Plane travel with kids can carry a lot of mental weight, and when you’re doing it solo, a lot of physical weight too! Here are some tips to make it a little more manageable, even with car seats involved! 
 
Getting to the Airport 
Practice getting car seats in a car ahead of time 
Think about which kid to get in first at home, and out first at the airport, etc.  

 
At the Airport  
Choose if you are going to check or carry-on 
Car seats and strollers – recommend gate checking (the warranty of these items is void if it is checked at the airport) – to gate check, ask upon check in and/or at the boarding counter for gate check passes, then drop them off at designated drop off before boarding plane 
Backpacks for travel car seats make it easier to transport around airport (and you can fit gear in them, if needed!) 
Give yourself lots of extra time, so you can be calm for whatever pace the kids are going  
Book Spot Saver (in Seattle airport) for quicker security line up (remember every security has different rules): www.tinyurl.com/532bhz5v 
Have options that suit your family – carrier, stroller, roll-on luggage 
Take bathroom breaks all at the same time before and after flight (family washroom is so helpful) 

 
On Airplane 
Start with less and pull out one thing at a time (books, colouring, post-it notes, puzzles, stick-on window toys, music with headphones (Puro brand) or shows) 
Lollipops (YumEarth brand) for takeoff and landing for toddlers/older kids, breastfeeding/soother for younger ones, and/or water bottle and snacks to help their ears  
Flight Fud for in flight to help adults (and kids) with hydration, circulation, immunity and support against radiation (discount code LAURENEB) 

 
Travel Car Seats & Luggage Mentioned 
*Check if they follow your country’s regulations* Suitable in USA 
Doona Car Seat/Stroller for infant 
WayB Car Seat for toddler  
JetKids Stokke Travel-On Luggage 

 
Keep your expectations realistic! Stay calm, so the kids feel that energy. Take help where it’s offered! 
 
Episode 81: Travelling with Kids - https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-81-travelling-with-kids-with-margaret-bradford/ 
Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/ 
Today’s Host: @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music