Travel Stress Is High. Boys Town Expert Shares Tips

Travel Stress Is High. Boys Town Expert Shares Tips to Help Families Navigate Trips with Children

From delays to packed airports, preparation can help families avoid added stress in the air and on the ground

Boys Town, Neb. (April 10, 2026) – As flight delays, long lines and crowded airports continue to frustrate travelers, Boys Town is reminding families that flying with children takes extra planning, patience and flexibility.

For kids, air travel can quickly become overwhelming. Changes in routine, long waits, packed terminals and stressful adults can all make travel days harder. Dr. Christopher Blank, a psychologist with Boys Town Behavioral Health, says parents can ease some of that tension by preparing ahead of time and keeping expectations realistic.

“Travel can be hard on everyone, even adults,” said Dr. Blank. “Kids are especially sensitive to changes in routine, unfamiliar environments and the stress happening around them. The more prepared parents are, the more supported children will feel throughout the trip.”

Before heading to the airport, Dr. Blank encourages parents to think through the moments their child may struggle with most, whether that is waiting in long lines, sitting still, navigating crowds or dealing with delays. Packing a change of clothes, snacks, a jacket and a few activities can help kids stay more comfortable and regulated throughout the day.

He also recommends explaining the day in simple, age-appropriate language so children know what to expect, from security lines to staying seated on the plane. Comfortable clothing, easy-to-remove shoes and headphones can also help reduce stress.

“Travel rarely goes exactly as planned,” said Dr. Blank. “When parents stay calm, adjust as needed and model patience, children are more likely to feel safe and respond in a positive way.”

Dr. Blank also encourages parents to use praise often, especially when children follow directions, wait patiently or stay close in busy spaces.

Dr. Blank’s travel tips for flying with children include:

• Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on
• Bring a jacket or sweater for cold planes and airports
• Pack familiar snacks and a few toys or activities
• Use a chewy treat during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure
• Explain the day ahead in simple terms
• Arrive early and allow extra time for delays
• Dress kids in comfortable clothes and easy-to-remove shoes
• Bring headphones for noise and overstimulation
• Praise positive behavior often
• Stay flexible and plan ahead for likely trouble spots

Dr. Christopher Blank is available for interviews to discuss family travel tips. For interviews, contact Jordan Weinandt at jordan.weinandt@boystown.org or 531-355-1273.

About Boys Town For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America’s children and families through innovative youth, research, and healthcare programs. Boys Town provides compassionate, research-proven education, prevention, training, and treatment for behavioral and physical challenges at multiple locations across the United States, offering a comprehensive array of resources and services. In 2025, Boys Town directly served more than 197,000 children and families nationwide. Learn more about Boys Town at www.boystown.org.

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