Anyone facing air travel today already has to content with reduced numbers of flights, long waits at security checks, and often unexplained delays. For people flying solo the ordeal can be stressful enough, but for families traveling together air travel is even more challenging. Using these tips can smooth your flight preparations so that your flight itself can be an enjoyable part of your vacation instead of something you must simply tolerate until you reach your destination.

Because you're flying as a family, it's essential that you book your flight reservations well in advance of your departure date. Most flights fill up quickly, and you want the peace of mind which comes from knowing that your air travel arrangements have been finalized. Making your reservations early will also give you the best chance of finding a direct flight to your destination. This can be a real blessing if you're traveling with very small children!

When you start packing for the flight, you should make sure each of your kids has a carry-on bag with some games or books to keep them all entertained while you're aloft. Once the novelty of being thirty thousand feet above the Earth has worn off, they could easily become restless in their confined quarters so you need something fun for them to do.

For your smallest children you can pack books to read to them, along with one or tow of their favorite plush toys to help them feel secure. Your older kids can bring along their video games, DVD players, playing cards, or books.

No matter what you do don't forget to pack snacks for your kids. Many airlines have given up their in-flight meals, and the ones which still serve them don't always have food which appeals to kids. While you can arrive at the airport early enough to get snacks after you've cleared the security check lands, airport food is notoriously expensive Your best option is to make sure everyone leaves home on a full stomach, and that you've reserved one carry-on bag with a favorite snack for each child.

Remember that the airlines have now placed limits on the amount of bottled liquids you can carry through security. So bring along an empty container and fill it with water from an airport fountain before your board your flight, if you don't want to spend the money on airport sodas. You don't want your kids to become dehydrated during your flight.

You can carry a single bottle of formula if you're flying with an infant. Be sure to pack some formula powder with your baby's supplies to mix with some of that airport water if you need it. You can also brink small bottles of juice for your older kids, but check with the airline in advance to make sure they're the right size.

It's critical, when you get to the airport, that your entire family stays together. Make sure that you kids understand how important it is not to go wandering off, even though they might be excited at all the new sights and sounds. Let your older children share the responsibility of carrying their own carry-on bags, and helping the younger ones through the security checkpoints so they don't lose things like coins or even their shoes! The secret to a smooth family flight begins with a family functioning smoothly on the ground!

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