Traveling anytime can be a chore, but if you have kids who are traveling with you, this can be even more of a nightmare.  Add in the stresses of an airport and the patience that is needed when flying, which most children don’t have, and things can get even worse.

So, as you are confronted by a trip that involves flying with the whole family, how do you get through it with the kids?

Here are some tips:

Choose Easy Times – One of the first things you should try to do is make the time you are dealing with hassles at the airport as short as possible. If you can, book your flights in less busy hours, like weekdays when fewer people are trying to travel.

Discuss the Trip – Make sure your child knows what is coming and what to expect from traveling. Many parents don’t discuss travel with their children and the children are surprised when they get to the airport. The stress of not knowing what is happening added to the normal stresses of travel can make them harder to deal with.

Keep them Occupied – Most kids have things that will keep them entertained for hours. Bring these things along with your child. For many kids this can be electronic video games or portable DVD players with a few of their favorite movies. Other options are coloring books or even card games the whole family can play while you are waiting for that next flight.

Give Yourself Time – The more people in your party, the more time it takes the check in. Add to this that kids always need to stop for a potty break or something and you should give yourself extra time to get through the airport processes.

Ear Pressure – Flying can be painful for a child as the pressure changes in their ears. Give your child gum or a drink as the airplane takes off and the pressure changes. Ask them to keep chewing and swallowing anytime they feel pressure to make the pain go away.

Window Seat – If you can, get your child a window seat so they can look out and be interested in the flight. This will help keep them occupied.