How to Keep Your Kids Entertained on Long Flights

Long flights can be a challenge when traveling with kids, as they can get restless and bored easily. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips on how to keep your kids entertained on a long flight, to make the journey more enjoyable for everyone.

The challenge of flying with kids

Flying with kids can be a challenging and lengthy experience for both parents and children.

Firstly, the confined space of an airplane can make it difficult for kids to move around freely and burn off their energy. Sitting in one place for an extended period can lead to restlessness and boredom, which can be particularly challenging for young children. Additionally, the change in routine and unfamiliar surroundings can cause anxiety and discomfort for kids, making it harder for them to settle down and relax during the flight. Our kids are usually really excited when traveling which means they have a LOT of energy when flying.

Moreover, the limited entertainment options provided on flights may not always cater to the interests and preferences of children, leaving them feeling frustrated and unengaged.

For us as parents, the responsibility of managing our children’s needs and keeping them occupied throughout the flight can be mentally and physically exhausting. The combination of these factors can make the flying experience feel longer and more challenging for both parents and kids alike so it’s good to have some ideas and tactics to entertain your kids.

Our best tips for keeping kids entertained on flights

Here are our 10 best tips for how you can keep your kids entertained on long flights (or just those that feel long):

1. Set realistic expectations: Before the flight, set realistic expectations with your kids regarding the flight and explain to them the process of flying, what they can expect, and what they should do if they are feeling uncomfortable or scared. We believe that this part is extremely important for a successful experience on both parts.
2. Pack activities and games: Pack a variety of activities and games that will keep your kids entertained, such as coloring books, puzzles, and small toys. Or try this summer bingo printable. You can also pack electronic devices such as tablets and smartphones with educational games, movies and books on them.
3. Bring snacks and drinks: Pack some healthy snacks and drinks for your kids to enjoy during the flight. This will keep them from getting hungry and will also give them something to do during the flight.
4. Take advantage of in-flight entertainment: Most long-haul flights offer in-flight entertainment, such as movies, TV shows, and games. Take advantage of this to keep your kids entertained and occupied. Remember a set of kid sized head phones.
5. Encourage movement: Encourage your kids to move around and stretch their legs during the flight. This will help prevent blood clots and will also help them release some energy.
6. Bring a neck pillow and blanket: A neck pillow and blanket can help make your kids more comfortable during the flight and make it easier for them to sleep. Many airlines also offer pillows and blankets that you can borrow. Just ask the personnel!
7. Be prepared for delays: Sometimes flights can experience delays, so be prepared for this possibility by bringing some extra activities and snacks for your kids.
8. Keep your kids busy during boarding and deplaning: Keep your kids busy during boarding and deplaning by giving them a task such as helping you with your carry-on luggage or counting the number of people getting on the plane.
9. Bring some small toys or games that are easy to pack and play: Bring small items such as playing cards, magnetic games, or travel board games that are easy to pack and play.
10. Let them express themselves: Let your kids express themselves by allowing them to bring their favorite toy or stuffed animal, this will make them feel more comfortable and secure during the flight.

These are some of our best tips for keeping your kids entertained on a long flight. Make sure you know how to handle the cabin pressure to keep their ears pain free, how to handle jet lag after a long haul flight with kids and how to kill time at the airport when traveling with kids. Also, check out our tips to get children to sleep on an airplane. Time flies on a plane if the kids are sleeping!

Final words

By following these tips, you can keep your kids entertained and comfortable during long flights, making the journey more enjoyable for everyone. Remember to pack activities and games, bring snacks and drinks, take advantage of in-flight entertainment, encourage movement, bring a neck pillow and blanket, be prepared for delays, keep your kids busy during boarding and deplaning, bring some small toys or games, let them express themselves and set realistic expectations. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can make long flights more manageable and even enjoyable with kids.