Travelling long-haul with kids can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Long flights, time zone changes, and unfamiliar environments can disrupt routines, making it essential for parents to plan ahead to keep little travellers comfortable and entertained. From packing smart to keeping kids engaged and managing sleep, there are plenty of strategies to help make the journey easier.
You might remember my name from a story I wrote in May 2019 regarding my struggle with multiple sclerosis (MS) and how to deal with auto-immune diseases at large.
The advice and challenges that I addressed then were really tested and brought to light in a recent trip that I undertook with my family.
In June this year my husband and I, along with our two kids aged 11 and 3, embarked on an adventure and set out to visit my sister and her family in British Columbia, Canada.
They immigrated there from SA in 2017.
Setting out on such a long trip is in itself daunting, but combine that with having a dread disease and a toddler as well as a tween, and things become interesting, fast!
I read many articles about travelling with kids, especially toddlers, but nothing can fully prepare you for the long, long road ahead. Having three layovers with hours in-between, both on our way there and back, was exhausting.
I became totally fatigued and the kids too, and after the second flight they became irritable.
My husband and I had spoken about taking the trip an hour at a time so as not to have any false expectations and this laid-back mindset helped me to deal with the kids especially when all I really wanted was a nice warm shower and a comfortable bed.
What I found worked really well with tired kids is to let them be… yes, just let them be.
When my daughter cried intermittently, I tried to console her as best I could, but eventually, I left her to cry it out.
After the cry and the tantrums that come along with being three and being stuck in four different aeroplanes for about 30 hours of transit time, she was fine and went to sleep.
“When travelling with kids and a stroller, you can always get to the boarding gate early and ask for a priority check-in.”
Other passengers might give you the evil eye when your kid is crying, but it is what it is and we have to all bear with it – especially if you’re stuck in a plane with kids.
Of course, carrying sufficient snacks doesn’t go amiss. I found the kids did not enjoy the plane food too much, so this proved to a lifesaver… a happy and full tummy equal a happy child!
A few pointers that really worked well on the long trip:
- This point I can’t stress enough… take your kids to the bathroom before boarding. Let them do their business and change them into their pyjamas so that you don’t have to disturb them once they’ve fallen asleep.
- Do not have a lot of coffee on board. Yes, you read that right. Even if you’re not well like myself and are struggling with a sickness or disease, the temptation to fill up on caffeine is great, but you will pay the price when you want to nod off.
- When travelling with kids and a stroller, you can always get to the boarding gate early and ask for a priority check-in. This really helped us to settle in our seats and get our luggage stowed away appropriately before other passengers boarded.
- Take the kids for regular walks around the aircraft, even if this means up and down the aisle a few times. I tried this and it really energises you and prevents your feet from swelling (oedema) or you getting blood clots when sitting for many hours at a time.
- Do not, I repeat, do not pack puzzles for your kids. I learnt this the hard way, as once the pieces start falling onto the floor between other passengers’ feet, the joys of doing the puzzles are quickly diminished. Rather download puzzle apps on your phone or tablet.
- Safe entertainment options involve a few new, cheap toys like soft, cuddly ones, colouring-in books and crayons. Wait until their patience is totally worn out and (before yours runs out too!), hey presto, hand them a new toy every now and then for a few minutes of peace and quiet at least.
- If, like me, you need to take chronic mediation, be sure to pack this in your hand luggage and, if required, take along your prescription. Eat regularly and take your medication at the appropriate times and if you are flying through different time zones, be sure to count the hours between doses.
These really simple and practical tips will help tremendously to make your trip more bearable.
Just keep thinking it’s going to come to an end – even if it takes 30 hours.
For me, the reward was seeing my sister and her family, and the painstaking travel to get there seemed a very distant memory once I saw her waiting for me at the airport.
Happy travels!
Written by Roma Kenneth.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Travelling Long-Haul with Kids: How to Ace the Journey!
How can I prepare for a long-haul flight with kids?
Preparation is key. Booking flights that align with your child’s sleep schedule can make the journey smoother, and selecting seats that provide extra legroom or easy aisle access is helpful. Packing essentials such as snacks, entertainment, spare clothes, and hygiene products ensures you’re ready for any situation. It’s also a good idea to explain the journey to your child beforehand so they know what to expect.
