Keeping children occupied on a flight may seem daunting but a little planning makes such a difference. We’ve pulled together our top tips for keeping the kids entertained on short and long-haul flights. From packing a ‘magic bag’ to surprising them with new toys and playing games. Plenty of ideas to make the journey as enjoyable as possible for the whole family. So buckle up and get ready for a stress-free and (hopefully) fun-filled flight!
Top tips for flying with children
- Pack a ‘magic bag’
- Surprise them with new toys
- Book a window seat
- Plenty of snacks
- Schedule reading time
- Get creative with art projects
- Play card games
- Make it cosy
- Use iPads as a last resort
- Explore a wide range of toys
1. Pack a ‘magic bag’
When it comes to keeping children entertained on planes, a “magic bag” is a game-changer! You can fill each with a variety of toys, games, and art sets that will keep them engaged throughout the flight. To make it even more exciting, wrap each item individually and time when the parcel can be opened, such as “open one hour into the flight.” This will add an element of surprise and definitely prolong the fun.
2. Surprise them with new toys
A flight is an excellent time to surprise the kids with a new toy. Whether you include it in their magic bag or keep it hidden until after takeoff, new toys will capture their attention and keep them entertained for much longer than an existing toy. Consider choosing gifts that are compact and easy to play with on a plane like puzzles, travel-sized games and fidget toys. For long-haul flights, you could even introduce a second toy mid-flight to maintain that excitement!
3. Book a window seat
Pre-booking a window seat can make the flying experience even more magical for children. Encourage them to look at the clouds, spot interesting shapes, and marvel at the views during takeoff and landing. It’s a great way to provide them with that sense of adventure and wonder as well as keeping them engaged and entertained.
4. Pack plenty of snacks
Snacks are a lifesaver when it comes to keeping kids happy and content during a flight. Pack a variety of familiar and healthy snacks, along with a few treats to make the journey extra special. Opt for snacks that take longer to eat, such as dried fruit, raisins, or cheese strings. Having a good supply of snacks for in-between meal times will not only keep hunger at bay but also provide a great distraction.
5. Schedule reading time
Aeroplanes provide the perfect opportunity to catch up on some reading. Pack a new book or two, that are relevant to your children’s ages and interests. Whether it’s a storybook, a fun educational book like FACTopia!, or an interactive book like the Dinosaur Magnetic Playbook reading will transport your child to another world and keep them occupied during the flight.
6. Get creative with art projects
While painting on a flight might not be the best idea (entertaining as it is), there are plenty of mess-free options that can keep children entertained like Glow Art or doodling their own crossbody bag. Consider bringing along activities which allow the kids to express their creativity without the mess. Colouring books, paper and clever sets like Amazing Magic Pens are a great way to unleash their creative side.
7. Play card games
Card games are a superb way to keep kids busy and the whole family can join in. They are portable, require minimal space, and are lots of fun. Bring a deck of playing cards and enjoy a few rounds of classic card games like Hand Jive or Smartass. For a twist on traditional card games, consider Awful Auntie’s Wonderfully Witty Word Games or the Fifty Greatest Card Tricks, to add a touch of humour.
8. Make it cosy
Create a cosy and comfortable environment by pack snuggly clothes, pillows and blankets. Taking a favourite snuggly toy will also help them relax. If it’s a long-haul flight, it might be they can change into their pyjamas and follow a usual bedtime routine. Reading a bedtime story can also help them relax and maintain a sense of normality while in the air.
9. Use iPads as a last resort
While it’s important to limit screen time, sometimes an iPad can be a saving grace on a long flight! Before you leave home, load it up with age-appropriate apps, movies, and games – just in case you need it. Remember to bring headphones as well or turn the sound off so fellow passengers can enjoy a peaceful flight. Use the iPad or a phone as a last resort when all other entertainment options have been exhausted.
10. Explore a wide range of toys
When it comes to keeping kids entertained on aeroplanes, having a good selection of toys is essential. At Wicked Uncle, we offer a carefully curated selection of fun, unusual, and different presents for children. We test every potential gift before it goes on the website to make sure it meets our quality standards and has that fun entertainment value.
In conclusion, flying with children can be fun and stress-free with that all-important planning. Just remember to pack a magic bag, surprise them with new toys and pack plenty of snacks!
For more toys and games to keep the kids entertained, check out the wicked range on our website!
Why did the aeroplane get sent to its room? Bad altitude!
