If you give us the option between a 6:00 am flight and a mid afternoon departure, we are choosing the early morning flight every single time.
It might sound a little crazy, especially with kids. Yes, it means setting alarms before sunrise. Yes, it means getting everyone dressed while they are half asleep. But after years of family travel, we have learned that early flights just work better for us.
Here is why we always book them.
The Airport Is So Much Calmer
Early morning flights usually mean quieter airports. Lines are shorter and security feels less chaotic. We would rather wake up early than deal with packed terminals later in the day.
Fewer Delays, In Our Experience
While nothing is guaranteed in travel, we have personally experienced fewer delays with early morning flights. Planes are usually already there, and issues from earlier flights or weather have not built up yet.
Better Prices, Most of the Time
Early morning flights are often less expensive. Not always, but we frequently see lower fares compared to mid morning or afternoon departures. For a family of four, that price difference adds up quickly.
Kids Are Still in “Morning Mode”
In the early morning, our kids are naturally calmer. They are still waking up and adjusting. By the afternoon, usually someone is tired, hungry, or bored. That is not the combination you want while sitting at a gate.
We Arrive With Time to Settle In
Landing earlier gives us a full day at our destination. We can check into our hotel or at least drop off luggage, grab groceries, or explore a beach or short trail.
Is It Always Easy?
No. We set everything out the night before. Clothes. Shoes. Backpacks. Snacks. Boarding passes ready. Car packed if possible. We keep morning routines simple. No complicated breakfasts. No last minute packing.
Would We Ever Book a Later Flight?
Sometimes it makes sense. If there is a huge price difference or if travel time to the airport would be extreme in the middle of the night, we would consider it. But given the choice, early morning flights with kids are our go to.
Less chaos. Smoother start. More time at our destination.
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