There are several ways to keep kids busy on a plane, but it requires some preplanning on you, the parent.
I know that traveling with kids can be a challenge, especially when it comes to keeping them entertained on a long flight.
Children can easily become bored and restless, leading to tantrums and frustration for both the child and the parent.
However, with a little planning and creativity, there are plenty of ways to keep kids busy and happy during a flight.
Now, depending on how long your flight is, you might want to pack accordingly.
10 Best Ways to Keep Kids Busy on a Plane
One way to keep kids entertained on a plane is by bringing along a variety of activities and games.
Coloring books, puzzles, and sticker books are all great options that can keep kids occupied for hours.
It’s also a good idea to bring along a tablet or portable DVD player with headphones loaded with their favorite movies or shows.
Another way to keep kids busy on a plane is by involving them in the travel experience.
Encourage them to look out the window and point out interesting sights, or give them a map of the flight path so they can track the journey.
Additionally, many airlines offer in-flight entertainment options specifically designed for children, such as kid-friendly movies and TV shows.
By providing a mix of activities and involving them in the travel experience, parents can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable flight for the whole family.
But, there’s more.
1. Load That Tablet
I don’t care what device you have your kids on, load that sucker.
Download a few movies, a few NEW games, and an interactive app or two.
They might have their go-tos, but remember that it’s children you are dealing with.
Although you can improve their attention spans, it’s not going to change them completely especially not overnight.
Let them be the kids that they are because sooner than later, they will be in high school, doing their own thing.
For your next flight, download some entertainment and give your kids something new to get their attention.
2. Pen and Paper
If you want to keep your kids busy on a plane, a tablet might not cut it.
Sure, they’re used to it at home or wherever you go, but you have to remember that they have other things to distract them.
On a plane, things are different.
They can feel constrained to a seat, and they’re going to need more than just a tablet.
This is when things like coloring books and a good old pen and paper come in handy.
Take a notepad and a few extra pens.
This will also help when it comes time to fill out a customs declaration form.
3. Coloring Books
Coloring books are a great activity to help keep your kids busy on a plane.
They might already have them at home, but they might not use them.
It’s something about that tight space and long flight that will have your kids wanting more than just their tablets.
Take them, regardless.
You’ll thank me later.
4. Play Dough
My wife is completely against this type of stuff, but I embrace it.
Kids will be kids, and unless you’re not paying attention to them, things like playdough and slime are things they should be playing with.
If you want to keep kids busy on a plane, playdough will help keep their minds and hands entertained.
Just be prepared for some “Daddy, look what I made” comments.
Store them in the proper containers to prevent the Playdough from drying out and getting on things.
5. Fidget Toys
I know the fidget spinner has come and gone faster than the pandemic, but it doesn’t mean fidget toys are out of style.
Heck, most people don’t know that there are other fidget toys out there that aren’t fidget spinners.
I know this because I am one of those parents.
Your kids might have introduced you to Poppits and Pop Tubess, but there’s more.
Check out this entire fidget set that you can find on Amazon, and you’ll see all the other cool fidget toys your kids can play with.
6. Magnetic Board Games
If you want to keep your kids busy on a plane, magnetic board games can help.
Regardless of their age and skill level (unless they’re an infant), these things can keep their brains occupied.
Not to say that they will or even have to play these games, but they’ll be amazed at how these things are designed.
For one, they are magnetic.
Everyone loves magnets, and your kids will love these things.
And, two, they are a mini version of what they’re used to seeing.
Put those two together, and you’ll have your kids busy for at least an hour.
7. Travel Puzzles
There’s no better way to keep your kids busy on a plane than by keeping their minds occupied.
One great way to do that is to keep them thinking.
One great way to keep them thinking is through something that allows them to do that.
And this can be done through something like puzzles.
I know it sounds crazy because puzzle pieces will fall easily, and that’s why they have something like Tangram puzzles.
8. Tape Activity Book
Playdough and coloring books are cool, but sometimes your kids need a little more.
Like my daughter, she can stay on her iPad all day, but it depends on what she has available and what she’s surrounded by.
She’ll be fine with her iPad if she has nothing else to do.
If you give her something like a Tape Activity Book, you can bet she’ll put that iPad down.
Keep your kids busy on a plane with a Tape Activity Book.
9. Prepare Conversations
Not every one of us can come up with the best topics to discuss with our children.
Sometimes it’s just weird, while other times, it pisses off your children.
Instead of thinking you’re a failure, become a better parent and be prepared.
Think along the lines of what they did that was fun.
Think of what they like and how you will be going to or seeing it.
Talk about what they can expect when they land.
Tell them how amazing the invention of the plane is and how it’s shaped like a ______.
Don’t always be the know-it-all, either.
Make things fun, get creative, and remember that you are dealing with children.
10. Play Games
Sometimes, you need to improvise and come up with things on the fly.
You don’t always need to MacGyver your way through things, either.
A good game of rock paper scissors is a great place to start.
Remember that you’re trying to satisfy kids and not yourself.
Letting them win is not hard to do, so consider that or expect more problems.
Remember that pen and paper we talked about earlier?
That’s another thing you can use for something like Tic Tac Toe, spelling practice, and whatever it is that you do with young children.
Pre-Flight Preparation
Preparing for a long flight with kids is not something we look forward to, but with a little planning and organization, it can be made much easier.
I would not travel when my kids are in diapers unless I have to.
It’s not fun for us and it’s not fun for everyone else.
However, regardless of age, there needs to be some preparation to help keep kids busy on a plane.
If not, don’t expect the parenting turbulence to be minimal.
Here are a few tips to help make pre-flight preparation a breeze.
Selecting the Right Seats
Choosing the right seats on a plane can make a big difference in keeping kids entertained and comfortable during a flight.
When selecting seats, consider factors such as legroom, proximity to bathrooms, and whether the seats are near the aisle or window.
If traveling with young children, choosing seats near the front of the plane may be helpful, where there is less noise and disturbance.
If possible, get you and your family in some business class seats.
Pack the Essentials
Packing the right items can help keep kids busy and comfortable during a long flight.
Essential items include snacks, drinks, books, games, and electronic devices.
It’s important to pack enough items to keep kids entertained for the entire flight, as well as any layovers or delays.
Consider packing a small backpack for each child, with their favorite items and snacks.
Setting Expectations
Before boarding the plane, it’s important to set expectations with kids about what to expect during the flight.
Explain the rules of the plane, such as staying seated during takeoff and landing and the importance of being quiet and respectful of other passengers.
It may also be helpful to discuss how long the flight will be and what activities they can do to pass the time.
This will keep them excited, and they will have something to look forward to.
Also, consider saving one item as a surprise.
When all else fails, turn to the surprise, and you’ll cover at least another half hour of keeping your kids busy on a plane.
By setting expectations ahead of time, kids will be better prepared for the flight and less likely to become restless or disruptive.
Conclusion – Keep Kids Busy on a Plane With These Tips
Traveling with kids is not the easiest thing to do, and keeping them busy on a plane is a must.
If this is your first time traveling with kids, remember to stay calm.
Let your kids kick and scream while you focus on getting them safely to your next destination.
Remember that you’re traveling for fun, so keep it that way.
When your little critter drains all its energy and finally falls asleep, you’ll find that peace and comfort you’ve been waiting for.
Kiss them, and get back to reading that book or listening to your favorite podcast.
Need ideas for yourself?
Don’t forget that you can always start a mommy/daddy blog to make money online or get that much-needed shuteye.
Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to tell your children you love them.
Always!