10+ Tips for Flying with Kids Without Losing Your Mind
It was a time in my life when I could barely ensure I was in bed by dawn, let alone imagine caring for a child. But I’ll never forget the parent on a flight who jokingly said, “Well, he’s fine now that he’s made our lives hell for a few hours.” His infant son had finally passed out fast asleep—just as the plane hit the tarmac at the end of a 10-hour flight.
Those 10 hours were not a time I wanted to be in his parents’ position.
It’s hard enough managing your child without also worrying about how others perceive you. But the good news? It is entirely possible to dial back the strain of flying with kids. Here are my go-to strategies, tested over years of travel with little ones.
1. Choose Your Best Flight Times
Airlines don’t always offer family-friendly departure slots—and sometimes you don’t get much choice. But when you do, opt for flight times that align with your child’s natural rhythm, even if it costs a bit more.
- Early morning flights are often less delayed and kids are usually fresher.
- Overnight long-hauls can work in your favor if your child sleeps well on planes.
2. Pre-Select Your Seats
Airlines try to seat families together, but it’s not guaranteed. It’s worth paying to pre-select seats, especially if:
- You want a bulkhead row (extra legroom, some have bassinets), or
- You need to avoid the dreaded middle seat shuffle.
3. Pack Like a Minimalist Ninja (With Snacks)
Think practical and compact:
- Quiet toys that don’t roll
- Low-sugar snacks
- Baby wipes (for spills and sticky hands)
- A change of clothes (for them—and maybe you!)
Check out our packing checklist for the essentials.
4. Download Before You Go
This is the time to embrace guilt-free screen time. Download:
- Movies and TV shows
- Games that don’t require Wi-Fi
- Audiobooks or music playlists
Don’t forget kid-friendly headphones!
5. Comfort and Warmth = Sleep
Nobody rests well when they’re cold. Bring:
- Cozy socks
- A soft throw or blanket
- A favorite stuffed animal
Warm, snug kids are more likely to nap—and that’s a gift to everyone onboard.
6. Pre-Frame the Experience
When our eldest turned 2, something shifted. At one airport, she had a full meltdown because we hadn’t explained the security process—and her comfort toy had to go on the scanner alone.
Even though she’d travelled plenty of times before, we learned our lesson:
- Explain what airport security looks like.
- Talk about what the captain and crew will say/do.
- Walk through why they have to stay in their seat during takeoff with the window shade open
- Bring awareness to noise levels around other passengers
A prepared kid is a calmer traveler.
7. Pack Snacks for Takeoff and Landing
Kids don’t always understand how to deal with ear pressure. Chewing or sucking helps. Bring:
- Lollipops (if age-appropriate)
- Snacks like fruit bars
- A water bottle with a straw or sippy top
Keep a supply aside especially for take-off and landing, when ear pressure issues can really take affect.
8. Expect at Least One Meltdown
Go in with the mindset that something will go sideways. If you’re mentally ready for it, it won’t throw you as much when it does.
9. Use the Toilet Right Before Boarding
Even if they say they don’t need to go—trust me, they do. Once the seatbelt sign comes on, you’re stuck.
10. Board Late If You Can
While families are often invited to pre-board, it can mean sitting on a plane for 30+ minutes before takeoff. Instead let your kids burn off energy at the gate.
11. Stash a Few Secret Treats
Have a backup snack and a “new” activity hidden in your bag. When the wheels come off mid-flight, you’ll feel like a magician pulling out a surprise.
12. Don’t Expect Perfection
You’re not aiming for a stress-free flight—you’re aiming for a survivable one. Lower the bar and you might be pleasantly surprised.
13. Realise You’ll End up With Dirty Clothes
This isn’t the occasion to wear your favourite, or newest, outfit.
Bonus Tip for Parents: You Deserve Support
As a travel agent who works with families, I know firsthand how stressful travel planning can be. Whether it’s booking family-friendly hotels, arranging car seats with your airport transfer, or finding flights with minimal connections—I can help take the mental load off your plate.
Ready to Fly (Mostly) Stress-Free?
Flying with kids may never be easy, but it can be manageable— even memorable for the right reasons. If you need help planning your next family adventure, reach out. I’ve got your back.