Are you new parents planning your first trip with a baby? It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety about the journey ahead. One big concern is how to keep baby preoccupied in long flight. You want to ensure your little one is comfortable and entertained, allowing everyone to enjoy the trip. To help with this, remember to feed your baby during the flight, bring buckle toys for engagement, load kid shows on your devices, and the list goes on and on. There are many things to consider to make the flight smoother for you and your baby! Check out the amazing tips mentioned in this guide and throw the discomfort away from your little champ’s trip!
11 Tips to Keep Baby Entertain/Preoccupied on a Long Flight
Long flights with a baby can be a challenge, but keeping your little one busy and comfortable will make the experience much more manageable for both of you. Here are some easy and effective ways on How to Keep Baby Preoccupied in Long Flight:
1. Feed Your Baby and Keep Favorite Snacks On Hand
Nothing keeps a baby happier (and quieter) than food! Pack a variety of snacks your baby loves, especially if they are old enough to eat finger foods. Snacks like crackers, fruit pouches, or small bits of cheese can keep them engaged and occupied for a good chunk of time.
If you are breastfeeding, consider nursing your baby during take-off and landing, as the swallowing motion can help relieve ear pressure from altitude changes. If you are bottle-feeding, have enough formula or breast milk in your carry-on. Be sure to bring extra bottles or sippy cups of water to keep them hydrated as well. A well-fed baby is a happy baby!
2. Let Baby Take the Lead With Sleep
Babies often sleep well during flights, especially if they’re under 5 months old, as they are likely to be lulled by the hum of the engine and the gentle rocking of the plane. Stick to your usual sleep routine, whether it’s swaddling, using a pacifier, or offering a bottle to help them feel secure. If your baby resists sleep (as older babies often do), let them stay busy with little distractions like toys or a favorite blanket. Don’t worry if they get a bit fussy – remember, even long flights end, and eventually, they will sleep.
3. Pack Familiar Toys and Comfort Items
Babies are often comforted by their favorite toys or objects. A beloved buckle toy, stuffed animal, a soft blanket, or a teething ring can make them feel secure, especially in an unfamiliar environment. Try to pack a few items your baby is familiar with, and when they start to get restless, offer them something they can hold or chew on. Familiar items provide comfort and can distract them when they start to feel unsettled.
4. Bring Stationery Items for Older Babies (2+ Years)
If your baby is a little older (over 2 years), you can pack more engaging items like comic books, coloring books, or even a small notebook and pens. These will help keep their hands and minds busy as they draw, color, or look through pictures. If you can, load your phone or tablet with fun apps, interactive e-books, or a favorite cartoon to keep them entertained for a short time. But remember, too much screen time isn’t ideal for kids’ eye health, so use it sparingly!
5. Make Use of a Stroller for In-Air and On-the-Ground Comfort
While some babies are happy in their seat, others may want to move around more. If your baby is fussy, walking up and down the aisle in a stroller can help soothe them. If you have brought your stroller to the airport, take advantage of it. It’s a great way to keep your baby settled and even nap during the flight. Just make sure to collapse it when needed, especially during take-off and landing for safety.
6. Play a Favorite Show or Movie
If your baby enjoys watching shows or movies, loading their favorite on a mobile device or the airplane’s entertainment screen can be a good distraction. But be mindful of the time – too much screen time is not ideal for children and can cause eye strain or overstimulation. Keep it brief, just long enough to let them unwind or calm down before napping or other activities.
7. Activity Kits Can Be a Game-Changer
Bring along an activity kit filled with age-appropriate toys, books, and puzzles. A kit tailored to your baby’s age and preferences (like soft toys, sensory items, or interactive books) can keep them occupied for a while. Many parents swear by small, portable kits that are easy to store and pull out when needed.
8. Create Your Own Games
Sometimes, all you need is a little creativity! Simple games like “Pat-a-cake,” “Peek-a-boo,” or “This Little Piggy” can entertain your baby, even on a long flight. These games are not only fun but can also provide comfort and connection, which will make your baby feel secure and loved.
9. Don’t Forget the Essentials: Diapers, Medications, Extra Clothes
When traveling with a baby, always pack more than you think you will need. Bring extra diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and any medications your baby might need. You never know when a spill or blowout could happen, so it’s better to be over-prepared. Having everything within reach in your carry-on bag will save you from stress during the flight.
10. Always Bring an Extra Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential, especially on long flights. Don’t forget to bring an extra water bottle for both you and your baby. Airplane cabins can be quite dry, and it’s easy to forget about hydration amidst all the other preparations. Having an extra bottle will make it easy to top off your baby’s drink or for you to stay refreshed, especially if you are breastfeeding. Just make sure to check the airport security regulations about carrying liquids, but a bottle of water for your baby should be allowed after you have cleared security.
11. Consider Booking Seats with Extra Space
When flying with a baby, extra space can make all the difference. You must consider booking seats with more legroom or even a bulkhead seat, where you might get extra room for your baby’s stroller or play area. These seats can provide more comfort, making it easier for you to move around and keep your baby comfortable during the flight. While they may cost a bit more, the extra space can help you feel less cramped and more relaxed, making the journey smoother for both you and your little one.
Wrapping it Up!
So, did you learn How to Keep Baby Preoccupied in Long Flight? Now, you can travel stress-free to your destination! All you need to do is keep these tips in mind and pack the right items—snacks, toys, and comfort essentials. With a little planning, you will create a smoother, more enjoyable flight for both you and your baby. Remember, staying calm and being prepared will make all the difference. Safe travels, and here’s to happy flying with your little one!
Frequently Asked Questions
Passengers must bring snacks, toys, and comfort items. It’s important to stay calm, take breaks, and keep your baby’s routine as consistent as possible.
Parents should breastfeed or bottle-feed their baby during takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure. Also, bring extra formula or snacks and maintain a consistent feeding schedule.
Caregivers need to stick to the baby’s usual sleep routine. Bringing a familiar blanket or carrier helps, along with dimming the cabin and gently rocking the baby to encourage sleep.
Passengers should bring their toddler’s favorite toys, snacks, and activity books. Using apps, watching shows, or engaging in simple games can help keep them entertained and reduce boredom.
Parents should ensure their baby is fed, comfortable, and entertained. Staying relaxed, and using soothing music or soft toys, can help prevent transferring anxiety to the baby.
Caregivers can bring small toys, soft books, or interactive apps. Distractions like favorite songs or playing peek-a-boo can keep the baby engaged during the flight.
Passengers should bring snacks, favorite toys, and familiar items. Using distraction techniques like singing, finger games, or soft videos can help keep the baby busy and avoid restlessness.
