Tips for Long Haul Flights with Children
For their own piece of mind, as well as that of other passengers, parents should plan ahead for inevitable boredom that will take over on long flights. Playing games and providing plenty of reading material of interest to the children will help, but only if they are interested in the games and like to read. If they are really tired before long haul flights children may sleep through most of the trip, but still show signs of being cranky.Since the biggest problems with long haul flights children have, are a short attention span and their need to be entertained. This may be helped by insuring parents bring a good variety of games and puzzles, along with a few favorite toys to keep them occupied. Do not bring noisy toys or talking stuffed animals, as, while they may help keep the child occupied for a short period of time, it will likely have an ill effect on other passengers.
Some Parents Simply Avoid Long Trips
The thought of being locked in an aircraft for ten or more hours with a fidgety child is too much for some parents to comprehend and they put off taking the long trip with them. Even more daunting, is the prospect of ending up sitting next to one with parents who have the ability to ignore every noise they make. On most long haul flights children can take advantage of onboard movies and other entertainment, but parents should check their availability before selecting an airline.
If not, consider a portable DVD player with a headphone for the children to help keep them occupied. While sleeping is going to take some of the time away from long haul flights, children will be awake through most of it due to excitement, and also through boredom.
Parents planning a trip need to remember that on long haul flights children are not going to be the center of attention for everyone on the aircraft and will need to take the responsibility of keeping them in line. Some airlines have policies on children being on long flights, and these rules should be checked before booking a flight.