Travel Article:

Booking Flights and Seats with Kids in mind

By: Laine Yates

I understand how daunting travelling with kids can be! Here are some tips on things to think about when booking and requesting airline seats prior to your holiday.

Depending on how far in advance you book your tickets, it is a great idea to try and request your seats as well. Airlines vary as to when you can start doing this. Parents of babies under 12 months old are generally given priority when reserving bulk head seats (the front row of each section). Small cots (often called bassinets) can then be attached to the aircraft walls in front of these seats, allowing you some valuable down time when your little one sleeps. As the specification of each aircraft can vary, you should always check the maximum weight the bassinet can carry before travelling.

If you have a child over 12 months old, the bulk head seats (if you can get them) are great seats to request as they have more space for your children to play on the floor with their toys. It is a first come first serve basis with these seats, so its best to check in early at the airport.

Configuration of seats also needs to be taken into consideration when you are requesting seats, more so for a long haul flight. Personally, I prefer at least one member of the family sitting in the aisle seat - that way, we can go to the toilet or stretch our legs whenever we need to. Generally speaking, the seat configurations of most aeroplanes flying long haul are 3-4-3 (window seats - middle section - window seats).

Booking Meals
Do not forget to order children and baby meals for your ickle ones. Depending on which airlines you fly with, they tend to have jar food available for babies who are being weaned. Also, the good thing is, most airlines will serve childrens' meals before the adults on international flights. That way, you can sort the kids out without having to deal with your meal trays as well. A little tip, when it meal times, its hard to get out of your seats … so go to the toilets when you see the trolleys coming, otherwise you may be stuck in your seats for awhile!

I hope these travel tips will help you plan ahead for your next flight!

Happy Travels!

ickle Kids specialises in Kids Activity Packs and Travel Toys! As a mum of two active young boys, I understand how challenging it can be to entertain your ickle ones when you are out and about. Our activity packs and travel toys are perfect to entertain your kids when you are travelling, dining out at restaurants, waiting at the doctor's surgery, busy feeding your ickle bubba, visiting Granny's house or for a rainy day at home. Our travel toys are unique, fun and educational and cannot be found in commercial stores. Visit our online shop www.icklekids.com.au.

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