How to Keep Kids Entertained During Long Flights

Flying with kids doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right prep, even long-haul flights can go smoothly — and dare we say, be fun. The key is variety, planning, and flexibility.

Here’s how to keep kids entertained during long flights — from toddlers to tweens.

Start with the Right Seating Strategy

Seat location matters more than you think. If you can:

- Book early to choose a window for younger kids who love looking outside
- Use the back rows if you want quick access to bathrooms and flight attendants
- Opt for aisle seats if your child needs to stretch often
- Choose bulkhead rows for more legroom and floor play space

If you’re flying with a partner, book the window and aisle to increase chances of an empty middle seat.

Pack a Custom In-Flight Entertainment Kit

Think of this as your boredom survival kit. Fill a small backpack or pouch with:

- Crayons and coloring books
- Stickers and sticker books
- Reusable water-reveal coloring pads (mess-free)
- Magnetic travel games
- Puzzle books or mazes
- Play-Doh (check airline rules)
- Headphones made for kids
- A soft comfort item or blanket

Wrap a few items as “surprises” to unwrap mid-flight for a fun reward system.

Use Screens Wisely (and Guilt-Free)

Tablets are lifesavers — no guilt necessary. Download:

- Educational apps
- Favorite TV shows or movies (Netflix, Disney+, etc.)
- Audiobooks or podcasts
- Language learning apps
- Puzzle or matching games

Don’t rely on airline Wi-Fi — pre-load all content. Keep it organized in folders your child can navigate on their own.

Screen-Free Activities That Actually Work

Need to reduce screen time or give their eyes a break? Try these:

- Window scavenger hunt (“Can you spot a mountain? A river?”)
- Read-aloud books or interactive storybooks
- Origami paper for folding games
- Mini LEGO kits in a container
- Card games like Go Fish or Uno
- Quiet storytelling prompts: “Tell me a story about a dragon who...”

Rotate activities every 30–45 minutes to prevent boredom.

Snacks: The Secret Weapon for Happy Kids

Snacks serve two purposes — nourishment and distraction. Pack a variety of:

- Crunchy (pretzels, granola bars, popcorn)
- Sweet (fruit snacks, raisins, animal crackers)
- Savory (cheese cubes, mini sandwiches)
- Hydrating (water bottles, apple slices)

Use a bento box to separate items. Avoid sugar bombs that lead to hyperactivity and crash.

Bonus: Offer snacks as “milestones” — one every hour to build a routine and sense of time.

Final Thoughts: Surviving and Thriving in the Air

Long flights with kids are all about rhythm. When you prep a mix of activities, manage expectations, and stay flexible, it’s possible to land with your sanity intact.

Don’t expect perfection — aim for progress. With the right tools and mindset, air travel becomes just another adventure your kids can enjoy (and you can survive).