Travelling with kids can be a challenge, and long-haul flights are often the most daunting part of the journey. Between keeping your little ones entertained, comfortable, and calm for hours on end, the thought of a long flight can be overwhelming. But with a little preparation and the right mindset, you can make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your children. Here are some practical tips to help you survive long flights with kids and arrive at your destination feeling a lot less stressed.

1. Prepare for the Flight in Advance

The more prepared you are, the smoother your flight will go. Start preparing well ahead of time to reduce the likelihood of things going wrong on the day of your flight.

• Booking Seats: If possible, book seats in advance and request any special accommodations, such as bassinet seats for babies or extra legroom for more space. Some airlines also offer priority boarding for families, which can give you extra time to settle in before the plane fills up.
• Check the Time: Try to plan your flight around your child’s natural sleep schedule. If your kids are likely to sleep during the flight, aim for an overnight or evening flight. If you’re flying during the day, be prepared with activities to keep them engaged.
• Health Considerations: If your child has any specific health needs, such as medication or allergies, bring any necessary prescriptions or snacks. Also, don’t forget motion sickness tablets if your child is prone to nausea.

2. Pack Smart and Be Prepared

The key to surviving a long flight with kids is to come prepared with everything you might need during the journey. Create a well-stocked carry-on bag with essential items that will keep your child comfortable and entertained.

• Snacks and Drinks: Pack a variety of your child’s favourite snacks to keep them satisfied and distracted. Choose items that are easy to eat and won’t create a mess—think granola bars, fruit slices, and crackers. Don’t forget to bring an empty bottle to refill once you’re past security.
• Entertainment: Bring along a selection of activities that will keep your kids engaged. Tablet games, colouring books, puzzles, and stickers are all great options. Don’t forget headphones for watching movies or listening to music.
• Comfort Items: Bring a familiar comfort item like a blanket, stuffed animal, or favourite toy to help them feel safe and relaxed. If your child still naps, a travel pillow and blanket will make them more comfortable.
• Clothing: Layer your child’s clothing so you can adjust to changing cabin temperatures. It’s a good idea to pack a spare set of clothes for both you and your child in case of spills or accidents.

3. Create a Routine and Stick to It

Flying with kids often means adjusting to a completely different environment, and keeping a sense of routine can make the experience less stressful for everyone.

• Take Breaks: Encourage your kids to stretch their legs and walk up and down the aisle every so often. This will help them burn off some energy and break up the monotony. You can also use the time to take them to the restroom, which can help with any discomfort from sitting still for too long.
• Plan for Quiet Time: When you’re not trying to keep your kids entertained, schedule some quiet time. Reading a book or listening to calming music can help your child relax. If your child is old enough, take a nap together to recharge for the second part of the flight.

4. Keep Your Kids Comfortable

Comfort is key to keeping kids happy on a long flight. A few simple strategies can make all the difference in ensuring your children are as comfortable as possible.

• Ear Pressure Relief: The pressure changes in an airplane can be uncomfortable for children, especially during takeoff and landing. Encourage your kids to chew gum, drink from a bottle, or suck on a lollipop to help with ear discomfort. If you have a baby, try breastfeeding or using a pacifier during takeoff and landing.
• Hydration: Keep your kids hydrated, as the dry air inside an airplane can lead to dehydration, which may cause irritability. Water, milk, or juice (in appropriate quantities) are the best options. Avoid sugary drinks or soda, as they may make your kids hyperactive.
• Seat Setup: If your child is small enough, request a bassinet from the airline for extra comfort. If not, make sure they have plenty of space to spread out and feel relaxed. Bring a blanket or pillow for extra comfort, and make sure they have a window view or an aisle seat if they need to move around more often.

5. Stay Calm and Positive

Your attitude as a parent can have a huge impact on your child’s behaviour during the flight. Kids often pick up on their parents’ emotions, so staying calm and positive will help to keep everyone’s spirits up.

• Stay Flexible: Sometimes, despite all the planning, things don’t go according to schedule. Your child may get restless, or the flight might be delayed. Keep a flexible mindset, and remember that it’s all part of the adventure. Take deep breaths, smile, and reassure your kids that everything is okay.
• Avoid Bribery: While offering rewards for good behaviour can be effective in the short term, try not to over-rely on bribery. Encourage positive behaviour by focusing on praise and appreciation, rather than constantly promising rewards.
• Engage and Connect: If your child starts feeling anxious or fidgety, engage them in conversation, play games, or sing songs. Sometimes, keeping them occupied with simple activities like a scavenger hunt for things on the plane can take their mind off discomfort.

6. Plan for Sleep

Sleep is crucial, especially on long flights. Creating a sleep-friendly environment for your child can make the journey much more manageable.

• Bring Sleep Aids: If your child has a favourite bedtime story or calming playlist, bring it along to help them wind down. Some children may also benefit from sleeping masks or soft music to block out the noise of the plane.
• Routine: Try to stick to your usual bedtime routine as much as possible, such as reading a book or playing a quiet game before bed. This will help signal to your child that it’s time to rest, making it easier for them to fall asleep.
• Sleep in Shifts: If you’re travelling with a partner or another adult, consider sleeping in shifts so that one of you can keep watch over the kids while the other rests. This will ensure that both adults have a chance to sleep and recharge.

7. Keep an Eye on Your Child’s Needs

Finally, remember that kids often express discomfort in different ways. Keep an eye on your child’s mood and try to anticipate their needs before they become frustrated. Regularly check if they’re thirsty, hungry, tired, or need the bathroom. Small adjustments can go a long way in ensuring a smooth flight.

Conclusion

Long flights with kids can be challenging, but with the right strategies, preparation, and mindset, you can make the experience much more enjoyable for everyone. The key is to stay organised, keep your children comfortable, and stay calm. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, and with a little patience and flexibility, you’ll make it through with smiles all around. Safe travels!