When you're heading off on another trip with kids in tow, the experience may not be the stress-free vacation you were looking for. Flying with young kids, babies and toddlers can be stressful, especially if you're responsible for handling all the packing and making sure the kids stay busy and safe at the airport and the flight. Planning ahead with the following key essentials may help reduce the stress factor and ensure you and the family stays safe, and even enjoys the trip in progress. Here are some essential travel tips when traveling with youngsters:

1. Take advantage of preboarding. Read your ticket and flight information for preboarding options. This can give you some extra time for loading your carryon luggage, checking in strollers and making sure the kids are plenty comfortable before the flight.

2. Pack a few snacks. Some flights may offer complimentary snacks, but these run the risk of allergic reactions and your kids may not even like the food or brands. Plan ahead by packing a few of your kids? favorite snacks, but just make sure you're not taking any drinks on board.

3. Don't forget the bottle. Younger kids can be soothed easily with a baby bottle filled with juice or milk. Just make sure you're packing an empty bottle that can be filled with their favorite beverage during the flight.

4. Reserve an aisle seat. Fussy kids can be hard to take care of when you're stuck in a window seat with very little breathing room. Check your flight ticket in advance and review the seating chart online to confirm that you have an aisle seat. Aisle seats make it easy to take a brief walk or head to the restroom when needed.

5. Make the most of overhead bins. Pack up non-essentials into a carryon bag that gets stowed away into your overhead bin, and let youngsters pack books, music or small games into their own miniature backpacks that stay beside them during the flight.