We have a one year old who has already been on ten flights and two long train journeys. If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that the best form of entertainment for a baby on a flight is… sleep. Everything else is just a bonus.
If you can, try to time flights around naps or stretch wake windows slightly so they’re ready for a decent sleep once you’re in the air. That said, we know this is much easier said than done. Travel days are overstimulating, routines go out of the window, and everyone ends up a bit out of sync — and that’s okay. Don’t worry too much about tracking naps or sticking rigidly to wake windows. On travel days, we just let our baby sleep when she wants to sleep (within reason) and don’t overthink it.
Toys That Actually Work on a Plane
When it comes to toys, simple really is best — and repetition is your friend. Lift-the-flap books are a huge hit for our one-year-old and can be read on repeat without taking up much space. Felt flaps are especially good, and you can often find travel-sized versions which are perfect for hand luggage.
Sensory toys also work really well on flights. Things like Freddie the Firefly, suction spinners that stick to windows or tray tables, and toys that encourage fine motor skills tend to hold attention for longer. Busy books are another favourite, especially ones with zips, Velcro and textured elements.
You might think that buying a brand-new toy for the flight is the answer, but in our experience, that’s not always the case. We actually have more success with toys we know she already loves and knows how to play with — familiarity seems to be comforting in an unfamiliar environment.
And don’t forget their comforter. Whether it’s a blanket, soft toy or muslin, having something familiar can make a huge difference when it comes to settling them to sleep.
Screens: Let Go of the Guilt
Even if you’re usually a no-screen or low-screen parent, we truly believe travel days are the exception. This is one rule we happily throw out of the window when flying.
We can all agree that a calm, content child watching a bit of TV on a plane is far preferable to a baby who’s screaming for hours on end. A little screen time here and there will not harm their development, despite what social media might sometimes make you think.
In reality, we’ve never seen a child over a few months old get through a long-haul flight completely screen-free — and that’s okay. You’re not trying to win a perfect parent award. The goal is to survive the flight with everyone’s sanity intact, including your own.
Bassinet Seats & Snacks
We always recommend booking the bassinet seat if it’s available, even if you don’t plan to use the bassinet itself. The extra legroom makes such a difference and gives your baby more space to move, play and stretch — which in itself helps with entertainment.
Snacks are another big one. If your baby is on solids, pack a small lunchbox with lots of familiar snacks. Eating takes up time, keeps little hands busy, and can help break up the flight into manageable chunks. Even if the airline provides baby food, having snacks you know your baby likes is always reassuring.
A Final Reassurance
Airline staff have always been amazing with us, and we’ve never had an issue with other passengers. Most people are far more understanding than you expect, especially when they can see you’re doing your best.
If you’re feeling anxious about flying with a baby, our biggest piece of advice is to book a short-haul trip first. It’s a great confidence booster, and you’ll quickly realise it’s not as bad as you imagine. The reward of being on holiday, making memories, and binding time as a family, massively outweighs the travel part.
Sunsets And Footsteps 
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