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From car seats to carry-ons: Top tips for hassle-free air and road travel with kids this festive season

Pack smart, pack light

Prioritise essentials like snacks, entertainment, and spare clothes. Keep medications and important documents in a carry-on or easily accessible bag.

Tip: Use resealable plastic bags to organise everything, making it easy to grab whatever you need in a hurry.

  1. Choosing the right car seat

Navigating the wide range of car seat options can feel overwhelming. Car seats are designed to grow with your child, so always choose one that matches your child’s age, weight, and height. From rear-facing infant seats to forward-facing booster seats, following manufacturer guidelines ensures optimal safety and ease of installation.

Tip: opt for a convertible car seat to save money and space as your child grows.

  1. Car seat accessories

The right car seat is not just about safety, but also comfort and convenience. Add accessories like weather-resistant covers, ergonomic headrests, and sunshades to keep your child cozy and protected. Car seat organisers can store wipes, snacks, and toys, making long trips more manageable.

Tip: Keep a small toy or snack hidden in the organiser for when you need a quick distraction.

  1. Baby swaddles

Swaddles can provide comfort and security during travel, helping babies feel safe and snug, especially during flights or long road trips. They can also prevent sudden movements that might startle the baby. For air travel, using a swaddle can help soothe a baby in unfamiliar environments, while for road trips, swaddling during rest stops or when they’re not in the car seat can ensure a sense of calm.

Tip: Remember babies must always be secured properly in car seats when the vehicle is moving.

  1. Plan frequent breaks (road trips)

When driving, plan regular stops to let kids stretch, use the restroom, and burn off energy. Never leave children unattended in the car during stops, even for a few minutes.

Tip: Pick rest stops with play areas or nearby parks to make breaks more fun and engaging.

  1. Book an early morning departure (flying)

For air travel, booking an early morning flight can help avoid delays and overcrowded airports. Early flights also offer a quieter environment where children (and adults) are more likely to nap on the plane.

Tip: Keep children in their sleepwear for an easier transition from home to the plane.

  1. Check airline policies on strollers and car seats (flying)

Make sure to check your airline’s policies on strollers and car seats to avoid surprises. Many airlines allow collapsible strollers in the overhead bin. Ensure your car seat is certified for air travel if you plan to use it on the plane.

Tip: A compact, travel-friendly stroller that folds easily will save you time and effort at security checkpoints.

  1. Manage ear pressure (flying)

During take-off and landing, ear pressure can be uncomfortable for children. Encourage children to drink water, or suck on a lollipop to relieve pressure. Stay alert to any signs of discomfort and be ready with earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones for older kids.

Tip: For babies, nursing or offering a pacifier during take-off and landing can help ease discomfort.

  1. Keep kids entertained (flying and road trips)

Keeping kids entertained is key to avoiding meltdowns during long journeys. Load tablets with games, movies, and educational apps. For toddlers, bring books, colouring supplies, and small toys. Use child-friendly, volume-limited headphones to protect their ears.

Tip: Introduce new toys or surprises at intervals during the trip to maintain their interest.

“Travelling with children requires preparation, patience, and flexibility. By packing smart, focusing on safety, and planning fun activities to keep kids entertained, you can make your next family trip smoother and more enjoyable for everyone,” concludes Govender.

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