Tag: Flying

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Traveling with kids can be an adventure, but keeping them entertained on a long flight? That’s a whole other challenge! If you are flying with a baby, toddler, or school-aged child, having a few tricks up your sleeve can make all the difference.

I have travelled with my kids since they were 3 months old and I used to worry about how to keep them entertained. The hardest age is between 1 to 3 years old when they are always moving. Also, one thing I learned is to not overpack toys or activities, kids will play with anything in the plane like an empty water bottle or just people watch.

You can find on my Amazon Store my favourite travel products for each age

Here’s an age-by-age guide to help you keep your little ones engaged during those hours in the sky.

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Infants (6-12 months): Focus on Comfort

At this stage, your baby doesn’t need much in the way of “entertainment,” but you can still make sure they’re comfortable and content. Simple sensory toys or soft teething rings are great for keeping them calm. Here are a few essentials:

-Teething rings for soothing gums.

-Soft sensory toys to keep their hands busy.

-Pacifiers or comfort blankets for added security.

-Interactive soft books with textures they can explore.

Tip: Don’t worry about overstimulation—comfort is key for infants on flights!

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Toddlers (1-3 years): Keep It Simple and Engaging

Toddlers are a ball of energy, and keeping them entertained can feel like a full-time job! At this stage, it’s all about hands-on activities that grab their attention, plus a little screen time for when they need a break.

-Interactive books with flaps and textures.

-Stickers and a blank notepad – endless fun!

-Small puzzles or shape-sorting toys.

-Favorite snacks for distraction and a bit of fun.

-Tablet with short videos or toddler-friendly apps (limit screen time, of course).

Tip: Rotate activities every 15-20 minutes to keep your toddler engaged.

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Preschoolers (3-5 years): Hands-on Fun

Preschoolers are a bit more independent and can enjoy activities that require more focus. Here’s what to pack:

-Travel-sized games like magnetic puzzles or tic-tac-toe.

-Coloring books and washable markers or crayons.

-Activity packs with word searches or matching games.

-Educational games or shows on a tablet – perfect for longer flights.

Tip: Introduce new toys or activities during the flight to keep things exciting!

My free pre-travel checklist is the list I use for every trip. You can get it here.

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School-aged Kids (5+ years): Independent Play

Older kids are more likely to entertain themselves, but a few well-chosen activities can help prevent boredom.

-Card games like Uno or Go Fish.

-Journals or notebooks where they can write about their trip.

-Scavenger hunt lists to keep them engaged during the flight.

-Tablet with movies, books, or games for those long stretches.

Tip: Encourage them to keep a travel journal to record their adventures and what they’re excited to see at the destination.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Have you ever boarded a plane with your kids, ready for takeoff, only to be stuck on the tarmac for what feels like an eternity? If you have traveled with kids, you know this can turn into a mini-crisis real fast.

One moment, everyone is excited about the adventure ahead, and the next, you are trying to keep your little ones entertained in a cramped space, with no sign of takeoff.

View my post on Instagram

I have been there too—unprepared, tired, and wishing I had thought ahead. After a few tough lessons, I have learned what really helps when the plane just won’t leave the runway. Here are my top tips to help parents survive those dreaded tarmac delays:

1. Pack Extra Snacks

It sounds simple, but you would be surprised how quickly kids can get hungry. And when the plane is not moving, their patience runs thin! Pack a variety of easy-to-eat, mess-free snacks like crackers, fruit pouches, or granola bars. Having a mix will help keep them distracted, and you won’t have to rely on the airline for food that may not come right away.

2. Portable Entertainment is Key

When electronics fail or boredom hits, be ready with offline games or apps already downloaded to your phone or tablet. But do not rely only on screens—have some non-digital activities like coloring books, small toys, or sticker sets to keep them occupied. Sometimes, the novelty of something physical can make all the difference.

3. Bring Comfort Items

Kids tend to get antsy when they are in unfamiliar places, and a delay on the plane is no exception. Bring along something that makes them feel at ease, like their favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or even a small pillow. A little bit of home can go a long way in helping them stay calm.

4. Get the Wiggles Out Before Boarding

If you have time before you board, let the kids walk around the terminal, stretch their legs, or even do some fun airport exercises! It helps burn off extra energy so they aren’t as restless when you are all confined to the airplane seats.

