Every mom knows that traveling with kids brings enough of its own drama without having to deal with insensitive airport personnel. Im sure by now everyone has heard about the poor mom in Atlanta who got the ole heave ho off the airplane along with her husband and toddler because the little tike wouldnt stop saying bye-bye plane during the safety announcements. Sure, that would be really annoying to hear, but so is the repeated sorry for the inconvenience and we appreciate your patience announcements by the airline when youre stranded with a delayed flight. I particularly hate those announcements when youre stuck on the runway. I mean, dont thank me for my patience, Im stuckµ--patience has nothing to do with it.

What can I do? Bust open an emergency exit and make a run for it on the tarmac. Thanking me for my patience when I have no other, non-life threatening option is really insulting. But I digress. Back to the topic at handµtraveling with kids. Summertime is the perfect time for taking a tripµvisiting grandma, hitting the favorite kids spot or just having a relaxing family vacation (yeah, as if!) But with all the things to pack in order to travel with the kidsµfrom spare clothes (theirs and yours) to medicines to sippy cups to toys to snacks to wipesµsometimes its a wonder how I make it out the front door let alone finally reach my intended destination.

Dont even get me started on bathroom breaks. But moms everywhere take heart, you can have sane travel with the kids. Really. My children and I have been traveling to London to see their granny and aunties for 7 years. My son Michael took his first transatlantic flight at 4 months old, and Im happy to report that I have not gone postal or been booted off any plane yet! Emphasis on yet. So here are The Mocha Manuals Fabulous Five tips for less drama for the mama when traveling:

1. The most important thing you need is a suitcase full of patience and a bag of distractionsµsmall toys, smaller activity books, and snacks. And don't leave your imagination at home. Kayla, Michael and I have passed a lot time at the airport making up our games, like our visual scavenger hunt, where they have to find things like a baseball cap or a red shirt by looking at the people around us.


2. Try to book non-stop flights. This cuts down on connection problems and extended delays. Try to travel at non-peak times, such as middays, Mondays and my personal favorite, late at nightµwhen kids will likely fall asleep for most of the journey. You're also more likely to find less crowded flights and a chance for an extra empty seat.


3. Leave early. An OJ-inspired run through the airport, bus or train station with little ones in tow is not a good look. Allow plenty of time to get there without rushing.


4. Repeat after me, in flight entertainment is your friend. Im a die hard stickler for very little TV time, but when Im traveling Im the first person to pop that puppy on and find an appropriate movie or TV show for the kids. Mommy needs a minute. If youre traveling my car, train or bus, consider buying or renting a portable DVD player.


5. Dress comfortably. Remember buses, trains and planes can be a little chilly so bring an extra sweater or jacket. My princess Kayla loves to sport hers tied around the waist. When boarding the plane, grab any available pillows or blankets immediately if needed, they wont last long. Kimberly Seals-Allers is a journalist and the author of the Mocha Manuel to a Fabulous Pregnancy. Here is the link to Kimberly’s website: http://www.themochamanual.com