Making Long Haul Flights with Kids Easy!

If the idea of spending hours nestled in a metal capsule high above the ground with your children fills you with dread, consult my guide to making long-haul flights with kids more manageable.

Always include a travel pillow and blanket in your carry-on

A successful long-haul journey often depends on your child’s ability to rest. To enhance their comfort, it’s essential to equip each child with a travel pillow and blanket that are appropriately sized for their needs.

You might also consider additional items like a seat hammock designed for kids, which can support their feet and create a lying-down sensation, making it easier for them to drift off during the flight.

Remember to explain aeroplane ear

To smooth out the travel experience for your little ones, share some insights about air travel with them. One important topic is aeroplane ear, a condition that can arise when Eustachian tubes struggle to adjust to changing air pressure, causing discomfort or temporary hearing difficulties.

Understanding this phenomenon can prevent panic if they experience it mid-flight. Teach them simple techniques such as yawning during takeoff and landing or sucking on candy to help equalize ear pressure.

Pack an array of plane-safe activities

Long-haul flights imply a lengthy period of entertainment needs for your child. Packing a variety of activities that are safe and suitable for the airplane, such as coloring books, stickers, and storybooks, can be a great solution. Avoid sharp objects like pens, since they might leak due to pressure variations.

Portable gaming systems can also provide entertainment during a long flight, especially consoles like the Switch that can accommodate multiple players simultaneously.

Consider investing in quality headphones

One of the best investments for a flight with children, especially for long journeys, is a pair of over-ear headphones. These tend to offer increased comfort for extended wear, minimizing irritation for your child. Plus, the noise-canceling features help maintain a calm environment during the flight.

Curating a playlist of their favorite music, calming white noise, or engaging audiobooks to listen to through their headphones is also a smart move. Just be sure that all electronic devices are fully charged and packed in your carry-on for when you go through security.