As a former long-haul cabin crew member and a mum, I know that flying with children can feel a bit daunting, especially when you are facing a long flight and time zones. The good news is that with a little planning, flying as a family can be much smoother, and sometimes even enjoyable.

Here are my tried and tested tips to help take the stress out of long-haul flights with kids.

CHOOSE YOUR FLIGHT TIMES CAREFULLY If possible, try to work with your children’s natural routine. Overnight flights can be great for younger children who are used to sleeping in longer stretches. Daytime flights can work well if your child is excited to be awake, watch films and play. Everyone is different, so I can help you look at the route options and find flight times that give your family the best chance of arriving feeling human.

THINK ABOUT YOUR SEATS IN ADVANCE Where you sit can make a big difference. Families often like to sit together in the middle section so no one is “trapped” by a window. If you are travelling with a baby, bulkhead rows may be available for bassinets on some airlines. If you have toddlers who like to move, an aisle seat for the adult can be handy so you are not constantly climbing over people. If you are not sure what to choose, I am always happy to talk through the options for your particular airline and aircraft.

PACK A GRAB AND GO HAND LUGGAGE Keep one small bag under the seat with everything you might need in easy reach: nappies, wipes and a change of clothes (for them and a spare top for you), snacks you know they will eat, favourite comfort items such as a small teddy, blanket or dummy, and any regular medication in original packaging. A good tip is to pack separate small pouches for each child so you are not rummaging around in one big bag.

ENTERTAINMENT IS YOUR BEST FRIEND Most long-haul flights will have good inflight entertainment, but it is wise not to rely on it completely. Download films, TV shows and games onto tablets before you leave home and do not forget child-friendly headphones. Bring a few “new” surprises like activity books, stickers or small toys that you can reveal throughout the flight. For younger ones, simple things like colouring or magnetic games can keep them happy for ages. Try to stagger these rather than bringing everything out at once.

DRESS FOR COMFORT, NOT FOR PHOTOS Comfort on the flight is key. Dress children in soft layers that are easy to remove if they get warm. Slip-on shoes or trainers make security and toilet trips much easier. For night flights, pyjamas or comfy joggers can make it feel more like bedtime. A cosy child is more likely to relax and sleep.

FOOD, DRINK AND LITTLE TUMMIES Cabin air is dry and travel can be tiring, so keeping everyone hydrated really helps. Encourage regular sips of water and take familiar snacks that travel well, such as breadsticks or cereal bars. If you are bringing formula or baby food, check airline and security rules in advance and allow extra time at the airport. Do not worry about being “that parent” who hands out snacks: a well-fed child is usually a much happier traveller.

PLAN FOR SLEEP, BUT DO NOT STRESS ABOUT IT It is lovely if children sleep on the plane, but sometimes they just will not. Bring small, familiar sleep cues like a blanket, teddy or bedtime story. Dim tablets and screens at your usual bedtime and treat it like a quiet time, even if they do not fully sleep. Try not to worry if it is not perfect. Once you arrive, getting straight into local time with meals, daylight and gentle activity usually helps everyone adjust.

GIVE YOURSELF EXTRA TIME AT THE AIRPORT Everything with children takes longer, especially when they are excited or tired. Aim to arrive at the airport a bit earlier than you normally would so you are not starting the trip feeling rushed. Use this time for toilet stops, nappy changes and a little run around before boarding. A calmer start often sets the tone for the whole journey.

REMEMBER: THE CREW ARE ON YOUR SIDE Having been cabin crew for many years, I can promise you that the crew genuinely want you and your children to have a good flight. Do not be afraid to ask for help, whether it is warming a bottle, getting extra water or just an extra blanket. If you are travelling solo with children, let the crew know when you board. They will often keep an extra eye out for you.

LET ME HELP YOU PLAN THE WHOLE PICTURE The flight is just one part of the journey. When I plan a family trip, I look at flight times that work with your children’s ages, transfers that are as simple and stress free as possible, and family friendly accommodation that suits your routine, whether that is separate bedrooms, kitchen facilities or kids’ clubs. All of this makes a big difference to how relaxed you feel, not just on the plane but throughout the holiday.

If you are thinking about a long-haul family holiday and are not sure where to start, I would love to help. From choosing the right destination and flights to planning those little details that make travelling with children easier, I am here to look after you from the first idea to landing back home.