13 Seriously Fun Activities for Toddlers on a Plane

Hey, mama! We all know that flying with little ones can be a challenge, but don’t worry– I’ve got your back! In this post, I’m sharing 13 seriously fun activities for toddlers on a plane that I know your little ones will love!

My list of toddler plane activities include items that our family has enjoyed time and again while traveling. From inexpensive ideas to using items you already have around your house, our guide will help your carry-on to be well stocked for a fun airplane ride.

In addition, I’m including my tried-and-true top tips for flying with toddlers. As a mom of four, I know preparing in advance is key to a successful flight, and the fact that you are here means you are well on your way!

1. Painter’s Tape

This might be the most underrated airplane activity for toddlers! Little ones love sticking and peeling the tape off the window, tray table and even themselves! Since it leaves no sticky residue, it is the perfect toddler entertainment.

Our kids even love making “roads” out of painter’s tape. Take a hot wheels car along for even more fun!

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2. Water Wow

Water Wow books have been a staple for our kids for years! These reusable books use just water to paint fun pictures. They dry quickly and can be used over and over!

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3. Lacing Toy

Lacing toys can be a fun, hands-on activity for toddlers. Since they are mostly flat, they pack well in a carry-on and don’t take up much room. As a bonus, lacing activities are great for fine motor skills!

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4. Window Clings

Window clings are a total game-changer for long flights with toddlers! They are mess-free and your toddler will love sticking and re-sticking them on the window.

When you’re finished, simply put them back on the sheet they came on, and use again on your next trip!

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5. LCD Drawing Board

Our kids have loved these drawing boards for on-the-go entertainment…from the toddler years through pre-teens!

They are fun, mess-free, and super thin which is great for packing. I even keep these in my purse for other times we have to wait during travel, such as at restaurants or in line for attractions.

I highly recommend choosing one that has the pen attached to the board to avoid loosing it.

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6. Wikki Stix

Wikki Stix are fun, bendable wax sticks that are perfect for creative play! There are so many ways you and your toddler can use these. Create faces, animals, buildings, or even letters and numbers to practice recognition!

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7. Tape Activity Book

Simple activity books can be great entertainment for toddlers on airplanes. We especially love this Melissa and Doug tape activity book! It come with four rolls of tape that are easily removable, so you can use each page multiple times.

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8. Books

Bring a few of your child’s favorite books (you know, the ones you read 192834 times every day) as well as a couple new books. Our kids always love books that are interactive in some way.

You may want to avoid the ones with music for plane rides, but others such as seek and find, lift-the-flap, and touch-and-feel books would all be great choices!

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9. Twistable Crayons

Twistable crayons can be the perfect art supply for traveling! We love to keep ours organized in a simple pencil pouch. Bring a coloring book or blank paper and a clip board for coloring.

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10. Tablet

If there’s ever a time to break the screen-time rules, it is on an airplane trip! This Amazon Fire tablet is highly rated and made just for kids. It even has a 2-year guarantee!

Tablets can be used for reading, watching videos and playing educational games. Make sure to bring a pair of kids’ headphones along as well. If you have two children sharing a tablet, a headphone splitter can be a great option!

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11. Magnetic Dress-up Characters

Magnetic toys are ideal for travel since the pieces naturally stay together well. These magnetic dress-up characters are always a favorite.

In addition to dress-up characters, there are other great magnetic activity options such as puzzles and games. Just keep in mind the size of the pieces to keep your little one safe.

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12. Sticker Book

Choose a sticker book according to your child’s interests! There are so many options to choose from, such as construction trucks, princesses, TV characters and animals.

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13. Audiobook Player

Our Yoto Mini Player goes everywhere with us! Choose audio cards your little one will love listening to. Options include beloved storybooks, child-friendly music and games. 

Make sure to charge your audiobook player in advance, and bring child headphones.

For more information about the Yoto player, check out our Yoto Mini review!

Tips for Flying with Toddlers

In addition to bringing airplane activities for toddlers, keep in mind these other tips for ensuring a happy flight!

• Pack an extra change of clothes for both you and your toddler. Better safe than sorry! You’ll also want a wet bag in case of soiled clothes.
• Take an empty sippy cup (you can fill it after going through security) and healthy, pre-packaged snacks.
• Consider bringing suckers and Earplanes to help alleviate ear pressure.
• Small toys and figures from Dollar Tree can be inexpensive entertainment for toddlers.
• Allow your child to bring a small backpack with their favorite lovey and comfort items. This toddler backpack is highly-rated and so cute!
• Bring your child’s carseat. In addition to increased safety, it is also a comfortable and familiar place for your little one to rest.
• Consider a ride-along carry-on. These unique carry-ons allow you to leave the stroller at home and simply roll your toddler through the airport on your luggage!
• Load the plane as late as possible. If you are able to load toward the end of boarding, it will eliminate some time that your child has to sit still in a seat. Familiarize yourself with your airline’s boarding process in advance to see if this will work for you.
• Take advantage of TSA pre-check for a smoother experience going through security.

Preparing for Your Airplane Ride

We hope this guide of travel essentials has helped prepare you for a stress-free trip with your family!

These toddler plane ideas are sure to keep your little one entertained and happy during your flight and keep your focus on making memories. 

Happy Travels!

More Toddler Travel Resources:

• Beach Essentials for Toddlers (What You ACTUALLY Need!)
• The Ultimate Toddler Travel Checklist
• Ultimate Toddler Travel Tips for Family Vacations
• 11 Genius Road Trip Ideas for Toddlers
• 13 Seriously Fun Activities for Toddlers on a Plane
• Yoto Mini Review: The Best Screen-Free Entertainment for Kids