Top tips for keeping kids happy while flying, according to expert cabin crew and pilots
Norwegian's cabin crew have shared their top tips for a stress-free journey, from oils to calm the nerves to clever luggage tricks
EVERY holiday break, millions families jet off to a new location for a well-deserved getaway.
But before they reach their destination, mum and dad have to get through the pain of flying with their little ones.
There are a number of tricks that parents can use to keep children happy on flights though.
Flight attendants witness first hand every day the trials of travelling with kids and have also witnessed the best tactics for keeping them calm and occupied.
A head of the summer break, Norwegian's cabin crew have shared their top tips for a stress-free journey, from oils to calm the nerves to clever luggage tricks.
Read on to find out more...
Invest in good headphones
Liliana Chantre, Senior Cabin Crew said: “Bring noise cancelling headphones for new-born babies and toddlers – it helps them to feel calm and relaxed as well as helping with the pressure change.”
Bring smart snacks
Robert Kennedy, Cabin Crew: “Pack lots of time consuming snacks for them to eat which will keep them occupied for as long as possible! I always bring dry alphabet cereal or cheerios.”
Brand them with your phone number
Joost Smits, Pilot: “Write a contact phone number on their arm in case they wander off.”
Use a soothing balm
Lee Allen, Cabin Crew: “I always pack lavender balm. Just put a touch on the kid’s temple to keep them calm. On a night flight, the soothing smell helps induced sleep”
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Pack cleverly
Andrew Huddleston, Relief Captain: “Take a compact backpack as hand luggage that enables you to store it under the seat in front – then you don't need to keep getting out of your seat to retrieve your items”
Bring a distraction for take-off
Anders Halvgaard, First Officer: “I always give my kids something to suck or chew on during take-off and landing. The distraction, as well as the chewing, can help prevent any problems with pain due to pressure changes. For small babies, a bottle helps a lot”
Take a favourite teddy
Sira Llorente, Senior Cabin Crew: “When travelling with my daughter I always pack her favourite things especially food, including a few treats and her favourite toys to make sure she is entertained the whole flight”
Write notes for fellow passengers
If you're concerned about your child annoying other passengers, write apologetic notes and bring some sweeties with you to soften the blow.
Get your child involved
Kids like to get involved with what's happening around them.
There have been several incidents in recent years of cabin crew letting children help with picking up the rubbish on their rounds in order to keep them occupied. They might even be glad of the assistance.