Getting There

When traveling with children, getting there and back is the hard part. That’s because a five-hour flight or a seven-hour drive is an eternity to a kid. Questions like “How many more minutes?” or “When are we going to be there?” are interspersed with demands to be fed, entertained and taken to the bathroom.

To make a trip less stressful—for you and your spawn —here are 10 tips for long flights and road trips.

In the Air

Don’t forget the electronic Game Boy.  Buy an extra seat for your child, even if he or she is little enough to sit on your lap. It’s safer, and a lot more comfortable.  Bring gum or lollipops for takeoffs and landings. Little ears are particularly vulnerable to the change in pressure, and chewing and swallowing can be a big help.  Try to sit at the bulkhead—there’s more legroom for you, and more play space for Junior.  A seat in the middle of the plane, over the wings, will provide the smoothest flight.  Try to book your flight to coincide with naptime—or for long flights, consider a red-eye. A sleeping child is a quiet child.  Book a direct flight, whenever possible. Dashing from one gate to another at a crowded hub airport—like Dallas–Fort Worth—is even more taxing with a child.  Eat beforehand.  Bring snacks.  Make sure the kids go to the bathroom before you board. Little bladders don’t always jibe with FAA regulations to remain seated. On the Road  Ditto on the Game Boy.  TVs with DVD players are now available that plug right into the power supply in your car. They are well worth the price ($279 for a 9-incher at Costco).  Pack lots of snacks and drinks.  Plan your journey, and your stops, in advance. Give each child a road atlas so he or she can follow along.  Make reservations. There’s nothing like being turned away from a Red Roof Inn at 9 p.m. because there’s a hardware convention in town.  Even if you’re traveling only from point A to point B, don’t overlook the many roadside attractions you come across.  Don’t be afraid to take detours.  Pack a porta-potty.  Give each child a disposable camera. At the end of the trip, make them each a photo album.  Sing. You’d be surprised how therapeutic it can be. —T.K.A.

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