How to Entertain Kids on Long Flights: Sanity at 35,000 feet

Packing for Peace: What to Put in the Carry On

Prepping for a long flight with kids is a bit like prepping for a journey through the jungle only, instead of wild animals, you’re crossing paths with spilled apple juice, grumpy moods, and flying crayons. The right carry on bag isn’t just a suitcase; it’s your ticket to midair harmony. Dig into these categories and see how the right planning can be the difference between “Are we there yet?” and “Look what I made, Mom!”

Strategic Snacks

Hunger has a way of making even the sweetest kids extra spicy at 35000 feet. Snacks solve all sorts of problems: boredom, crankiness, and even motion sickness. But you don’t want crumbs in every crevice, so pack with purpose.

• Go for favorites: crackers, cut up fruit, string cheese, or even a surprise treat.

• Cereal in a small container lasts longer and can double as a quiet rattle for little ones.

• Use a snack organizer or stackable containers to avoid spillage.

• Don’t forget wipes for sticky fingers.

For more clever snack organization ideas, check out this ultimate carry on checklist for kids.

Cozy Clothes and Comfort Items

Planes are either way too cold or just stuffy enough to stick shirts to seats. Keep kids content and snuggle ready by bringing the right gear:

• Pack an extra set of clothes for everyone yes, even grownups. Spills happen at the worst times.

• Bring socks or slippers to keep toes warm.

• A lightweight blanket or favorite stuffed animal works wonders when it’s time to settle down.

Even a simple hoodie becomes a makeshift pillow or hiding spot for bashful travelers. Details matter, so tote a bag that’s easy to reach under the seat, not in the overhead.

Activity Kits That Entertain Kids Keep on Giving

Kids need more than one trick to stay content. Pack an activity kit brimming with fun to stretch their attention spans. Think of it as your in flight bag of magic.

• Sticker books or reusable sticker sets

• Coloring books with jumbo crayons or twistable pencils

• Small puzzles, magnetic games, or a deck of cards

• Dry erase activity boards

Keep screens out of reach so old school options get a chance before the tech takeover. Want more inspiration? Here’s a guide to comprehensive kids’ plane packing for all ages. As a parent you know your child. Trust your judgement, you know what will entertain them for a while! Even 20 minutes is a wonderful break on a plane and you can put it away and pull it out again later.

Surprise Toys: The Wild Card

Holding back one or two tiny surprises goes a long way. Think of these as secret weapons for tough moments.

• A new minifigure, tiny car, or pocket sized puzzle

• Travel sized stuffed animal or a pop it fidget

You don’t need to spend big novelty wins every time. Unwrapping something new at cruising altitude feels like opening a tiny birthday present. Get them a little something you know they will enjoy and it will keep them busy and you happy. Its a win-win!

Headphones and Tech Time

Let’s face it, screens can be a lifesaver when attention spans take a nosedive. Bring kid sized headphones with soft padding that won’t pinch little ears. Download favorite shows, games, or audiobooks before you board.

• Choose volume limited headphones for ear protection.

• Pack a headphone splitter if siblings need to share a device.

Make sure chargers or a backup battery are in the carry on, not checked in. A little prep means you control the media and the peace.

Sanity Saving Organization

It all comes down to organization. A good system dodges midflight meltdowns and keeps you from rummaging like you’re digging for pirate treasure.

• Use clear, labeled pouches for categories: snacks, art, gadgets, comfort.

• Keep essentials at the top or in an outside pocket for easy grabbing.

For a few more tricks and honest advice, Today’s Parent walks you through packing for long haul flights with kids and the pro parent move of always stashing emergency underwear.

Prepping your carry on with these strategies can fill the journey with fewer “oops” moments and more peaceful, happy memories. Remember every parent does it different and there is nothing wrong with that!

Takeoff to Landing: Kid Approved Entertainment by Age Group

Buckle up kids and boredom don’t mix at 30,000 feet. Every age needs its own bag of tricks for smooth flying. Wondering what will actually hold your child’s attention? This breakdown covers the best onboard entertainment, sorted by age, with hands on ideas for every squirm, squabble, and snacktastrophe.

Infants and Toddlers (Ages 0-3): The Tiniest Travelers

Little ones come with big needs, especially when the air pressure changes or nap time vanishes. While a plane ride might feel long for everyone, it’s epic for babies. Keep your carry on light but packed with soft comfort and gentle distractions.

