S2, E21: Tips from a Flight Attendant for Traveling with Kids—Keeping Your Sanity Intact

Can you really fly with kids and keep your sanity? In this episode of Unpacked, we chat with Andrea Davis, a Delta flight attendant and mother of two. She shares her advice on packing, handling jet lag, dealing with crying babies, and why it’s rewarding to travel with young children, even when things don’t go as planned.

Transcript

Michelle Baran, host: Hi there, I’m Michelle Baran, the senior travel news editor at Dinogo. Welcome to Unpacked, the podcast that explores a challenging travel topic every week. Today, we’re diving into a topic that resonates deeply—traveling with kids, which can be as challenging as it is thrilling.

I have a four-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son, and I genuinely enjoy traveling with them. However, it’s not always a walk in the park. Each trip is its own adventure. You know the parent with a baby in the midst of a disastrous diaper blowout on the plane? That’s been me. Or the one with a toddler in a full-blown tantrum? I’ve experienced that too. Yet, I’ve also been the parent with two kids thrilled about flying, eagerly getting into their seats, ready to explore somewhere new. The one with two kids happily munching on an endless supply of snacks (so many snacks).

When it comes to flying with babies, toddlers, tweens, and teens, flight attendants witness it all from a unique perspective. In this episode, we’ll hear from one such flight attendant, Andrea Davis, who has been with Delta Air Lines since 2019 and is a mother to two daughters. Andrea understands the importance of exposing kids to the world and creating lasting travel memories, as well as the practicalities involved in making it happen.

She took a break from her hectic summer flight schedule to share her insights on managing the flying experience with kids—while keeping your sanity. Here’s what she shared with us.

Michelle: First, I want to thank you for being here. Before we dive into my questions, I have to confess that I’m personally very invested in the subject of flying with children, as a traveling mom of a six-year-old son and a four-year-old daughter. We’ve certainly faced our share of challenges, along with some incredible adventures.

We’re gearing up for our first major international trip as a family of four this month, so I’ll definitely be taking notes. But before we discuss that, I’d love to hear more about your role and what it’s like being a flight attendant and a mom.

Andrea Davis, Delta flight attendant: Absolutely.

Michelle: We all know the juggling act is incredibly real for working parents. And when you throw travel into the equation, it can feel overwhelming. To start, when did you become a flight attendant, and what inspired you to take that path?

Andrea: Thank you for having me! I hope to provide some insights into this world. I actually became a flight attendant in 1999 with a different airline. I’ve mentioned before that it was a career I didn’t know much about. Coming from a family of six kids, flying wasn’t our usual way to travel. In my early 20s, a friend suggested the job to me. She was hesitant to interview, so I took the leap and went for it, somewhat blindly but with enthusiasm. Once I started with my first airline, I was amazed by the opportunities and flexibility it offered, especially in those first couple of years. Then, during my time with that airline, we faced the events of 9/11, which greatly impacted the aviation industry. I was eventually furloughed and had to explore other career paths while waiting for a callback.

Fast forward to around 2003 or 2004, and I was living my life without returning to flying, but the desire never left me. Once you experience the thrill of packing on the go, staying in hotels, and meeting people, it sticks with you.

Michelle: Absolutely!

Andrea: Fast forward to 2019, and I realized how much I missed it. At 40, I decided to return to flying. At that time, many major airlines were hiring, and I often found myself watching the Delta flight attendants and thinking, “There go the Delta girls.”

They exuded polish and moved with such assurance. They approached their careers in a distinctly different way. I thought to myself, “I’m aiming for Delta. I want to join the best team.” I missed flying, so I returned, and here I am—definitely the best career decision I’ve made so far.

Michelle: What is it that you enjoy most about your job?

Andrea: What I love most? It might sound cliché since we’re always surrounded by people, but it truly is about meeting them. Connecting with others and taking care of them is what I thrive on. By nature, I’m a helper, and now I get to do this on a global scale. I meet individuals from diverse communities, countries, and backgrounds—children, adults, and seniors—from those taking their very first flight to seasoned travelers. I enjoy people-watching and observing how they interact, like families on their first trips or sending kids off to college.

