saw it again.

Don't forget snacks! I like "dry" food, such as pretzels, crackers, the best. No smell and less messy. You can take food from home through security, but not snacks. You can't take fruit to Guam. Bring some wipes. Also a pen to fill out agricultural forms.

Lastly, but not least, I hope your dad gets better and that you have a good trip.

Hi ABDMom!
Thanks for the seating tips! I hadn't really given it much thought yet, but now I will devise a plan. I have to check on the aircraft, lord I HOPE it's a 330. Some entertainment for mommy too! I know how you feel about the lighting, especially for the kids, don't want them sleepy enough to get cranky, but not sleepy enough to sleep. Or is that me?
Thanks for the good wishes for my dad, he really needs them!!

 

[islangrl]

Oh wow. I can see how you'd be feeling overwhelmed! Those are long flights too.

I would definitely bring a stroller - maybe even a double! You can gate check the stroller so it really won't be a hassle. You'll be glad to have it to get through the airport and to keep at least your youngest contained.

I don't have much advice since we drive everywhere and have only flown once to Florida with our kids, but wanted to wish you luck!

Hi Bartleby1!
Yeah, I think I'm gonna bring the stroller. Like ABDMom said, her son wouldn't use it, but then I will have somewhere to put the carryons. Thank you!

Bless your heart!! I think you will be fine-but I would most definitely bring that stroller! You are gonna get wore out carrying everything you have to have. I have never flown with my kids without Mike, but I do fly with all 3 + him, so it can be like having 4 kids! Ha! He's really pretty good-but you do have to keep up with all of them!

I always let them each bring a backpack-not too full or they can't carry it and if it's got too much junk something is gonna get lost! For my littlest I let her have a doll/blanket or something she'll use, the boys bring Nintendos, and they each have a book, stickerbook, or coloring book. Sippy cups( if the airline lets you) and snacks. You def. need a backpack! Pack your diaper bag in your luggage, but use that backpack for the planes-keeps your arms/ hands free!! The smallest backpack I could find for my little girl was at wal-mart, everywhere else are like for school & she's sooo tiny they fall off of her.
Maybe they will take some naps. I would just try to keep them on their reg. eating times and try not to be tempted with junky snacks. I have one child that gets really moody like that-just can't handle that extra sugar intake!

Let us know how it goes. Again, I think you'll be fine-the airline people and strangers always seem to help out moms alone! Just pray for patience!! I know the Lord will be watching out for you!

Hi Disney Mommy!
Thanks for the help. I know what you mean about the 4th "Kid", in a good way of course. If I didn't do the packing...
Small backpack at Walmart, I'm gonna look, because there is no way I am carrying everyone's toys.
Gosh, I hope they take naps, I read somewhere to give your kids benadryl, that sounds totally counterintuitive. That would turn them into cranky zombies! Thanks for the good wishes, and I will definitely pray for patience!

 

[Mamadis]

If you have a video ipod or itouch, you can load movies onto it from itunes. You can get a splitter so 2 kids can listen and watch at the same time from Radio Shack. We took an ipod and Itouch with us on a trip to Italy earlier this summer. The kids watched movies and listened to audiobooks on them them the whole way there with some naps along the way. My three kids did great and I did not have to carry very much.

 

[Darcy03231]

I bought the magnetic rocks at Seaworld last year, but have seen them in stores that sell educational type toys.