Yelena Khalevina: How I survived 46 hours on a plane with a toddler

By choosing a window seat you're toddler won't be able get out and take off down the aisle so easily. Photo / Getty Images

Who doesn't love the joy of holidays and travelling around the world? For anyone with kids in tow the joy comes with the silent fear of just getting through the flights, especially when they're long distance (so basically most destinations outside of New Zealand).

After recently spending 46 hours on planes with my toddler (travelling from Auckland to Hong Kong to Kazakhstan, then Kazakhstan to Dubai to Singapore to Auckland), I've learnt a few things that might help you make your next trip with the kids a bit easier. Here are my top dos and don'ts for surviving the journey.

• DO:

1. ORDER KIDS MEALS IN ADVANCE

Most airlines will request that you order any kids meals at least 24 hours in advance - they don't have them available upon request on the plane. The kids meals usually have something a picky toddler will enjoy eating. You'll also usually get a handy little entertainment pack will keep them occupied for a while. Baby food is also allowed as carry-on luggage and isn't limited to the 100ml restriction (for liquids).

2. BE TERMINAL READY

Think about in-airport transportation for your kids (especially with long or difficult connection flights). If you're using a stroller, take note that some airlines won't arrange for you to use it in between connections, rather only releasing it at your final destination.

Consider other options for your little one such as a roll-on suitcase - I bought a Bag Rider for this trip and it was a lifesaver.

It's a compact carry on suitcase that allows you to have both hands free. Plus your toddler will enjoy a comfy, cruisy ride around the airport.

Or take a backpack you can quickly get your baby into. Then you'll have two hands free for your passport and that much-needed coffee.

3. MAKE YOUR OWN ENTERTAINMENT PACK

My kid is really into transport at the moment, so I packed some new cars, trains and other small toys, along with sticker and colouring books. Try to avoid toys with lots of small detachable parts. They will likely be thrown around at some stage.

4. LOAD UP YOUR TABLET WITH YOUR KID'S FAVOURITES

Make sure your tablet or mobile device is fully charged (some planes don't have USB sockets) and loaded with your little one's favourite shows, cartoons and games. Don't rely on the entertainment on board in case it's broken or missing or there is simply nothing your child wants to watch.

It's also a good idea to check for the airline's in-flight app - some airlines don't have individual seat entertainment units and only use apps.

5. GET A GOOD SEAT AND GET THERE EARLY

Choose a window seat and get to your gate earlier than recommended: Parents travelling with kids get priority boarding, which also means you'll have more time to arrange your seating without worrying about holding people up behind you.

Window seating means you're toddler won't be able get out and take off down the aisle so easily. Plus you'll have more room for your belongings and the view to distract them with during takeoff and landing.

• DON'T:

1. TAKE NOISY TOYS

This might seem obvious but as parents we can become immune to all sorts of noises that other passengers might not be so excited about, such as spending the next several hours listening to a noisy toy truck or a singing book.

2. BE AS STRICT AS YOU USUALLY WOULD

This is not the time to try and be Mother of The Year. You can halt your kid's usual sleeping times and healthy eating options for one flight - it won't break the good habits you've instilled. Easing up on these things will mean you're both more relaxed rather than restrained by routine. Just go with the flow.

3. ALIENATE OTHERS

This one's the most important. They say it takes a village to raise a kid, so don't turn down offers from - or feel uncomfortable to ask - a fellow passenger or air staff to watch your kid while you go to the bathroom, or even have a short nap.

Remember, your own physical and mental condition is important. You can't give 100 per cent if you only have 50 per cent left.