In this career, you can sense the pulse of the airport and see the world’s happenings and societal trends around you. I just love being among people.

Michelle: Absolutely. And you’re a parent as well, right?

Andrea: Yes, I am! I’m a proud mom of two girls, aged 10 and 8.

Michelle: How do you find balancing parenting and being a flight attendant? Is it difficult?

Andrea: Absolutely. I say that without a moment’s pause. Like any parent, it has its challenges, but it’s not dramatically different aside from the travel component. Many people in various careers face similar challenges. As a flight attendant, I juggle travel with managing their school schedules, extracurricular activities, and their friends' birthday parties, all while trying to be there for special moments and our family downtime.

You really have to be strategic, intentional, and plan as much as you can. Sometimes teachers surprise me with last-minute requests during the week, and I have to see how to adjust my work schedule. However, this career does offer a lot of flexibility, which helps make it work.

Michelle: That sounds fantastic.

Andrea: It definitely can happen! I’ve found that this career offers a lot more flexibility. I haven’t missed any first days of school, birthdays, holidays, or special events, and for that, I’m truly grateful.

Michelle: That’s wonderful! Do you also travel a lot with your kids?

Andrea: Yes, I do travel frequently with my children. At first, they had to adjust to the idea of ‘Mommy, why aren’t you here for work?’ like in traditional jobs. But now they’ve gotten used to it. I often say, ‘This weekend, we’re off to Philadelphia! Let’s visit the museums,’ or ‘We’re heading to New York for some pizza, or to see your aunt in Atlanta.’

When I started out, pre-pandemic, our travel plans included trips to various countries and destinations. I began in 2019, so the first year was all about getting acclimated, and we did short family trips to nearby places.

The pandemic really changed how we travel. I have to plan around their school schedules because I can’t just whisk them off around the world at any moment.

Michelle: Absolutely, absolutely.

Andrea: When summer rolls around, it’s all about making plans. I remember one unforgettable trip during a four-day school weekend. I thought, ‘Let’s go somewhere fun.’ So, I just took them to the airport, and off we went to Paris for the weekend. I asked, ‘What do you know about Paris?’ and they replied, ‘The Eiffel Tower, croissants, and macarons.’ I said, ‘That’s perfect! Let’s go!’ We flew there, spent about 24 hours exploring, and then flew back. It was a lovely little escape for their long weekend.

Michelle: Yes, for sure. Traveling with kids can be tough. Your kids are at that perfect age, while mine are just getting there. My four-year-old is still transitioning out of those tricky toddler years. What do you think are the benefits of traveling with kids? Why is it important to explore the world with them?

Andrea: I truly believe that travel is one of the most valuable forms of education. Kids learn a lot in school from their textbooks about the world, but experiencing it firsthand makes everything more tangible. It fosters a sense of ownership and belonging. Travel is vital for everyone, and the earlier you start, the better. Get your kids out there! Let them taste new foods, hear different sounds, see the sights—just embrace whatever experiences come your way. They need to see it all.

Michelle: That’s such a great perspective!

Michelle: Absolutely! I believe it really builds character. I actually enjoy facing challenges while traveling because at home, everything is easy and comfortable; we have our routines, and they know what to expect in terms of meals and activities. Travel pushes us to adapt as a family, and I think that’s a crucial life skill for both kids and parents. It teaches us that things may not be the same as they are at home—like the food might be different or the hotel setup might vary—and we just have to make it work.

Andrea: It's a whole different experience.

Michelle: Exactly! It’s all about making it work. Plus, it’s such a valuable skill, along with being exposed to various cultures and stepping out of our comfort zones. I really think travel is one of the most significant educational experiences for children. So, in your view, what’s the best age for kids to start flying? Some argue that babies and young kids won’t remember the trip, so what’s the point? What do you think about the little ones?

Andrea: Oh, they are absolutely precious. Sometimes, you just have to bring your kids along, regardless of their age, and that’s perfectly fine. I’d say travel with them as soon as you’re comfortable. I had the chance to represent Delta at a career day, and kids were curious, asking if flying as a baby counted as their first flight. I told them, ‘Yes, it absolutely counts!’ They were so thrilled to hear that.

