Travelling on a long-haul flight with kids can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and organization, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Although going on vacation is exciting to think about and plan, but travelling with children is certainly not.
Scheduling the flights with children aged 3, 5 and above 5 months is mostly difficult. Because it is difficult to handle them during the flight or even at the airport. To manage the hours of travelling becomes a great hustle for the mom if she is travelling alone with the kids.
We would suggest to the travelling moms to keep their expectations with their kids low while travelling. Having lower expectations will enable them to feel relieved.
Also to make your travelling experience smooth, we have listed below some tips that are going to be helpful for you and you can enjoy the trip as well. But before we jump to the tips let us share an important update with you regarding flight itinerary.
The traveller must make a flight reservation for visa individually for every person travelling with them. If kids are infants, you do not need to book a flight itinerary, but for children aged 3, 4 and above, you will have to make flight reservations separately.
Five Great Packing Tips To Help You Prepare For A Long-Haul Flight
Pack Entertainment
Keeping children entertained during the flight is essential. Pack a variety of age-appropriate activities such as colouring books, sticker sets, puzzles, small toys, or electronic devices loaded with their favourite games or movies. Consider headphones suitable for children to ensure they can enjoy their entertainment without disturbing other passengers.
Snacks And Refreshments
Pack a variety of snacks that your children enjoy. Opt for non-perishable items like granola bars, dried fruit, or individual snack packs. Also, don’t forget to bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the flight. Having familiar and favourite snacks can help keep hunger at bay and provide a sense of comfort for the kids.
Comfort Items
Bring comfort items that your children rely on for sleep or relaxation. This could include their favourite blanket, stuffed animal, or a cosy pillow. These items can help create a sense of familiarity and security, making it easier for them to rest during the flight.
Change Of Clothes
Accidents and spills can happen, so it’s important to pack an extra set of clothes for each child. This will come in handy if there are spills, food mishaps, or unexpected delays. Also, consider layering their clothing to accommodate temperature changes on the plane.
Essential Supplies
Do not forget to pack essential supplies such as diapers, wipes, hand sanitizer, and any necessary medication. It’s also a good idea to have a small first-aid kit on hand for minor bumps or scrapes.
Bonus Tip
Plan for Rest: Depending on the length of the flight, it’s crucial to plan for rest and sleep. If possible, align your flight schedule with your child’s regular sleep routine. Bring a neck pillow or inflatable footrest to help them get comfortable in their seats.
Important Note
Remember to check with your airline regarding their specific regulations and allowances for carry-on items, especially for liquids or electronic devices. By packing strategically and thoughtfully, you can help ensure a more pleasant and enjoyable long-haul flight with your kids.
What Documents Are Required When Applying For A Visa With Children?
When applying for a visa with children, the specific documents required can vary depending on the Schengen country you are applying to. However, some common documents that visa officer’s demand in your visa application are as follows:
- Passport: Each child will need a valid passport. Make sure that the passport is current and has sufficient validity beyond the intended duration of your stay.
- Visa Application form: Complete visa application forms for each child. These forms may be available online or at the consulate/embassy of the destination country.
- Passport-sized photos: Provide recent passport-sized photographs of each child, adhering to the specifications mentioned by the consulate/embassy.
- Birth certificates: Carry original or certified copies of birth certificates for each child. These documents verify the child’s age and parentage.
- Parental consent: If one parent is travelling alone with the children or if the children are travelling with a legal guardian, a letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent or legal guardian may be required. This letter should include their contact information and a statement granting permission for the child to travel.
- Travel itinerary: Include a detailed travel itinerary indicating the dates, proof of accommodation for Schengen visa, arrangements, and activities planned during the visit. This can help establish the purpose and duration of the trip.
- Proof of financial means: Provide evidence of sufficient funds to support the children during the trip, such as bank statements, employment letters, or sponsorship letters.
- Medical documents: Some countries may require medical records or vaccination certificates for children to ensure they meet the health requirements of the destination country.
