It is best to rotate through lots of small, exciting things and introduce them slowly throughout the journey.

Here are a few tried-and-tested ideas that can buy you precious pockets of calm at 35,000 feet.

Pack Exciting  Toys - Toddlers love anything that feels new, even if it’s inexpensive. Wrap a few small toys individually so opening them becomes part of the entertainment. It also doesn't have to be brand new, in the past I have tucked a few things away a few weeks before holiday and because they haven't seen them in a while they're excited to see them on the plane!

Some great flight-friendly options include:

• Reusable sticker books (Melissa & Doug make good travel versions)

• Water wow colouring pads

• Pop-it fidget toys

• Magnetic drawing boards

• Window gel stickers

• Finger puppets

• Mini animal figurines

• Suction spinner toys that stick to the tray table or window

I would try and avoid anything too noisy or repetitive as it might drive you insane on a long flight!

My next recommendation would be Snacks!! There can never be too many and you can also make this into  an activity too. Don’t underestimate the entertainment value of snacks. Choose things that take time to eat or involve a little interaction and nothing too messy or that is going to melt.

Some of my favourites include:

• Raisins in a snack cup

• Cereal threaded onto pipe cleaners

• Mini sandwiches cut into shapes

• Crackers with cream cheese for “building”

• Fruit pouches

• Snack boxes with different compartments.

Offering snacks gradually instead of all at once helps break up the flight! 

Each to their own and no judgement please but I think screen time rules go out the window for a long haul flight. This is survival mode, not normal life. Download favourite shows, simple toddler games, and familiar songs before you leave. CBeebies also has some great learning games for those slightly older children. Child sized headphones are worth bringing, and practice wearing them before travel day.

Toddlers are not designed to sit still for ten hours. Walk the aisle occasionally, visit the galley when allowed, or simply stand and stretch near the toilets for a few minutes. Even a short change of scenery can reset a brewing meltdown.

Then I always keep an Emergency toy bag hidden until I really need it. These have the best toys and best snacks in in case all else fails. I normally put a new toy or new magazine in here along with some stickers.

Also do not forget a spare set of clothes for everyone and lots of wipes!

Try to lower your explications slightly, they don't have to be peaceful and silent the whole journey, it will most likely not all be smooth sailing but that is the fun of travel! You've got this! It will be so worth it when you're lying on your sunlounger watching them all play in the pool.