Try these proven crowd pleasers:

• Plush toys and blankies: Familiar textures calm nerves and can double as nap buddies.

• Teething rings: These save the day when gums hurt from teething or pressure.

• Water reveal books: Paint with water and like magic the colors appear, then dry invisibly for round two.

• Suction spinners and Squigz: Stick them to tray tables or windows, and you’ve got instant entertainment that won’t roll away. Parents rave about Squigz and suction toys for flights!

Add sensory fun, like a soft rattle or crinkly fabric. Pick toys that make quiet sounds, so you aren’t “that family” three rows back.

When fussiness threatens:

• Walk the aisle (when allowed).

• Give a bottle, pacifier, or breastfeed during takeoff and landing to relieve ear pressure.

• Dim the lights with a soft eye mask, hood, or a blanket carefully over their heads if they let you for nap time. it’s easy to be over stimulated by all the new things going on!

Simple, calm, and easy to clean up, that’s your formula for success.

Entertain Preschoolers to Early Elementary (Ages 4-7): Busy Hands, Happy Hearts

This age group brings big curiosity and the urge to fiddle with anything nearby. You’ll want choices that keep their hands (and minds) busy, without tiny scraps left behind for the next passenger. Busy kids are entertained kids.

Pack a variety of surprises, like:

• Magnetic puzzles: No lost pieces, quiet, and perfect for tight tray tables.

• Sticker books: Peeling and sticking can last for ages. Reusable sets mean multiple rounds of fun.

• Mess free coloring books: Markers stay in the book, not on the seatback.

• Creative play kits: Think mini Lego sets, Playmobil figures, or DIY jewelry kits that you can sort into zipper bags.

Mix in a few “brand new” items they’ve never seen before to maximize excitement. Sometimes, a new toy turns into an adventure all on its own. The best travel toys for toddlers and little kids include magnetic shapes, compact stacking games, and felt boards ideal for this age group.

Add a simple “reveal” pouch and let kids pick their surprises as you reach each major phase of the flight—safety card, snack, meal, quiet time.

Older Kids and Tweens (Ages 8-12): Chill and Curious

Big kids come with big opinions, and a little autonomy goes a long way. Give them something to control and a mix of analog and digital options to match their moods.

Here’s how to upgrade their seat time:

• Strategy card games: Uno, Sushi Go, or travel size chess can make an hour disappear.

• Brain teasers: Think Rubik’s cubes, tangram puzzles, or pocket riddles.

• Journals: Encourage travel journaling or doodling. Some kids like documenting their trips, sketching people, or making lists.

• E readers: Lightweight, with tons of books loaded and ready to go.

• Scratch art kits: Reveal bold designs with no ink mess.

For screen time, preload age appropriate movies, documentaries, or puzzle apps. Make it clear when tech time is “open” and when it’s time for analog play. Let tweens help pack their own “personal item” they appreciate the trust and are more likely to actually enjoy what they’ve chosen!

Self led activities like puzzles, quiet reading, or writing postcards home can help older kids feel the flight is theirs to shape. This not only keeps them happy but gives parents a chance to catch their breath.

By matching entertainment to your child’s age and interests, you’ll fill your flight with giggles, not groans.

Screen Time: Hero or Headache?

Screens get a lot of heat on parenting blogs, but 35000 feet in the air is prime territory for bending the rules (at least a little). On a long flight, tablets and devices can become your best allies if you use them wisely. The goal is not to hand over the iPad at takeoff and call it a day, but to treat tech as part of a healthy in flight routine. Think of it as a break for parents and a booster shot for kids’ patience.

When and How to Use Devices in the Sky

Kids crave novelty, and screens deliver. But even the shiniest tablet can lose its magic if pulled out too soon. Time your device rollout to keep boredom at bay:

• Save screens for natural “slump times.” Use them when energy and patience are running low, like after meals or during the never ending stretch before landing. • Rotate tech with analog activities. Kick off the flight with coloring, games, or puzzles. When restlessness rises, introduce screens like a finale act. • Set clear limits (“Movie time after snacks!”) and stick to them. Kids understand boundaries, even when they’re surrounded by clouds. We even like to download learning games on devices. It does not have to be a brain killer.

