In this episode of Girl Dad Nation, host Matthew Krekeler welcomes back pilot and fellow dad, Ben Bashinski, for an insightful conversation on flying with kids. With 19 flights under his belt with his 14-month-old daughter, Ben shares practical tips and personal experiences from traveling as both a pilot and a dad. From managing expectations and navigating TSA, to keeping your little one comfortable during takeoff and landing, Ben provides a wealth of advice to make flying with kids a smoother experience. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip with your child, this episode is packed with helpful tips to keep your journey as stress-free as possible.

Tips for Flying with Kids

1. Consider Your Child's Age When Traveling:
   • Adjust your expectations and preparation based on the age of your child. For infants, expect them to require attention during most of the flight.
2. Embrace Flexibility and Patience:
   • Approach the journey with a mindset of flexibility. Understand that things may not go perfectly, and patience is key to managing the experience.
3. Check TSA Regulations for Baby Gear:
   • Research TSA guidelines regarding baby items such as formula, breast milk, strollers, and car seats to avoid surprises during security checks.
4. Use Babywearing for Security Checks:
   • Babywearing can be helpful through TSA.
5. Gate Check Your Stroller:
   • Use a stroller to navigate the airport, and gate-check it before boarding.
6. Use Noise-Canceling Headphones or Ear Protection for Kids:
   • Using noise-canceling headphones or ear protection can help reduce discomfort due to ear pressure changes.
7. Feed or Use a Pacifier During Takeoff and Landing:
   • Feeding your baby (bottle or breastfeeding) or using a pacifier during takeoff and landing can help with ear pressure and keep your baby calm.
8. Bring a Variety of Toys and Activities:
   • Pack multiple small toys and activities to keep your child entertained throughout the flight.
9. Pack Snacks and Drinks for Older Children:
   • Food is important.
10. Request Pre-Boarding When Possible:
    • Pre-boarding for families with young children allows you more time to get settled without the rush of other passengers.
11. Choose Seats Strategically:
    • Opt for window seats if possible to keep your child entertained with the view. The window seat can also create a barrier from other passengers and reduce disturbances.
12. Plan for Diaper Changes:
    • Be prepared for diaper changes by knowing the layout of the plane’s restroom and having all necessary supplies ready in an easily accessible spot.
13. Accept Help from Others:
    • Don’t hesitate to accept help from flight attendants or fellow passengers.
14. (MY Girl Dad Nation Tip) Enjoy the journey!

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In this heartfelt episode of Girl Dad Nation, host Matthew Krekeler sits down with Ben Bashinski, a pilot and proud girl dad, whose touching moment of flying his daughter on her first flight with him as the pilot went viral on social media. Ben shares the experience of balancing his dream job as a Southwest pilot with being a new father. He talks about the joys and challenges of traveling with his daughter, the unique work-life balance in aviation, and the invaluable support of his wife, Hannah. This conversation covers everything from the stress of bringing your baby home for the first time to the importance of being fully present as a parent. Tune in to hear an inspiring story of family, flying, and fatherhood.

Send me a Text Message

Girl Dad Nation is made possible by the generous support of our listeners and my wife, Executive Producer of my daughters and this podcast.

Support the Show.

Follow me Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter): @GirlDadNation

For more episodes, merch, events, and updates, visit the website: www.girldadnation.org

Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at girldadnationpodcast@gmail.com

In this bonus episode I welcome back Richard Franklin to share his miraculous story about how his life was saved through a kidney donation, and being thankful for each day.

LINKS

National Kidney Foundation

PKD Foundation

KDA (Kidney Donor Athletes)

Thank you to Richard for sharing and being part of Girl Dad Nation.

I encourage you to be thankful for each day and help those most in need. If you have an inspiring story to share, please leave a comment on social media or send me an email to girldadnationpodcast@gmail.com

And if you haven't done so yet, hit that Follow button! It means a lot to me!

Thank you for listening!

Until next time, go be a dad!

Send me a Text Message

Girl Dad Nation is made possible by the generous support of our listeners and my wife, Executive Producer of my daughters and this podcast.

Support the Show.

Follow me Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter): @GirlDadNation

For more episodes, merch, events, and updates, visit the website: www.girldadnation.org

Have a story to share or want to reach out? Email me at girldadnationpodcast@gmail.com