✈️ How to Keep Kids Happy on Long Flights

Flying with little ones can feel like prepping for a military operation — minus the sleep and with more snacks. But it is possible to get through a long flight without a full-blown screen-induced meltdown or a toddler riot at 38,000 feet. Here’s how.

🧳 Smart Packing = Happy Kids

Your carry-on bag is your best ally. Think of it as a survival kit packed with variety:

• Snacks, snacks, and more snacks: Choose low-sugar, non-crumbly options that take a while to eat (chewy bars, mini rice cakes, raisins).

• Surprise toys: Pack a few small new toys or books to reveal mid-flight — novelty buys you extra time!

• Wipes + spare clothes: Accidents happen. Wipes save the day. Always.

• Headphones made for kids: If you're allowing screen time, get comfy, volume-limiting headphones to avoid cabin drama.

  
  

🎒 Activity Ideas That Aren’t Screens

Sure, tablets are handy. But if you're trying to avoid relying solely on screens, here are some backup ideas:

• Reusable sticker books or water colouring sets

• Mini puzzles or magnetic games

• Audio stories: Download a few kid-friendly ones beforehand

• ‘Busy bags’: DIY kits with crayons, a small notebook, pipe cleaners, etc.

💡Rotate the activities. Don’t bring out everything at once.

Now, if you would rather avoid long flights all together here are a few ideas with shorter travel times from the UK:

• Algarve, Portugal (under 3 hours): Great for toddlers and school-age kids with beaches, family-friendly resorts, and warm hospitality

• Madeira (~4 hours): Slightly longer flight but peaceful, nature-filled and stroller-friendly

• Northern Italy’s Lakes (~2 hours to Milan): Scenic, calm, and perfect for multi-gen travel

• Balearic Islands (~2.5 hours): Palma, Menorca or Ibiza for beach breaks with good infrastructure

Bonus: Many of these destinations have short transfer times once you land!

💡 Final Thoughts

Long flights can be daunting, but with the right prep and mindset, they’re doable — even enjoyable sometimes. And let’s be honest, it’s often harder to manage the adults on flights than the kids!

Need help picking the perfect family-friendly destination or sorting the logistics? That’s what I’m here for — so you can start the holiday stress-free, not just end it that way.