This balanced approach helps prevent tech tantrums and saves your best entertainment trick for when it’s truly needed.

Smart Device Prep: Download, Charge, Repeat

Device prep is stealthy parenting power. A charged tablet loaded with new content is worth its weight in gold! Prep is half the battle when it comes to entertaining kids:

1. Download fresh shows, movies, or audiobooks the night before. Skip the streaming WiFi rarely works as well as promised.
2. Stock up on apps and games that work offline. Choose ones your kids haven’t played to add some surprise value.
3. Check chargers, cords, and backup batteries. Keep everything packed where you can reach it midflight.
4. Test headphones before you travel. Volume limited headphones protect little ears and stop sound from leaking into the next row.

If you need a list of reliable travel ready apps, check out The Asurion guide to the best tech for traveling with kids. Bonus tip: label your chargers with washi tape so they’re easy to spot in the seatback pocket.

Kid Approved Apps and Games That Go the Distance

Not all screen time is created equal. Choose options that are fun, age appropriate, and offer a mix of entertainment, education, and calm.

• Toca Boca apps (Toca Life World, Toca Kitchen) encourage open ended play and storytelling.

• Endless Alphabet or Endless Numbers keeps preschoolers busy with gentle learning.

• PBS Kids Video and Netflix Kids profiles bring familiar faces without surprise ads.

• Coloring and drawing apps (like Drawing Desk or Procreate Pocket) let creativity loose without crayons rolling down the aisle.

• Puzzle games like Monument Valley or Thinkrolls entertain older kids without the noise or mess.

Mix in audiobooks or calming playlists for quiet time, especially when the plane lights dim. This can keep your kids quietly entertained.

Headphones: The Unsung Hero

Tablets and phones are only as good as their sidekicks. Great headphones are nonnegotiable. Don’t subject your neighbors to Peppa Pig on repeat. Entertaining kids is one part, the source of entertainment. The other part is removing distractions! Head phones remove distractions that might make your child restless. When picking headphones, you should consider these ideas:

• Look for soft, volume limited models designed for kids.

• Consider over ear headphones for little ones, as earbuds rarely fit snugly.

• Pack a headphone splitter for siblings sharing a device or for together time with a movie.

Good headphones can turn a noisy cabin into a private theater, making it easier for kids to settle down and parents to relax even if just for a few minutes.

Family Balance: Why a Little Extra Screen Time Is More Than Okay

Let’s speak truth: what works at home isn’t always what works midflight. Air travel is its own universe. Your rules bend. If your child’s usual allotment of screen time stretches a little, you aren’t alone. Most experts agree: occasional extra media use, in special settings, won’t undo your hard screen time work.

Screen time on planes can:

• Help comfort anxious or overtired kids.

• Distract from ear pressure and in flight jitters.

• Buy everyone some much needed quiet time.

There’s no gold medal for white knuckling flights without tech. Instead, find your family’s balance, tuck a device into the carry on, and enjoy those golden minutes of in flight quiet. If you’re looking for more ideas on blending tech and unplugged fun, this roundup on device free hacks for flying with young kids can help you keep variety in your travel toolkit.

Creative Cabin Fever Cures (No Batteries Needed)

Ever seen a tray table turn into an arts studio or a pack of pipe cleaners become a sculpture garden at 30000 feet? That’s the beauty of screen free, no batteries needed fun: it leaves noisy gadgets behind and invites everyone to play together. Long flights are cramped, sure, but a pinch of creativity turns tiny spaces into playgrounds for imagination. Forget tech for a bit these ideas chunk up the flight with laughter, group giggles, and maybe even a few masterpieces to tuck into your travel journal.

Quiet Group Games That Don’t Disturb the Cabin

When it’s time to keep things mellow (and the seatbelt sign is on), quiet group games can take center stage. These don’t need fancy rules just willing players and a sense of humor.

Try these in flight classics:

• I Spy with a Window Twist (“I spy something fluffy outside!”)

• 20 Questions (Guess the animal, snack, or even a family member!)

• Silly word association (“Apple” “Airplane” “Alligator!”)

• Would You Rather (Prompt family debates without waking the guy snoozing three seats over)

Whispered rounds keep volume low but spirits high. Everyone gets to play no app download required.

