The Top 6 Ways to Keep a Toddler Busy on an Airplane

Traveling with a toddler can be a challenging experience, especially on long flights. My children have been flying on planes since they were infants, and now it is just part of their transportation repertoire. When we travel to a new destination, they’ll ask, “Mommy, how far is it? Are we driving or flying on a plane?” Children’s boundless energy and short attention spans can make the journey feel like an eternity for both parents and fellow passengers. However, with some planning and creativity, you can keep your little one entertained and make the flight more enjoyable for everyone. Here are my top six ways to keep your toddler busy on an airplane!

Pack a Toddler Travel Kit

Before you embark on your journey, create a toddler travel kit with various activities to keep your child occupied. Each of my children have their own small backpack that we include all of these things in, that way they feel like they’re in charge! Some essential items to include are coloring books, crayons, stickers, snacks, and a small puzzle or two. You can also add a favorite stuffed animal or blanket for comfort. I prefer to keep each thing in its own ziplock baggie for the inevitable box or plastic wrapper ripping. If your child is too small for a backpack, you can also keep the kit easily accessible in your carry-on bag so you can quickly pull out items as needed during the flight.

Interactive Books

Toddlers love stories, and interactive books are an excellent way to engage their attention. Look for books with flaps to lift, textures to touch, buttons to press that produce sounds, or stickers or velcro adhesives. Choose books with vibrant, colorful illustrations that will captivate your child’s imagination. Reading a few of these during the flight can be both entertaining and educational.

Snack Attack

Toddlers are known for their love of snacks, and a variety of tasty treats can be a great distraction during a flight. My family doesn’t travel anywhere without at least one little snack to hold us over until we get there! You can pack a mix of healthy snacks like fruit slices, cheese, and crackers and small indulgences like gummy bears or pretzels. The novelty of airplane snacks can keep your child entertained and help to pass the time. Just be mindful of any allergies and any potential mess.

Technology Time

While some parents believe that screen time should be limited, a well-prepared tablet or smartphone can be a lifesaver on a flight. Download your child’s favorite games, educational apps, or TV shows in advance, and invest in a pair of child-friendly headphones. On our most recent flight, we had an hour’s worth of my infant’s favorite show downloaded as entertainment when nothing else would hold her attention. Ensure your device is fully charged, you’ve packed toddler-size headphones, and you’re equipped with a portable charger to keep it running throughout the flight.

Arts and Crafts

Bring along a small art kit for your toddler to get creative. Coloring books, washable markers, stickers, stamps, and a small sketchpad can provide hours of entertainment. Consider using a tray table or a travel-sized lap desk as a workspace. Don’t forget to bring a plastic bag to store the art supplies once your child is finished to keep things organized!

Simple Games

Simple games can be fun to pass the time and engage your toddler’s imagination. Games like “I Spy,” where you take turns identifying objects around the cabin, or “20 Questions,” where you think of an object, and your child tries to guess what it is, can entertain both of you. Travel-size sketch boards, as well as matching cards, are also easy to pack and perfect entertainment! Additionally, you can play games like patty-cake or peek-a-boo to keep your littlest ones engaged.

Remember that being well-prepared and flexible is the key to a successful flight with a toddler. While these activities can help keep your child busy, be attentive to their needs, whether for a bathroom break, diaper change, a snack, or a nap. The goal is to keep them as comfortable and content as possible while ensuring a smooth journey for everyone onboard.

Just remember, traveling with a toddler on an airplane doesn’t have to be a dreaded experience. If you prepare well before the flight and go into it all with an open mind, you can make the flight enjoyable for your child, yourself, and everyone traveling with you. With the right preparations and a positive attitude, you can turn the airplane ride into a memorable adventure for you and your little one. Safe travels!

Fly high and reach for the sky!

Kelle Rhodes

New Egypt, New Jersey