During Alana’s first year of life, she visited 17 states. Ariah is nine months old and has traveled to 12 states so far with her first trip being a flight to California with just the three of us. Most times, our adventures are as a family of four. But every once in a while, I have to brave the world and travel alone with the kiddos.
I know what you’re thinking…WHAATT?! Most people look at me in the airport and say, “Wow!”, “You have your hands full!”, “Can’t believe you are doing that alone!”, “You did a great job with just one hand!” and other similar sentiments.
No worries…you can do it too! I have faith in you. Here are a few of my tips for traveling alone with the kiddos:
Prior to the trip:
- Mentally prepare- I begin this at least a week before to the trip (if possible) and identify the activities we will do, research the weather, shop for needed items or clothes, and run any necessary errands.
- Prepare your clothes- I iron and lay out our clothes the night before (or morning of if it’s a late flight). I prepare two sets for the girls just in case either of them have an accident. If it’s a late flight, the second set of clothes are pajamas that I change them into on the plane. Most times, people think it’s absolutely adorable to see the girls dressed alike…and they are super cute when they are. But my purpose for dressing them alike is to add ease to my trip. Consider it family uniforms of sorts.
- Family uniforms- allow the family (particularly the kids) to be quickly identified. It’s much easier to describe the same outfit that the other child has on if necessary. It also saves on time in figuring out what each child is going to wear, what fits, and where the missing piece may be. Just grab those matching items and go.
- Charge the devices- at some point, you will need to make a call, check your flight confirmation, or access information. Usually , those items are on an electronic device. There isn’t always time to use the airport charging station between flights and not all airplanes are equipped with them as of yet, so be sure to give your devices enough juice prior to.
- Pack light- I pack one suitcase for the girls to share and an additional suitcase for myself. These two pieces of luggage are checked in at the ticket counter as soon as we arrive at the airport (curbside check-in is fast and super convenient). From that point, the only thing I have to keep with me is my oversized carry-on bag. This large bag allows me to put snacks, devices, changing clothes, entertainment activities, diapers/wipes, etc, etc, etc that children need and mommy’s like to pack.
- Let them pack too- Alana enjoys packing her suitcase for her trip. She selects a book, toy, and other items she thinks she needs which usually includes her sunglasses, crayons, a doll, and her favorite snack. She is then responsible for carrying her luggage at all times.
- (To begin the trip): Keep the children contained- it’s much easier to navigate the hustle and bustle of a busy airport when you know that your children are with you and able to keep up the entire time. Depending on the size of the airport, if we have layovers, the length of time between each flight, and other variables, determines whether I use a single or double stroller. If it’s a long day with a lot of walking, I put them both in a double stroller so that they are with me at all times and my hands are free with the items secured safely underneath. If it’s a short day or a small airport, I use my single stroller and give my oldest daughter the opportunity to practice her travel independence.
- Snacks and drinks- pack a few snacks that your kiddos enjoy. This will keep them comfortable during travel. Packing water and liquids are allowed in most airports but must be tested to ensure harmful chemicals aren’t inside. Give yourself extra time to have these items scanned through the security check-point.
- TSA Pre-Check (and Global Entry)- are services that allows you to go through shorter lines and not have to get everything inspected. You will still have to break down the stroller and send it through the conveyor so be prepared to do so.
Now that you’ve made it through check-in, security inspection and the terminal chaos, what’s next? Check out part two for a few on-flight tips.
Happy traveling! Xoxo