The thought of being trapped with a screaming child on an airplane is enough to keep even the most avid travelers on the ground. For others, it drives them to play Polly Pocket or to speak in an unnaturally high and sweet voice for hours on end. To spare you from this, we’ve come up with ideas that will help keep everyone sane on the plane.
Just like kids, parents come in all types of personalities—the planner and the non-planner, laid-back,and uptight, etc. We’ve met them and possibly been them all. Pick what fits you and your child’s personality the best, noting that many things on this list are geared towards younger children. Once kids hit six, they will more readily play and read on their own. Electronics are key—don’t miss the earphone recommendations at the end of the post!
1. Presents: Young children love presents. Keep them occupied on long flights by wrapping everything in your carry-on bag—small toys like dolls or cars, or even treats like jelly beans and candy will work. They’ll love unwrapping each item and it keeps them busy for long periods of time.
2. Eating: This is one of our main sources of entertainment. Think small, non-messy snacks that take a long time to consume. Then pack them in small containers to extend consumption time. Use what you know they like, as well as new things. Ideas: Goldfish, Pretzel Stix, shredded carrots, raisins, Trix (never consumed in my house, but a perfect treat to busy my toddler for an hour on this last flight).
3. Doctor’s Kit: Pack a kid-friendly doctor’s kit with a doll for kids to explore. Load it with tons of band-aids, tape, and gauze to peel, pull and wrap for hours.
4. Fun Placemats: Print out drawings from the web and let them color their own placemats with icons they like from Disney or a favorite book. Bring tape so it stays stable on their tray table.
5. Photos: My kids love photographs. Before the trip, put together small albums for them to peruse with shots of friends or family you’re going to see while away.
6. Stretch and Wiggle Game: Derived from a book called “From Head to Toe,” see how many body parts you can turn, wiggle or stretch.
7. Books: There are a huge variety of children’s books written about almost every destination. Before arrival the interest level might not be as high as you’d like, but one you’re there and afterwards, kids get really excited to see some of the sights from their trip. Check out our Pre-trip Reading post for ideas.
8. Talk About Planes: Look at pictures of planes the night before leaving and read stories about transportation. Not only will this get them excited about the experience, but you can also use this as an opportunity to discuss behavior expectations while flying.
9. Comfort Factor: Pack their favorite pajamas or most comfortable outfits, so they can easily sleep during long flights. Also, don’t forget a change of clothes in case they spill or have an accident. There’s nothing worse than sitting in wet clothes. I always pack a change for me as well. Also, don’t forget to grab a few extra pacifiers, special blankets, etc. just in case one gets dirty or lost. This may sound simple, but it can be horrible when these “precious” items get lost or forgotten.
10. MapQuest: Print out a map of your destination from the web and bring highlighters to let them map the route over land or across the ocean. For the return flight, try to keep receipts, maps, ticket stubs, menus, etc. so to create a scrapbook on the plane ride home.
11. Arts and Crafts: Of course this varies with age, but here are some toys that can span a large age range. Stickers and Sticker Mosaics (appeals to 2 and 10 year old alike), Wikki Stixs, Pipe Cleaners, and Scratch and Sketch books. Check out more ideas on my Favorite Travel Toy list.
