The Flying Circus 2 - Packing

I'm talking here about what you bring onto the plane - not what you pack for your trip. Diapers (nappies), wipes, a change of clothes snacks, sandwiches, drink, books, crayons, small silent toys, a favorite teddy and a blanket or cardigan. And that’s just for the kids! They will get too cold, or too hot.

I used to scoff at my wife for packing enough snacks and sandwiches to feed a small army for every flight, saying that we could get food on-board. I changed my mind after we were stuck on the ground for two plus hours after boarding – not once, but twice. In this limbo between boarding and take-off the airline staff cannot serve food or drink. Two hours in an eternity for a toddler or baby. Had we not had our rations, the children would have gone off the deep end with hunger and frustration. So now I smile benignly as she stuffs her carry-on bag to its limit.

Be alert to the likelihood that whatever book or toy or teddy is brought aboard stands a good chance of being lost unless you are exceptionally vigilant. So if it’s the favorite teddy tie it onto something!

Also, be aware that you cannot bring drinks through security – so plan to buy them on the other side. Other things subject to confiscation are yogurts (the tubes seem to be okay) and play-doh.