6. Have a ton of different items to keep them busy (even if it may seem like it’s more than you’ll need).
“I packed a bunch of word searches, puzzles, coloring books, and throw blankets with their favorite characters. And, I downloaded movies in their iPads in advance.” — Brigitte Watkins, mom of a 7- and 8-year-old
7. Soothe popping ears with drinks at takeoff and landing.
“When my girls were little I would make sure that they were awake when we took off and landed so that they could drink from a bottle. Swallowing helps the popping in their ears.” — Lydia Smith, mom of 6-year-old twins
MUST READ: Your Healthy Travel Game Plan!
8. Remember there’s only so much you can do to prevent sticky situations.
“Never be afraid to simply apologize, kids will be kids.” — Ladoris Jackson, mom of a 10-year-old (who now gets through airports quicker than some business travelers)
9. Opt for a long drive instead of a flight.
“When I took a road trip with my 5-year-old and 3-year-old at the time, from Chicago to Atlanta, I drove the entire way and had not one problem! I also started at night when they would typically be sleep anyway. By the time they woke up at 7 or 8 a.m., we were in Georgia and they had no clue that mommy had been driving for 9 hours!” — Tashauna Waters, mom of two
10. Keep what the kids need close to them to avoid stopping, but stop whenever you need to.
“If they need your immediate attention, i.e. potty, hurt themselves, need to stretch their bodies, don’t feel bad that you have to get off the road and tend to them. Missing your travel deadline by an hour won’t kill you.” — Nekoiya Washington, mom of a 12-year-old and 4-year-old twins