10 Tips For Flying With Young Children During The COVID-19 Pandemic

1. Talk to your children

It is essential to talk to your children from time to time. Talk to them about extra precautions that need to be taken at the airport and on-board. That could be things like making sure they don’t touch anything and ensure they stay close to you. You also have to encourage them not to panic.

2. Stay abreast of travel updates

Due to the nature of the pandemic, travel plans could change. Staying up to date with status updates on your flight will help you feel calmer about your upcoming trip. Check specifically with your airline to minimize stress when you are at the airport and focus on your family.

3. Invest in face masks

Many airlines have announced that passengers should come with their face masks while some are now giving them out to passengers. In any case, bring your own masks along to the airport as the available ones in the airport may not be the right size for your children. Also see what requirements your airline has and prepare that personal protective equipment before you fly.

4. Come with your own hand sanitizer (alcohol based)

You might be one of the lucky few who has been able to get hold of hand sanitizer. If you are, then don’t forget to bring it along on your flight. Alcohol based preferably, that is the recommended one. For the extra sense of security, make sure you sanitize your children's hands after they touch surfaces or when they cough or sneeze to prevent the spread of germs.

5. Regular hand washing

If you can’t get hold of hand sanitizer, make sure your children wash their hands regularly. Keeping up practices of hand-washing both at home and out to remove germs. Try to do this as often as necessary even when on board and take advantage of bathrooms at the airport.

6. Think through your food options

To minimize the risk of coming into contact with too many people, think about eating before you get to the airport.
If you and your children will need food on the journey, you can pack a few snacks if possible.

7. Take bathroom breaks

Likewise, you might feel more comfortable if you can avoid going to the bathroom on-board an aircraft. It means that you will not need to pass people as you walk through the aisle and risk touching surfaces that other people have come into contact with.
It’s much easier to practice social distancing at the airport; therefore, you might find it more comforting to use the bathroom there.

8. Get to the airport early

This one doesn’t only apply during the pandemic nor for when you’re only traveling with young children. But getting to the airport early can reduce your stress levels. You’ll feel more prepared and will have enough time to adapt if things change.
Keeping a cool head will also ensure your children feel comfortable and safe.
Airports are among some of the establishments that have put in place social distancing markers to help people keep a safe distance. Ensure that you keep your children with you at all times to avoid them interrupting other people’s space.

10. Wipe down your seating area

It is not essential to wipe down your seat when you arrive on an aircraft. Almost all airlines are now practicing some form of intense sanitization to remove germs from seats, tray tables and overhead lockers.
However, you still have to feel free doing it yourself. There is no such thing as being too careful when it comes to protecting your family