The most important items belong in carry-on luggage

Once the suitcase has been checked at the counter, you can't get to it anymore. Therefore the most important things must be stored in your carry-on luggage. Your child can store toys and books in their own backpack. To keep the flight relaxed, these items should have a place in the carry-on luggage:

• Child passport or regular passport

• Change of clothes, including thicker and thinner layers, as the temperature on the plane can vary greatly and the destination may have a different climate

• Nasal drops for pressure equalization during takeoff and landing

• If necessary, a changing bag

• Food and drink: The rules for carrying liquids on planes do not apply to baby food. You can buy water after the security check.

• Regular medications and emergency remedies, ideally also part of the travel first-aid kit in case the suitcase gets lost

Discover the airport – This is how the holiday starts before takeoff

At the airport there's a lot to discover. Large and small airplanes, the security checks, the baggage drop-off and the lively bustle appeal to young and old. To let your child know what to expect, you can already in picture books beforehand explore the airport. It becomes even more exciting for your child when they rediscover what they saw beforehand in real life.

As a rule, you usually have to be at the airport several hours before departure anyway – and this time can be great to use to go on aexploration tour to go. So allow enough time to inspect everything at leisure. That way, ideally, no stress will arise before departure.

How to prevent boredom during a flight with children

Entertainment program:

Some airlines provide coloring materials or small toys; on major carriers, films and TV series can be shown on long-haul flights. It's best to check beforehand what kind of children's entertainment you can expect.

Games:

Depending on the length of the flight, a few small games can prevent boredom from setting in. These can supplement the existing entertainment program. For example, a small 'Mensch-ärgere-dich-nicht' (a Ludo-like board game) works well. In a compact, magnetic version the little pieces won't get lost.

Books:

During the flight, a book about the travel destination is also a great way to keep children calm and in good spirits – and it also increases their anticipation of the holiday.

Expert knowledge:

If your child is technically interested, you can certainly inspire enthusiasm with specialized knowledge and books about airplanes and flying. Now you can show them the individual parts of the airplane in detail.

“Mom, I'm hungry” – children's food on the plane

The food on the plane is not exactly known for exceptional taste. And children are not known for reacting with understanding if they don't like it. So remember not to have just a few gummy bears on hand, but maybe also a tasty filled roll.

By the way: Some airlines offer aspecial children's menu – it's best to simply ask the airline in advance. For babies, specialbaby drinks are allowed on board; for older children you can still buy water after the security checks. On board there are also drinks free of charge or for purchase, depending on the airline and fare.

Checklist for flying with children

Before the flight

• Prepare your child for the trip and explain what will happen. Also explain that their ears may hurt, but that they'll have a wonderful view out of the window above the clouds.

• Check the carry-on baggage for completeness and prohibited items.

At the airport

• Allow plenty of time for check-in. Then, calmly explore the airport and watch the planes take off and land.

• Have a bite to eat and something to drink.

Shortly before departure

• If your child often suffers from ear problems, you should give them nasal drops now.

• Shortly before takeoff, offer your child something to chew or suck on. This prevents unpleasant pressure in the ears.

During the flight

• Try to stay relaxed and avoid provoking stress. Maybe now is the right time to allow some exceptions regarding smartphones or sweets?

• Books and (new) toys keep them occupied.

• Ask the flight attendants if there are coloring materials or similar on board.