Traveling with kids can be an adventure—but not always in the fun way. Long flights are often the most challenging part of the journey, especially when your little ones start getting restless or bored. As a parent who’s been there (and survived!), I know how stressful it can feel when your child starts squirming in their seat or asking, “Are we there yet?” for the hundredth time.
The good news? With a little preparation and creativity, you can turn a potentially chaotic flight into a smooth and even enjoyable experience for everyone. In this guide, I’ll share 10+ practical tips and activities to keep your kids entertained during long flights, plus a packing list of must-have items to make your trip stress-free.
To make this guide even more helpful, I’ve included step-by-step instructions so you can easily implement these ideas on your next trip. Whether you’re flying with toddlers, school-aged kids, or tweens, these strategies will help you keep the peace—and maybe even enjoy the journey.
1. Start with a Pre-Flight Game Plan
Before you even board the plane, set expectations and prepare your kids for the journey ahead.
- Talk About the Flight : Explain what to expect, like security checks, boarding, and in-flight routines. For younger kids, use simple language and visuals (e.g., draw pictures or show videos of planes).
- Why It Works : Kids thrive on predictability, and knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety.
- Example : If you’re flying internationally, explain that the flight will take a long time but that there will be movies, snacks, and games to keep them busy.
- Visual Suggestion : Include an infographic showing the steps of air travel: check-in, security, boarding, takeoff, cruising, and landing. Use cartoon-style illustrations to make it kid-friendly.
- Set Rules and Rewards : Establish clear rules about behavior during the flight and offer small rewards (like stickers or snacks) for good behavior.
- Why It Works : Positive reinforcement encourages cooperation.
- Example Reward Chart : Create a simple chart where kids can earn stickers for good behavior. For example:
- “Stay seated for 30 minutes = 1 sticker.”
- “Quiet voice during takeoff = 1 sticker.”
- “Earn 5 stickers = a surprise toy or treat!”
- Pro Tip : Involve your kids in creating the reward chart—it makes them feel invested.
- Pack Smart : Bring a dedicated “flight bag” with essentials like snacks, activities, and comfort items.
- Why It Works : Having everything organized in one place reduces stress for you and ensures your kids have access to their favorite things.
- Infographic Idea : Design a “What to Pack for Long Flights” checklist with icons for each item (e.g., snacks, books, headphones, toys).
Pro Tip : Pack a surprise toy or activity to unveil mid-flight when your child starts getting restless.
2. Bring Screen-Free Entertainment Options
While tablets and phones are lifesavers, relying solely on screens can backfire if the battery dies or your child gets bored. Mix it up with these screen-free ideas:
- Activity Books : Coloring books, sticker books, and travel-sized games are perfect for keeping little hands busy.
- Why It Works : These activities are portable, mess-free, and engaging for kids of all ages.
- Examples :
- Melissa & Doug Water Wow Books : Reusable coloring books that use water instead of markers—no mess!
- Usborne Activity Pads : Filled with puzzles, mazes, and drawing prompts.
- Visual Suggestion : Include a photo collage of popular activity books with captions like, “Perfect for quiet play!”
- Mini Craft Kits : Bring small crafts like pipe cleaners, beads, or origami paper for creative play.
- Why It Works : Crafting engages fine motor skills and keeps kids focused for longer periods.
- Step-by-Step Guide : Provide instructions for a simple craft, like making a bracelet with pipe cleaners. Include photos of each step.
- Pro Tip : Pre-cut materials at home to save time and avoid frustration on the plane.
- Travel Games : Compact games like magnetic chess, card games, or mini puzzles are great for older kids.
- Why It Works : Games encourage problem-solving and can be played solo or with siblings.
- Infographic Idea : Create a “Top 5 Travel Games for Kids” chart with images and descriptions of each game.
Personal Anecdote : On one flight, I brought a $5 mini whiteboard and markers for my toddler. It kept her entertained for hours as she drew pictures and played “erase the board.”
3. Use Technology Wisely
Screens can be a lifesaver when used strategically. Here’s how to make the most of them:
- Download Offline Content : Load up tablets with movies, shows, audiobooks, and apps that don’t require Wi-Fi.
- Why It Works : Offline content ensures uninterrupted entertainment, even if the plane’s Wi-Fi is spotty.
- Infographic Idea : Create a “Must-Have Apps for Long Flights” chart with icons for each app and a brief description.
- Rotate Activities : Limit screen time by alternating it with other activities. For example, watch a movie, then switch to coloring or reading.
- Why It Works : Rotating activities prevents boredom and overstimulation.
- Visual Suggestion : Include a timeline graphic showing how to rotate activities every 30–60 minutes.
- Interactive Apps : Choose educational or interactive apps that engage your child’s mind, like puzzle games or storytelling apps.
- Why It Works : Interactive apps keep kids mentally engaged, unlike passive screen time.
- Recommended Apps :
- Endless Alphabet (educational and fun for younger kids)
- Toca Life World (creative play for older kids)
- Headspace for Kids (calming mindfulness exercises)
4. Pack Snacks and Stay Hydrated
Hunger and dehydration can quickly lead to meltdowns. Keep your kids happy and energized with these snack tips:
- Bring Familiar Favorites : Pack snacks your kids love, like crackers, fruit snacks, or granola bars. Avoid sugary treats that can cause energy spikes and crashes.
