How to survive the flight with a baby & toddler?

[swissfamrivers]

Not sure if this is the correct place to post this but........

Our first trip to Orlando/WDW is in just over 3 weeks time - this will be our first long haul flight with the Children (11mths and 30mths) and our wondering how we are going to survive it.

We currently live in Switzerland but are flying to Orlando via the UK with British Airways (we are stopping off on the way there to stay with my sister, but doing the whole trip back in one go!!).

We have booked the bulkhead seats and a sky cot for the baby (we have also paid for a seat for her). Does anyone know how big sky cots are? She is a big girl and I am now wondering if she will fit in one - or if perhaps they have a weight limit?

Does anyone have tips for how to get the children to sleep on the plane? They are both used to sleeping in a dark room and don't even usually fall asleep in the car anymore.

They are both very active kids (my daughter is walking already at 10mths) so I think we are going to have an interesting flight.........we just don't want it to upset the rest of the holiday or give us a poor end to what we hope is going to be a fantastic time.

Also any jet lag tips - my daughter is an early rise anyway - I have images of us starting the day at 1am!!

Thanks

[tajainaz]

No useful information from me. Just heartfelt admiration and sympathy!

Have you read Dawn's Jedi Trip Report from November/December 2003? She and her DH traveled with their son, who was 8 or 10 months old, her brother & SIL and their two children (ages 2 and 6) and her mother. Every child is different, but it will give you some idea of their reactions to most things.

If you haven't, better get crackin'! It's almost time for you to leave! Are you packed yet? :D :wink:

[kasia]

Hi there,

I have a 29 month old & a 12 month old so can understand your concerns! However.... don't worry! We flew from Gatwick to Barbados in January & the flights were fine. The skycot was okay, not huge, & I had to take dd out of it whenever the 'fasten seat belt' sign came on (usually just after she'd dropped off to sleep!).

We didn't get her a seat then, but there was a spare next to my sister & this was much better - she slept for 3 hours in it. So we've bought her one for our trip to Disney in May. Fingers crossed it'll be just as effective.

My ds was fine too, loved the Virgin entertainment, ate the food & again slept for a good couple of hours. Nappy changing in the plane toilet was not so good :( screaming could be heard all over the plane!

Are you taking a double buggy or 2 singles? I can't make up my mind!

Have a great holiday & peaceful flight

[kasia]

Oh, also re the skycot, when it's up you can't move, eat as it's right in front of you