Traveling with little ones, even babies, can be such a rewarding experience. For example, on Delta’s international flights, if you're traveling with an infant, you can request a bassinet to make the journey easier. We cater to children of all ages, offering many services to ensure they feel comfortable while flying with us.

We provide children with coloring books and special meals, making them feel included in the travel experience instead of just being told, ‘Get on the plane.’ I recommend bringing kids along as soon as you're comfortable with traveling with them.

Michelle: Absolutely. What advice would you give to parents feeling overwhelmed at the idea of flying for the first time, especially with a baby, toddler, or young child? The pandemic has made travel daunting for many families.

For some families, this might be their first time venturing out, and it’s normal to feel a bit anxious about it—especially now that airports are busier than ever with long lines and crowds, all while managing kids. What tips do you have for those parents traveling for the first time?

Andrea: I’d say that preparation is crucial for first-time travelers. Understand what you really need to travel with your child. They don’t require a crib or everything from home—just a few essential items to help them through the journey. Less is more, as you don’t want to be weighed down with a lot of gear like strollers and carriers. Focus on bringing essentials like the baby’s formula, blankets, and comfort items.

For slightly older kids, around three to eight years old, we have the Fly Delta app. I love showing children what kind of airplane they’ll be flying on to build excitement for the journey. You can show them the plane and the seating arrangement, helping them get ready for the experience just as much as you are preparing yourself.

This way, they get excited about being there instead of thinking, ‘Mommy or Daddy is taking me away somewhere.’ Involve your child and prepare them for the experience.

Once you arrive at the airport, I can't say much about TSA PreCheck, but if you can get it, it definitely makes navigating security lines easier. Many airports have dedicated lines for parents traveling with young children, allowing you to move through the crowd more smoothly.

Take advantage of early boarding options at the gate. We offer preboarding for families with young kids, so if you’d like a bit more time and don’t want to feel rushed, the flight attendants will be there waiting for you. Arrive a little early to get the car seat and your younger ones settled before the rest of the passengers come on board.

There are several ways to prepare for the journey. I advise parents to pack lightly and only bring the essentials. I’ve noticed some parents arrive with too many bags. Don’t hesitate to check your bags at the gate after getting through security to reduce some of the stress while traveling.

Michelle: Absolutely! I’m curious about your take on this: should families arrive at the airport early, or is it better to come a bit later to avoid too much waiting time with little ones?

Andrea: Arrive early, make sure to get there ahead of time—

Michelle: Absolutely! Airport play areas are lifesavers. I always check the airport map beforehand to locate the play zones, so once we clear security, we have a spot to let the kids burn off some energy without bothering others.

Andrea: Yes, arriving early is key.

Michelle: I’m all about being early. I understand some parents worry about spending too much time at the airport with their kids, but what’s the alternative? You really don’t want to be racing to the plane with them, right?

Andrea: I’ve witnessed parents sprinting to the plane, and while I can’t speak for their situations, it’s clear it’s stressful. Once parents feel that stress, it transfers to the kids, and that can shift the whole experience. Arriving early also turns the airport into a fantastic learning opportunity. Find a seat by the window so they can watch the planes take off and land.

The internet is available there, so you can watch TV or let the kids use their devices. Arrive at the airport early, pack snacks that pass through security, and enjoy the journey. Reduce the stress; you'll have enough to manage already. So yes, get there early—Team Early all the way!

Michelle: Definitely Team Early! Let go of any unnecessary stress. And I see you’re also on Team Early Boarding. If your kids are young enough to board early, take that opportunity to get settled in without the rush.

Andrea: I completely agree! If I could make my kids smaller to fit that boarding group, I would, because it really makes a difference.

Kids tend to get fidgety; they take their time, and having that extra time to guide them to their seats is crucial. Take advantage of early boarding—it’s there to help you and your family.

Michelle: What key in-flight safety tips should parents keep in mind while traveling with their kids? It varies with age, of course. There's always the choice between using a car seat or not for babies. While car seats can be bulky, they might also provide more comfort. What safety factors should parents consider?