5. Do Not Forget Wipes and Hand Sanitizer

You will want these essentials close by, especially when the restrooms aren’t accessible during the delay. Wet wipes are great for quick clean-ups, and hand sanitizer is a must for keeping germs at bay. Plus, it is an easy way to freshen up when you are stuck in one spot for too long.

6. Patience and Positivity

This might be the hardest one to practice, but staying calm and positive really helps! Kids often reflect our emotions, so if you are calm and keeping things light, they are more likely to follow suit. Bring a sense of humor to the situation, and try to make it an adventure. After all, what else can you do?

7. Pack an Emergency Kit

Be sure to have a small “emergency kit” in your carry-on. Include basics like pain relievers (for both you and the kids), band-aids, an extra diaper or two, and anything else you might need if the delay stretches longer than expected. Trust me, it is better to be over-prepared than to be stuck without something essential.

8. Bring a Water Bottle

Here is a tip I learned the hard way: many airlines will not serve water until the plane is in the air. So, make sure you fill up a reusable water bottle after security or buy a bottle before boarding. Staying hydrated is crucial for both you and your kids—especially when you are stuck waiting in a hot, stuffy plane.

What I pack for trips like this

The things I actually use are in my Amazon store: my plane travel essentials list and my 3 to 5 year old travel essentials list. And my free pre-travel checklist is the list I use before every trip: you can get it here.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Embracing the Journey with Empathy and Understanding: view on Instagram

I used to be like other passengers, getting annoyed when I saw crying kids on planes. That was before I had kids and was flying frequently. But now, as a parent, I understand how hard it is to travel with a baby or toddler. Both my kids started flying internationally when they were just three months old.

It saddens me when I see things online like “your kids shouldn’t be on a plane.” Well, if you as an adult can fly, my kids will fly too. To all the parents out there: never apologize for flying with your baby or toddler!

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Tips for Traveling with Kids

Instead, let’s focus on helping our little ones settle if they cry or have tantrums. Here are some tips to make the journey smoother for everyone:

– Settle Your Little Ones: If they start crying or have a tantrum, help them settle down. A calm walk down the aisle can work wonders.
– Be Considerate:Always keep other passengers in mind, but remember that our kids belong here just as much as they do on buses, in restaurants, or in any public space.
– Don’t Let Others Make You Feel Bad:Help your children regulate themselves, just like we would anywhere else.
– Respect Other Passengers and Crew:It’s essential to always be respectful to other passengers and the flight crew while managing our little ones. For example, ensure they don’t kick the seats.

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More Tips for Calming and Flying with Little Ones

Flying with young children can be a challenge, but with a few tried-and-true strategies, you can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Here are additional tips to help calm your little ones and ensure a smooth flight:

– Bring Comfort Items:Pack your child’s favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or toy. Familiar items can provide comfort and a sense of security.
– Snacks and Drinks: Bring a variety of snacks and drinks to keep your child satisfied. Having their favorite treats can help distract them and prevent meltdowns.
– Engage with Entertainment:Load up a tablet with their favorite movies, shows, or educational games. Don’t forget to bring headphones that fit comfortably on your child’s head.
– Interactive Activities: Pack coloring books, stickers, or small puzzles. Interactive activities can keep your child entertained and occupied for longer periods.
– Plan for Sleep: Schedule flights during your child’s naptime or bedtime if possible. Bring a neck pillow or a blanket to create a comfortable sleeping environment.
– Take Breaks:If the seatbelt sign is off and it’s safe to do so, take short walks up and down the aisle. This can help burn off energy and reduce restlessness.
– Use a Baby Carrier:For younger children, a baby carrier can be incredibly useful. It keeps your hands free and can help soothe your child by keeping them close to you.
– Stay Calm: Children often pick up on their parents’ stress. Try to stay calm and positive, even when things get tough. Your calm demeanor can help reassure your child.
– Plan Activities: Have a plan for different phases of the flight. Start with snacks, then move on to a movie, followed by a quiet activity like coloring. Having a plan can help keep your child engaged throughout the journey.
– Talk to Your Child: Explain what to expect during the flight. Sometimes knowing what’s coming next can reduce anxiety. Use simple language to describe the process from takeoff to landing.
– Practice Patience: Accept that not everything will go perfectly. Be patient with your child and yourself. A calm, understanding approach can make a big difference.

