Preparing for Your First Long-Haul Flight with Kids: What You Really Need to Know
We’ve dreamed about taking our kids on once-in-a-lifetime adventures for years. But I’ll be honest — I had some nerves leading up to our first big international trip as a family. If you’re planning your first long-haul flight with little ones, I hope our experience can help make yours smoother and more enjoyable.
TIP: If this is your child’s first flight, grab my free eBook: Flying with Kids — it’s packed with essential tips!
1. Choosing the Right Seats Matters — A Lot
💺 Consider Bassinets for Infants
Many long-haul flights (especially with airlines like United on 757, 767, 777, and 787 aircraft) offer bassinets for babies under 22 pounds. These are only available in limited quantities and must be reserved early. You’ll also need specific seat assignments to use them, so call the airline directly as soon as you book.
🚫 Think Twice About Bulkhead Seats
While bulkhead seats (the ones with a wall in front) offer extra legroom, they often come with fixed armrests. This can be a downside if your little one wants to nap across your lap. If flexibility and snuggles are a priority, avoid these seats. Check this website to see what your seating situation is.
👩✈️ Avoid Sitting Near the Galley
The galley area stays busy during long flights, and although crew members try to keep things quiet, the hustle and bustle can make it harder for your kids to sleep. Try to sit a few rows away for a more restful ride. Bonus tip: bring an eye mask to block out distractions.
2. Be Ready for the Unexpected — Including Illness
On our return flight from Sydney, my daughter fell asleep in my arms. At first, I thought it was just jet lag. But mid-flight, she woke up sick — and let’s just say, I was beyond thankful for the sick bags we managed to grab in time.
🩹 Always Pack Medication
I always travel with children’s Tylenol “just in case,” and after seven years, this was the first time we actually needed it. But wow — I was so relieved to have it on hand to manage her fever mid-flight. Make sure you know the rules of flying with medications!
👕 Bring Spare Clothes
After she ate a snack and felt sick again, we didn’t get the bag ready in time. Accidents happen, so always pack an extra change of clothes for both your child and yourself in your carry-on. I share some packing tips in this video.
3. Freshen Up Before You Land
Long international flights can leave everyone feeling a little… off. You’ll likely have a long walk through customs and immigration before you see friends or family.
Keep a small kit handy in your personal item with:
Travel-sized deodorant
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Chapstick
You won’t always have access to restrooms before meeting loved ones, so a quick refresh on the plane can make all the difference.
Save mega money and lots of trouble, bring your own empty water bottle through security. Find a bottle filling station and have free water your entire trip!
4. Don’t Forget These Must-Haves
Here are the essentials that made our trip so much smoother:
Refillable Water Bottles: Fill them after security. Choose ones with screw-top lids to prevent leaks like this one!
Wet Wipes: Absolute lifesavers — for everything from sticky fingers to sick messes. Amazon has great travel packs.
Snacks: Dry cereal, granola bars, and Clif bars are our go-tos. Just remember, not all snacks are allowed through customs, so pack only what you’ll need for the flight.
Inflatable Travel Pillows: We all brought pillows, but my husband’s inflatable one was by far the comfiest.
Chargers & Cables: Most international flights have USB ports and power outlets. Keeping your devices fully charged = total win.
Ink Pen: Tuck one near your passport. You’ll need it for filling out customs forms before landing — having it ready saves time and stress.
I made a great post of the items I find essential for all travel with kids!
Have Questions?
Planning a big international adventure with your kids? I’d love to help! Drop your questions in the comments or send me a message — we’ve been through it, and I’m happy to share what we’ve learned.
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