Flying with kids can be an exciting adventure or a bit of a challenge, depending on how prepared you are. While the idea of spending several hours in a confined space with restless children might seem daunting, there are plenty of ways to keep your little ones entertained and happy during a long flight. With a bit of creativity and the right tools, air travel with kids doesn’t have to be stressful.

As someone who’s had my fair share of family flights, I’ve learned that having a solid plan can make all the difference. Here are some tried-and-true tips for making air travel with children a breeze, from fun apps and games to screen-free activities that will keep everyone occupied for the duration of the flight.

Load Up on Apps and Games

One of the easiest ways to keep kids entertained during a flight is by turning to technology. Tablets and phones can be lifesavers, offering a world of entertainment at your fingertips. Before you head to the airport, download some kid-friendly apps and games that don’t require an internet connection.

There are plenty of educational apps that kids will actually enjoy, like Endless Alphabet for little ones or Toca Boca games that let kids use their imaginations in open-ended play. For older kids, puzzle games like Monument Valley or interactive story apps such as My Very Hungry Caterpillar can hold their attention for quite some time.

It’s also a good idea to download some favorite shows or movies to watch in-flight. Streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime allow you to download content for offline viewing, which is perfect for when your device is in airplane mode. Pack a good set of headphones (bonus points if they’re noise-canceling!) so your kids can watch or play in peace.

Don’t Forget About Screen-Free Fun

While screens are helpful, sometimes it’s nice to have some screen-free options up your sleeve—especially when you want to avoid overdoing the screen time. There are plenty of simple, low-tech activities that can keep kids occupied for hours.

One of my go-to’s is packing a few small surprises, like travel-sized games, coloring books, or activity packs. You can find compact versions of classic games like Connect 4, Uno, or even magnetic travel chess. These small games are great for passing time and easy to pull out when the boredom kicks in.

Sticker books are another winner. Whether it’s reusable stickers or a simple sticker activity book, they can keep little hands busy without taking up much space in your carry-on. For creative kids, a mini sketchbook and colored pencils can lead to hours of drawing and doodling. You can even ask them to draw pictures of what they think the destination will look like or have them create a comic about the trip.

Snacks as Entertainment

Let’s be honest, snacks can be a form of entertainment too! Packing a variety of snacks that you can offer throughout the flight not only keeps hunger at bay but also gives kids something to look forward to. A mix of healthy options and a few fun treats can help break up the flight.

To make snack time a little more engaging, pack snacks in small containers or bags and offer them like a surprise—one every hour or whenever the kids start to get restless. This way, you’re keeping things fresh, and it adds a little excitement to snack time. Think fruit slices, crackers, dried cereal, or small bags of popcorn. Just remember to avoid anything too messy or complicated to open.

Interactive Games and Activities

Another trick to make flying more fun is to engage your kids with interactive activities. Playing “I Spy” or “20 Questions” doesn’t require any materials and can spark some fun conversations. You can also create your own scavenger hunt for things to spot in the airplane—like a blue suitcase, a passenger with a hat, or a flight attendant serving drinks.

If your child enjoys reading, bring along a few books or try an audiobook that the whole family can listen to together. There are many wonderful children’s audiobooks that are perfect for flights, such as The Magic Tree House series or Harry Potter. This not only entertains them but also helps them wind down, which is perfect for longer flights when you’re hoping they’ll nap.

Pack a Comfort Kit

Lastly, don’t forget to pack a “comfort kit” for your kids. Flying can be tiring for little ones, and having a few cozy items on hand can help them relax. A favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or neck pillow can go a long way in making them feel comfortable and at ease. If you’re lucky, these familiar items might help them drift off to sleep, giving you a little peace and quiet for part of the flight!

Enjoy the Journey

Air travel with kids might require a little extra planning, but the memories you create as a family will make it all worth it. By packing a few simple activities, downloading some engaging apps, and preparing for the inevitable snack attacks, you can help ensure your kids stay entertained throughout the flight. Most importantly, try to relax and embrace the experience—it’s all part of the adventure!