October 22, 2025 | 07:15 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Traveling by plane with children can be challenging, but with careful preparation, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Andrea Owen, a flight attendant with over 20 years of experience at TUI Airlines, shares practical tips to make air travel smoother for families with little ones.
With more than 3,000 flights under her belt, Andrea stresses that preparation is key.
“Always anticipate the unexpected, pack more snacks than you think you'll need, and don’t hesitate to ask the cabin crew for help,” she advises. Many flight attendants are also parents, she adds, and understand the needs of families on board.
Preparation Before Flying
Parents are encouraged to explain the flight process to children before departure. Walking them through check-in, security checks, and takeoff in a fun and engaging way helps children know what to expect and feel more comfortable.
When it comes to boarding, Andrea sees two common approaches. “Some families find that boarding as soon as possible gives them that extra breathing space to get settled, stow the bags, and get the kids comfortable in their seats without feeling rushed,” she explains.
“But I've also seen plenty of parents who swear by boarding last, especially if their little ones can't sit still for long.“
Keeping Children Entertained
Keeping children engaged during the flight is crucial. Andrea suggests bringing a small bag with toys, coloring books, or a surprise item to spark interest. Even simple activities can help pass the time and keep children calm.
Air pressure can be uncomfortable, especially for young passengers. Andrea recommends nursing or giving a pacifier to babies during takeoff and landing. Older children can chew gum or enjoy a lollipop about 30 minutes before landing to ease ear discomfort.
Comfort and Snacks
Airplane cabins can be chilly or warm, so dressing children in layers allows easy adjustment. Snack preparation is also important—packing a tray with fruits, biscuits, cheese, or candy can keep children satisfied and occupied.
Bringing familiar comfort items such as a favorite blanket or stuffed animal can also help children feel secure. If the flight overlaps with their bedtime, maintaining a regular sleep routine is beneficial.
“Let them sleep if they want to, you'll arrive at your destination feeling so much fresher and ready to enjoy your holiday. It's also worth thinking about time zones if you're flying long haul,” Andrea advises.
Cabin Crew Support
Finally, Andrea emphasizes that cabin crews are there to assist. Open communication can make a huge difference.
“We've warmed countless bottles, fetched extra sick bags, provided colouring sheets, and even entertained little ones while parents take a breather. Many of us are parents ourselves, so we completely understand how overwhelming it can feel,” she says.
With careful planning, practical strategies, and a little help from the cabin crew, an airplane trip with children can be an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Putri Az Zahra Suherman contributed to the writing of this article.
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