If traveling on public transport is a nightmare with children, how bad can it be when flying with young children or a baby? Yes, air travel with kids can seem daunting, but the secret really is to be prepared.

Start by checking out the facilities offered by your airport and airline, and follow the advice below which offers suggestions for travel preparation and for keeping children occupied during their time at the airport and on the flight.

1.When booking flights try to book the seats at the same time. I’ve found it better to book two seats of two with two window seats, allowing the children to have a window seat each. It helps to keep them occupied while waiting to take off. Most children, especially the younger ones, are fascinated by watching the other planes, the luggage being loaded and refuelling.

2.Try to avoid changing planes and book a direct flight. If a stop over is unavoidable, allow plenty of time to change planes, allowing for delays and time for the kids to run about and let off steam between flights.

3.When organising hand baggage, give each child a small bag with a selection of things to keep them occupied during the flight. A small cuddly toy, playing cards and coloured pencils are good, and sorry, but you can’t beat an electronic game or portable DVD player. If your children love reading, allow them to buy a book at the airport, the excitement and novelty of a new book can keep them engrossed for ages.

4.Take snacks for the airport and water (bought after security), include chewy sweets for take off and landing.

5.Make sure you pack enough supplies for the flight. If you have a baby or young toddler, pack plenty of nappies and a change of clothes. Don’t forget to change the baby’s nappy before boarding. If you are trying to toilet train your child - give up on the flight and use ‘pull-ups’ – it’s just not worth the hassle!

6.Try to arrive at the airport early allowing plenty of time to get to the airport. Aim to leave half an hour before you need to, plan for unexpected delays, and don’t forget about parking. If you’re stressed because you are running late, your children will get stressed too.

7.It’s advisable to take your buggy / stroller to the gate - most airlines will let you take your buggy to the plane’s door and will then put it in to the hold. It’s a good idea to take an inexpensive, umbrella type buggy as they do get thrown about in the hold.

8.Another great tip is to book meet and greet airport parking. This is a stress free, time saving, ultra-convenient method of airport parking, especially when travelling with children. All that’s involved is driving directly to the airport terminal where a driver is waiting to collect your car, get your kids and cases out of the car, hand over the keys and walk in to the terminal. The driver parks your car in their secure car park and when you return he brings your car back to the terminal for you – just walk out of the terminal building, load up your luggage, and kids, and away you go! It really is that simple.

9.Draw your child’s attention to everyday life in the airport. Chat to them about what is happening throughout the journey, even the very young find things we take for granted, such as checking in hold baggage and passing through airport security, fascinating.

10.Dress your children in loose, comfortable clothing - they are more likely to get irritable and complain if they are wearing tight, restrictive clothing.

By following these tips you should minimise the strain on you and your children.Remember a holiday is for relaxing so focus on the destination not the journey and above all enjoy your holiday.