A mother who frequently travels by air has shared her insights on the most and least favorable ages to fly with young children. Paige Wester, originally from Michigan but now residing in Newcastle, UK, has accumulated substantial experience flying with her son Rory since his birth. She emphasizes that while some parents worry about their children causing disturbances during flights, it’s crucial not to stress over others' opinions. Drawing from her own experiences, she provides guidance on navigating air travel with toddlers, highlighting specific age-related challenges.

Paige Wester, a 32-year-old frequent flyer, moved to the UK in late 2021 with her husband and toddler, Rory. Over the years, she has traveled extensively by air, visiting family in the U.S. and exploring Europe. Her numerous trips have given her invaluable insights into traveling with young children. In an era where opinions on children on planes are polarized—59% of U.S. adults favor child-free zones—Wester advises parents to prioritize self-kindness and avoid over-worrying about strangers’ perceptions. She explains that infants around seven months old are typically easier to manage during flights due to their limited mobility and predictable needs. Conversely, two-year-olds present significant challenges because of their unpredictable behavior and inability to understand confined spaces.

Her experiences reveal that infants often cry only when hungry or tired, making it simpler to address their needs mid-flight. Meanwhile, toddlers at the age of two tend to throw tantrums without clear triggers, complicating the journey for both parents and fellow passengers. Despite these challenges, Wester encourages parents to remain considerate yet relaxed, focusing on doing their best rather than striving for perfection. For instance, ensuring a child doesn’t repeatedly disturb other passengers can go a long way in maintaining harmony onboard.

In addition to age-specific advice, Wester underscores the importance of mental preparation for parents embarking on flights with young children. Recognizing that children may act out due to unfamiliar routines or environments, she reassures parents that occasional disruptions are normal and acceptable as long as they demonstrate consideration for others. This balanced approach helps alleviate unnecessary stress and fosters a more positive travel experience overall.

Frequent air travel with toddlers requires patience and perspective. Parents like Paige Wester emphasize that understanding developmental stages and preparing accordingly can transform potentially stressful journeys into manageable adventures. By embracing imperfection and prioritizing mutual respect, families can navigate air travel with greater ease and confidence.