Taking your child on their first airplane journey can be an exciting yet challenging experience. The key to a smooth flight begins with thorough preparation. Here are practical tips to help you and your child have a comfortable and enjoyable flight from Prague Airport.
Before Departure
Familiarize Your Child
- Introduce your child to various forms of transport, such as buses, trams, or trains, to help them become comfortable around strangers and new situations.
- Visit Prague Airport beforehand to explore the terminal, watch airplanes taking off and landing, and generate excitement about flying.
- Teach older children about flight radar, the check-in process, and airplane functions to demystify the flying experience.
Travel Documents
- Ensure your child has a valid passport or ID card, as required for international travel.
- If your child travels without a parent, have a parental consent form ready, available from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic.
At Prague Airport
Keeping Children Entertained
- Use airport amenities designed for families, such as observation decks, play areas, strollers for rent, and baby changing stations.
- Prepare games, toys, and snacks to prevent boredom during waits and the flight itself.
Security Check Guidelines
- You may carry medicines, baby food, and necessary liquids for children without restrictions, but they must be presented separately during security checks.
- Pack these items at the top of your carry-on luggage for quick and easy inspection.
Onboard Comfort
Seat and Boarding Tips
- Consider choosing front-row seats for more space and convenient access to toilets and baby changing facilities.
- Families with young children typically have priority boarding. If not, boarding last may reduce stress and provide additional settling-in time.
Strollers and Car Seats
- Airlines generally allow two free baby equipment items, such as a stroller and a car seat.
- Strollers can be checked in or taken directly to the aircraft door, where they will be returned upon landing.
- Car seats must meet specific airline safety standards, including dimensions and safety features.
Cabin Essentials
- Prepare a well-stocked diaper bag with hygiene products, diapers, resealable bags, wet wipes, snacks, drinks, and your child’s favorite toys.
- Pack noise-canceling earmuffs, pacifiers, blankets, and comfortable clothing for added comfort.
Practical Advice
- Plan extra time for all stages of your journey to manage unexpected delays.
- Schedule a preventive medical check-up before travel to ensure your child is fit and vaccinations are current.
- Choose night flights when possible to align with your child’s natural sleep rhythm and minimize jet lag effects.
- Encourage swallowing during take-off and landing to relieve ear pressure—offer drinks or pacifiers to younger children.
- Engage your child in activities before boarding to increase the likelihood of restful behavior during the flight.
By following these tips, you’ll help your child feel comfortable, safe, and entertained, ensuring a pleasant flying experience from Prague Airport.