Last week, I went away without the twins for the first time since they were born eight months ago. I had forgotten how simple unencumbered travel could be.

Used to planning in a thousand delay factors, which the under-aged always bring along with them, I allowed myself three hours to get to Stansted airport from central London. I ended up sitting in the departure lounge for over two hours. I could order - and drink - a gin and tonic at 30,000ft, without worrying about it being thrown all over me.

Away for just three days, I took hand luggage only, walked off the plane and was out of Shannon airport within 10 minutes. It did make me wonder if all those columns I've written about the benefits of travelling as a family might have been a touch rose tinted.

There was one big disadvantage of solo travel, however. My fear of flying returned. I have tried many a cure to overcome it. Alcohol alleviates the symptoms, but has its limitations as the amount I need prevents me picking up the hire car. I've even been on a day-long fear of flying course (Aviatours 01252 793250, £179-£215 at Manchester, Heathrow, Birmingham and Glasgow). One woman attended with her 10-year-old, who was only there to hold her mother's hand. I think that's irresponsible parenting. It's one thing being foolish enough to be frightened yourself; it's quite another passing that fear on to your children.

My determination that my own kids won't be freaked out every time the seat belt light illuminates makes me quash my own terror when they're with me. I am stoic for them. With one of the twins on my lap, I remain cheery throughout the bumpiest passage, even pointing out puffy clouds and playing Spot Our House in the map of London below. And I'm too busy to be terrified; children demand to be entertained at any altitude.

If you suffer from fear of flying, borrow a baby. It's the only cure that works.

If you have any experiences of travelling with kids, email: deabirkett@cs.com