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Extra Tip for Parents

– Hydrate and Stay Comfortable: Don’t forget to take care of yourself too. Stay hydrated, bring your own snacks, and try to get some rest when possible. Your well-being is important for managing your child’s needs effectively.

What I pack for trips like this

The things I actually use are in my Amazon store: my plane travel essentials list and my 3 to 5 year old travel essentials list. And my free pre-travel checklist is the list I use before every trip: you can get it here.

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Building a Supportive Community

We need to have empathy for other parents because they don’t choose to make their child cry or have a tantrum.

What I would love is a section where I can chat and hang out with other parents, passing the time and supporting each other during a flight.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

📩✈️Flying with a baby soon? Here is my baby travel essential list from a mom who flew a lot with her babies!

✨️1. Here is what I pack in a diaper bag for a plane ride with my 8-month-old, after a lot of international travel with my kids

🔸️Feeding Essentials:
× Pack bottles and formula or a breast pump and breastfeeding cover, depending on our feeding style for the trip.
× Few baby snacks and food pouches
× Baby water bottle I can fill up at the airport after security.

Most airports allow you to bring more than 100ml of liquids for baby food.

🔸️Changing Necessities:
× Skip Hop Changing Pad with plenty of diapers and wipes, making it super easy for on-the-go changes.
× Diaper cream and small plastic bags for dirty diapers.

🔸️Change of clothes:
× I use a packing cube for extra clothes and pyjamas (under 1 year old, my kids travel in footed pyjamas, much easier for diaper changes and keep them warm)
× blankets to keep them warm and cover any spits on me

🔸️Entertainment: don’t need to pack a lot for this age.
×pacifiers if your baby uses them
× small baby toys, a teether
x and toy hanging straps to keep them secure and within reach.

🔸️Sanitation: pack hand sanitizer, tissues, pacifier/ toy wipe cleaner (I use the Aleeva Bamboo brand) to keep everything clean and germ-free.

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✨️2.How I Stay Organized:
× I use small, clear bags to organize items by category—this makes it easy to find what I need quickly without digging through the diaper bag.
× Depending on the length of the flight, I choose either a backpack for shorter trips or a duffle bag for longer journeys.

My free travel with a baby guide is the list I use for every trip. You can get it here.

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✨️3. Extra Precautions:
× I pack extra diapers and wipes in my carry-on to handle any unexpected delays.
× first aid kit with pain medication, thermometer, and an extra change of clothes for the parents as well, so we’re ready to go upon arrival without needing to unpack our main luggage.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Traveling with children can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when it comes to keeping them entertained on long flights. It’s crucial to remember that each age group has different needs and what captivates a toddler may not interest a preschooler.

Based on my experiences travelling with my daughter, who became noticeably more self-sufficient after turning 4, here are some strategies to keep your little ones content and occupied in the air:

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For Infants Under 6 Months

-Infants are generally easier to manage as they sleep a lot and are often content with basic comforts like feeding and cuddling. A few soft toys and gentle music can also help soothe them.

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For Toddlers and Young Children – here are my favorite Amazon products (affiliate)

– Bring a mix of their favorite toys and some new, exciting items to capture their attention. Small, inexpensive toys can lead to hours of fun.

-Coloring books, stickers, and puzzles are fantastic for keeping little hands busy. These activities help in focusing their energy and nurturing their creativity.

– Pre-load a tablet with child-friendly apps, educational games, and favorite movies. Ensure you have child-sized headphones to make watching and playing easier and less disruptive to other passengers. Many airplanes also offer a variety of kid-friendly in-flight entertainment options.

– Packing a selection of their favorite snacks helps keep hunger at bay and provides a distraction. Snacking itself can be a form of entertainment with little ones.

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For All Ages – here is my Amazon List (affiliate)

– Stretch and Stroll:When possible, take short walks down the aisle to stretch and change the scenery. This can be a mini adventure for young travelers but be mindful of the crew and other passengers.

– Interactive Games: Engage your child with simple games like ‘I Spy’ or ‘Simon Says’. These games are not only fun but also spark creativity and interaction.

– Story Time:Reading a beloved book or crafting new stories together can be incredibly calming and a great way to bond.