Andrea: The key thing to remember is that if you're bringing a device like a car seat or a safety strap for your child, it must be FAA-certified for flight and attachable to the aircraft. We have specific guidelines and labels we look for on these devices to ensure they are safe. It would be unfortunate for a parent to bring a device only to find out it can't be used because it hasn't been verified as a safety item for their child.

We want to ensure your child's safety and comfort. If everything is approved, feel free to bring the car seat to help keep your child safe and comfortable. Utilizing preboarding reduces stress, as you can verify everything before settling in. Waiting to board with other passengers around can complicate moving car seats and making adjustments. Coordinate with your flight attendants to ensure your child is correctly seated.

If your child is using a safety harness, ensure it's properly adjusted for their fit. I've seen many parents bring inflatable comfort leg space items recently. It's important to check with the flight attendant about the right time to use these during the flight. They're perfectly acceptable, just ensure you've communicated and done your research to confirm your device meets our safety standards.

Michelle: I've noticed that in the past few years, since my kids were babies, I often feel envious of the new innovations, like the car seats with a handle that lets you roll them around. It's such a clever design!

Andrea: I recently came across a stroller that fits right down the aisle of the plane. It's so narrow and convenient; sometimes it's just easier to keep pushing the child to their seat. When I saw that aisle stroller, I wondered if it would fit, and it really helps with getting the child onboard. They didn’t have these when my kids were young!

Michelle: Absolutely, some of the new innovations are incredible! Parents should really take advantage of them. Now, let’s discuss some tips or advice for when things go awry during a flight. For example, if kids create a mess, have an accident, get sick, or throw a tantrum. I must admit, I've had my share of mortifying and incredibly stressful experiences in-flight. What I found most surprising was that for every passenger who gives you that disapproving look because of your noisy or unruly child, there are many more who offer an empathetic glance. I’ll share a quick story, and then I’d love to hear your thoughts. A couple of years ago, on our first flight to visit family during the pandemic, my two-year-old daughter had a monumental tantrum. She fell asleep during the flight, which was great, but I had to wake her up for landing to buckle her in, and she was not having it. She basically went into meltdown mode, yelling all the way down.

It was so chaotic that I had to take off my glasses and hand them to my husband to keep her from breaking them. Of course, she was perfectly fine once we touched down, acting as if nothing had happened, saying, "Oh, we’re here!" Several passengers asked me if I was alright as they disembarked.

One dad even joked about buying me a drink at the airport. Those small acts of kindness mean everything to a parent struggling in those situations. Every parent handles it differently, but I’m definitely the type who gets self-conscious on top of dealing with the current chaos.

So, in those truly tough moments—when you're in a challenging situation and there's no way out, you're stuck on that plane—what advice do you have for parents in those overwhelming situations?

Andrea: Let’s take a moment to acknowledge that things can go wrong. With kids, things can go off track in a heartbeat, and we must ease the pressure by accepting that some things are simply beyond our control. So, parents, it’s okay when things don’t go as planned. This is my motto at work: first, we are safety professionals at Delta, and second, we pride ourselves on providing excellent Delta hospitality. We are here to help and fully prepared to assist parents and their traveling children with whatever challenges they face.

At work, I often embrace an 'auntie' role for all the kids on the plane. Although I don’t know you personally, I approach each situation with empathy as a parent myself. When I see you boarding, I make it a point to greet your child and reassure you that we're here to help.

When I notice a parent struggling or facing a challenge with their child, my first thought is, how can I assist? I pay attention to their demeanor—do they seem in need of help? Is it a medical issue, like nausea? Are they feeling anxious? Is there a safety concern that I need to address?

If a child is simply having an emotional moment, that's when my 'auntie' instincts kick in. I’ll say, "Hey there, little buddy, what’s going on?" Often, the parent will look relieved, thinking, "Thank goodness, someone else is here." I’ll ask, "What do you need? Would you like a cookie? Well, you’ll have to do something first to earn it!" Their curiosity piques as they wonder, "What do I have to do?"

I might say, "Put your seatbelt on, it’s time to take off!" And they start to comply because they think, "I want that cookie as a reward!" I’ll give them a high five and promise to check in on them later. The parent often expresses gratitude, recognizing how a small act of kindness can make a significant difference.