What should I pack for my child on a long-haul flight?
Essential items include a favourite blanket or stuffed toy for comfort, a travel pillow to help with sleep, and a change of clothes in case of spills or accidents. Entertainment such as books, colouring sets, and downloaded films or audiobooks can keep children occupied. Snacks are important, especially if they don’t like airline food, and having baby wipes and hand sanitiser will help maintain hygiene.
How can I help my child sleep on the plane?
Encouraging sleep on a long-haul flight starts with maintaining their bedtime routine as much as possible. Dressing them in comfortable pyjamas and bringing familiar sleep aids like a blanket or soft toy can help them settle. Limiting screen time before attempting to put them to sleep and ensuring they are warm enough will also improve their chances of sleeping during the flight. If allowed by the airline, an inflatable footrest can provide extra comfort by allowing them to stretch out.
What are the best ways to keep a child entertained during a long flight?
Keeping a child entertained on a long-haul flight requires variety. Rotating between activities such as watching films, listening to audiobooks, and engaging in creative tasks like drawing or sticker books can prevent boredom. Packing small surprise toys or a new book can also provide an exciting distraction. If space allows, simple movement exercises in their seat or a short walk up the aisle can help break up the journey.
How do I prevent ear pain during take-off and landing?
Changes in air pressure can cause discomfort, so encouraging children to drink, chew, or suck on something can help. Babies may benefit from breastfeeding, a bottle, or a dummy, while older children can chew gum or eat a small snack. Yawning or gently blowing through the nose while pinching it closed can also help relieve pressure in the ears.
What should I do if my child has a tantrum on the plane?
Remaining calm is the most important thing. Offering comfort, providing a distraction, or using a familiar item such as a favourite toy can help soothe them. If possible, taking a short walk up and down the aisle can help them reset. Avoid excessive screen time just before sleep, as it can overstimulate some children and make them more restless.
How can I manage a restless child who struggles to sit still?
Letting children burn off some energy before the flight by walking around the airport or playing in designated areas can help. Choosing an aisle seat allows for easier movement if needed. Engaging them in interactive games or storytelling can help keep them occupied without requiring them to move around too much.
What’s the best way to handle jet lag in children?
Adjusting a child’s sleep schedule a few days before travel can help them adapt to a new time zone more easily. Exposure to natural daylight upon arrival helps reset their body clock. Keeping mealtimes in line with the new time zone and encouraging activity during the day can also help regulate their routine. Avoiding long naps and ensuring they get a good first night’s sleep at the destination will speed up the adjustment process.
What if my child refuses to eat airplane food?
If a child is a picky eater, packing familiar, non-perishable snacks ensures they won’t go hungry. Requesting a child-friendly meal in advance from the airline can provide better options. Encouraging small, regular snacks instead of forcing a full meal may help them eat more comfortably.
Can I bring a pram or car seat for my child on a long-haul flight?
Most airlines allow prams and car seats, but policies vary, so checking size and weight restrictions before travel is important. Many airlines also provide bassinets for infants, but these should be requested in advance as they are limited in number.
Is it safe to take a baby on a long-haul flight?
Travelling with a baby on a long-haul flight is safe, but preparation is key. Booking a bassinet seat where available can make the journey easier. Bringing enough milk or formula and ensuring they have extra nappies, wipes, and changes of clothes will help prevent stress. Keeping their ears comfortable during take-off and landing by offering a bottle or dummy can minimise discomfort.
Where can I find more advice on flying with children?
Checking with airlines for family-friendly policies is useful, and parenting forums or travel blogs often provide real-life tips from experienced travellers. Speaking to a paediatrician before a long-haul flight can also offer guidance on managing specific health concerns or travel-related anxieties.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional travel or medical advice. Always check airline policies and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about flying with young children.
ALSO CHECK OUT: Why some children get carsick & motion sick: causes, treatment & prevention
Travelling long-haul with kids? From packing essentials to sleep strategies, here’s how to make the journey smoother for the whole family
