Travelling with children is always an adventure in itself, and when delays appear on the departure board it can feel like the start of a very long day. While we can’t wave a magic wand to make flights run on time, we can certainly make the experience less stressful for parents and far more fun for the little ones.
This guide shares practical, family-friendly tips to help you turn waiting time at the airport into a smoother and even more enjoyable part of the journey.
Pack a Family Survival Bag
Every parent knows the magic of a well-stocked bag. For the airport, think of it as your emergency kit. Pop in a selection of snacks, reusable water bottles, and plenty of wipes. A cosy jumper or blanket helps when air-conditioned lounges get chilly.
For little travellers, pack small toys, colouring books, or a favourite cuddly friend. Older children will thank you for puzzle books, activity pads or headphones for music and films. Having these treasures ready can stop boredom from spiralling into full-blown tantrums.
Find the Play Areas
Airports are getting much better at welcoming families, and many now have dedicated play zones. These are brilliant for letting children stretch their legs and burn off energy before boarding. Some even have soft play corners or creative activity tables.
It’s worth checking the airport website before you travel so you know exactly where to head. The moment you arrive you can make a beeline for the fun rather than pacing the concourse with restless kids.
Embrace Screen Time
When flight delays drag on, screens can be a blessing. Download new apps, films or audiobooks before you leave home and keep them as a surprise treat. The novelty keeps children occupied for much longer than their usual favourites.
Don’t forget power banks and charging leads. A fully charged tablet can buy you a rare moment of peace while your child disappears into a cartoon or story.
Feed Hungry Tummies
We all know how quickly moods dip when hunger strikes. Airport food is often expensive and not always appealing to little ones, so it pays to bring along your own snacks. Sandwiches, fruit, and cereal bars are easy to pack and always popular.
At the same time, mealtimes can be turned into part of the adventure. Many airports now offer family-friendly restaurants where you can sit down together and enjoy a proper break from the waiting game.
Turn Waiting into Playtime
Delays don’t need to feel like wasted hours. Family games such as I Spy or simple scavenger hunts can transform dull moments into laughter. Card games or travel board games slip easily into a handbag and can be played right at the gate.
Even making up silly challenges can pass the time. Try counting how many red suitcases you spot, or see who can spot the next pilot walking past.
Know Your Rights
We all hope delays will only last a few minutes, but sometimes they drag on for hours or even end in full cancellations. When that happens, it can feel overwhelming, especially with children in tow, but you’re not powerless. Airlines have a duty of care and that means families should be given proper support. This could be meal vouchers so you don’t end up spending a fortune on snacks, overnight accommodation if you’re stuck far from home, and in some cases, compensation for the disruption.
The best thing you can do in the moment is hang on to every bit of paperwork. Keep your boarding passes safe, save those receipts from food or drinks you’ve bought, and jot down any updates the airline sends your way. All of these details help if you need to put in a claim later.
Of course, the thought of wrestling with airline forms after a stressful day is enough to put anyone off. That’s where Airhelp comes in. They can step in, handle the nitty gritty for you, and fight your corner to make sure you get what you’re entitled to. Knowing someone else is sorting it all out means you can focus on keeping the kids entertained, finding that elusive quiet corner of the airport, and maybe even sneaking in a hot cuppa while you wait.
Stay Cheerful and Flexible
Children mirror the moods of the adults around them. If you’re visibly stressed and frustrated, chances are they’ll become unsettled too. Treat the delay as part of the adventure and look for silver linings. Watching planes take off, browsing duty-free, or sampling unusual snacks can all become part of the fun.
Something to keep in mind
Delays are never going to be our favourite part of family holidays, but they don’t need to ruin the mood. With a bit of planning and support, plenty of snacks and a dash of creativity, the airport can even become an extension of your adventure.
Have you had your flight delayed or cancelled?
Those are some great tips. It can be quite hard having to wait very long when you’re with small children at an airport.
Can be a nightmare – with good prep it can be fun