by guest blogger Andeep Singh, documentarian and television and Web video producer
I flew my first plane at age 6. Well, kind of.
It was on a transatlantic flight to London, England. The captain invited some others kids and me on the flight to visit the cockpit, and even let me (fake) fly the plane! This was in addition to the coloring books, playing cards, pilot's wings, and candies the airline gave to kid travelers in those days. I was occupied for hours.
Well, fast-forward 20-something years, and flying with kids isn't so easy; nor is it filled with lessons on how to handle a 747. These days, you need to bring your own entertainment, not to mention creativity.
Recently, British Airways published an article on kids' favorite in-flight toys. I'll save you the read, but the number one kid-approved toy was Play-Doh--otherwise known as the messy nemesis of type-A moms and dads everywhere. It comes as no surprise that the kids chose it, but for BA to sanction it? Well, that's just nonsense with a side of upholstery cleaning.
Quite frankly, after a several hours on a plane--hello, 15 hours to Hong Kong--the last thing I want to do is pick out dried Play-Doh from the carpet with my fingernails.
- Legos or Blocks: The pieces get lost in cushions and fall on the floor, but the kids will build for hours. HOURS! What's a few missing bricks to make it over the ocean?
- I try to dig up old toys and items that she already has, but I also buy one to two new items and wrap them up. Nothing expensive, just something my kid has never seen before--and not too heavy.
- Bring snacks...lots of snacks. The healthy and the not so healthy. Pack some extras for yourself, too. Be sure to bring along a spillproof cup. Tray tables and children in the midst of airplane drinks do not make for a good combination.
- Comfort items are a must. Blankets, pj's, slippers, socks--anything to make the kids comfortable. My daughter will sleep anywhere with her blankie. Even on airport floors. Gross, but helpful.
- The iPad! Most parents don't want to admit they need electronics, but they can be a huge savior on cheap flights without entertainment systems and even during long waits for luggage and customs. Just remember to power up and download some new apps.
- Give them a kid-approved backpack or suitcase so they can lug their own stuff through the airport. It's inevitable that you will have to carry it at some point, but until that point, it's a fun thing for them to do.
A pink butterfly suitcase for all my daughter's prized possessions! And it fits under the seat.
Any other suggestions for things to pack on a plane? I'd love to hear them!
Andeep Singh works at the Rodale Video Network and has produced nonfiction television, film, and digital video content for some of the biggest networks in the country, including ABC, NBC, PBS, CBC, and A&E. She recently completed producing her first feature documentary film, titled Living the Fantasy, which follows the lives of six high-stakes fantasy football players. Originally from the Great White North, Andeep has a serious case of wanderlust, is afflicted with perpetual food envy, and is mildly obsessed with the Vancouver Canucks hockey team.
For more from Maria Rodale, visit www.mariasfarmcountrykitchen.com