✈️ The Chaos of Traveling with Kids (And How to Make It Easier)
Traveling with kids can feel like a monumental task, especially when you have more than one and they are all different ages. Diaper changes, bathroom breaks, dragging luggage, keeping everyone entertained… it’s a lot. And while social media is full of tips, hacks, and products that look amazing, in my experience many of them are not practical at all. In fact, they can create more stress than they solve.
One of the most important things when traveling with kids is understanding airline rules and regulations. Many airlines offer a bassinet for infants, which is essentially a small crib attached to the wall. However, to use it, you need to be seated in the first row, also known as bulkhead seats, as that is the only area with enough space. Even then, the bassinet can only be used during the flight when the seatbelt sign is off. As soon as it turns on, the baby must be in the adult’s arms.
Another option is to book an extra seat for your infant. Yes, you will need to pay for it as a child fare, but it can be one of the best decisions you make, especially if you didn’t manage to get a bulkhead seat.
You will also see products online like seat extenders that turn an airplane seat into a “bed.” Honestly, it is not something I would recommend. I have serious concerns about safety, and depending on where you sit, it can block access for other passengers. In aviation, safety rules exist for a reason, and this is one of those cases where common sense matters.
A much better alternative is the CARES harness, a system specifically designed and approved for use on commercial flights. It is safe, practical, and a great option for children who can already sit upright and support their head. For younger babies, the safest option remains a certified car seat approved for air travel.
Another game-changer is organization. One tip I always recommend is preparing your carry-on bag in a smart way. Instead of throwing everything together, use smaller bags in different colors and assign one to each child. Inside each one, pack essentials depending on their age, such as extra clothes, diapers, snacks, toys, pacifiers or small treats. This makes everything easier to find and avoids unnecessary stress during the flight.
On long-haul flights, cabin lights are often dimmed or turned off, so being organized becomes even more important. And here is something I always tell parents: travel light. You don’t need one bag per child. We always centralized everything with the parents. Each child could bring one item for entertainment, like a toy, a game, or a tablet. That is more than enough, especially on long flights with onboard entertainment systems. Less luggage means less stress and faster access to what you actually need.
One personal tip that made a huge difference for me is that I never traveled with a stroller. Instead, I always used a baby carrier, preferably one worn like a backpack. It is easy to use, quick to put on, and incredibly practical. Your hands are free, you don’t have to wait at the gate for a stroller, and you can move immediately after landing, whether you are catching a connecting flight or starting your trip. Of course, every family is different, and this is a personal choice, but for me, traveling light, staying organized, and keeping my hands free made all the difference.
At the end of the day, traveling with kids is not about perfection. It is about finding what works for your family. Because when you simplify things, everything becomes easier. I’m Claudia, a mother of three, a travel lover, and someone who believes that with the right mindset, traveling with kids can be not only possible, but truly enjoyable.
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