Travelling long haul with children can feel very daunting and it is easy to get pulled into thinking ‘it would be easier not to bother’. Whether it’s your first big trip as a family or you’re seasoned travellers, the combination of long flights, different time zones and managing everyone’s sleep needs can feel overwhelming.
With my sister living in Australia, i have done the long journey several times with three children. My first trip was when they were 8, 5 and nearly 2. One of the things I learnt was that good planning is well worth it and makes it an easier journey and transition for everyone. Be prepared for the unexpected and try and relax and enjoy.
My sister traveled with her four boys from Australia when they were 3,4,6&7 on her own!!! She dressed them in jumpers with big brother, middle brother, little brother, baby brother so that if any child wondered off people recognised where they should be. She had it planned really well (she is a teacher) and survived the experience.
Here are my top tips for long haul flights with babies and children, to help you arrive rested and ready to enjoy your time away.
Before you fly
- Plan flights around sleep if possible. Overnight flights often work well as children can sleep in line with their body clock.
- Book seats carefully. If your baby is under the weight limit, book a bassinet for them. For toddlers, their own seat is worth it for everyone’s comfort. When I travelled to Australia with my nearly two year old, I decided to not book a seat to save on an airfair. I have to be hones this was a challenge because she did not have her own space. if you can, I would book a seat for toddlers.
- Pack familiar sleep items. Bring their sleeping bag, comforter, blanket or teddy, and if your child uses a dummy, bring spares. Familiar smells and textures make settling to sleep easier.
Take off and landing
For babies, feeding during take-off and landing can help with ear pressure. Whether breast or bottle feeding, or offering a dummy if they don’t need a feed, this sucking motion eases discomfort.
As adults or older children we can suck a sweet to help with ear pressure but this may be a danger of joking for toddlers. Try to recreate the idea with something that is age appropriate for your little one.
Sleep and naps on the plane
My eldest son decided at 8 that he was going to see how long he could stay awake on the 24 hour flight. He had a screen in front of him which was unusual for him and the excitement of his favourite programme on repeat kept him awake. He did really well however and slept on the second leg of the flight.
Try to keep your baby on their regular nap schedule. While longer naps might be tempting, especially on night flights, sticking to their usual routine can help them sleep better when the cabin lights are dimmed.
Snacks and meals
Airplane food can be a new level experience for children. Some will switch into this new experience with ease and some will find it more challenging.
Go prepared so that you do not have a hungry child or toddler. Bring plenty of snacks you know your little one likes. if the meals are at unusual times or it is something they do not like you are ready with an alternative. For babies on solids, pouches can be a lifesaver with limited space and no highchairs.
Entertainment
Pack small, quiet activities to pass the time. For older children, headphones and pre-downloaded films or audiobooks can be great. For toddlers, sticker books, crayons, and new small toys work well to keep them occupied between sleeps. Some of the tips in my blog about Long car journeys are helpful here.
Timing sleep before landing
If your flight lands in the evening, try to keep your child awake for their usual awake window before arrival so that they are ready to sleep at bedtime in the new time zone.
If your flight lands in the morning, try to encourage sleep for a good stretch towards the end of the flight so they arrive refreshed and ready to explore.
Upon arrival
- Get outside. Natural light and fresh air help regulate their body clock and ease jet lag.
- Set a wake-up time. Even after a rough first night’s sleep, try to wake up at your planned time the next morning to reset everyone’s routine.
- Keep bedtime calm. In the run up to sleep, keep lights dim and activities calm to support melatonin production and help your child settle.
Final thoughts
Holidays are for making memories, exploring new places, and enjoying time together as a family. If sleep goes off track while you’re away, don’t panic. Return to your usual routines when you get home and your little one will readjust with consistency.
If you would like tailored advice for travelling with your children or help with sleep on return, please get in touch. I’d love to support you to make your next family adventure as smooth and restful as possible.
