Pandemic Travel With Kids

Holidays 2021 have arrived!! It was almost 2 years since we had seen family and 3 years since we were last in Canada. It still feels weird to be here... and of course, the Pandemic is still ongoing, although many think it's over. This year for the holidays, we took a  risk to fly home to finally see our families.

When flying with kids, there are more than a few extra things you need to remember. Flying with kids, during a Pandemic adds a few more important items to your checklist.  

Here are some Tips for Flying with kids during the Pandemic:

-As always, give yourself lots of time.

-Check-in online and pick seats. 

-Select a special meal online a few days before you check-in. During the Pandemic, there was only one option for dinner and breakfast on our flight. This was not an allergy friendly option. You can order kids meals and that also means you eat ahead of the others (in Economy Class). 

-Bring extra masks. Check with the airlines which mask they recommend.

-Book your Covid test and travel certificate (if necessary, different countries have different requirements. If you need to transit through a country, be sure to check their entry requirements as well.)

-Have your digital Covid certificate saved on your phone.

-Pack plenty of snacks.

-Pack some key items in your carry-on:

-An extra set of clothes for yourself and the kids (we have had spills, and diaper accidents a few times when traveling).

-Any medicine for kids or yourself (we carry kids' anti-histamines for allergies, and kids' alvedon in case)

-Phone charger (or universal charger depending on where you are visiting)

-Snacks

-Water bottle (fill it up after security)

-Your masks - don't forget masks for kids! Some airlines require masks even if kids are 2.

We used FFP2 masks for kids.

- Don't forget a couple of small bottles of Hand Sanitizer 

-Sanitizer wipes to wipe the seats and tray table. Some airlines give you a sanitizer wipe when you board. 

- Pack any valuables you are taking in your carry-on.

Some ideas to keep kids entertained 
Books (find the differences, coloring books and books to read)

-A zippered pouch with different items to take out - a folding brush, a pez container minus the candy, string, tape, mirror (Toddler age)

Some ideas to keep kids comfortable 

-Bring a light blanket or sarong.

-Lollipops, candy or dried fruit for their ears (otherwise breastfeeding the baby on landing and takeoff).

-Their "stuffy" and or backpack with toys/books.

It was a long journey but we made it! We are blessed and grateful to spend the holidays with family this year. We've enjoyed plenty of food we missed (takeout and food delivery). Holidays 2021 have been wonderful so far :)

Happy Holidays! Stay safe and remember, don't forget your snacks!