Ask about traveling with children to just about any parent and you will get stories of extreme stress, exhaustion and horrible experiences. Most parents dread this part of the trip more than anything else. True, it can be a nightmare especially on a 16-hour flight, but planning and preparation can greatly reduce parental stress.

Here are some tips to survive that dreaded flight:

1. Seat Plan

Nowadays many plane companies will allow you to plan your flight ahead through their website. You can ease through the transition from airport to airplane by selecting seats and printing out your boarding pass 24 hours before your scheduled flight. This way you would eliminate the hassle of going up and down the aisle looking for your seat number before getting settled. Finding out if your flight offers pre-boarding for families with children can also be of great help.

2. Provide Explanations

The idea of flying can be an exciting thing for a young child, but sitting on the plane moments before take off can bring out some fear and feelings of uncertainty in a child. So after getting settled, try to explain to the child what to expect, how to work the seat belts, the opening of the tray table and even pointing out where the toilet is. Explain that the child may hear mechanical creaking noises from the aircraft as it begins its taxi on the runway. These noises may be too loud for the child so preparing them from the start will eliminate your child's fear.

3. Bring Snacks

Since very few domestic flights nowadays offer in-flight meals, bringing snacks will save you a great deal of money. It is also a good idea to feed your child before boarding but if you can't, travel-sized packages of crackers and cookies can save you from shedding out a large amount of cash for a measly snack. Buy bottled water or juice after you have passed through the security gate.

4. Food Containers and Baby Wipes

Plastic food containers are great storage space for half-eaten foods or storing meals when your child is fast asleep when the food is delivered.

Baby wipes are of great help in cleaning food driblets and food stains. Spills are a very common thing with children and a bumpy ride and baby wipes will surely help in cleaning those out.

5. Provide Entertainment

A long plane ride seems much longer when you just sit there with nothing to do. Activities are a must not only to the child but also to the parent. Bring a book or magazine for yourself and tons of activities for your child. Smaller children can be occupied for hours with new crayons and coloring books. Coloring books with pictures related to travel will make the child feel more eager as he is also traveling himself. A hand-held game console for the slightly older kids is also a great idea to pass the time and provide a little down time for the parent.