Traveling with a Baby? Here’s How to Keep Them Entertained Mid-Flight

Flying with a baby or toddler can feel like preparing for a mini expedition. Between diaper changes, feeding schedules, and those unpredictable moods, keeping your little one calm and happy on a flight sometimes seems impossible. Parents quickly realize that how to keep baby entertained mid-flight isn’t just a bonus—it’s essential for a smoother journey.

Imagine sitting in your airplane seat, the hum of the engine filling the cabin, and your baby suddenly fussing or crying. The struggle to soothe a restless child while navigating the cramped space of an airplane is real. Family travel with infants brings unique challenges that don’t always come with easy solutions. But here’s the good news: baby entertained on flight isn’t just wishful thinking.

This guide shares practical tips and tricks from experts and seasoned parents who’ve cracked the code on flying with babies. Whether you’re traveling internationally or taking a short domestic trip, these strategies will help keep your baby comfortable, engaged, and happy in the air.

To ensure your baby’s comfort during the flight, it’s crucial to pack wisely. You might want to refer to this comprehensive guide on what to pack for infant travel, which offers valuable insights into making your next trip smooth and stress-free for the whole family.

If you want to know how to keep baby entertained mid flight without losing your sanity, you’re in the right place.

1. Bring a Variety of Toys and Books

Selecting a range of small interactive toys such as sensory books and lift-the-flap books that are easy to pack can provide hours of entertainment for your little one.

• Rotating toys throughout the flight is key to maintaining your baby’s interest and preventing boredom. Introducing a new toy every hour or so can keep them engaged and excited.
• Consider bringing dedicated “flight-only” toys that your baby has never seen before. The novelty of these toys can capture their attention and make the flight feel more special for them.

By offering a mix of familiar favorites and new surprises, you can create a stimulating environment that keeps your baby happy and entertained throughout the journey. Remember, variety is key when it comes to keeping your little one engaged during travel.

2. Utilize Screen Time Wisely

When it comes to screen time for babies on flights, it’s important to use it wisely. Here are some tips on how to make the most of it:

Use Devices Strategically

• Load tablets or phones with your baby’s favorite shows and movies.
• Use screen time as a tool to keep your little one entertained during long flights, but be mindful of overstimulation.

Engage in Interactive Play

• Take breaks from screens and engage in interactive play with your baby.
• Play games like peek-a-boo or finger plays that require no extra materials.
• This will not only help you bond with your child but also provide a break from screen time.

3. Keep Baby Comfortable During Takeoff and Landing

Understanding Air Pressure Changes

Babies can experience discomfort in their ears during takeoff and landing due to changes in air pressure.

Practical Tips for Equalizing Pressure

Breastfeeding or offering a bottle/pacifier during these times can help equalize pressure and prevent pain.

Also Read > How Do I Protect My Baby’s Ears on a Plane? Expert Tips for Parents

4. Make Use of Aisle Walking Opportunities

Walking with your baby on the plane might seem like a hassle, but it can actually be a game changer for keeping your little one happy in the air. When the flight crew gives the go-ahead, taking short walks up and down the aisle can work wonders for both you and your baby.

Why is movement so helpful?

• Stretching tiny muscles: Sitting cramped in a plane seat isn’t comfy for anyone, especially babies and toddlers who need to move around.
• Resetting moods: Fussiness often kicks in when boredom sets in. A change of scenery (even just a few steps) can distract and delight your baby.
• Boosting digestion: If your baby just ate, walking around can ease any discomfort from feeding or swallowing air.

Keep it simple—carry a lightweight stroller if you’re traveling with one, or hold your baby securely while you walk. Use this time to chat softly, play peek-a-boo, or point out cool sights through the windows or overhead bins.

Movement helps keep your baby engaged during flights and breaks up long periods of sitting still. It’s one of those tips for flying that feels like magic when your little one starts getting restless.

5. Choose Suitable Seating Options for Baby’s Comfort

• Opt for bulkhead seats to enjoy extra legroom, making it easier to maneuver with a baby and provide more space for your little one to play.
• Consider requesting a bassinet on long-haul flights to create a cozy sleeping spot for your baby, ensuring they rest more comfortably during the journey.
• If your baby is used to a car seat and meets the airline’s safety requirements, installing a car seat on the airplane can offer familiarity and security for your child throughout the flight.

These seating options can significantly enhance your baby’s comfort and overall flying experience.

