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Someone asked me how I get my kids to sleep on a plane. We are not in the business class flat beds yet, so everything here is from economy, and the answer changes with their age.
Babies: on me, or in the bassinet
When they were babies, they slept on me or in the bassinet. You have to request the bassinet with the airline, and it is better to request it and then check with them, because they do not have enough bassinets for everyone.
Toddlers: their own seat, their head on me
Toddlers go in their own seat with their head on me. I take the window, I lean on it, and they lean on me. That is the whole setup, and it works on every flight.
Around 3 to 5: an inflatable footrest
Around 3 to 5, I used an inflatable footrest so their legs had something to rest on. I found mine on Amazon and used it on Air Canada. Not every airline allows it, and it also depends on the flight attendant, so check with your airline before you buy one. Here is how I compare airlines with kids.
Comfy clothes, every single time
We have a travel uniform: soft pants, a t-shirt, a sweater and socks, and shoes come off the moment we sit down. It is the same clothes in summer and in winter.
A blanket, or a big scarf
Bring a blanket, or a big scarf that doubles as one. Planes get cold, and a cold kid wakes up.
What I pack for sleep on the plane
The things I use are in my Amazon store: my baby and toddler sleep list, my 3 to 5 year old travel essentials and my plane travel essentials.
More for the flight: 10 airport tips parents learn too late, keeping kids entertained on long flights and jet lag with kids.
My free packing list is the list I use for every trip. You can get it here.
How old are your kids and where are you flying? Tell me on Instagram and I will give you the version for their age.