5 essential tips for flying with kids during the pandemic

During the Labor Day weekend, over 3 million travelers took to the skies in the U.S., marking the highest passenger count since travel plummeted in mid-March. While we don’t know the exact ages of those travelers, it’s clear that families and children were among them. Our family certainly was, as we returned to the friendly skies once again.

Although air travel is still significantly lower than usual, some families are making their way back to the airports.

If you haven't flown since the pandemic began, you might be surprised to learn that traveling with kids has changed quite a bit. Whether you're flying out of necessity or for fun, here are five important things to consider before heading to the airport with your children during this pandemic.

Yes, your children are required to wear masks

Children aged 2 and older must wear a face mask while at the airport and on the airplane.

Some masks are more comfortable and fit better for kids than others, so it's important to find the right one for your child well in advance of your trip. Some of my favorite masks for young children are from Joah Love, Alex + Nova, and Disney—just keep in mind that all but the tiniest toddlers will likely need a medium size in Disney masks, as their small is very, very small.

Mask regulations are constantly changing, so be sure to confirm the rules with your airline prior to your flight. Commonly prohibited masks include those with holes, exhalation valves, or made solely from materials like mesh or lace, as well as those that can't be secured under the chin, such as bandanas.

Face shields can be worn alongside a face mask but cannot replace one. Neck gaiters are still accepted as masks on domestic flights, but note that they may not be allowed in certain locations, like Disney World.

While policies can shift at any moment, Delta currently offers more flexibility for travelers just over 2 years old who may struggle to wear a mask for extended periods or cannot do so for medical reasons during the flight.

Face shields for kids

If you want your child to wear a face shield on the airplane (in addition to their mask), you can find them in child sizes from various sellers on Amazon. An adult-sized face shield may fit for a short time, but it's likely to slip off more often than one designed for kids. (And remember to remove the film layer on the shield before use to prevent fogging!)

Dining and snacking on the airplane

Your child can briefly remove their face mask to enjoy a drink or snack during the flight, so feel free to pack refreshments just as you normally would.

However, it's important to keep snack time brief. According to Southwest Airlines, "... we expect these moments to be very short, and customers should replace their face coverings as quickly as possible."

Keep in mind that while many airlines have reinstated some snack and meal services, these are often limited compared to before. It's a good idea to board the plane prepared to take care of your kids' drinking and snacking needs. For instance, Southwest Airlines has restarted water service but currently does not offer juice or other beverages.

Middle seats might be unavailable, but you can still sit next to your kids

Some airlines are still keeping middle seats vacant, but rest assured, you can sit right beside your children if you prefer.

Domestic airlines that continue to block middle seats include Southwest (where you choose your own seat but the airline isn't booking to full capacity), Delta (at least until January 2021), Alaska (until October 31), JetBlue (until October 15), and Hawaiian Airlines.

If you can't choose seats together on the seating map for those airlines, don’t fret. You can either call the airline for assistance or resolve it at the gate by moving one of your kids from another row into your vacant middle seat to simplify your flight experience.

Bring cleaning wipes

Even during a pandemic, kids will be kids and they'll want to touch ... everything.

Although all airlines have stepped up their cleaning protocols compared to pre-pandemic times, not every airline is currently cleaning between flights. Even if they do, it's unlikely that every inch of the aircraft is completely disinfected before new passengers board.

Some airlines provide cleaning wipes as you board, but this practice isn't universal. Therefore, it’s wise to bring your own wipes from home to thoroughly clean your child's seat, tray table, seatbelt, and more as soon as you settle in. If you're having trouble finding cleaning wipes locally, airport shops and vending machines have been well stocked with masks and wipes during my recent travels.

Additionally, be aware that the TSA allows travelers to carry a pack of cleaning wipes and up to a 12-ounce bottle of hand sanitizer.

Key takeaway

Traveling with young children can be challenging even under the best circumstances. Attempting to fly with kids during a pandemic may seem nearly impossible—or even downright crazy. However, having navigated this experience several times now, I can assure you that while it is different from the 'normal' times, it is far from impossible if you choose to take to the skies with your family.

The focus now is more on safety than comfort, so make sure to pack everything you need to be self-sufficient, wear your mask, charge those tablets, and keep your fingers crossed—you'll be soaring at 36,000 feet in no time.