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Beat the Boredom: 10 Best Kids’ Games for Plane Rides

June 8, 2024

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Are you looking for the best kids games to keep your little ones entertained during long plane rides? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 10 portable and fun games suitable for ages 2-12. From classic games like travel-sized board games to electronic options, these games are sure to prevent flight boredom and make your journey more enjoyable for the whole family.

Child flying on an airplane
Child flying on an airplane

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Introduction to Kids Games for a Plane

Keeping kids entertained during long flights can be a daunting task for parents. With limited space and resources, finding engaging activities that can capture their attention and prevent boredom from setting in becomes a priority. Fortunately, there are numerous kid-friendly games and activities that can be played on a plane, ranging from classic pen-and-paper games to travel-friendly board games and digital options. These games not only help pass the time but also promote cognitive development, problem-solving skills, and bonding between family members. Whether you’re looking for quiet activities, educational games, or just good old-fashioned fun, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive list of the best kids’ games to bring on your next flight.

Classic Pen-and-Paper Games

Pen-and-paper games are a timeless way to keep kids entertained during a flight. These classic games require minimal materials and can provide hours of fun. Tic-tac-toe is another simple yet engaging option that even young children can enjoy. Hangman is another easy game that encourages word skills and can be played with just a pencil and paper.

For older kids, word searches, sudoku puzzles, connect-the-dots pictures, and mazes offer a mix of entertainment and cognitive challenges. These activities are perfect for solo play or can be enjoyed together as a family. Bring along a small notebook or print out game sheets before your trip to ensure you have plenty of options for pen-and-paper fun in the air.

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Card Games

Card games are an excellent choice for plane travel as they are compact, portable, and can provide hours of entertainment. Popular options include Go Fish, Old Maid, Crazy Eights, Uno, War, and Memory/Concentration.

Go Fish is a classic kids’ card game that helps reinforce matching and memory skills. It’s easy to learn and can be played with a standard deck of cards.

Old Maid is another timeless game that’s perfect for younger children. It’s a simple matching game that encourages focus and concentration.

Crazy Eights is a more strategic game that involves matching cards by suit or rank. It’s a great way to introduce basic card game rules and tactics.

Uno is a wildly popular and fast-paced game that kids love. It’s easy to learn, and the bright colors and special action cards keep things exciting.

War is a simple game of chance that’s perfect for younger kids. It’s easy to learn and can be played with just a deck of cards.

Memory/Concentration is a classic matching game that helps develop memory skills. You can use a standard deck of cards or purchase a set with fun, themed images.

Recommended Card Games

Travel-Friendly Board Games

For kids who love classic board games, there are plenty of travel-friendly options to keep them entertained during a flight. Magnetic travel games like chess, checkers, and reversi are perfect for planes since the pieces won’t slide around. Look for compact versions with magnetic boards and pieces that store neatly in a carrying case.

Small, portable board games like Snakes and Ladders Board Game Set , Grab ‘N GO Travel Game Guess WHO?, and Connect 4 are also great choices. Their self-contained designs with minimal pieces make them easy to play in the confined space of an airplane seat. You can find travel editions of many popular kids’ board games that come in smaller sizes but still provide the same fun gameplay.

Recommended Travel-Friendly Board Games

If your child is a fan of strategy games, consider a portable chess or checkers set. Look for magnetic or roll-up boards that prevent pieces from getting lost or scattered. These classic games not only entertain but also help develop critical thinking skills during the flight.

Quiet Games and Activities

For times when you need to keep the noise level down, quiet games and activities can be a lifesaver. “I Spy” is a classic game that encourages observation skills and imagination. Take turns calling out colors, shapes, or objects you spot, and have your child guess what you’ve “spied.”

Another quiet option is “20 Questions,” where one person thinks of an object, and the other player asks up to 20 yes-or-no questions to try and guess what it is. This game promotes critical thinking and deductive reasoning.

