The good news about flight delays is that they are easy to prepare for. When you travel with kids some simple planning and creative energy can even make your delay fun. That’s right, a flight delay can be fun! Follow these tips and your kids will stay entertained and in good spirits during any delay you face.
1. Download Entertainment
While we normally don’t advocate for screen time during your family vacation, flight delays change things. Before you leave have a few TV shows or movies downloaded that your kids love. This is an easy go-to to when you need your kids to be still and quiet while you figure out your new travel arrangements.
2. See What Fun is at the Airport
In the last decade airports have been getting more creative in what family friendly amenities they offer delayed passengers. San Francisco International Airport has a yoga room, Vancouver International Airport has an aquarium, Changi Airport in Singapore has a rooftop pool and a butterfly garden, and Schipol Airport in Amsterdam has the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, the only museum to be annexed by an airport in the world! If all else fails, there is usually a simple kids-zone or rest area that you can go to.
3. Have Snacks Ready to Go
Keeping everyone well fed is the key to happiness during a delay. Have your kid’s favorite snacks on hand that you can provide in an instant if any grumbling starts. You can also search the airport for snacks like ice cream, fresh baked cookies, or donuts!
4. Play Card Games
A deck of cards is easy to pack and offers an unlimited amount of games that your kids can play. A few of our favorites that are easy to play are Go Fish, Rummy, Pig, Snap and Crazy Eights.
5. Make a Scavenger Hunt
Airports are perfect places to have a scavenger hunt. There are so many things to look for! Take a few minutes and create one before you leave for your trip so it’s ready to go when you need it. Here are a few of things we have on our list: a flight to your home city, a flight that ends in an even number, a flight that starts with a vowel, a pink suitcase, a stuffed animal, a pilot, a yellow hat, a gray pillow, a plane with red on it and a person wearing sunglasses. Throw in an incentive, whoever wins gets something from the gift shop!
6. Let them Run Around
In every airport you’ll be able to find that empty section where you can let your kids run free. Rarely are kids able to run around inside of places that they normally can’t— so let them do that here. It will also get them ready for a nap!
7. Watch Planes Take Off
Find a good seat by the window and enjoy the fun! Watching planes takeoff is always a fun thing for kids to see. It’s entertainment that your kids can only find here!
