MIAMI — It happens almost every time I board a plane … the wheels haven’t lifted off the ground before the toddler behind me starts kicking my seat … kids start asking their stressed out parents “are we there yet?” … babies are screaming all around me.
Suddenly, I yearn for an adults-only airline.
Keeping kids entertained, or distracted, on flights, especially the long-haul variety, are a challenge for both parents and airlines, alike. Most of the responsibility, of course, falls on parents, but more and more airlines are lending a helping hand by catering to the younger set with features that keep them occupied while in the air.
According to industry data, online searches for “child-friendly airlines” have increased by over 1,400 per cent over the past 12 months. That information prompted the U.K.’s largest life insurance broker, Reassured, to compare 20 airlines regarding what they offer families to help make flights less stressful.

Above: Keeping kids well fed and entertained is key to a happy flight.

“During the summer months many families will be looking forward to their holidays, but the planning can be daunting,” said a Reassured spokesman. “Packing and ensuring you’re allowed to take everything on board can be time-consuming, so we hope our breakdown of what different airlines offer will help you to a relaxed start to your holiday!”
British Airways, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic and Qantas offer the most perks for children, including free seat reservations for kids, according to Reassured’s research. Of the 20 airlines compared, only Air Transat and Europe-based Tui Airways do not offer free kids meals.
Reassured also consulted some travel experts on how to involve your children in the planning phase of a long-haul flight. Their suggestions:
• Showing children photos of the destination and explaining how hot or cold it will be will help them take part in choosing what to pack.  This way they can take on some independence by packing appropriate clothes as well as pick out some games they might want to play on holiday.

• If you have any anxieties about planes, try not to let your child notice this.
•Especially during the holiday season, long queues and a lot of new noises can be expected when getting to the airport. Explaining to children a little about what to expect can be a great help for a smooth and stress-free check-in and security check.
The travel experts also recommended what parents should pack in their hand luggage prior to boarding:
•Ensure to carry extra nappies, wipes and change of nappies as necessary. You’ll also be able to bring enough milk and formula as these items are exempt from the 100ml rule.
• Wear or pack comfy clothes for your child to sleep in if the flight is a long haul. Taking the toothbrush to do their teeth and changing into PJs can help signal that it is time to go to sleep — a good way to pass the flight time!
• Providing a comfy seat or a small flatbed can help settle your child. Some prams have a removable seat but ensure to check with the airlines if accepted.
• Bring picture or painting books to keep the little one busy. Paperback books are lightweight and offer hours of fun. If old enough, you can start playing little games like tic-tac-toe.
• With only a few things to do, screen time can be a good way to keep the little ones distracted. You can download their favourite films or shows before the trip and make sure you charge the battery before the flight. Bring comfy earphones for them so other passengers won’t be bothered by the sound.
• Fill up their water bottles before getting on the plane and bring some of their favourite snacks in case the hunger kicks in between meals. Raisins, a packet of crisps or some wine gummies are often available in smaller packages and won’t take up much room.
If you follow these suggestions, air travel for your kids and their fellow passengers will be a lot more enjoyable.

To view the full Reassured study, please visit
https://www.reassured.co.uk/best-airlines-for-travelling-with-children/