Storytelling is a wonderful way to engage your child’s creativity and imagination. Take turns building a story, with each person adding a new sentence or paragraph to the tale. You can also bring along coloring books, sticker books, or magnetic drawing boards to keep little hands busy without making too much noise.

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Educational Games

Educational games are an excellent way to keep kids engaged and learning while on a plane. Flashcards are a versatile option that can cover various subjects like the alphabet, numbers, shapes, and more. Math puzzles and word games are also great for reinforcing academic skills in a fun way. For example, you can create simple math problems or word searches tailored to your child’s age and skill level.

Geography and map games are another educational option that can teach kids about different countries, capitals, and landmarks. You can print out blank maps and have your child color or label them, or play a guessing game where you provide clues about a location, and they have to identify it on the map. These types of games not only promote learning but also help pass the time during a long flight.

Recommended Educational Games

Digital Games

For modern kids, tablets and smartphones can be a lifesaver on long flights. Load up your devices with a selection of engaging games, ebooks, audiobooks, and educational apps to keep young travelers entertained. Opt for games that don’t require an internet connection, as in-flight WiFi can be unreliable and expensive. Two of the best are Nintendo Switch Light – Blue, and Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet.

Recommended Digital Games

Popular tablet games like Super Mario Bros.™ Wonder – Nintendo Switch (US Version), Sonic Superstars – Nintendo Switch, and Minecraft: Switch Edition – Nintendo Switch allow for open-ended play and problem-solving. Audiobooks are great for solo listening with headphones, while ebook apps let kids read along with illustrations. Math apps like Prodigy make learning feel like a game.

Be sure to pack headphones, portable chargers, and device stands for hands-free viewing. Set screen time limits, and take breaks for non-digital activities. With a well-curated selection, digital entertainment can make the hours fly by.

Tips for Plane Travel with Kids

Packing the right essentials can make or break a plane trip with kids. Be sure to have snacks, drinks, headphones, a change of clothes, and any necessary medications or comfort items. Keeping kids hydrated and comfortable is key, so pack an empty water bottle to fill after security, and dress them in layers for temperature changes.

Recommended Plane Travel Snacks

While digital games and movies can be a lifesaver, it’s wise to manage screen time and encourage non-digital activities too. Bring coloring books, sticker books, and small toys to swap out and keep them engaged. Involving kids in the flight experience by letting them carry their own bag, look out the window, and track the journey can make them feel more invested and patient.

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During boarding, let kids get their wiggles out by walking the aisles, and pack new toys or books to surprise them with once on board. Lastly, bring plenty of sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and masks to prioritize health and safety.

Age-Appropriate Recommendations

When choosing games and activities for your kids on a plane, it’s essential to consider their age and developmental stage. Here are some age-appropriate recommendations to keep your little ones entertained and engaged during the flight:

Toddlers (1-3 years)

  • Sticker books: Toddlers love peeling and sticking, making sticker books a perfect travel companion.
  • Shape sorters: Small, portable shape sorters can keep little hands busy and promote fine motor skills.
  • Magnetic drawing boards: These reusable drawing boards are mess-free and allow toddlers to express their creativity.

Recommended Travel Toys Toddlers (1-3 years)

Preschoolers (3-5 years)

  • Magnetic travel games: Classic games like tic-tac-toe or checkers with magnetic pieces are perfect for small spaces.
  • Coloring books and crayons: Choose thick, easy-to-grip crayons and coloring books with large, simple designs.
  • Picture books: Bring along a few favorite picture books for quiet reading time.

School-aged (6-10 years)

  • Travel-sized board games: Games like Connect 4, Guess Who, or Battleship can be played on the tray table.
  • Mad Libs: These word games are hilarious and help improve vocabulary and grammar skills.
  • Handheld video games: Portable gaming devices with age-appropriate games can provide hours of entertainment.

