Flying with toddlers? It’s possible to do it without tears (from them or you). Here’s how to keep little ones entertained in the sky.
Travelling by plane with a toddler is one of those parenting adventures that requires equal parts preparation, patience and snacks – so many snacks. Whether you’re off on a family holiday or visiting relatives, the thought of keeping your toddler busy in a confined space for hours can be daunting. But with a little planning (and some magic toys), it can absolutely be done.
Here are my go-to toddler plane activities that actually work – tried, tested, and travel-friendly.
1. Popper Toys
Compact, quiet, and completely addictive, popper toys are perfect for little hands during take-off, landing or mid-flight wiggles. They satisfy the need to fidget and are easy to clip onto a travel bag.
2. Reusable Silicone Colouring Mats
No mess, no fuss – just wipe-clean fun. Our reusable silicone colouring mats come with pens and are ideal for tray-table creativity. Kids can colour, wipe, and start all over again. Bonus: they’re lightweight and roll up small.
3. Suction Fidget Spinners
Stick them to the plane window or tray table, give them a spin, and let the mesmerising magic begin. These fidget spinners are great for sensory play and keeping curious little minds occupied.
4. Busy Books (Coming Soon!)
Keep an eye out – our Up Up & Grow busy books are on the way and they’re designed especially for travel. Think felt pages, fine motor activities, and screen-free engagement.
5. Screen Time is Your Friend
If ever there’s a time to embrace screen time, it’s 30,000 feet in the air. Download favourite shows or apps ahead of time and pack a pair of toddler-friendly headphones or ear defenders (I’ll pop my affiliate links here – tried and loved!).
6. Playdough Packs
A little tub of playdough and a few plastic cutters can go a long way. Choose a set with fun shapes or animal stamps and let their imagination fly (even if you’re mid-air!). These mini Playdough pots are are a travel favourite plus some accessories to keep them busy with it!
7. Snacks, Snacks, and More Snack
Sweet, savoury, chewy, crunchy – snacks can be your secret weapon. Bring a variety, portioned out in little boxes or pouches, and dish them out slowly like precious gold. Or get one of those snack trays that have lots of different compartments if you want!
8. Stickers All The Way!
We recently travelled and took a few packs of stickers and these kept our little ones SO entertained, more specifically the puffy stickers as they are easier for toddlers to stick and peel off themselves.
Flying with a toddler isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right mix of fun, familiarity and food, you can turn your flight into a mini adventure for your little one. And if all else fails? A cuddle, a snack, and a deep breath go a long way.
Happy travels, Mama – you’ve got this.