As a father of a 7-year-old, I’ve learned that traveling with kids—especially on long flights—requires a bit more preparation and a whole lot of patience. While the thought of being trapped in a metal tube for hours on end with a restless child can be daunting, there are ways to make the journey smoother for both you and your little one. Here are some of the tips I’ve picked up over the years for taking a long flight with a small child.
Choose the Right Flight Times
One of the best decisions you can make when booking a long flight with a child is to consider the timing. If possible, try to book an overnight flight that aligns with your child’s natural sleep schedule. We’ve found that flying during the night increases the chance of our son sleeping through a good portion of the trip. A well-rested child (and parent) can make a world of difference once you land.
Prepare for Takeoff and Landing
Takeoff and landing can be tough for small children because of the change in cabin pressure. One trick we’ve always relied on is bringing something for our son to suck on or chew during these moments. For babies, a bottle or pacifier can help, while older kids can use chewing gum or drink water. Swallowing helps to relieve the pressure in their ears, which can make the experience more comfortable for everyone involved.
Snacks, Snacks, Snacks
Airline meals can be hit or miss, and even when they’re good, they don’t always cater to picky eaters. I always pack a variety of our son’s favorite snacks to keep him happy and full during the flight. It’s also helpful to have snacks on hand for those in-between meal times or when the food service is slower than expected. Just be mindful of any restrictions regarding food when passing through customs at your destination.
Entertainment is Key
Long flights can be boring for adults, let alone kids. Make sure you’ve got plenty of entertainment options ready to go. In addition to the in-flight entertainment system (which is a lifesaver), we always bring a tablet loaded with our son’s favorite movies, games, and shows. Headphones are a must for this. I also pack a small bag of activities—coloring books, crayons, stickers, and a few small toys—to help keep him busy when screen time becomes too much.
Comfort is Crucial
Airplane seats aren’t the most comfortable for adults, and they’re even less so for kids. To make the flight more comfortable, we always bring along a small travel pillow and blanket. Layers are also important—airplanes can get chilly, so having a jacket or extra sweater on hand helps. I’ve also found that letting our son wear his comfiest clothes or even pajamas makes it easier for him to relax and sleep during the flight.
Get Up and Move
On a long flight, kids will inevitably get restless. It’s important to allow them to stretch their legs and move around when it’s safe to do so. Every couple of hours, we take a quick walk up and down the aisle, which helps prevent them from feeling cooped up and antsy. We try to time these walks during less busy moments of the flight, so we’re not in the way of the crew or other passengers.
Keep Hydrated
The dry cabin air can make anyone feel dehydrated, especially kids who might not realize they need to drink water. We always make sure to bring a refillable water bottle, which the flight attendants are usually happy to top up. Staying hydrated can help prevent headaches and keep your child feeling their best during the flight.
Plan for the Unexpected
No matter how well-prepared you are, things don’t always go as planned. Flights can be delayed, meals might not be what your child likes, or they might have trouble sleeping. Pack extra of everything—snacks, clothes, diapers (if needed), and patience. I always pack an extra change of clothes for both our son and ourselves in case of spills or accidents. This has saved us more than once!
Involve Your Child in the Process
I’ve found that involving our son in the journey makes him feel more excited and less anxious about the flight. Whether it’s letting him pack a small backpack with his favorite toys or showing him our route on the in-flight map, giving him a role in the trip helps him feel more engaged. He’s even taken to being our “official timekeeper” during flights, counting down the hours until we land.
Stay Calm and Flexible
Perhaps the most important tip of all: stay calm and flexible. Kids pick up on our stress, and staying relaxed can help keep the mood light. There will be moments of frustration, but a positive attitude goes a long way. If your child has a meltdown (and it happens!), just take a deep breath, handle it as best you can, and move on. Other parents have been there too, and most passengers are more understanding than you might think.
Final Thoughts
Flying with a small child doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. With a bit of planning and the right mindset, you can turn a long flight into a manageable, and even enjoyable, experience. By keeping your child comfortable, entertained, and engaged, you’ll not only survive the flight—you might just enjoy the journey. And who knows? Your child may end up loving the adventure of air travel as much as you do.