Recommended Travel Toys School-aged (6-10 years)

Tweens and Teens (11+ years)

  • Sudoku or logic puzzles: Challenge their minds with these brain-teasing activities.
  • Sketch pads and colored pencils: Encourage their creativity with drawing materials.
  • Audiobooks or e-books: Load up their devices with engaging stories or novels.

Recommended Travel Games Tweens and Teens (11+ years)

Remember, it’s always a good idea to have a variety of games and activities on hand to cater to different interests and attention spans. Don’t forget to pack snacks, headphones, and any necessary chargers or batteries for electronic devices.

DIY and Printable Games

For those looking for customizable, inexpensive, and creative options, DIY and printable games can be a great choice for plane travel with kids. These games not only keep children entertained but also encourage their imagination and creativity.

One simple yet engaging activity is creating personalized activity or coloring sheets. Print out various templates or outlines and let your kids unleash their artistic talents. You can also create themed word searches, mazes, or connect-the-dots puzzles tailored to their interests.

Another fun option is making your own travel-sized board games. For instance, you can create a simple tic-tac-toe board using a small box or cardboard and use buttons, coins, or other small objects as game pieces. Alternatively, you can design a memory game by printing out pairs of images on cardstock and cutting them into cards.

If you’re feeling particularly crafty, consider making DIY travel games like a mini bowling set using empty water bottles and a small ball, or a simple ring toss game using plastic rings and a cardboard tube. These hands-on activities not only keep kids engaged but also foster their motor skills and creativity.

For those who prefer digital options, many websites offer printable game templates, such as bingo cards, crossword puzzles, or scavenger hunt lists. Simply print them out and customize them with your child’s favorite characters or themes.

Remember, the key to successful DIY and printable games is involving your kids in the creation process. Not only will they be more invested in playing the games, but it also provides an opportunity for quality bonding time and nurturing their creativity.

FAQ Section

How to keep kids entertained on a plane?

Keeping kids entertained on a plane can be challenging, but here are some tips:

  1. Pack snacks: Bring a variety of snacks to keep them satisfied.
  2. Bring activities: Coloring books, stickers, small toys, and travel games can keep them busy.
  3. Download movies or shows: Use a tablet or smartphone to download their favorite movies or TV shows before the flight.
  4. Books: Bring their favorite books or new ones to keep them engaged.
  5. Headphones: Child-friendly headphones can make watching movies or listening to music more enjoyable.
  6. Interactive apps: Educational apps or games on a tablet can be entertaining and educational.

What to download for kids on a plane?

Download these types of content to keep kids entertained on a plane:

  1. Movies or TV shows: Download their favorite movies or episodes of TV shows.
  2. Games: Educational or fun games that are suitable for their age.
  3. Books: Download ebooks or audiobooks for them to enjoy.
  4. Educational apps: Apps that teach letters, numbers, or puzzles can be both fun and educational.

How do I entertain my 5-year-old at the airport?

Entertaining a 5-year-old at the airport can be fun with these activities:

  1. Airport scavenger hunt: Create a list of things to find at the airport, like a red suitcase, an airplane, etc.
  2. Coloring or activity books: Bring along some coloring books, stickers, and crayons to keep them busy.
  3. Snacks and drinks: Have their favorite snacks and drinks handy.
  4. Window watching: Let them watch planes take off and land from a window.
  5. Storytime: Read books or tell stories to pass the time.
  6. Airport playground: Some airports have playgrounds where kids can burn off some energy before the flight.

How to occupy a 2-year-old on a plane?

Occupying a 2-year-old on a plane requires some creativity. Here are some of the best kids games for a plane:

  1. Snacks: Bring a variety of snacks to keep them happy.
  2. Toys: Bring their favorite toys or new ones to keep them entertained.
  3. Books: Picture books or board books can keep them engaged.
  4. Music: Play their favorite music or nursery rhymes.
  5. Walks: Take short walks up and down the aisle if possible.
  6. Interactive games: Simple games like peek-a-boo or singing songs together can be entertaining.

Further Reading

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