Travel Essentials for Kids | What to pack for children on the plane (ages 3-8)

We’re off on holiday again shortly, and honestly, one of the things I feel we’ve absolutely nailed down to a T is what to pack for children on the plane. My three (now 14, 13, and 8) have been flying since they were tiny, and trust me when I say we’ve learned through trial, error, and quite a few airport meltdowns what actually works.

This rucksack or carry on contains all the fun bits and travel essentials for kids that keep them occupied, whether it’s a quick European hop or a longer haul to somewhere more exotic. I actually keep most of these items stored in a box in our kitchen cupboard, so I can locate everything quickly and easily when we’re packing. The contents are also perfect for long train journeys or even those restaurant meals where you’d quite like to enjoy your food without rushing through it in twenty minutes flat (chance would be a fine thing, ha!).

When it comes to travel for families, being properly prepared for bringing kids on a plane makes everything so much more relaxing and less stressful for everyone. And by everyone, I mean you, your partner, the children, AND the poor souls sitting around you on the flight.

Understanding Airline Carry On Rules for Children

Right, before we dive into the packing list itself, let’s get the boring but essential bit out of the way. Most airlines allow carry on bags of roughly 45 x 35 x 20 cm (that’s about 18 x 14 x 8 inches), though you absolutely must check your specific airline’s rules before you head to the airport. Budget airlines can be particularly strict, and the last thing you need is a row at the gate about bag sizes.

Children between 3 and 8 should have backpacks they can actually lift themselves. I’m a big fan of small rolling suitcases like Trunkis that they can pull along, but honestly, the novelty wears off after about ten minutes and guess who ends up dragging it? Yep, you. So I’d say go with a lightweight rucksack that fits comfortably on their little shoulders.

Make absolutely certain their bag can fit beneath the seat in front of them. This is crucial because you’ll need quick access throughout the flight, and you really don’t want to be that person climbing over everyone to root through the overhead locker. A good rule of thumb is this: if your child needs help to lift or manage their luggage, it’s too big. Simple as that.

Select travel bags with separate compartments so your child can easily reach snacks, toys, and spare clothing without emptying the entire thing onto the floor. Because they will empty it onto the floor. Multiple times. I speak from bitter experience.

The “Less Is More” Philosophy for Kids’ Carry Ons

When it comes to kids travel essentials and packing for our children, I can safely say that less is genuinely more. Left to their own devices, my lot would pack the most random stuff. I’m talking full-sized board games, collections of rocks, you name it. So we’ve learned to narrow it down to proper entertaining essentials that actually get used.

Each child is allowed to take a couple of favourite toys (my youngest might choose a small stuffed animal and a couple of Hot Wheels cars, for example), but definitely not a whole load of them. Here’s why keeping it minimal is absolutely key:

The Harsh Reality of Overpacking:

• Bulky toys take up valuable space you’ll need for other essentials
• Familiar toys often stay in the bag, ignored, while kids stare at screens
• Toys get lost under seats or in seat pockets, leading to tears at 30,000 feet
• If you have multiple children, they will fight over toys, guaranteed
• You end up carrying everything anyway when they get tired

Trust me, children are surprisingly resourceful. Give them a pen and some paper, a small activity book, or even printed hello kitty coloring pages, and they’ll create entire worlds. Pack half a toy shop, and they’ll still be bored twenty minutes into the flight.

The Complete Plane Essentials for Kids Packing List

When it comes to kids travel essentials and packing for our children, I can safely say that less is more when it comes to their carry ons! Left to their own devices Freddie and Sasha would pack the most random stuff (play doh hairdressing set anyone?), so we try and narrow it down so they have some entertaining essentials. Each child is, of course, allowed to take a couple of favourite toys (Freddie would choose a couple of small toy planes and his Teddy, for example), but not a whole load of them. 

Here are the things currently always included in our children’s flight luggage, carry ons, and rucksacks. These are proper travel essentials for kids that have been tested on countless flights.

