Flying with kids can feel like an extreme sport. Between security lines, delays, and keeping everyone happy in a cramped airplane seat, it takes planning and patience to survive the journey with your sanity intact.
After years of family trips (and a few chaotic layovers), I’ve learned what actually helps and what doesn’t. These are my flying with kids tips for making flights smoother, quieter, and way less stressful.
1. Pack a “Mini Carry-On” for Each Kid
Let your kids pack their own backpack with snacks, activities, headphones, and one comfort item. When they choose what’s inside, they’re more likely to use it and less likely to ask what’s next every five minutes.
Tip: Have them use an adult backpack if you need more space for your own things!
Need ideas to keep kids entertained? Try these travel games that work perfectly on planes.
2. Don’t Overpack Toys
Less is more. Bring 2–3 quiet activities and rotate them throughout the flight. Our go-tos: a notebook and markers, headphones with downloaded shows, and one small game.
Bonus: Many airlines offer a kids’ activity pack when you board. Things like coloring pages, small toys, or stickers. Some airlines require you to register ahead of time to receive one, so it’s worth checking before your flight.
Tip: Save a few offline games or videos on your phone for when Wi-Fi doesn’t work (because it never does when you need it).
3. Snacks Fix Almost Everything
Snacks are magic on airplanes. Bring a mix of familiar favorites and special “trip snacks” things your kids only get while traveling. Packing your own also saves money, since airport food prices can be steep and last-minute snacks add up fast.
Tip: If you have room in your backpack, pack one of these reusable snack containers. Great for the plane and also while on the move during your trip.
4. Dress for Comfort (and Layers)
Cabins get cold fast. Dress kids in cozy layers and pack an extra outfit in case of spills. Comfort really matters on travel days especially on long flights when they’re sitting for hours.
Tip: Pack a pair of grippy socks for the plane so kids can kick off their shoes without slipping around. Bonus: it keeps their feet warm and comfy mid-flight.
5. Load Up the Devices (Before You Leave)
Download movies, audiobooks, podcasts or playlists ahead of time so you’re not relying on in-flight entertainment. Have you ever flown 10 hours without in flight entertainment? It ain’t pretty!
Tip: Download some sleepy-time podcasts or calming music the kids can listen to when it’s time to go to bed.
A few great podcasts to try are: Sleepy Time Podcast, 5 Minute Meditations for Kids, Sleep Tight Stories and for older kids try Sleep Whispers
6. The “Airplane Bathroom Kit”
Keep wipes, sanitizer, tissues, and a change of underwear or leggings in an easy-to-grab pouch. You don’t want to dig through your whole bag mid-flight.
Pro Tip: Bring a couple large Ziploc bags, they’re handy for holding trash, snacks, or surprise spills.
7. Manage Expectations Early
I don’t know about your kids, but mine always need to know the plan. Before you fly, talk about what’s going to happen at airport security, waiting, takeoff, and landing. Kids do so much better when they know what to expect.
On that note, manage YOUR expectations as well. And lower them, real low. That way, if everything goes well you’ll be pleasantly surprised. If it all goes terribly, you won’t be disappointed!
Tip: Let them be “in charge” of something small, like their boarding pass or snack bag. It helps them feel involved and responsible.
8. Use the Layover Wisely
Let kids move! Find a quiet corner to stretch or play simple games. If there’s a play area, use it. If not, walk laps, people-watch, or do my Free Airport Scavenger Hunt it’s an easy, screen-free way to keep kids entertained between flights.
Tip: Pack an empty water bottle and refill it during layovers staying hydrated and getting some exercise makes everyone happier.
👉 Download the Free Airport Scavenger Hunt here!
9. Keep Your Cool (Even When They Don’t)
Delays, overtired toddlers, crying babies, whiny teenagers it’s all part of it. The best thing you can pack is patience. Kids feed off your energy, so when you stay calm, they recover faster too.
Tip: Take a deep breath, remind yourself this is temporary, and maybe reward yourself with airport coffee or beer!
10. Reframe It as an Adventure
Instead of dreading the travel day, treat it like part of the trip. Little things spotting planes, people-watching, collecting airport souvenirs, even airplane food (I weirdly love it!) makes great memories.
Tip: End every travel day with something small to look forward to (a snack, hotel pool, or just a good night’s sleep).
Bonus Tip: Ask About Bassinet or Baby Table Seats
If you’re flying with a baby or toddler, check whether your airline offers bulkhead seats with a pull-down baby bassinet or table. Many long-haul flights have a limited number, and they can make a huge difference for naps, diaper changes, or simply giving your arms a break.
Tip: Reserve these seats as early as possible as they’re usually assigned on a first-come, first-served basis and must be booked directly through the airline.
Flying with kids isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely worth it. Every trip gets a little smoother as you figure out what works for your family.
If you found these tips helpful, save or share this post before your next flight and download my Carry-On Packing List for Families to make packing day even easier.
✨ Next up on the blog: Packing 101: The Ultimate Carry-On Only Packing List for Families
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