Long Haul Flights with Kids: How to Keep Everyone Happy

10 February 2026

Let’s face it—just thinking about long haul flights with kids can make even the most adventurous parents break into a cold sweat. Eight, ten, or even fifteen hours in a flying metal tube with toddlers, tweens, and everything in between? Yeah, doesn’t exactly scream “vacation” right off the bat.

But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.

With the right prep, mindset, and a few clever tricks up your sleeve, you can actually enjoy the journey as much as the destination. So whether you’re heading across the pond or flying halfway around the world, this guide is here to help you survive (and maybe even thrive) on long haul flights with the kiddos in tow.

Let’s get into it.

Why Long Haul Flights Feel So Tough with Kids

Long flights are tough for adults. Now imagine being a tiny human with boundless energy, a short attention span, and little concept of time. Sounds like a recipe for tears, tantrums, and tired parents, right?

But it’s not just about distraction—it’s about keeping your child physically and emotionally comfortable in a space the size of a shoebox, with unfamiliar noises, limited food options, and a messed-up sleep schedule. Tough? Yes. Impossible? Definitely not.

1. Plan Your Flight Time Strategically

Timing can be everything. If you have any flexibility, try to book flights that align well with your child’s natural sleep schedule.

- Overnight flights (aka red-eyes) can be a game changer. Why? Because sleeping through most of the flight is a win—for everyone.
- Try to avoid long layovers or super early/late departures if your kids are younger.
- Some parents swear by splitting up long hauls with a stopover, giving everyone a chance to reset before tackling the next leg.

👉 Pro Tip: Always double-check time zones and factor in how the timing will affect your child’s eating and sleeping patterns.

2. Choose the Right Seats

Your seating strategy can make or break the entire flight. Think of it as real estate—location matters.

- Bulkhead seats give you extra legroom (and space for babies to crawl or stretch).
- Window seats are great for curious little ones (hello, clouds!).
- Aisle access is helpful for quick potty breaks and walking around.

If you're traveling with a baby, request a bassinet seat in advance. Most long haul aircrafts have designated spots for these lifesavers.

3. Pack a Carry-On Survival Kit

Your in-flight bag is your lifeline. Don’t wing this part—prepare like you're going into battle.

Here’s what you’ll want in your kid-friendly carry-on arsenal:

- Enough diapers/wipes for an army (plus extras—for delays)
- A change of clothes (for everyone—not just the baby)
- Snacks, snacks, and more snacks (and not just healthy ones—treats go a long way)
- Headphones that fit little ears
- iPads or tablets fully loaded with games, movies, and books
- Coloring books, sticker pads, small toys, puzzles
- Comfort items—blanket, pacifier, stuffed animal, anything that smells like home
- Medicine (infant/child pain reliever, motion sickness remedies, etc.)

Don’t forget ziplocks. They're great for trash, wet clothes, or… ‘surprises’.

4. Master the Art of In-Flight Entertainment

There’s no shame in using screens. Seriously. If there’s ever a time to let your kid binge-watch cartoons, it’s now.

But balance it out with non-digital options too:

- Audiobooks: Stories can help lull them to sleep
- Magnetic games: Travel-sized and mess-free
- Play-Doh (surprisingly great for toddler engagement)
- Surprise toys: Nothing excites a kid more than something new. A $1 toy from the dollar store wrapped in paper? Instant joy.

👉 Pro Tip: Stagger your entertainment. Don’t give them everything at once. Roll out the fun little by little to keep it fresh.

5. Snacks = Sanity

Airplane food is rarely kid-friendly. And there's nothing more dangerous than a hungry, trapped toddler.

Stock your bag with a variety of snacks:

- Crackers, apple slices, dry cereal, granola bars
- Squeezable yogurts or puree pouches (just remember TSA rules)
- Treats like gummy bears or cookies (to use as bribery currency)
- Gum or lollipops: Great for ear-popping during takeoff and landing

Pro Tip: Avoid sugary snacks too early in the flight unless you're trying to turn your row into a bounce house.

6. Get Them Moving (When You Can)

Kids are made to move. Sitting still for hours? That’s not in their manual.

Take advantage of walking around the cabin:

- Short walks every couple of hours helps with blood flow and boredom
- Stretching or dancing in the galley (if the flight crew is cool with it)
- Bathroom visits double as field trips

Think of it as recess 30,000 feet in the air.

7. Encourage Sleep—but Don’t Force It

Sleep is golden on a long flight. But it’s not always predictable.

Make it easier by bringing:

- Neck pillows or inflatable footrests
- Eye masks and mini blankets
- Pajamas (changing into them gets their brain ready for sleep)
- White noise apps or soothing sound machines (if flying at night)

Stick as close to your child’s sleep routine as possible—even if it means brushing their teeth in a tiny airplane bathroom.

8. Stay Calm and Flexible

Kids feed off your energy. If you're stressed, they’ll feel it.

Things might not go as planned. There could be turbulence, diaper blowouts, or meltdowns over the wrong kind of juice.

Take deep breaths. Smile. Laugh it off (even if you want to cry). Flexibility is your best friend up in the air.

Remember: It’s just a few hours. A small blip in a much bigger adventure.

9. Let Go of Screen Time Guilt

Yes, we mentioned this already—but it’s worth repeating: This is survival mode.

Don’t feel bad if your rules go out the airplane window.

You’re not raising iPad zombies—you’re getting to your destination in one piece. And sometimes, that means Frozen on repeat for 6 hours.

10. Involve Older Kids in the Journey

If you’re flying with tweens or teens, give them some responsibility.

- Let them pack their own entertainment bag
- Ask them to choose snacks or load up music playlists
- Give them a travel journal or disposable camera

Getting them involved makes them feel in control and less cranky. Win-win for everyone.

11. Prepare for Jet Lag Ahead of Time

Long haul usually equals crossing time zones—which means jet lag is coming for you.

To help your kids adjust:

- Start shifting sleep patterns a few days before travel
- Encourage naps on the plane (without pushing it too hard)
- Get sunlight and fresh air at your destination ASAP
- Keep them hydrated and well-fed

Note: Don’t stress if they’re off for a few days. Everyone adjusts at their own pace.

12. Mind Your Fellow Passengers

Let’s be real—some people will be annoyed that you're flying with kids. That’s on them.

But a little courtesy goes a long way:

- Apologize if your kid kicks a seat or cries uncontrollably
- Pack small earplug kits or treat bags if you feel like going the extra mile (not required, but thoughtful)
- Say thank you to the flight attendants—they’re your allies

You have every right to travel with your family. Don’t let the occasional eye roll bring you down.

13. Don’t Forget About Yourself

You matter too.

Long flights can be mentally and physically draining, even more so when you're responsible for tiny humans. So:

- Pack snacks and comfort items for YOU
- Bring a book, podcast, or movie you’ll enjoy
- Hydrate, stretch, and breathe
- Tag team with your partner if you’re flying together

You’ll be a better parent (and human) if your basic needs are met.

Final Thought: It’s All Part of the Journey

Long haul flights with kids might not be the most relaxing part of your trip, but they can be memorable—and even fun—if approached with the right mindset. You’re not just transporting your family from Point A to B; you're modeling how to travel, how to cope with boredom or discomfort, and how to bounce back with resilience.

And hey, once you land and see their excited faces running through a new country, asking questions about the world around them? It’s all worth it.

So buckle up, pack smart, and get ready to collect sky-high memories—one long haul at a time.