Family Airport Tips for Summer 2026 — Stress-Free Travel with Kids

Flying with Kids This Summer? Here Is How to Make It Easy

Travelling with children during the busiest season requires extra planning. This guide covers everything from security queue strategies to keeping little ones entertained.

Before You Leave Home

Check In Online

Use our Airline Check-In Links to check in from home. This means one fewer queue at the airport, and you can choose seats together.

Pack the Night Before

Check carry-on rules for your airline — family-sized items like baby milk and liquid medication have exemptions from the 100ml rule, but you may need to declare them.

Book FastTrack

FastTrack is especially valuable for families. Shorter queues mean less time managing energetic children in line. Read our complete family FastTrack guide for age policies and costs.

At the Airport

Security Queue Strategy

• Designate one parent as the "bag handler" and one as the "child handler"
• Pre-sort liquids in clear bags — including any baby food or milk (exempt from 100ml rule)
• Fold pushchairs before reaching the scanner to avoid delays
• Remove tablets and gaming devices from bags

Finding Kid-Friendly Zones

Most major airports have dedicated play areas:

• London Heathrow: Play areas in Terminals 2 and 5
• Amsterdam Schiphol: NEMO Science Museum play area
• Munich Airport: Kids corner with climbing equipment
• Dublin Airport: Family zones in both terminals

Food Tips for Families

• Bring snacks from home (solid food passes through security without issue)
• Fill water bottles after security
• Most airports have family-friendly restaurants — check the airport app for locations
• Pack mess-free snacks for the plane: crackers, fruit bars, dried fruit

Managing Delays with Children

• Download offline content (films, games) before leaving home
• Pack a small activity bag: colouring books, sticker packs, card games
• Walking the terminal burns energy — explore the shops and art installations
• Airport lounges with day passes (£20-30 per person) offer a quieter space

Age-Specific Tips

Under 2s

• Most airports let under-2s through FastTrack free (check specific policies)
• Carry essential nappies and changes in your personal item
• Request priority boarding from your airline — most offer it for families

Ages 2-5

• Bring a favourite toy or comfort item
• Explain the security process beforehand to reduce anxiety
• Let them wear easy-off shoes (or carry them through)

Ages 6-12

• Give older children their own small bag to manage
• Airport spotting games keep them occupied
• Download the airport's app and let them navigate