Taking a vacation with children can be stressful, and flying with them much more so. However, if you plan ahead and come prepared, the trip can go very smoothly.

When flying with children, find out ahead of time if the airline provides lap-belts for children. This allows them to be strapped in safely. If not, find out what the airline does provide for their safety while you travel. Then, sit by the window with the child in your lap, or allow the child to sit by the window. This will help to keep him/her distracted during the flight.

Before bringing food and/or milk for your child in your carry-on luggage, make sure that it will be permitted through the security checkpoint. Generally, no more than 3 ounces of a liquid are aloud through security. Also, find out if the airline has any special food for babies or young children that they provide during your trip.

When boarding the plane, ask where the best place is to change diapers, if necessary. If you will need any help, be sure to tell them at this time.

Feed children during takeoff and landing. This helps your child to avoid problems with their ears due to the changes in pressure. For older children, give them gum to chew on.

Always bring toys and activities for children when you travel. Make sure that you do not keep them so busy that they get overly tired. Allow them to rest when they need to during your trip.

If your child gets fussy during the flight, walk up and down the aisles holding him/her. Other passengers prefer having you pass by repeatedly with a quieter child, than listening to a louder, unhappy child who is sitting down. Allow older children to get up and stretch their legs occasionally during the flight.

If at all possible, don’t travel if your child is sick. If it’s not possible to reschedule your travel, be sure to bring any medicine your child will need with you on your trip. Verify that it will pass through security without any problems, or put it in your check-in luggage when you travel.

Flying with children makes any parent feel anxious. But following these guides will greatly reduce your anxiety for your vacation, which in turn will help calm your child during the trip.

Resource Box: Gina Clark writes on budget travel and financial issues. Visit her blog to learn additional ways to save money on your vacation.