✨ Packing for a long flight with kids always feels like a balance between being prepared and not overpacking—and after our recent 13-hour flight to Taiwan, I feel like I finally found a rhythm that works.
Between keeping the kids comfortable, entertained, and (hopefully) getting some sleep, what you pack in your carry-on really makes all the difference.
This is exactly what I packed in our carry-on bags—and what I’d bring again for any long-haul flight with kids.
✨ My Go-To Carry-On Packing Strategy
Over time, I’ve learned that less is more when it comes to carry-ons with kids. I stick to a few simple rules:
- Keep only the must-haves in our carry-ons and check the rest
- Focus on anything that helps the kids sleep and stay occupied
- Pack items that can serve more than one purpose
🧸 What I Pack for the Kids
- Pajamas = a backup outfit
Keeps them comfortable for sleeping and gives you a fresh change if needed. Personal favorite are PJs made from bamboo. - Electronics (screen + non-screen options)
I always bring a mix. Some flights have built-in screens, but I like having a backup just in case- Kids headphones
- Yoto player
- Tablet/iPad case
- Snacks + activities
A combination that helps pass time and avoid mid-flight meltdowns - 👉Link to whats In Their Backpacks:
- Spill-proof snack cups
- Activity pouches w/stickers
- Robot sensory pop tube
- Mess free coloring set
- Mini magnetic tiles
- Small toy car
- Sticky hands
- Special treats (for good behavior)
- Airplane kids travel tray
- An “uh-oh” kit
A small pouch with wipes, tissues, and a few essentials for spills and quick cleanups - 👉Link to Essentials I carry:
- Screen cleaner
- Travel hand wipes
- Pocket Tissue
- Mini first-aid kit
- Small pouch organizer
- Stain remover pen
- Clorox wipes
- Deodrant wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Nail & cuticle oil
- Dental Picks
👩👜 What I Pack for Myself
- Comfortable outfit (layers are key)
- Lightweight scarf or wrap (doubles as a blanket)
- Crossbody bag for easy access
- Travel-size toiletries
👉 My Favs:
- Beis Crossbody bag. This is my favorite and I travel everywhere with it ($20 off your first order using my link https://prz.io/A0g3oNLUE)
- Travel toiletry case
- Compression socks I’ve had these for over 5 years and they are still by go to.
- Lip balm / hydrating skincare
✈️ Travel Must-Haves That Make a Difference
These are the items that really helped the flight feel smoother:
- Portable charger
- Plug adapter + portable charger (5 in 1)
- Headphones
- Trtl Neck pillow – hands down the best
- Reusable water bottles for all
- Inflatable travel foot rest pillow
- Flyaway inflatable bed – great for my 2yo; however, you can go with a second foot rest pillow and it works great for a lower cost.
- Pill organizer
- Mess proof bib – folded in a small ziplock bag- helps to contain it after use
- Wet/dry bag (waterproof)
✨ This setup made a long travel day feel a lot more manageable—and honestly, a lot less stressful.
It’s nothing overcomplicated, just a mix of essentials that keep the kids comfortable, entertained, and ready to rest when they need it.
I’ll definitely be packing this way again for our next long flight.
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