Flying with 6 to Europe

A few thoughts on getting to Europe with a family of 6:

Chicago

First off I don’t like Chicago airport.  It by far was the most crowded and tricky airport we flew into.  I had to go through security twice.  We got divided up twice.  Once when we showed our passports and once when we went through security.  The security was very chaotic.  Next time I would try to skip this airport.

Zurich 

The Swiss airport was awesome.  The check point for passports had a nice happy English speaking gentleman who treated us great.  We also had a blast riding the tram from passport to check in, where you get to hear yodeling and whistling and see funny Swiss photos.

Swiss Airlines

Swiss air was great as well.  Before the flight began they gave the kids coloring books and crayons.  They had children's meals that were better than the adults' meals.  Seriously, in fact they told us we could all order kids meals next time.  Other passengers next to us even commented on the kids meals.  Tons of food and drinks.  They were willing to accommodate the kids.  They had kid friendly movies which is huge at our house.  Before you leave they pass around Swiss chocolate.  This happened on both swiss air flights we went on.

Venice

Getting out of the Venice airport was simple and quick.  However,  the massive amounts of people was a bit overwhelming.  Not the Italians, but the backpackers laying all over the ground and covering every seat possible.  I must admit it was a bit overwhelming and I don’t think it was just jet lag.

Making Connections

We had not one but two short connections (1 hour between flights), so our biggest worry was missing our connections, especially with 6 of us and carry on luggage for each. I'm happy to report that we made every connection with time to spare. So if you're flying with kids, making 1 hour connections is doable.

Getting to our destination 

I was super grateful that our Host University sent a driver to pick us up with all our luggage.  It was huge as we were all so tired and he knew his way.  He even dropped us at the University and then to our apartment.

Overall navigating the airports was exhausting with the security and passports.  The boys did great as they knew as soon as we got through they would get their choice of drinks and shows to watch.  I guess not having cable at home and getting free soda makes them really like flying.

Note for next time try to avoid Chicago.  Only pack one water bottle not two.  No need to have a traveling pillow on Swiss air they have great side pillows and blankets.  No need to bring entertainment they are super excited to just sit and look out the window, watch the big picture of where we are flying over at the moment, talk, or just watch what is being offered.