Thailand is the dream destination for many, with azure seas and golden stretches of sand, the beaches are postcard perfect. It is easy to see why, if you’re a family with children, you think Thailand is off limits for your next family holiday . No matter how well behaved your little ones are, even the most patient children are going to get bored on a long haul flight, so if you’ve just booked your flights to Thailand or any other destination and you’re wondering how to keep the kids entertained, here are some of our top tips.
Go old school
In a world where it seems we are all surgically attached to our tablets and smartphones it could seem like an outdated concept of bringing some paper and pens or a colouring in book, but these oldies will still keep kids entertained, encourage their creativity, and won’t take up much room in your hand luggage, making them the perfect travel toy.
Variety is the spice of life
The key to keeping the kids happy on a long haul flight is not to stick to one activity for too long so they don’t get bored, swapping toys around means you won’t run out of things for them do to. Playing cards are a great idea because they are not only cheap, portable but you can play a variety of different games with them and who doesn’t like a good game of Go Fish?
There’s no shame in bribery
Bringing one or two new toys (they don’t have to be big expensive ones) in your bag is a great way to add some exciting to a long flight, everyone loves getting presents and the novelty of a new toy will take longer to wear off in new and different surroundings. These can be a great idea to save until last, or until you feel a mega tantrum coming on, as distracting their attention will be the quickest way to turn that frown upside down.
Stock up on snacks
‘Hangry’ is a word that is thrown around a lot these days and is used to describe the anger and stress that can develop from being hungry. It may be a silly term but anyone with children (or husbands) can attest to how true it can be. Nothing can bring on a tantrum as quickly as a rumbling tummy, so stock your hand luggage with snacks. Just try to avoid anything to full of sugar and preservatives, the last thing you and the other passengers want is a hyperactive child in a confined space…
Technology is your new best friend
Tablets and smartphones still have their uses, before you go download your little ones favourite TV shows, movies, games and books, an easy way to keep them busy for hours. Just remember to bring headphones with you as the kids may love to hear the Peppa Pig theme tune 20 times, however, the surrounding passengers may not. Headphones are also great for blocking out other sounds, other screaming children may convince yours to misbehave, or if there’s any turbulence then they can stop them from getting upset by any scary noises.
By following these simple steps there is no reason why you cannot take your kids on a long haul flight, without the worry that you will upset any other passengers on the plane, and have a relaxing, stress free holiday in your dream destination and you’ll be glad that you did.
Images by Juhan Sonin and Guiseppe Milo used under the Creative Commons License.
