Air Travel Tips for Traveling with Tots

Parents with young children can feel overwhelmed with the prospect of flying. With a little planning, family air travel with pint-sized passengers can be a pleasurable experience. I've got tips to make your family airline adventure go smoothly.

Planning is key to making air travel with the kids a success. First, you'll need to keep the amount of bags under check. Don't pack the kitchen sink! Divide your luggage into two piles: carry-on and checked bags.

Checked luggage should include your stroller, car seat and the majority of your clothing. Make sure everything is well labeled and shoot a few pictures on your digital camera. This way if anything gets lost, damaged or stolen you'll have a visual record.

Parents get distracted caring for their little ones. Before you leave home, make a copy of your itinerary and a copy of everything in your wallet. Give these copies to a friend or relative at home. This way if you loose your bag you will be able to cancel credit cards and get e-ticket information quickly.

Carry-on checklist:
Change of clothes for the kids
New top for you (just in case you get thrown up on or take a juice spill to the chest)
Snacks for everyone (airlines rarely feed you anymore)
New game or toy for each child-wrap them in gift paper to make them more special
Crayons and paper
Diapering supplies (bring 3 more diapers than you think you'll need)
Sippy cups (airlines don't have them)
Lightweight cotton blanket (airline blankets are notoriously filthy)

Once your packed and ready, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport and through the security line. After you've checked in and taken care of your bags it's time to head to the security line.

To make things easier:
Select a carry on bag that can easier by worn over the shoulder.
Don't wear a belt.
Have everyone wear flats or Velcro shoes--messing with lace-up shoes is a nightmare.
Label everything. In case there is a mix up after the scanner
Remember your Ziploc containers with liquids. This includes odd things like deodorant.
Opt for powdered formula over liquid--it is just easier to deal with.
Use a carbiner to keep your keys connected to your bag.
Take your time. Even thought people may give you evil looks. Don't be rushed--you'll only forget something--like the all-important pacifier.

When it comes to getting baby from bag check to the gate opt for a sling. Slings are easy to store in the overhead compartment and offer baby a safe snuggly place to rest. As for the toddlers and preschoolers, savvy traveling moms rely on CARES: Child Aviation Restraint System. This child restraint works with the plane's seat belt to keep your child safe and secure.

While you won't be able to avoid every messy travel situation, with these tips your first trip as a family should be a success.