When it comes to challenging situations, we're always ready to help. If a child is feeling nauseous or experiencing ear discomfort, we share useful tips like swallowing, chewing gum, or massaging their ear area. If a parent has a crying infant, I’ll suggest, "If the seatbelt sign is off, take a stroll around the cabin. Sometimes, a little movement can help settle the baby and make them more comfortable."

Things can definitely go awry. A child might spill their goldfish snack, and that’s perfectly fine; it can be cleaned up. It's okay if everything doesn’t unfold perfectly, or if the kids aren't behaving like the ideal storybook travelers. We're here to support you and help you feel at ease as a parent. And if you ever need us and we don’t notice, just hit the call button, and we'll be right there.

Michelle: Speaking of the call button, what advice can you offer to travelers without kids who are dealing with a crying baby or a child kicking the back of their seat? It’s amusing how people think that just because you’re a parent, you must be fine with the sound of a crying baby. Being a mom doesn’t automatically mean I enjoy that noise.

Andrea: Absolutely not.

Michelle: Of course, I empathize and I’m not irritated, but it’s certainly not the most pleasant sound. As a passenger, if the noise isn’t coming from your kids, you're hoping for the best for both the family and all the other travelers, wishing that the noise will eventually subside. What advice do you have for those passengers who find themselves frustrated, especially when they spot a baby and think—

Andrea: Oh dear baby.

Michelle: —“Oh no, here comes a baby.”

Andrea: Exactly. You can see the reactions on people's faces. Honestly, during my time here, I’ve rarely seen adult passengers openly express discomfort when a child is crying. In those few instances, it's clear that comfort is important for everyone on the plane, both the child and the adults.

We strive to first understand the situation at hand. Is the child having a tough time for some reason? That’s something we need to handle with care, as we need to assess what's going on to decide how best to intervene. If I encounter a passenger who seems a bit annoyed and vocal about their feelings, I engage them in conversation to reassure them that we’ll do our utmost to help ensure the child's comfort, since there may be factors we're unaware of. I would say, “How can I best assist you right now? I understand your concerns and I want to find a solution.” This isn't simply a matter of approaching the child and giving directives; it’s more complex. If a passenger expresses their displeasure, it turns into a problem-solving situation. Perhaps one flight attendant will speak with the family, while another addresses the concerned passenger, and we collaborate to resolve the issue. If there's a child or adult kicking the seat, it’s necessary to kindly explain, “Please don’t do that; we want to keep everyone comfortable.”

Michelle: Absolutely. I always say, if you know you’re sensitive to the sound of a crying baby, get yourself some noise-canceling headphones.

Andrea: True, but not everyone has noise-canceling headphones handy, and we can’t predict who will be sitting next to us, but—

Michelle: Certainly.

Andrea: —and we’re committed to ensuring everyone feels comfortable during the flight. Absolutely.

Michelle: Exactly. So, let’s dive into long-haul flights. Especially since I’m about to embark on one with my two kids later this month. Do you have any survival tips for traveling with kids on these journeys?

Andrea: My favorite strategy as a parent on long-haul flights is to let my kids have a bag they can take responsibility for, making them part of the travel experience. If they’re old enough to carry their own backpack or roll their own suitcase, let them pack their essential fun items: coloring books, art supplies, gaming devices, charging cables, headphones, snacks—whatever fits. Just ensure it’s not too heavy, but enough for them to feel involved in the process by saying, “This is what you’ll need for our flight.”

I’ve found that managing flights with children works remarkably well. I primarily handle international flights, and I love long-haul routes, particularly coast-to-coast trips. I’ve noticed that kids tend to have the best experience when they have their preferred snacks. If they don’t, it’s helpful to know what’s available on board. You mentioned you’ll be traveling long-haul with your kids this summer, which should be fantastic.

Throughout your long-haul flight, here’s a handy tip: snacks are available at the back of the plane. These snacks, along with various juices and beverages, will help keep everyone nourished during the journey. If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, it's great to bring that along—just skip the bedspread! Consider a travel blanket or any item that provides a sense of home. Special little socks, like cute compression ones, can make them feel cozy and snug in their seat. Whatever enhances their comfort during the flight is key.