• Kindle Fire and headphones. The kids only really use their Kindle Fires at the weekend at the moment, so they’re always really appreciated when they appear! We pre-load games onto them (current favourites are various Lego, Dr Panda and Toca Boca ones), and they can also read books on them. When we have wifi, we can also keep up with any homework if needed online (the kids are going away during term time on this occasion so this something we’ve promised the school that we’d do). 
• Apps and Online Games
  Apps and online games are always one of the first things we pack, especially for long flights. They’re perfect for short bursts of entertainment and easy to dip in and out of. We download a mix of games in advance in case there’s no Wi-Fi, but when the internet is available, options like online Sudoku or chess are great for keeping kids quietly focused without overstimulation. Puzzle games, simple logic games, and age-appropriate apps help pass time calmly and can even feel a bit educational, which is always a bonus.
• Books and / or Kindles for reading – Sounds obvious, but we always bring something to read! Both for on the plane, and for our trip. If you have a Kindle, you can get some great Amazon Kindle book deals for very little, so always worth taking a look before you go.

• Drawing and Colouring Supplies Pack a small pencil case with a selection of pencils, crayons, and a small pad of paper. My two love to do drawing and colouring, so this always goes in one of the bags. Go for twistable crayons rather than the traditional ones as they won’t break easily, don’t need sharpening, and won’t make their hands all waxy and gross. Colouring books are fab, but here’s a top tip: those Water Wow books from Melissa & Doug are absolutely genius. You just fill the brush with water and colours magically appear on the page. Once it’s dry, you can do it all over again. No mess, no fuss, and they can be used again and again. Perfect for planes, restaurants, or anywhere you need them occupied without creating chaos.

• UNO and other card games. Games like Uno and Happy Families have saved many a potentially lengthy/boring travel situation (and we all love to play, even the grown ups!). A Peppa Pig card game made 2 hours whizz by a whole lot quicker when we accidentally got on the wrong ferry in Lake Garda and ended up doing a massive detour to our holiday site! A great toddler flight essential IMO.

• Cosy socks. Useful on long-haul flights with children as they can keep their shoes off during flight and get comfy.

• Snacks. When it comes to food you can take on a plane, we always take a couple of snacks in each bag, although usually buy something/get given something on the plane. I usually pop in a fruit loaf bar and some fruity snacks (that the kids are convinced are sweets #cunning), as they’re not that messy. Avoid crisps and anything that crumbles/squashes badly in the bags at all costs! These types of ‘snackle box‘ are also great for carrying a variety of snacks with little mess.
• Tissues and baby wipes. For snotty noses and inevitable post-flight meal mess. 
• Small pencil case with pens/pencils. Our two love to do drawing and colouring, so we always pop a selection of these in a pencil case to go in one of the bags. 
• Educational supplies. You might want to consider packing some free maths worksheets, something to read or something else otherwise educational. We also love word searches for slightly older children (5 plus).
• Stickers and Activity Books Never underestimate the power of stickers to keep young kids entertained. Those reusable sticker playsets are particularly good because they don’t leave sticky residue all over the seats (flight attendants everywhere thank you). They take up virtually no space in a carry on and can keep younger children happy for absolutely ages. For slightly older kids, activity books and simple workbooks are brilliant. From about age 4 onwards, children actually enjoy these because they haven’t yet learned to associate them with homework. Pop in a few maze books, dot-to-dot, or those find-the-difference activity books.
• Story Cubes. Great for whiling away the evenings on holiday, or whilst waiting for a flight- we first tried Story Cubes on our Spanish holiday when the older two kids were around 3 and they were a big hit!
• Lollies. Okay, not great for teeth but these are honestly AMAZING for aching, popping ears on a flight. The kids sit quietly (10 minutes of silence, woohoo!) and sucking them helps avoid the ear pain due to the changing pressure. 
• Camera. We often challenge our two to take photos of their trip with this camera, or of a theme, i.e. see how many yellow things you can snap, another good way of passing the time.
• Figures. We let the kids take a handful of Playmobil, one of the Playmobil travel carry cases or Sylvanian Families figures- it’s amazing what scenarios they come up with, even on a small plane or tray tray!

