Travelling with a toddler can be a magical experience… or a mildly chaotic one if you’re not prepared. I’ve flown enough times now with my three children to know that a happy infant on a plane usually means happy parents, happy passengers – and yes, even happy flight attendants!
Whether you’re gearing up for your little one’s first flight or you’re a seasoned pro navigating another round of airplane travel, having the right toddler plane activities on hand is a game-changer. From mess-free sticker books to travel toys that support fine motor skills, here’s a list of the best plane activities for little ones that have worked for us over the years – especially around the age 2–3 mark.
Airplane Activities for Toddlers: What Actually Works?
When planning for a flight, preschooler entertainment becomes just as important as passports and snacks. The goal? Keep your little one busy, engaged and, if you’re lucky, napping peacefully mid-air.
So what are the best airplane activities for toddlers that are digital-free and genuinely helpful?
Reusable Sticker Books and Activity Packs
Let’s start with the classic – the sticker album. Reusable sticker books are brilliant because your child can create little scenes on tray tables without using up all the stickers in five minutes. Look for travel-themed options or character favourites. They’re lightweight, affordable, and a great refined motor activity.
Activity packs are another must-have. You can often find toddler-friendly versions that include colouring sheets, crayons (opt for triangular ones that don’t roll off the tray table), and simple puzzles.
Top tip: Choose mess-free sets like Paint With Water activity books or Melissa and Doug Water Wow! for a fun, reusable travel accessory option.
Educational Travel Toys for Toddlers
Some of our favourite compact toys for toddlers are small enough to pop into a handbag but mighty when it comes to fine motor skills and attention spans. Think Montessori-inspired toys like shape sorters with soft parts, or sensory toys that make gentle crinkly sounds without disturbing other passengers.
We’ve also used:
- Stackable pop beads
- Lacing cards
- Mini magnetic drawing boards
They’re all screen-free, easy to clean, and perfect for keeping preschoolers 2+ entertained on a plane.
Snacks Are an Activity Too!
Don’t underestimate the power of snacks – they’re both fuel and entertainment. Pack a snack container with little compartments and mix in some familiar favourites with new surprises. Our go-to airplane snacks include:
- Dried fruit
- Cheese cubes
- Crackers or rice cakes
- Raisins (bonus: fine motor practice!)
Try a bento-style box with a built-in fork to double up as a fine motor skill tool. And always have a bottle of water or a no-spill cup to keep your toddler hydrated throughout the flight.
Activity Sheets, Books, and Crayons
Don’t overload your bag, but pack 2–3 small activity books that include dot-to-dot, simple mazes, or colour-matching tasks. A couple of chunky crayons go a long way here.
Printable activity sheets are also great. Websites like Twinkl offer downloadable resources you can print ahead of your trip – including travel-themed sheets and learning activities that suit toddlers and older children alike.
Tips for Flying with a Toddler (and Keeping Them Happy!)
Here are some tried-and-tested travel hacks:
- Use the back of the plane. It’s closer to the loo and more forgiving if your toddler gets wriggly.
- Pack a soft toy or comforter. Familiar smells and textures help your toddler nap on the plane.
- Let your toddler explore. Short walks up and down the aisle (with flight attendant approval!) can reset cranky moods.
- Rotate toys and activities. Keep them in a small backpack or your hand luggage, bringing out one item at a time.
If your child is 2 years old or younger, consider booking a window seat. Not only is it fascinating for them, but it gives you a barrier on one side – fewer chances of a toddler escape attempt!
Screen-Free Fun That Keeps Kids Entertained on a Plane
While tablets have their place, electronic-free airplane activities for toddlers are ideal for keeping overstimulation at bay. Mixing in toys and activities like:
- Reusable activity books
- Montessori toys
- Simple travel games
- Learning activities disguised as fun
…helps keep your toddler focused, grounded, and less likely to meltdown mid-flight.
Plus, when you skip screens, you reduce the crash after the screen time ends – which makes the rest of the flight far smoother.
The Best Airplane Activities for Kids: My Packing Essentials
When I pack for airplane travel, here’s my go-to list of travel essentials for toddlers:
- Reusable activity books
- Melissa and Doug Water Wow! (or similar paint with water books)
- Snack container with mini compartments
- Activity book with crayons
- Soft travel toy or sensory toy
- Headphones (just in case you opt for screen time)
- Favourite bedtime book to encourage a nap
- Change of clothes (spills and accidents happen!)
Want more ideas for traveling with kids? Check out the NHS’s advice on child travel health and this guide from HealthyChildren.org for tips on flying with a toddler.
Final Thoughts on Toddler Plane Activities
No matter how well you prepare, toddlers will be toddlers. But with the right mix of toys and activities, snack options, and a flexible mindset, you’ll find your rhythm. These toddler airplane activities have saved our sanity on long haul flights, quick hops across Europe, and even road trip activities on the go.
Remember – flying with toddlers doesn’t have to be stressful. It’s just about finding the way to keep them curious, comfortable, and a little bit busy… one activity at a time.