We’ve traveled several times oversees. The last time we flew 80hours over 4wks time with 4 kids, under which 2 with special needs. I had for them all a backpack for during the flights with activities and some snacks. For my youngest is was a book, a jigsaw puzzle book, a colour book with some crayons, some blocks & cars and a soft toy. Don’t forget that on the longer flights, each person has their own wee tv/game device with headphone set as well.

I can’t really offer much advice, but I do like the responses so far.

That is a very long time to have a 16 month old on a plane! I have personally found flying with my son, we’ve done about 6 overseas trips and he’s nearly 3 now, that day flights are usually better. He just couldn’t make himself comfortable to sleep properly and then started getting grumpy on the night flights. And of course that meant I couldn’t sleep either! Day flights, take various things on board to keep him entertained. Take snacks and treats but nothing sugary otherwise he’ll be bouncing off the walls before you know it!

Having just traveled on a 16 hour flight just two weeks ago honestly my 15 month old son hated the plane, we got the bassinet seat, however he would not sleep in it, instead he would stand up and think it was funny. After the flight over where he only slept for 2 of the 16 hour flight, I found the best way to get him to sleep was to pop him in my baby sling and he fell asleep on me. I found take off giving him a bottle or his dummy helped, same with landing. I found he got bored easily and it was not easy as you are not allowed to pop the kids on the floor. I had toys with us but he did not want to play with them, instead we found the a colouring book and pencils kept him busy for about 2 hours. Also my hubby brought his Ipod which had a few baby games on it and that kept him busy for a little as well. I hope your daughter is not as restless as my son was.

I would collect a few activities and put them in a bag for the flight. Don’t get all of them out at once as they will all be finished in 5 min. Try and spread them out over the flight. Some ideas are new books, little cd player and have story cd’s. Activities and toys like a water paint book, Mr Potato head, my pony, even tiny finger puppets can entertain and most of all make sure you have a lots of snacks!!