 

• 

Comfort Items for Flights

Cosy Socks and Layers This might sound like an odd one, but warm, cosy socks are absolutely essential. Planes get properly cold, especially on longer flights, and keeping little feet warm makes such a difference to their comfort levels. We’ve got special travel socks that are soft and thick, and the kids can take their shoes off during the flight and get properly comfortable.

Always dress your kids in layers. A light jumper or hoodie that they can easily take on and off is perfect. Planes are weird with temperature, swinging between freezing and stuffy, so being able to adjust is key.

Favourite Comfort Item If your child has a special teddy, blankie, or comfort item, this absolutely must go in the carry on. My youngest still has her little bunny that goes everywhere with her, and having that familiar thing on a plane makes such a difference when she’s tired or feeling overwhelmed.

Snacks and Drinks

Right, this is important. When it comes to food you can take on a plane, we always pack a couple of snacks in each bag, though we usually buy something at the airport as well or get given bits on the plane.

What Snacks to Pack:

• Fruit loaf bars or flapjacks (filling without being too sugary)
• Fruity snacks (you know, the ones kids think are sweets but are actually just dried fruit, very cunning)
• Cheese strings (absolutely brilliant, no mess)
• Cereal bars
• Mini bags of popcorn
• Crackers or breadsticks

What to Avoid: Avoid crisps and anything that crumbles or squashes badly in bags at all costs. There’s nothing worse than reaching into a bag for a snack and pulling out a bag of crumbs. Also skip anything chocolate-heavy in summer, unless you fancy melted chocolate everywhere.

Those snackle box containers are also great for carrying a variety of snacks with minimal mess, if you’ve got the space.

Water Bottles Bring empty refillable water bottles for everyone and fill them up once you’re through security. Most airports now have water fountain stations, and this saves you a fortune on overpriced airport water. Plus, it’s better for the environment. We use the ones with flip-top lids that don’t leak.

The Essentials You Cannot Forget

Baby Wipes and Tissues For snotty noses, post-meal mess, cleaning tray tables (they’re properly grim, trust me), and approximately 47 other uses you’ll discover mid-flight. Pack more than you think you’ll need. We go through an alarming number of wipes on every flight.

Hand Sanitiser Especially post-2020, this is absolutely essential. Airports and planes are germ factories, and keeping little hands clean makes a real difference. Get the travel-sized bottles that fit in your liquids bag. I also pack a small tube of Nivea Soft Cream to moisturise dry hands.

Change of Clothes This is non-negotiable. Pack one complete change of clothes for each child in their carry on. We’ve learned this the hard way after an unfortunate incident involving turbulence and apple juice. You don’t need a full outfit for every eventuality, just one spare set that will do the job if something goes wrong.

For younger children or those newly potty trained, you might want to pack two spare sets. Better safe than sorry when you’re stuck on a plane for hours with no escape.

Basic First Aid Pop a few plasters, some children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen (such as Calpol), and any prescription medications your child needs into a small bag. You don’t need the whole medicine cabinet, but having the basics to hand is sensible. Also, if your child gets ear pain during flights, pack something chewy like lollipops or gummy sweets. The swallowing action really helps with the pressure changes during takeoff and landing.

Educational Supplies (Optional but Brilliant)

You might want to consider packing a few simple educational bits. Free printable worksheets for maths or English, mini puzzle books, or a small reading book. Our kids actually quite enjoy these on planes because it feels different to school somehow. Just don’t overdo it and turn the flight into a classroom, or they’ll rightfully rebel. You can also sneak in the educational bit by bringing along toys designed to encourage their development and learning through play; I like age-specific toy guides, like this toy guide for three-year-olds, as it makes it easy to pick something that will interest your child without being too boring or too advanced for them.

