Free airline perk to ask for when travelling with kids
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Any parent who has travelled on a plane with a toddler will know that you'll do pretty much anything to keep them sitting still and entertained.
While extra screen time is a given (I don't care what anyone says, Bluey has been our lifesaver in the air many times), there is another airline perk that may offer an alternative.
And the best part, it is completely free.
Kids packs on planes are something every parent should be asking for. Supplied/Kristine Tarbert
On our last flight with Singapore Airlines we didn't even have to ask. As soon as we were seated with my two-year-old a lovely crew member immediately handed her a Zootopia themed gift.
It was a character plush toy. Moments later, down the other aisle, a second flight attendant handed her another gift. It was a different character.
The cabin manager then remarked "well she has to have the whole set". So he popped into the galley and returned with yet another gift. The matching notebook.
On another flight last year with Qatar Airways, a crew member handed our little one a kids' pack as soon as we boarded the plane. Like they were ready for us.
Indeed, David Smith, CEO of Silicon Valley High School, an online education platform, explains airlines want peaceful flights as much as parents do, which is why many carriers offer complimentary entertainment packages for children.
While it's great that some airlines do it regardless - you do sometimes have to ask.
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Keeping them entertained means keeping them sitting still. Getty
"The mistake most parents make is assuming these perks are only for first-class passengers," David explains.
"In reality, airlines stock these items for any child traveling, regardless of cabin class. They just don't advertise it heavily."
Which airlines give out free kids' entertainment kits
Several major airlines maintain stockpiles of entertainment kits specifically for young passengers.
Emirates leads the pack with comprehensive packages that include plush toys, colouring books, crayons, and even small games depending on the flight length.
"Emirates consistently has the most impressive selection," David notes. "I've seen families get everything from branded stuffed animals to activity books that keep kids busy for hours. The key is knowing these exist in the first place."
Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines also offer substantial kids' kits, often featuring puzzles, stickers, and drawing materials.
Our little one's Qatar gift even came with a small backpack and her own blanket.
Lots of airlines offer a variety of kids entertainment packs. Getty
Delta provides activity packs on longer domestic and international routes, though their selection varies by aircraft and route.
British Airways stocks colouring sets and small toys, while Lufthansa offers themed activity bags that change seasonally.
Even some budget carriers have basic entertainment packages available upon request, though these may then come at a small fee.
"These entertainment kits can be absolute lifesavers on long flights, especially when you're dealing with restless kids who've exhausted their own activities," David adds.
"A simple colouring book from the airline might seem basic, but it's something new and different that can buy parents precious hours of peace."
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You can also make other special requests when travelling with children and infants. Supplied
Other perks parents should request
Special Kids' Meals
Most airlines offer child-friendly meal options that are different to the standard fare.
These often include items like chicken nuggets, pasta, or peanut butter sandwiches, foods that even picky eaters will accept.
You can also request baby food which is things like fruit puree.
Extra Blankets and Pillows
Flight attendants often have additional comfort items available for families.
A second blanket can make the difference between a sleeping child and one who fusses throughout the flight.
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