Airplane Scavenger Hunts

Kids love a good hunt, even if you’re 35000 feet above the ground. Hand out a simple scavenger hunt list, and let the fun begin. Just make sure to set some boundaries so other passengers are only involved if they choose to be!

Sample ideas for your scavenger hunt:

• Find a passenger wearing red socks.

• Spot a cloud shaped like an animal.

• Count the number of flight attendants.

• Locate anything with a triangle shape (hint: snack packs!).

A tiny notebook or checklist adds a sense of mission. Tweens who get bored easily will often join in if there’s a quirky prize, like picking the next family activity. Bonus points if you can do it from your seat!

For more inspiration on entertaining kids indoors (or in flight), check out this roundup of simple indoor ideas kids actually love.

Storytelling Adventures With Plushies or Toys

Plush animals are more than snuggle buddies; they’re perfect for ad lib storytelling. Turn your kid’s favorite stuffed animal into the star of an epic tale. Don’t worry about telling the story; kids aren’t judging. Often, if you begin, kids will take over. It can be so entertaining.

Lead with a simple prompt. For example:

• “What adventure will Bunny go on today?”

• “Who did Mr Bear meet on his travels?”

Let each family member add a line. The story can go over continents, oceans, or even into the airplane’s cockpit let imaginations soar.

Story dice or cards can add structure if kids need help getting started. Sometimes, the best stories are the ones you create as a team with no script.

Silly Drawing Contests and Collaborative Art

Paper and pencils, a few crayons sometimes that’s all you need. Hold a silly drawing contest right on a tray table. Draw the strangest animal, the weirdest meal, or your row neighbor as a robot. Sometimes, just a creative mind or a simple list of ideas can entertain kids the best. Your interaction and attention are often a great solution.

Want to up the challenge? Try these:

• Everyone draws with their nondominant hand.

• Pass your drawing after 10 seconds for someone else to finish.

These simple tweaks lead to bursts of laughter and new art for your home gallery (or the fridge).

Easy Crafts that Leave a Little Sparkle (Not a Mess)

If you load up your carry on with a mini sack of pipe cleaners or a slim origami booklet, you’ll look like a travel wizard. This can entertain kids for longer than you think!

• Twist pipe cleaners into animals, glasses, or even a crown for your plushie.

• Fold origami shapes cranes, dogs, or easy fortune tellers. These are flat, compact, and make everyone feel like a magician.

• Make friendship bracelets by braiding embroidery thread.

Choose supplies that won’t roll away or leave glitter trails. A single Ziploc bag of crafty bits can turn into an hour of creativity no batteries, no fuss.

For more ways to beat boredom as a family, don’t miss these fun family activities to prevent cabin fever. Many are perfect for flights and hotel rooms, too.

Classic Card Games: Easy Fun at 30,000 Feet

Don’t overlook the power of a simple deck of cards for entertaining your kids on your flight. Card games like Uno or Tens and Twos are easy to pack, require little table space, and can entertain the whole family for ages. These games teach kids about taking turns, numbers, and a dash of friendly competition. Younger children can practice colors or matching, while older kids can use strategy to outsmart their parents. Quick rounds mean you can play while waiting for meals or during a lull, and laughter almost always follows a surprise wild card. Keep your favorite travel sized card games handy in your carry on to turn airport waits and long stretches in the sky into moments of connection and fun.

Social Fun: Group Play for Family Connection

Flights are the perfect excuse for goofy family games that bring everyone together. Try a round of “Telephone” by whispering a message down the row, or start a travel themed storytelling chain. Reward the funniest answers or the best team spirit.

These moments break up solo play and encourage siblings to interact (bonus: fewer squabbles). Small, shared activities help the hours tick by and cement family travel memories that linger long after you’ve landed.

Bonus Tips for Smooth Sailing in the Sky

Even with snacks, headphones, surprise toys, and imaginative games packed, kids are unpredictable at 35000 feet. That’s why seasoned parents know it’s the bonus tricks the little things you plan ahead that can save the day. From picking your seats like a pro to clever ways to squash boredom and soothe anxious travelers, these extra hacks help turn a marathon flight into a breezy, happy adventure.

Book Smart: Timing and Seat Strategies

Booking isn’t just about price. A great itinerary can set your whole trip (and your sanity) on the right track.