What NOT to Pack (Save Yourself the Hassle)

It’s easy to want to pack everything that could possibly please your child during flight travel, but some things should absolutely stay at home:

• Toys with numerous small pieces that will definitely fall under seats
• Noisy toys that will drive other passengers (and you) round the bend
• Anything with glitter (just no)
• Play-Doh or anything similarly messy
• Large books or games that won’t fit on a tray table
• Too many screen devices (one tablet per child is plenty)

Age-Specific Packing Tips

For 3-5 Year Olds

This age group needs more hands-on entertainment and comfort items. Pack more stickers, simple colouring books, and definitely that favourite teddy. Keep the snacks coming regularly, as little ones get hungry more frequently. Consider packing a small surprise toy to whip out mid-flight when things are getting tricky.

For 6-8 Year Olds

Slightly older children can manage with fewer physical toys and more activities. Workbooks, simple travel games like Uno, reading books, and slightly more complex colouring or craft activities work well. They can also handle longer periods with a tablet or device, but still need variety.

Managing Multiple Children on Flights

With three kids, I’ve learned a few tricks for keeping everyone happy simultaneously:

Stagger the Entertainment Don’t give them everything at once. Start with one activity, and when they get bored, introduce something new. Save the tablet time for when things are getting really desperate, not right at the start.

Rotate Attention Make sure each child gets some proper one-on-one attention during the flight. Even just ten minutes of focused time with each of them makes such a difference to behaviour.

Set Clear Expectations Before you even get to the airport, explain what the flight will be like and what behaviour you expect. Kids respond well to knowing what’s coming.

Packing Tips for Long Haul vs Short Haul

Short Haul Flights (Under 3 Hours)

You can pack lighter for short flights. Stick to the essentials: snacks, one or two activities, tablets, comfort items, spare clothes, and wipes. Don’t overpack, as you might not even use half of it.

Long Haul Flights (Over 5 Hours)

Pack a mix of screen-free activities like the ones I’ve mentioned above (stickers, colouring books, small toys, travel games), tablets with pre-downloaded shows, headphones, and maybe even small surprise toys to present mid-flight for that much-needed morale boost. Most long haul flights also have loads of TV and film options for kids on the plane anyway, so don’t panic about keeping them entertained for the entire flight.

How to Keep Things Accessible

This is crucial: pack your child’s carry on in layers, with the most-needed items at the top or in easy-access pockets. You want wipes, hand sanitiser, snacks, and perhaps one quick entertainment option right at hand. The spare clothes and less-used items can go at the bottom.

Use those clear ziplock bags or packing cubes to keep things organised. One for snacks, one for drawing supplies, one for spare clothes. It makes finding things so much easier when you’re trying to deal with multiple children in cramped plane seats.

Special Considerations

Flying from UK Airports

UK airport security can be strict, so make sure any liquids are properly stored in clear bags and under 100ml. This includes things like hand sanitiser and any liquid medications. Have everything easily accessible so you’re not holding up the queue at security whilst you root through bags.

Budget-Friendly UK Alternatives

You don’t need to buy everything from expensive toy shops. Pound shops, Wilko, The Range, and supermarkets like Asda and Tesco have brilliant travel-sized activity books, stickers, and snacks at a fraction of the price. Stock up before you travel and you’ll save a fortune.

For Neurodivergent Children

If your child has additional needs, sensory issues, or anxiety around flying, pack extra comfort items, noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, and anything that helps them self-regulate. Don’t be afraid to bring things that might seem “babyish” if they help your child feel secure.

What Size Should My Child’s Carry On Be for the Plane?

Your child’s carry-on size needs to meet airline regulations (here are the UK guidelines, and here are some US guidelines) but remain manageable for your child. Most airlines allow carry-on bags of 45 x 35 x 20 cm (18 x 14 x 8 inches) but travellers need to check their airline’s specific rules before departure. You can use a carry-on size checker to ensure you have the right size bag. Children between 3 and 8 years old should have backpacks that they can lift themselves, or even use small rolling suitcases they can pull along (like a Trunkie). Make sure their bag can fit beneath the front seat to allow quick access throughout the flight. A good rule of thumb: Your child’s luggage may be too big if they require assistance to lift or manage it. Select travel bags with separate compartments so your child can easily reach snacks, toys, and spare clothing.

