✈️ LONG HAUL - with kids. Some ideas that have worked on recent trips. And based on Q’s you’ve asked me. 👯‍♀️ FOR THEM: 1️⃣ Request the bassinet. Then can go into it up to a certain weight & length, Stella just fitted in it at 22 months. Though it was tight. Gave me a break from having her on my lap, and is great storage for all your bits + you get leg room. We used our Snoozeshade to create a tented area. 2️⃣ At the airport: Let them run around lots. Use the kids play area. Don’t give them sugar, but make sure they’re full. Don’t be in a rush as you know what toddlers are like when you need to be somewhere quick. Keep the stroller to the gate, or fold onto the plane & bring your sling. Lots of plane spotting. We got Stella straight in the buggy at transfer & arrival as she was so tired so she had 30mins nap before the next bit. I don’t get out any of the plane toys/snacks at this stage. Use the family lines & help - this has been so much better in recent yrs. Drink lots of water! 3️⃣ Boarding: We tend to board later as keep the kids active until the last minute rather then cooped up on the plane. Check with the staff if any spare seats if you have a toddler on lap, we often move Rick to nearby so we all manage a seat. I know it sounds mad but having one person slightly separate is brilliant otherwise you’re both ‘on’ the whole time. We take 1hour shifts on awake time - 1 of us sitting with the kids, 1 chilling a bit apart. Works so well for us. 4️⃣ Food: Don’t forget to book a kids meal! For Stella we brought: prune porridge, black rice & sausages (all cold), berries, yoghurt pouches, raisins, frozen peas that defrosted. & for all: bars, crisps, more fruit etc. And milk in her bottle. Begged some at the airport from Pret & they have fresh milk on the plane for babes. 5️⃣ Entertainment: Ipad with vids & podcasts downloaded, colouring, stickers, aqua pens, puzzles, busy board, books. Let’s be fair, the ipad was well used! SEE COMMENTS for sleep, preparing for a trip & OUR needs. ⬇️⬇️⬇️