There is little we can say about flying with kids that you grown-ups don’t already know. It is hard. Kids movies and meals are life-savers, but even screen time can only go so far. Luckily, some airlines really get it, and are offering craft, games and other in-flight activities to keep kids quiet.
Bribery? Maybe. If they can stop a very public tantrum in a very enclosed space, or hit pause on the broken ‘are we there yet?’ record, we are absolutely all for the latest in-flight activities packs for flying families.
Family holidays are loads of fun – now flying can be too! Picture: Shutterstock
Qantas
The humble etch-a-sketch may seem old-school, but it sure can keep kids occupied for hours on end. Qantas’ complimentary Joey Club kid’s kits for 3 to 6-year-olds includes an activity book, colour pencils and luggage tags on domestic flights. For international long-hauls, there are the handy additions of the etch-a-sketch, guessing games, Mini Joey Club Book and, if you’re lucky, Matilda the kangaroo socks on select routes. Read more here about an exciting new offering from Qantas for kids – it may or may not involve behind-the-scenes tours! Click here to read kids’ reviews of the Qantas Lounge.
Make flying with kids a no-fuss exercise Picture: Shutterstock
Air New Zealand
Loved for their sense of humour, zany ad campaigns and hospitality, Air New Zealand also does a great job with kids packs on international flights. A hot tip – to receive colouring books, pencils and more, you’ll need to have booked a children’s meal.
Emirates
Emirates has teamed up with Lonely Planet Kids to produce exclusive activity backpacks jammed full of fun diversions for 7 to 12-year-olds. They have puzzles, craft activities, travel journals and educational books with world facts.
Younger children can also enjoy their own Fly with Me activities, and a collection of Fly with Me plush toys. The four characters that will accompany you on your flight are Lewis the Lion, Peek U the Panda, Ernie the Penguin and Savannah the Elephant.
Wave goodbye to the drama of long-haul flights thanks to in-flight activities and giveaways for kids from top airlines Picture: Shutterstock
Etihad
Etihad tops the charts for child-minding when it comes to their Flying Nannies on long-haul flights. These expert flight attendants come armed with goody bags to crack out when the kids get restless, featuring hand puppets, face paints, craft and more.
Every child over 3 years old will also receive a pack of games, activities and more, tailored to their age. Click here to read more about Etihad Kids Packs.
Etihad’s Flying Nannies and flight attendants know what’s what when catering for kids Picture: Etihad
British Airways
Aviation-themed Skyflyers activity packs are great for younger kids flying British Airways – and for their grown-ups! There is a Spread Your Wings colouring book, and Cuthbert the Cat to keep you company.
British Airways’ activity packs are certainly something to smile about Picture: British Airways
Feeling restless? Want to get travelling? Read more about top family airline experiences:
Sophie is a die-hard pasta lover, beach-goer and theatre fanatic hit hard with the travel bug. When exploring new places, Sophie loves straying from the beaten path and chatting with locals about the best places to grab a bite to eat.