• Try to book flights that align with your child’s nap or sleep schedule. Red eye flights sometimes mean everyone arrives less groggy.

• Aim for bulkhead or aisle seats, which give more wiggle room and a quicker exit for bathroom trips.

• Consider splitting up if it helps one parent with each kid, rather than sitting all in a row, can stop sibling bickering before it starts.

• Many airlines let you preboard with children. Take advantage to get settled and snap up overhead bin space.

Airlines sometimes offer extra perks for families, like kids’ packs or early boarding. It never hurts to ask at check in.

Bring Snacks that Survive the Journey

Step away from the chocolate melted fingers and airplanes don’t mix. Flight friendly snacks avoid messy disasters and keep everyone fueled for the long haul.

Favorite picks include:

• Shelf stable cheese sticks and packs of nuts

• Veggie straws or pretzels (no crumbly crackers)

• Dried fruits or squeezable applesauce

• Granola bars that aren’t super sticky

Avoid strong smelling foods to keep your seatmates happy. A little food prep before you leave can go a long way toward happy, low mess snacking.

Use Airline Amenities for Kids

Not every perk gets advertised. Some airlines give out coloring kits, blankets, or special kids’ meals. Let the crew know you’re traveling with children as soon as you board. You might score a set of wings, stickers, or a visit to the cockpit.

Calm Nerves Like an In Flight Zen Master

Kids get anxious, and so do adults. Keep nervousness in check with tools as simple as their favorite plush toy, a couple of familiar bedtime stories, or guided breathing apps.

• Use calm, slow breathing exercises (pretend to blow up an imaginary balloon).

• Play soft music or a favorite audiobook to create a soothing bubble.

• For little ones sensitive to new experiences, walk through what will happen step by step (“the plane will get loud, but your ears will pop and then we’ll see clouds!”).

If your child is prone to motion sickness, pack ginger chews or wristbands designed for travel. Quick cleaning wipes are a must for any queasy moments.

Keep Boredom at Bay with Flex Plans

No parent wants to hear “I’m bored” at 10000 feet. Have a backup plan for when the usual distractions lose their magic and stop entertaining and distracting your kids:

• Create a mini “lucky dip” bag. When boredom strikes, let your child pull out a wrapped surprise sticker, snack, or little toy.

• Download a new, never before played movie or podcast as emergency entertainment.

• Start an in flight challenge: spot five cloud shapes, find three different snack flavors, or make a paper airplane out of the sick bag (bonus points for creativity).

Sometimes, just switching seats or offering to walk the aisle is all it takes for a quick mood reset.

Hydration, Bathroom Breaks, and Wiggle Time

Dehydration and sitting still can turn happy kids into cranky ones.

• Offer sips of water throughout the flight. Bring refillable bottles and top them up at the airport.

• Discourage excess juice or sodas, water is best for staying hydrated.

• Remind kids to use the bathroom before boarding and keep lines short by going just before meal service on the plane.

If the seatbelt sign is off, short “wiggle breaks” (stretching arms, pointing toes, pretending to be clouds) help burn off energy.

Adapt and Laugh

Even the perfect plan can unravel midflight. The traveler willing to laugh it off is the one who finds tiny joys in chaos. Keep a stash of patience, a little flexibility, and a healthy dose of humor handy. Your own peace and joy affect your children. If you are struggling to be entertained, your kids probably are as well. Your adventure memories will begin right where your careful plans end and your quick thinking kicks in.

With a few extra tricks tucked into your kit, your next family flight will feel smoother from takeoff to landing.

Conclusion

No two flights with kids are ever the same, no matter how many baggies you pack or snacks you stash. Sometimes you get giggles and impromptu singalongs, other times your family might invent “Cloud Bingo” while waiting for the drink cart to roll by. The ability to make adjustments and distract kids on the plane is so important while trying to entertain kids on a flight. Chaos comes standard, but that’s where the best memories and travel tales begin.

Let creativity and patience be your in flight superpowers. If your backup plans unravel, just remember: it’s all part of the story you’ll laugh about later. Next time you board, trust your well stocked bag, enjoy the quiet minutes, and let your family’s quirky traditions take flight.

Thanks for reading, and may your next “Are we there yet?” come with smiles and maybe a little less spilled apple juice. If you have a tip or wild travel story to share, drop it in the comments your secret weapon might just save another parent’s day!