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Airports are rarely relaxing. Add tired toddlers, snack-hungry school kids, or wriggly babies into the mix and you’ve got yourself an Olympic-level parenting event – but before you cancel your holiday and book a staycation, take heart—how to navigate airports with kids doesn’t have to mean chaos.
With a bit of planning and a touch of humour, you can get from your front door to the departure gate with (most of) your sanity intact. Here’s your step-by-step survival guide.
✈️ 1. Prep Like a Pro (Before You Even Leave the House)
Start calm to stay calm. Do as much as you can the night before:
- Lay out everyone’s clothes (yes, even yours)
- Pack snacks, chargers, entertainment, and spare clothes
- Double-check passports, boarding passes, and baggage rules
- Talk your children through what to expect—queues, security, headphones for take-off etc.
If your kids are old enough, give them a little responsibility—like carrying their own backpack (with non-essentials, just in case it gets left behind).
🚗 2. Arrive Early, Not Frantic
This isn’t the time to cut it fine. Arrive early enough to allow for:
- Parking/shuttle faffing
- Toilet stops
- Melt-downs over banana placement or rogue sock seams
- Time to regroup, snack, and breathe before boarding
Pro tip: Book fast-track security if it’s available—it’s a game-changer with small kids.
🧳 3. Check-In: The Calm Before the Chaos
Get rid of your checked luggage as soon as possible, even if you checked in online. Less to lug = more freedom.
While queueing:
- Pull out sticker books or a small toy
- Give one child the job of watching for your bag on the scale (small wins)
If you’re travelling with a baby, don’t forget most airlines let you bring a pram and car seat free of charge.
🛃 4. Conquer Security Like a Ninja
This is the bit most parents dread, but with a little choreography, you’ll be through in no time.
- Wear easy shoes and layers
- Put all liquids in a clear bag before you arrive
- Let children walk through the scanner themselves—it feels like a game
- Teach older kids how to place their bags and electronics in trays
And breathe… You made it!
🛍️ 5. Kill Time Smartly in Departures
Once you’re through, avoid aimless wandering. Find a base near your gate and set up camp.
Activities for this phase:
- A “quiet corner” picnic with your packed snacks
- Sticker books, colouring pads, downloaded shows
- Take turns walking kids to the window to plane-spot
- Let them pick a small treat/book from WHSmith (within reason—you’re not made of money)
Bonus idea: pack a “surprise bag” with a few new bits from the pound shop—boredom busters that buy you precious quiet time.
🍼 6. Don’t Underestimate Food and Drink
Hungry children are grumpy travellers. Bring more snacks than you think you’ll need:
- Fruit pouches
- Crackers
- Raisins
- Cheese sticks
- Bottles or cups they’re familiar with
- Lollipops for take-off (great for ear pressure!)
Most airports allow you to bring baby formula, expressed milk, and baby food through security—just check the rules ahead of time.
🎧 7. Prepare for Boarding Like It’s a Mission
Use the loo before boarding. Every. Single. Time.
Then line up last—especially with younger kids. The less time they spend confined to a seat before take-off, the better.
Assign seats in advance if possible (aisle for you, window for them = no kicking strangers). Have essentials like nappies, wipes, and snacks already in a smaller bag or pouch under the seat.
🧸 8. Bonus Tips from Seasoned Travellers
- Attach a name tag to your child’s backpack or clothes (with your contact number inside)
- Use reins or a wrist strap for toddlers who like to bolt
- Set expectations gently but firmly: “You can run at the park, but here we walk.”
- Give yourself permission to use screens, treats, and bribes—this is not the time for strict rules
Final Thoughts
Wondering how to navigate airports with kids without tantrums, stress or losing your passport? It really does come down to preparation, flexibility, and snacks—so many snacks.
Travel with kids will never be totally stress-free, but with these tips, you’ll be more than ready to tackle the airport like the boss you are.
Now go on—your holiday awaits!
