Flying from Malta with a Baby or Toddler: Screen-Free Ideas for the Plane

Living on an island means that flying is often part of family life. Visiting grandparents abroad, holidays, weddings and work trips all mean airports and planes. Flying with a baby or toddler can feel daunting, but a little preparation goes a long way.

This guide offers practical, screen-free ideas for flying from Malta with little ones. Airline rules on baggage, pushchairs, car seats and infant seating vary, so always check with your airline before you travel. If your child has a health condition, speak to your doctor before flying.

Before you go

Talk to your toddler about the trip. Read a book about aeroplanes. Play pretend airports with a pretend play set or a few chairs lined up as seats. Look at photos of where you are going and who you will see. Toddlers cope better with new experiences when they know what to expect.

At the airport

Allow plenty of time. Many airports have play areas or quiet corners; check what is available before you go. Let your toddler walk and explore before boarding, to use up energy. A lightweight pushchair or a baby carrier can make moving through the airport easier.

Packing a travel bag

Pack a small bag of activities, and offer them one at a time. New or recently unseen toys hold attention longer. Wrapping a few small items in paper adds a little surprise.

• A few small books
• A play silk for peekaboo and puppets
• A small set of wooden animals
• Stickers and a small notebook
• Beeswax crayons
• A simple threading toy for older toddlers
• A soft toy or comfort object
• Snacks in small containers

Choose quiet toys that will not disturb other passengers and are not too small to lose under seats. Our guide to travelling between Malta and Gozo has more travel toy ideas.

Take-off and landing

Changes in air pressure during take-off and landing can be uncomfortable for little ears. Many parents offer a feed, a bottle, a dummy or a snack during these times, as swallowing may help. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you are concerned.

During the flight

Offer one activity at a time. Walk up and down the aisle when it is safe and allowed. Look out of the window together and talk about the clouds. Sing quietly. Read a book. Toddlers often enjoy small rituals, like a snack after take-off.

Screen-free, but flexible

Many families prefer to keep flights screen-free, and simple toys can work surprisingly well. But travel is stressful, and every family must do what works for them. If you use a screen at some point, that is fine. The ideas here are simply alternatives to try first.

Sleep on the plane

Some little ones sleep well on planes, others do not. A familiar blanket, a soft toy and a calm routine can help. For evening flights, try to keep elements of your usual bedtime routine, like a story or a song.

Food and drink

Pack plenty of snacks and water. Small containers of fruit, crackers and familiar foods help. Snacks are also a good activity in themselves. Check the airport's rules on liquids for babies and children.

Arriving

After a flight, little ones may be tired and overstimulated. Plan a calm first evening. If you are staying with family, bring a few familiar items from home. A small travel version of your calm corner, a blanket and a favourite toy, can help.

At your destination

Pack a few versatile toys for your stay. Our article on eating out with a toddler suggests a small busy bag that works in restaurants, cafés and waiting rooms. Natural treasures collected at your destination make wonderful souvenirs and loose parts.

Coming home

Returning to Malta is a good time to talk about the trip. Look at photos, retell the story and play aeroplanes. Re-establishing familiar routines helps everyone settle.

Travelling in summer

Many families fly during the summer holidays. Our article on summer outdoor play in Malta has tips for the hot months.

Pushchairs and carriers

Many airlines allow you to take a pushchair to the aircraft door, but rules vary, so check before you fly. A baby carrier or sling is useful for moving through the airport and boarding with your hands free. For toddlers who like to walk, a small backpack of their own, with a toy and a snack, can make them feel grown up and part of the journey.

Above all, try to be kind to yourself. Most fellow passengers are understanding, and many have travelled with small children themselves. If your toddler cries or struggles, stay calm, comfort them and remember that the flight will end. You are doing your best, and that is enough.

Little Curio is curating small, plastic-free toys that travel well for families in Malta; see what is coming.