Long haul to Canada

[GruffaloS0ldiers]

Hi folks,

I've got 2 kids, DS 5, and DD 3 - and we've been invited to go to Vancouver on a 2 week family trip next year. I really want to go, as my siblings and their (older) kids are going, and we don't see each other as a group very often any more, as we live far apart.

However, the thought of the flight, and the jet lag on the way there and the way back is putting me off.

Whilst my 5 year old would be totally happy to be watching TV/ snoozing/ drawing/ snacking for 12 hours - my 3 year old is a hilarious loose canon - crazy tantrums, and she's not the best sleeper in new places. She's very strong willed, which I totally admire but it can cause... problems😅

Two questions:

-How have you guys found dealing with jet lag with young kids?

-Does anyone recommend any of those inflatable foot cushions for use on planes, to make them more comfy for sleeping?

(3 year old is very much a 'curl up like a little bug with her bum in the air' kinda sleeper!)

My usual style of parenting is 'let's give it a go, and if it's a disaster, at least we tried' - but as this is going to be such a big expense, I am more reticent if the trip is going to be too hard on all of us (mostly me - I need sleep, guys!)

I’d definitely go, it sounds like a brilliant opportunity.
Do you have the capacity to gradually shift your sleep before you go, and are you able to allow yourself a few days after your return to adjust back to UK time?
How fast-paced will the schedule be once you’re there? If it’s quite a chilled holiday, then it doesn’t matter so much with jet lag - you can just go with the flow.
Book a flight that lands in the daytime as getting out into sunlight helps to reset your body clock.

I'm in Canada at the moment, though east side, not west.

Most flights to Canada are daytime flights, and night time ones going back.
Children are often better with flights than adults. I find jet lag worse going back to the UK, than flying to Canada.

The cushion thing works if you can get a decent one. It will also depemd on the size of your child.

I flew to Thailand with family and 15 month old grandson and it worked for him and he managed to sleep okay.

Take plenty of things to keep them occupied. There will be a screen in the seat to watch movies, play games or listen to music.

Honestly it will be fine and i'm sure you'll have a great time.