Let’s guess… You were always that type of person who considered flying your favourite part of any trip, where you got excited about picking a window seat, opening your snacks and settling in with a movie you were saving.
But then you became that parent. One baby juggling snacks, another dropping toys, someone crying and you finally got frustrated from flying with kids.
So to enjoy those flights just like in the old days, this article shares 10 tips on keeping your kids happy and engaged on planes, which has made air trips a lot easier and even funnier for most parents.
1. Pack Entertainment Based on Your Child’s Age
Here are the best activities that you can make while flying with kids based on the age groups:
| Age Group | Best Activities | Why They Work |
| 2-4 years | Sticker books, board books, small toys | Simple, hands-on, short attention span activities |
| 5-7 years | Coloring books, activity books, small puzzles | Longer focus, creative outlets |
| 8-12 years | Books, travel games, sudoku, crosswords | Independent activities, mental challenges |
Pack activities in order of when you’ll use them. Put favorite comfort items on top for takeoff, new surprises in the middle for when boredom hits, and familiar activities at the bottom.
New toys or books your child hasn’t seen create excitement. Buy a few small items specifically for the flight and don’t show them until you’re on the plane.
Avoid toys with small pieces that roll away easily. Crayons, tiny figurines, and loose game pieces disappear under seats and cause frustration.
Window clings work well for younger children. They stick to tray tables and windows, can be rearranged repeatedly, and create zero mess.
2. Use Screen Time Strategically
Digital devices are valuable tools that you can use when flying with kids, but this doesn’t mean that you should hand them immediately after take-off.
Instead, here is what you can do:
| Screen Time Strategy | When to Use | Purpose |
| Save for mid-flight | After first hour | Prevents burnout, saves for difficult moments |
| Rotate content types | Every 30–45 minutes | Maintains interest longer |
| Mix educational and fun | Throughout flight | Balance entertainment with learning |
It’s recommended to download the content before flight, because the WIFI on airplanes not only is expensive and slow… but often unreliable. So don’t depend on streaming.
A few extra tips to keep in mind:
- Bring headphones that fit properly for your child. Adult headphones often slide off kids’ head and can create discomfort
- Power banks and battery packs are necessary for longer flights, because devices die faster when you have downloaded video content.
- When planning screen time, consider the time of day you are flying. Evening flights often work better with calm, quieter content, and morning flights can handle more active or energetic shows.
3. Handle Takeoff and Landing Fears
During the takeoff and landing, children often feel scared and uncomfortable because of the engine noises, movement and sensation which creates anxiety.
So here’s what you can do to help them calm down:
| Fear Type | Solution | How It Helps |
| Loud engine noise | Noise-canceling headphones or music | Reduces overwhelming sound |
| Physical sensation | Explain what’s happening beforehand | Knowledge reduces fear |
| Ear pressure pain | Gum, lollipops, or drinks during ascent/descent | Relieves physical discomfort |
If you are flying with kids who are old enough to understand, it’s a good idea to talk with them before boarding. You can explain that planes are safe, the noises are normal, and the ear pressure will pass quickly.
Distracting them from focusing on their fear is a great thing to do. You can start a game, ask questions, or have them look for specific things outside the window.
When it comes to younger kids such as toddlers, it’s best to hold them on your lap during takeoff, because physical comfort reduces anxiety a lot.
4. Keep Them Moving When Possible
Walk the aisle when the seatbelt sign is off because even five minutes of walking helps release pent-up energy.
| Movement Activity | When to Do It | Duration |
| Aisle walks | Every 60–90 minutes | 5–10 minutes |
| Stretches in seat | Anytime during cruise | 2–3 minutes |
| Bathroom breaks | Regular intervals | As needed |
You can teach your kids some simple stretches they can do in their seats, to help their muscles feel more relieved and get rid of that tension of flying.
5. Your Snack Strategy
Hunger makes children irritable and difficult to manage and regular snacks maintain mood and provide activities.
So, here’s your “snack strategy”:
| Snack Timing | Type of Snack | Purpose |
| Every 45–60 minutes | Small portions | Prevents hunger, provides distraction |
| During difficult moments | Special treats | Redirects focus, improves mood |
| Takeoff/landing | Gum or chewy snacks | Helps with ear pressure |
Make sure to also bring empty water bottles and fill them after security, as staying hydrated prevents headaches and reduces crankiness.
6. Use Books and Audiobooks Effectively
Books provide screen-free entertainment that works well for many children when traveling with children.
| Book Type | Best Age | Flight Length |
| Board books | 1-3 years | Any length |
| Picture books | 3-6 years | Short flights (under 3 hours) |
| Chapter books | 7+ years | Long flights (3+ hours) |
| Audiobooks | 5+ years | Any length |
7. Manage Sensory Needs
Some children struggle with sensory aspects of flying, as engine noise, tight spaces, and constant stimulation often overwhelms them.
Here’s what you can do to address these challenges:
| Sensory Challenge | Solution | Why It Works |
| Loud cabin noise | Noise-canceling headphones | Reduces auditory overload |
| Tight space | Aisle seat, frequent breaks | Provides more movement freedom |
| Visual overstimulation | Eye mask, calming activities | Allows mental breaks |
| Physical discomfort | Blanket, pillow, comfortable clothes | Increases overall comfort |
8. Teach Airplane Etiquette Early
Children who understand expectations behave better. Teach simple airplane etiquette before and during flights.
Basic rules to explain:
- Use quiet voices
- Keep hands to yourself
- Don’t kick seats
- Stay in your seat when the seatbelt sign is on
- Ask before standing or moving around
9. Prepare for Sleep on Longer Flights
Some flights require sleep management, especially when traveling across time zones or on evening flights.
Here are some things to prepare for when flying with kids:
- Stick to regular bedtime routines as much as possible. If you normally read a story before bed, read one on the plane.
- Make sure to dress your children in comfortable pajama clothes for evening flights.
- Bring small pillows or neck pillows to improve comfort, because airplane seats are not designed for sleeping.
- Avoid sugar and caffeine before sleep time. Stick to protein and complex carbs if your child needs an evening snack.
10. Build a Pre-Flight Routine
Preparation prevents many problems. Establish routines that work for your family.
One week before:
- Download content to devices
- Buy or gather new activities
- Check weather at destination for packing
- Discuss the flight with children
Night before:
- Charge all devices fully
- Pack snacks in individual portions
- Prep activity bags
- Lay out travel clothes
Day of:
- Feed children a good meal before airport
- Bathroom stop before security
- Let kids burn energy at the gate
- Review airplane behavior expectations
| Pre-Flight Task | When to Do It | Why It Matters |
| Device downloads | 2-3 days before | Ensures content is ready |
| Activity bag prep | Night before | Reduces morning stress |
| Airport meal | Before security | Prevents hunger during flight |
Consistent routines help children know what to expect. Familiar patterns reduce anxiety about flying with kids.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flying with Kids
What’s the best way to keep a toddler entertained on a plane?
To keep a toddler entertained on a flight, it’s best to switch between sticker books, small toys, snacks, and short screen time every 20-30 minutes. Especially toddlers, they get bored fast, so change activities often.
How do I handle my child’s fear of flying?
The best way to handle your child’s fear of flying, is to tell them what will happen before the flight in simple words. During the flight, hold younger kids, distract them with games, and stay calm yourself.
Should I let my kids use screens the whole flight?
No, mix screen time with other activities to keep kids interested. Save screens for when other options don’t work or for long parts of the flight.
