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Airport layovers can be boring for even the most frequent traveler. It becomes more challenging when you're traveling with kids. No matter how beautiful and nice the airport is, a child's excitement about vacations doesn't get satisfied and causes discomfort to parents during layovers.
But with a little planning and smart thinking, you can turn the boring layovers into fun for kids and the family.
Here are a few tips from my experience to help you manage hours between flights:
From my experience, planning ahead is crucial for a smooth layover experience with kids. I always make sure to pack essential items like snacks, games, and comfort items. Having a list of activities ready to keep your kids entertained can be a lifesaver. For example, I bring coloring books, portable games, or download their favorite shows on a tablet. I found these tips particularly helpful for packing essentials.
Additionally, consider the duration and timing of your layover. If you have a long layover, plan for a more comprehensive list of activities and entertainment. Websites like The Points Guy offer detailed guides on surviving long layovers with kids.
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Walking around the airport can keep kids busy and physically active. I often turn exploration into a game by creating a scavenger hunt. Look for interesting areas like viewing decks or art installations. During a layover in Singapore, we turned exploring the airport into a game. The kids loved finding different landmarks, and we even discovered an indoor garden that became our favorite spot. Smaller airports like San Jose SJC, Portland PDX, Chicago MDW, or San Diego SAN have limited areas, so plan accordingly. I found this guide full of great ideas for exploring airports with kids.
Check the airport map to see if there are any child play areas or exhibits you could visit. Some airports have designated play areas for kids. When walking around, keep an eye out for these spots and let your kids play there. For toddlers, I create a mini-play area in a less busy section of the airport with natural boundaries like chairs or windows. I found this article particularly useful for tips on utilizing airport play areas.
Airport lounges offer many benefits for families, including clean bathrooms, comfortable seating, free food and drinks, and Wi-Fi. Some credit cards offer free lounge access, so it's worth looking into if you're a frequent traveler. Lounges provide a more comfortable and clean atmosphere, which is especially beneficial for young children. I've found lounges to be a lifesaver, especially during long layovers. You can read more about the advantages of lounges here.
When waiting with kids for a flight, make sure to have meals at regular times. Find a restaurant or food shop to buy meals for your kids and yourself. Many airports have dining areas where you can sit, relax, and enjoy your food. Eating at a table makes it easier for kids to eat comfortably. In Tokyo, we found a great family-friendly restaurant in the airport. Having a proper meal together not only filled our stomachs but also gave us a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of travel. I found this guide helpful for recommendations on airport dining options.
If your layover is more than nine hours, booking a hotel near the airport can make a significant difference in how you and your kids feel upon arrival at your destination. A hotel room provides a comfortable space for rest and relaxation. Many airports have family-friendly hotels nearby. For specific hotel recommendations, check out these tips.
Prepare for unexpected delays by packing extra supplies and having contingency plans. Bring additional snacks, entertainment options, and comfort items to keep your kids occupied. Staying calm and flexible can help manage the stress of delays. When our flight was delayed for several hours in Atlanta, I was glad I had packed extra snacks and a few surprise toys. These little preparations made the delay much more bearable for everyone. I found this guide very helpful in preparing for delays with kids.
READ MORE: Preparing Kids to Fly
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