Taking flight can be challenging: arriving at the airport on time; checking in and checking bags; navigating through security; finding your gate; and, finally, boarding. Add on a long-haul flight on which you and your family will be traveling, and the getting to and arriving at the airport can look like the easiest part of the trip. It doesn’t have to be. Here, we take a look at a few ways you can prepare for a long-haul flight so the flight is as flawless as you can make possible.
Get Comfortable
Getting comfortable in your seat on a plane is possible. On long flights, we like to bring a spare pair of socks to slip on once airborne so we can slip off our shoes and relax into it. Remember a pair of slip-ons, or even flip flops, and make it easy to get up to go to the bathroom and back in your comfort zone as quickly as possible. You may also want to bring a pashmina or small blanket — planes can be cold, and bringing your own ensures you can cozy up. Plus, if you are traveling with young kids, a familiar blanket may help them feel more comfortable on the flight.
Let Them Entertain You

© Noblige | Dreamstime.com
In-flight entertainment will likely keep you and your family occupied during long flights, and most airlines will provide complimentary headphones so you can enjoy for hours. If you have your own and have room in your carry-on, consider bringing them with you as they are likely more comfortable than those you will receive onboard. Kids can get bored, even with limitless TV shows and movies at their disposal, so if there is a game they enjoy playing, why not bring it with you? Or, of course, there’s the old-fashioned book!
Don’t Forget the Snacks
It is likely your long-haul flight will have plenty of food to keep you satiated whilst in the air, but these days, you really never know. Go ahead and pack some of your favorite snacks with you to nibble in the air — even if you are well-fed during the flight, your hunger pangs may hit when the snack cart is locked away. And, familiar flavors and favorite snacks could reassure your kids if they become anxious in the air.
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
Jul 10, 2025The Nike and LEGO Play Arena Returns to LEGOLAND California Resort This Summer
Family travelers will want to make for LEGOLAND California Resort this summer, as the resort recently announced its Nike and LEGO Play Arena is back! Until Aug. 10, LEGOLAND California Resort invites kids and families to “just do it” and head back into the game for a summer of active and creative fun.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Azores & Madeira: Portugal’s Island Paradises Await
Embrace the Portugal’s Magical Islands of the Azores and Madeira
Hotels
Jul 10, 2025Marram Montauk Offers Family Week
As Marram Montauk’s first Family Week of summer wraps up today, it’s not too late for family travelers to plan for the next one, which will be held Aug. 18–28. These weeks offer mindful, nature-inspired activities that help families foster calm, creativity and connection.
Slideshow
Jul 10, 20257 Nova Scotia, Canada, Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Nova Scotia, Canada, with us.
Hotels
Jul 9, 2025Teach Kids About Sustainability Through Art at Banyan Tree Krabi
Banyan Tree Krabi in Thailand invites family travelers to experience its sustainability efforts in action. The property partners with local artisans and vendors through its Banyan Tree Gallery Krabi program.
Cruises
Jul 9, 2025Longest Dry Slide at Sea to Debut on This Cruise
The largest and longest dry slide on a cruise ship will soon emerge on MSC World Asia, MSC Cruises’ highly anticipated new flagship set to sail the Mediterranean Dec. 11, 2026. Kids and adults alike will flock to the new Tree of Life @The Spiral, an eye-catching architectural feature of MSC Cruises’ World Class ships.
ShareThis