6. Plan Feeding Times Strategically Mid-Flight

Feeding your baby during a flight isn’t just about nourishment—it’s also one of the best ways to keep baby entertained mid-flight. Babies find comfort in feeding, and it can help soothe them, especially during those tricky moments of takeoff or landing when ear pressure changes cause discomfort.

Tips for smooth breast milk feeding on flight or formula feeding mid-flight:

• Pack breast milk and formula carefully. Airlines allow you to bring breast milk and formula in quantities greater than the usual liquid limits, but be sure to declare them at security checkpoints. Keep these items easily accessible in a separate bag for quick screening.
• Bring pre-measured formula. If you’re formula feeding, measuring out powder into single-use containers before the trip saves time and reduces stress during preparation.
• Use warm water from flight attendants. Most flight attendants are happy to provide warm water for mixing formula—just ask politely.
• Feed during takeoff and landing. Nursing, bottle-feeding, or offering a pacifier helps equalize ear pressure and can distract your little one from discomfort.

Strategic feeding times serve double duty as a calming activity that keeps your baby comfortable and engaged in the air—making flying with baby a little easier for everyone involved.

7. Handle Fussiness Promptly With Soothing Techniques During Flight

Fussiness mid-flight can hit at any moment, and knowing how to respond quickly helps keep your baby calm and happy in the air. Babies often get upset because of:

• Hunger – Even if you’ve planned feeding times, hunger can strike unexpectedly.
• Tiredness – Sleep schedules get thrown off on flights, making your little one cranky.
• Boredom – Long stretches with nothing new to engage them.
• Ear pain – Changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing can cause discomfort.

Spotting the cause fast means you can jump right into calming them down.

Try these go-to soothing techniques for calming an upset baby mid-flight:

• Pacifier magic: Offers comfort and helps equalize ear pressure.
• Gentle rocking: Holding your baby close while softly swaying can soothe fussiness better than any toy.
• Aisle strolls: When allowed, walking up and down the aisle lets your little one stretch and shifts their attention away from discomfort or boredom.

Sometimes just being held and feeling your heartbeat is enough to settle them. Don’t underestimate the power of simple touch and closeness during airplane travel — it’s a quick fix that works wonders to keep your baby comfortable and calm.

Pro tip: Keep a small blanket handy for cozy cuddling or to shield from cabin drafts, especially when using rocking or walking methods.

8. Take Advantage of Airport Amenities That Help Before Boarding

When traveling with babies and toddlers, airports can be a great place to find amenities that make your journey easier. Here are some airport amenities to look out for:

• Airport play areas: Many airports have designated play areas where your little ones can burn off some energy before the flight. This is especially helpful for long journeys when they need to stay seated for extended periods.
• Breastfeeding rooms: If you’re breastfeeding, look for private breastfeeding rooms in the airport. These spaces provide a comfortable and quiet environment for you to nurse your baby without distractions.

Conclusion

Traveling with a baby—whether your little one is just a few weeks old or nearly 2 years old—can seem daunting, but with the right tips and tricks, both you and your baby can have a happy journey. From choosing the right car seat for your baby on an airplane to planning activities to keep your baby entertained on a long flight, smart preparation is key. Bring plenty of toys to keep your baby engaged, pack extra changes of clothes, and don’t forget essential items like formula or breast milk, baby food, and feeding supplies to make feeding your baby mid-flight smooth and stress-free.

If you’re flying internationally or on longer journeys, booking a window seat or sitting at the back of the plane can offer more comfort and convenience when traveling with kids. Taking advantage of tray tables for small games or snacks and walking the aisles (when permitted by the flight attendant) are great ways to help keep a baby happy in the air. For takeoff and landing, remember that babies’ eustachian tubes in their ears can make them more sensitive to pressure changes; feeding or offering a pacifier can help minimize pain from the change in altitude.

Don’t hesitate to ask flight attendants for help—many are experienced with families traveling with infants and can provide assistance when needed. Whether your baby is two or three months old or up to 2 years old, these tips for keeping your baby entertained on a flight will help ensure smoother travel days ahead. With thoughtful planning—layering clothing, packing all essentials within reach, bringing toys to keep them busy, and following best practices from the American Academy of Pediatrics—you’ll be ready for any adventure that comes your way.

Here’s to happy babies, peaceful flights, and family memories made at 30,000 feet!