Ex-flight attendant shares 'weird' trick to keep kids occupied in the air

08 December 2023 , 09:56

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Even with an endless choice of films, keeping kids entertained on long flights can feel impossible (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

Children crying on a long-haul flight isn't fun for anybody.

But keeping little ones entertained in such a confined space can be an arduous task. Even if you bring their favourite snacks, a backpack filled with toys, and let them watch the in-flight films instead of sleeping - they will soon get restless.

However, an ex-flight attendant has revealed a 'weird' trick that she shares by to keep her tot occupied for the entire journey. It won't take up too much room in your carry-on bags and won't break the bank. In fact, you might even have it lying around in your home.

Travel pro and photographer Nichola Knox recently went viral on Instagram after posting a video where she revealed painters tape is her tried-and-tested secret to keeping her children entertained. At the time of writing, the video has garnered more than six million views, and over 109,000 likes.

"I swear to you, it's great on the plane but also on vacation," the mother said. She suggested a variety of uses for the tape including making letters , counting, making a 'snack' holder, and creating a swing for toys. Knox also attached two strips of tape across the tables which acted as a 'truck bridge'.

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People took to the comments to rave about the hack, which one person branded 'incredible'. "Huge brain energy," they said. "It potentiates their creativity, is ecological, mess free, and useful too. Incredible mum right there."

Another added: "If I was sitting with you I would totally be participating in all the fun tape-based shenanigans! This is brilliant."

However, not everybody agreed with the hack - pointing out staff will have to clean up any marks and leftover tape. "Please don't encourage people to do this," one user wrote.

"Not everyone will clean up after themselves leaving airline employees to peel tape off all sorts of surfaces. It’s also wasteful. They sell containers that allow you to safely bring Lego on board that fit on the tray tables and are easy to clean up and reusable."

What's your top travel hack? Let us know [email protected]

Liam Gilliver