Family travel can be a wonderful experience, but it can also become stressful, especially during airport transfers. Paris, with its three main airports – Charles de Gaulle, Orly, and Beauvais – can seem intimidating for families in transit. Here are some tips to make your airport transfer in Paris as smooth and enjoyable as possible when traveling with children.
1.Plan Ahead
The key to a successful transfer is good planning. Research the available transportation options between Paris airports and choose the one that best suits your family. Options include direct shuttles, taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation. Consider the number of bags you’ll have and the age of your children.
2.Allow Plenty of Time
When traveling with children, everything usually takes longer. Add at least an extra hour to your estimated transfer time. This will allow you to handle unexpected events such as bathroom breaks, snacks, or simply the slower pace of little legs.
3.Opt for Family-Friendly Transportation Services
Several transport companies in Paris offer services specially designed for families. These services often include child car seats, space for strollers, and sometimes even entertainment for children. Although slightly more expensive, these options can greatly reduce transfer stress.
4.Prepare an Activity Bag
To keep your children occupied during the journey, prepare a bag filled with activities. Include books, coloring books, card games, or tablets with educational games. Don’t forget headphones to avoid disturbing other passengers if you’re using electronic devices.
5.Pack Snacks and Water
Children often get hungry at the most inopportune moments. Always have healthy snacks and water on hand. This will prevent hunger crises and maintain everyone’s energy during the transfer.
6.Use a Practical Stroller
If you have young children, a lightweight and foldable stroller can be a real asset. It will make it easier to move around airports and can serve as a booster seat during waiting times.
7.Familiarize Your Children with the Process
Before the trip, explain to your children what will happen during the transfer. Turn it into an adventure rather than a chore. You can even create a little treasure hunt game with items to spot during the journey.
8.Choose Comfortable Clothing
Dress your children (and yourself) in comfortable clothes that are easy to remove if necessary. Shoes that are easy to put on and take off are particularly useful during security checks.
9.Use Identification Tags
In the confusion of a transfer, it’s easy to lose sight of a child. Use identification bracelets or luggage tags with your contact details for each child.
10.Stay Calm and Positive
Children are very sensitive to their parents’ mood. If you remain calm and positive, even when facing challenges, your children will tend to follow your example.
11.Take Advantage of Airport Family Services
The main Paris airports offer services dedicated to families. Charles de Gaulle, for example, has children’s play areas in several terminals. Take advantage of these to take a break and let your children stretch their legs.
12.Consider a Hotel Night
If your transfer time is long or if your flight arrives late, consider spending a night in a hotel near the airport. This will allow the whole family to rest and approach the next flight in good shape.
13.Use Priority Lines
Many airports offer priority lines for families with young children. Don’t hesitate to use them; they can significantly reduce your waiting time.
14.Learn a Few French Phrases
Even though many Parisians speak English, knowing a few basic phrases in French can be very useful. Teach your children to say « bonjour, » « merci, » and « s’il vous plaît. » It’s not only practical but can also be a fun educational experience for them.
15.Have a Plan B
Despite all your planning, things may not go as expected. Always have a backup plan, whether it’s another mode of transportation or an alternative hotel.
In conclusion, an airport transfer in Paris with children may seem daunting, but with good preparation and a positive attitude, it can become an enjoyable part of your trip. Remember that the most important thing is to create family memories, even during transit moments. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to turn your transfer into a fun and stress-free Parisian adventure for the whole family.
Don’t forget that every family is unique, so feel free to adapt these tips to your specific needs. Have a great trip and enjoy your stay in Paris!