The Ultimate Airplane Essentials for kids Carry-On Checklist (Ages 3–8)

Category	Items to Pack
Essentials	✔ Passport / ID (if applicable) ✔ Boarding pass ✔ Travel documents
Comfort Items	✔ Favourite cuddly toy or blanket ✔ Neck pillow (kid-sized) ✔ Hoodie or cardigan
Snacks & Drinks	✔ Spill-proof water bottle ✔ Crackers, fruit snacks, cereal bars ✔ Chewing gum or lollipops (for take-off/landing ear pressure)
Entertainment	✔ Tablet or device (with charger & pre-downloaded content) ✔ Headphones ✔ Colouring book & crayons ✔ Sticker book ✔ Magnetic or travel games ✔ Small surprise toys
Hygiene	✔ Tissues ✔ Wipes (antibacterial + regular) ✔ Hand sanitiser (under 100ml) ✔ Travel-sized toothbrush & toothpaste
Clothing	✔ Spare outfit (top, bottoms, underwear, socks) ✔ Light pyjamas or comfy clothes for long-haul flights
Other Handy Items	✔ Ziplock bags (for messes or snacks) ✔ Wet bag or spare plastic bag ✔ Plasters/band-aids ✔ Any necessary medication

Frequently Asked Questions – Travel Essentials for Kids

Can my child bring their own carry on bag on the plane?

Yes, most airlines allow children with a paid seat to bring their own carry on bag. A smallish backpack with snacks, activities, and a change of clothes works well. Buying your child cool, personalized luggage tags to go with their carry on will hopefully give your luggage a fighting chance of finding its way back to you, should it ever get misplaced! 

What are the rules for packing liquids in a child’s carry on?

In the UK and EU, the standard liquid rules apply to children too. All liquids must be under 100ml and fit in a clear, resealable plastic bag (usually 20cm x 20cm). However, baby milk, baby food, and medically necessary liquids are exempt from these restrictions. Always inform security staff if you’re carrying these items and present them for inspection separately.

What snacks should I pack for kids on a plane?

Go for non-messy, low-sugar, filling options like crackers, cheese strings, dried fruit, cereal bars, breadsticks, and fruit loaf bars. Avoid crisps (they turn into crumbs), chocolate (melts), and anything particularly crumbly or sticky. Pack more than you think you’ll need, because hungry children are unhappy children.

How can I keep my child entertained on a long flight without screens?

Pack a mix of screen-free activities: stickers, colouring books, Water Wow books, small figurines, activity books, and simple card games like Uno. Bring out one activity at a time rather than giving them everything at once. Also, engage with them yourself, playing simple games like I Spy or making up stories together. Parental interaction makes a massive difference.

Should I pack spare clothes for my child in their carry on?

Absolutely yes. Pack one complete change of clothes (including underwear and socks) for each child. Spills, accidents, and mishaps happen, and you’ll be so grateful to have clean clothes available. For younger children or those newly potty trained, consider packing two spare sets.

What travel essentials for kids should I keep easily accessible?

Keep baby wipes, hand sanitiser, snacks, tissues, water bottles, and one quick entertainment option in easily accessible pockets or at the top of the bag. These are the things you’ll need frequently during the flight, and you don’t want to be unpacking the entire bag every time.

How much should I pack in my child’s plane carry on?

Pack enough to keep them comfortable and entertained, but don’t overdo it. A good rule is: one comfort item, 2-3 activity options, snacks, spare clothes, wipes, and a tablet with headphones. Remember, you’ll probably end up carrying their bag at some point, so lighter is better.

I love this video by one of my favourite YouTubers, Emily Norris, with some great tips for travelling long haul on planes with kids:

 

Feel more confident now when it comes to what to pack for children on the plane? What travel essentials for kids do you pack for your children in their carry ons when you fly?

I’d love to hear about anything I could add that would make a difference!

 

See some more of my travel posts here