- Why It Works : Familiar snacks provide comfort and prevent hunger-induced tantrums.
- Infographic Idea : Design a “Kid-Friendly Snack Ideas for Flights” chart with images of snacks divided into categories (e.g., fruits, proteins, carbs).
- Try New Treats : Surprise your kids with a special treat they’ve never tried before—it’ll keep them occupied while they explore the new flavors.
- Why It Works : Novelty captures attention and creates excitement.
- Example Treats : Mini muffins, rice cakes with nut butter, or freeze-dried fruit.
- Hydration is Key : Bring refillable water bottles to keep everyone hydrated. For younger kids, consider spill-proof sippy cups.
- Why It Works : Staying hydrated prevents headaches, fatigue, and crankiness.
- Visual Suggestion : Include a photo of a reusable water bottle with a label that says, “Stay Hydrated!”
Pro Tip : Avoid messy snacks like chips or jelly sandwiches—opt for no-spill options like cheese sticks or baby carrots.
5. Encourage Movement and Stretching
Sitting still for hours can be tough for kids. Encourage movement to prevent restlessness:
- In-Seat Exercises : Teach your kids simple stretches they can do in their seats, like reaching for their toes or rolling their shoulders.
- Why It Works : Stretching improves circulation and reduces stiffness.
- Infographic Idea : Create a “Stretching Routine for Kids on Flights” chart with illustrations of each stretch.
- Aisle Walks : Take breaks to walk up and down the aisle (if safe and allowed).
- Why It Works : Walking helps burn off excess energy and prevents cabin fever.
- Visual Suggestion : Include a photo of a family walking down the airplane aisle.
- Footrest Games : Play “airplane foot soccer” by kicking a soft ball or stuffed animal under the seat.
- Why It Works : Physical play releases pent-up energy in a controlled way.
- Step-by-Step Guide : Provide instructions for setting up the game, with photos of the setup.
Personal Anecdote : On a recent flight, I turned our row into a “mini dance party” by playing a quiet playlist and doing silly seated dances with my kids. It was a hit!
6. Create a Comfort Zone
Make the airplane seat feel cozy and familiar:
- Favorite Blanket or Stuffed Animal : Bring comfort items from home to help your child feel secure.
- Why It Works : Familiar items provide emotional comfort and reduce anxiety.
- Visual Suggestion : Include a photo of a child snuggling with a blanket and stuffed animal.
- Neck Pillows and Eye Masks : Help your kids relax and even nap during the flight.
- Why It Works : Comfort accessories promote relaxation and better sleep.
- Infographic Idea : Create a “Best Travel Accessories for Kids” chart with images of neck pillows, eye masks, and headphones.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones : Block out engine noise and create a calmer environment.
- Why It Works : Noise-canceling headphones reduce sensory overload and improve focus.
- Product Recommendations : Include photos and links to kid-friendly headphones like Puro Sound Labs or LilGadgets.
Pro Tip : Dress your kids in comfy clothes and bring layers in case the cabin temperature fluctuates.
7. Involve Them in the Journey
Turn the flight into an adventure by involving your kids in the process:
- Window Seat Fun : If possible, book a window seat for your child so they can watch the clouds, landscapes, and takeoff/landing.
- Why It Works : Window views provide endless entertainment and spark curiosity.
- Visual Suggestion : Include a photo of a child looking out the airplane window with a caption like, “Window seats = endless entertainment!”
- Flight Attendant Interaction : Encourage polite interactions with the flight crew—it’s exciting for kids to meet new people.
- Why It Works : Social interaction breaks monotony and builds confidence.
- Personal Anecdote : Share a story about how your child bonded with a flight attendant over a shared love of airplanes.
- Map Tracking : Use the in-flight map to teach older kids about geography and time zones.
- Why It Works : Learning about the world fosters curiosity and engagement.
- Fun Idea : Bring a small globe or map and let your kids track the flight path.
8. Prepare for Meltdowns (Because They Happen!)
Even with the best planning, meltdowns can occur. Be ready with these strategies:
- Stay Calm : Your calm demeanor will help de-escalate the situation.
- Why It Works : Kids mirror your emotions—if you stay calm, they’re more likely to calm down too.
- Visual Suggestion : Include a calming image, like a serene sky, with the text, “Stay Calm and Carry On.”
- Distraction Tactics : Use a surprise toy, snack, or story to redirect their attention.
- Why It Works : Distractions shift focus away from negative emotions.
- Infographic Idea : Create a “Meltdown Survival Kit” chart with images of items like bubbles, fidget toys, and snacks.
- Take a Break : If possible, step into the galley area (with permission) to give your child a change of scenery.
- Why It Works : A change of environment can reset mood and energy levels.
Personal Anecdote : Once, my toddler had a meltdown mid-flight. I pulled out a small flashlight and let her “inspect” the seat for “hidden treasures.” It worked like magic!
Conclusion
Long flights with kids don’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation, creativity, and patience, you can turn the journey into a memorable (and even fun!) part of your vacation. From screen-free activities to comfort items and snacks, these tips will help you keep your kids entertained and happy during the flight.
What’s your go-to trick for keeping kids entertained on long flights? Share your tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!