10) Keep to a Familiar Routine
Stick to your child’s usual rhythm where you can. If there is a bedtime story you always read, pack that exact book and read it before you expect them to sleep. Familiar cues tell little bodies and brains that it is time to wind down, even at 30,000 feet.
9) Bring Real Snacks, Not Just Treats
Hungry children are restless children. Pack your own supply of tidy, nourishing snacks and a refillable bottle. Think rice cakes, soft fruit slices, mini sandwiches and yoghurt pouches. For reliable guidance on feeding young children, see the NHS.
8) Sort Entertainment Before You Leave
Download films, shows, audiobooks and games in advance so they work offline. Child-safe, volume-limiting headphones are kinder on small ears and fellow passengers. Add two non-screen options such as a sticker book and a small colouring pad for take-off and landing.
7) Make Time Visible with Hourly Surprises
Wrap a few tiny, inexpensive surprises and hand one over at the end of each hour. It gives children a gentle sense of progress and something to look forward to. Think mini crayons, a finger puppet or a small puzzle rather than anything noisy or messy.
6) Prepare for Mess
Spills happen. Pack a roll of small nappy bags for rubbish, a travel pack of tissues and plenty of wet wipes. Keep them in an outer pocket so you are not rummaging while the juice drips.
5) Pack Spare Clothes in Your Carry-on
Include two changes for your child and one clean top for yourself. Turbulence, spilt drinks and enthusiastic snackers make wardrobe changes more common than you would think.
4) Protect Little Ears at Take-off and Landing
Pressure changes can be uncomfortable. Offer a drink, breast or bottle feed, a dummy, or encourage swallowing and yawning during ascent and descent. Child earplugs can help some families. For broader passenger guidance, visit the UK Civil Aviation Authority. For airport security rules on liquids and baby food, check GOV.UK hand luggage restrictions before you pack.
3) Choose Seats with a Plan
Only request bulkhead seats if you need a bassinet. Armrests in many bulkhead rows cannot be raised, which limits flexibility. Standard rows with liftable armrests often allow a little one to lie across with their head in your lap, which can be a game-changer during naps.
2) Make a Pre-Board Toilet Stop
Cabin loos are cramped and often have a queue. A quick visit before boarding can spare you an early dash and buy you time to settle in. Consider portable toilet seat covers and hand sanitiser for extra peace of mind.
1) Pack Patience and a Sense of Humour
The most important item is the mood you bring. Flights are unpredictable, and little people are learning as they go. A calm, light-hearted response from you helps them regulate faster than any gadget.
Bonus: Quick Cabin Checklist
- Passports, boarding passes and any consent letters for solo-parent travel
- Nappies, wipes, nappy bags and a compact changing mat
- Refillable bottle or cup, snacks and a bib
- Comforter, dummy and lightweight blanket
- Downloaded entertainment and child-safe headphones
- Two spare outfits for your child and a clean top for you
Helpful Links and Further Reading
Explore more family travel lists and clever packing ideas on The Very Best Top 10 travel search, and browse related round-ups via our holiday ideas search. For trusted external guidance, see the NHS and the UK Civil Aviation Authority.