Michelle: What’s your advice on managing jet lag once you arrive?

Andrea: A solid tip for combating jet lag is to take a nap as soon as you reach your destination—be it a hotel, Airbnb, or a relative's home.

Although it’s tempting to dive into activities right away, it’s important to adjust to the local time. Generally, you’ll arrive earlier, so I recommend a nap of about two to three hours. Just be careful not to sleep too long, as it could disrupt your internal clock.

To effectively combat jet lag, taking that nap right after you arrive is crucial. If you’re traveling east, this will help you adjust. For westbound journeys, try to jump straight into the day’s activities when you land. Engage with the local time, and by nightfall, you’ll be ready for sleep. These strategies will aid in shifting your body clock, especially if you’re away for more than a couple of days. And remember, staying hydrated is vital while flying. Drink plenty of water or juice to keep hydrated at high altitudes; it’s essential for both kids and adults!

Michelle: I'm really looking forward to seeing how we handle jet lag later this month. It's going to be quite the adventure! Kids do love their routines, but they also adapt quickly. I believe that after just one good night's sleep, we'll be back on track!

Andrea: Absolutely! I remember when we did our trip to Paris—it was all about hitting the ground, taking a quick nap, and then heading out to explore. After that nap, we were ready for the day. By the time bedtime came around, they were more than prepared.

They were completely ready when the sun set, right at their usual bedtime. That initial nap upon arrival is critical. Most of the crew members make sure to take that first nap, and if you want our advice, that’s definitely what we do.

Michelle: That sounds great! Do you have any final tips for families getting ready to travel this summer, based on your experience as a flight attendant?

Andrea: Summer is our peak travel season, which means you’ll encounter all sorts of interesting people throughout your journey. Embrace the experience!

So, my advice is to truly savor the experience. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Everyone is there for the same reason: to reach their destination. Embrace the adventure and remember to capture the moments with your camera!

Let the flight attendants know if it’s your first trip. Share your destination with us! Often, we can provide valuable tips on how to make the most of your visit—things you might not have even considered. Many of us have plenty of experience with those locations.

While there are factors beyond our control, like weather issues—which tend to arise more during the summer—there are plenty of staff on the ground ready to help you with any delays. Stay flexible and remember that if you’re flying with Delta, I strongly recommend downloading the Fly Delta app. It will keep you informed faster than we can relay information to you, making your airport navigation much easier.

So, make the most of your journey, take plenty of photos, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your flight attendants—we’re here to support you along the way.

Michelle: Absolutely! Flying is such a privilege, isn’t it? It’s amazing to explore the world. Sure, there may be frustrating moments—long waits, crowded spaces, or flight cancellations—but always keep in mind the reason you’re traveling in the first place.

After all, it was an incredible experience you wanted to share as a family. If it weren’t worthwhile, none of us would be doing this in the first place.

Andrea: Exactly! Keep in mind that your flight crews have been through this more times than you can count. If you face a delay or cancellation, we’re right there with you, ready to support you. We’ll share our insights to help ease any difficulties that come up during your summer travels this year.

Michelle: Thank you so much, Andrea. This has been fantastic. I truly appreciate you sharing your invaluable knowledge as both a flight attendant and a mom. Your tips and advice mean a lot!

Andrea: It’s been wonderful chatting with you, Michelle. Thank you! I hope some of this advice proves helpful to many parents traveling this summer.

Michelle: So many helpful tips! As a traveling mom, one of my key takeaways is that I shouldn’t feel overly guilty or stressed during challenging moments with my child on the plane. This summer, I’m flying to Europe with my kids, and if things get tough, I’ll remember that the in-flight crew is there to assist. I hope these tips benefit you on your next flight too!

If you'd like to catch more of my insights, check out my daily coverage of breaking news and travel stories on Dinogo.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our free newsletter to receive travel updates directly in your inbox at email.Dinogo.com. You can also follow my adventures with my lively young travel buddies on Instagram at @michellehallbaran.

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This has been Unpacked, a production of Dinogo Media. The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with music composed by Chris Colin. Remember: The world can be complex, but we're here to help you unpack it.