– Comfort Items: A favorite blanket or stuffed toy can be a lifesaver, providing the comfort of home in a new environment.

My free packing list is the list I use for every trip. You can get it here.

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Sometimes, the simplest activities are the most engaging. My children often find the experience of flying fascinating in itself, with people-watching becoming a favorite pastime. Observing the world from thousands of feet up in the air can be a novel experience for kids.

The key to smooth travel with children is flexibility and preparation. By having a variety of activities at your disposal, you can ensure that your young travelers are happy and the journey is enjoyable for everyone involved.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

As a parent, flying with kids always comes with a wish for smooth behavior! Avoiding tantrums and keeping fellow passengers happy is one of the goals. We have a few rules, but let’s be honest, kids will be kids 😄 Reality hits you hard sometimes, haha.

After chatting with my little frequent flyer, my 6-year-old daughter, we agreed on these airplane tips to make the journey more pleasant for everyone:

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✈️ 1. Be Mindful of Others When Walking in the Aisle

Airplane aisles are narrow, and it’s easy for kids to bump into seats or passengers. We remind our daughter to walk carefully and be aware of her surroundings. This helps prevent any accidental bumps or disruptions to other passengers.

✈️ 2. Avoid Leaning or Kicking the Seat in Front

My daughter loves to move, so constant reminders are needed to avoid leaning or kicking the seat in front. It’s important to teach kids to respect the personal space of others, especially in the confined space of an airplane.

✈️ 3. Use Your Headset for Movies or Shows

Keeping kids entertained during a flight is essential, but it’s equally important to remind them to use their headsets. This ensures that their movies or shows don’t disturb fellow passengers, maintaining a peaceful environment for everyone on board.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Flight

• Pack Snacks and Entertainment: Bring plenty of snacks and activities to keep your kids occupied during the flight. This can include coloring books, puzzles, or their favorite toys.
• Explain the Rules Ahead of Time: Before boarding, go over the airplane rules with your kids. Setting expectations can help them understand what behavior is appropriate.
• Praise Good Behavior: Positive reinforcement can go a long way. Praise your kids when they follow the rules and behave well during the flight.

What I pack for trips like this

The things I actually use are in my Amazon store: my plane travel essentials list and my 3 to 5 year old travel essentials list. And my free pre-travel checklist is the list I use before every trip: you can get it here.

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Conclusion

Flying with kids can be challenging, but with a few simple rules and some preparation, you can make the experience smoother for everyone. Remember, it’s all about being mindful of others and keeping your little ones entertained. Safe travels and happy flying!

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

✈️ Flying with a baby can be an adventure!

As someone who has travelled with my kids on their first international flight at 3 months old, here are some tips to make the journey smoother:

1. Use a baby carrier through the airport to keep your hands free. My favourite one is the @ergobaby 360, and my babies would always sleep in it.
I also use a stroller. You can either gate-check it at the plane or check it with your luggage. I’ve tried both options, and it’s up to you. My favourite travel stroller for this age is the @uppababy Cruz and the basket is large enough to carry other items. If you buy the travel bag you are insured in case of damage.
Also, make sure to get acquainted with airline policies regarding strollers and car seats. I have never used a car seat in an airplane, so it’s up to you.

2. Pack smart! Be prepared and bring extra diapers, wipes, formula if bottle feeding, and enough change of clothes for your baby! Make sure to pack extra clothes for the adults as well, as babies can have messes. Pack their favourite blankie or a cherished toy.

3. Feed and pacify your baby during takeoff and landing to keep their tiny ears happy. This can be done by nursing or bottle-feeding, and it can be a game-changer for comfort.

4. Dress smart! Layers are your friend. Plan for changing cabin temperatures by dressing your little one in easily adjustable layers. I use zippers and pyjamas at this age.

5. Entertain quietly. Bring a few small, noise-free toys to keep your baby engaged without disturbing fellow passengers. It’s all about the strategic distraction game.

Remember, you’ve got this! Stay calm, breathe, and know that the flight is just a temporary phase of the adventure. Embrace the journey with patience.❤️

What I pack for trips like this

The things I actually use are in my Amazon store: my baby travel essentials list and my feeding essentials on the go list. And my free travel with a baby guide is the list I use before every trip: you can get it here.