How to Help Your Little Kids Sleep on a Flight Without Airplane Beds

Getting little kids to sleep on a flight can be challenging, especially if your airline doesn’t allow airplane beds. But don’t worry—there are still plenty of ways to help your child get comfortable and catch some much-needed rest in the air. Here are some creative solutions to help your little one sleep during a flight:

1. Let Them Sleep in a Car Seat

If your child is under the airline’s weight and height limits for using a car seat on board, this can be a great sleep solution. Many kids are already used to sleeping in their car seats, so bringing it on the plane can provide a familiar and comfortable space for rest.

My Best Resources For Flying With A Car Seat

• Check out this Flying With A Car Seat Module
• The Travel Car Seats We Use For Each Age
• Carrying A Car Seat Through The Airport

• Tip: Check your airline’s policy on car seat use before your flight and ensure your seat is FAA-approved.

2. Always Ask the Flight Attendants

Even if the airline’s website states that airplane beds or footrests aren’t allowed, it never hurts to ask the flight attendants. Some crews are more lenient and may allow you to use a sleep aid, especially on overnight flights.

• Tip: Be polite and explain that you’re just trying to help your child sleep comfortably.

3. Use a Seat Extender Like the Aircot

Seat extenders, such as the Aircot (discount code- BRIGS10) can turn a regular airplane seat into a more comfortable sleeping space by providing extra leg support. While some airlines don’t permit them, others do, so it’s worth checking your airline’s policy.

• Tip: Pack the seat extender in an easy-to-reach bag in case you get approval to use it.

4. Utilize the Airplane Bassinet (If You Have a Baby)

Many long-haul flights offer bassinets for infants, which attach to the bulkhead row. These are a great option if you’re flying with a baby.

• Tip: Request a bassinet seat as early as possible since they’re usually given on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. Book Business Class Seats

If it’s within your budget, upgrading to business class can make a huge difference. Lie-flat seats provide the best possible sleep environment for kids and parents alike.

• Tip: Use airline miles or points to book business class seats at a lower cost.

6. Use My Hack to Get Free Seats Next to You

If your airline isn’t fully booked, there are ways to increase your chances of getting an empty seat next to you. Try booking a window and aisle seat, leaving the middle seat open. If the flight isn’t full, that middle seat might remain empty, giving your child extra space to sleep. You can check out my video here.

• Tip: Check the seat map before your flight and ask the gate agent if there are any empty rows available.

7. Use a Baby Carrier

For younger babies and toddlers, a comfortable baby carrier can be a lifesaver. Wearing your baby in a carrier allows them to sleep against you while keeping your hands free.

• Tip: Choose a comfortable, breathable carrier for long-haul flights. You can’t use them during takeoff and landing.

8. For Babies, Use an Inflatable Nursing Pillow

An inflatable nursing pillow can provide a cozy spot for your baby to rest in your lap, making it easier for them to fall asleep during the flight. This the one I use!

• Tip: Deflate and store it easily when not in use to save space in your carry-on.

9. Use the Kooshy Kids C-Shaped Pillow

The Kooshy Kids Kloud, a C-shaped pillow, is designed to help little ones sleep comfortably by providing extra neck and head support while they are sitting up. You can use discount code KKJESS15 for anything on the Kooshy Kids website.

• Tip: This is especially useful for toddlers who struggle to sleep upright in their seats.

10. Use a Duffel Bag at the Foot of the Seat

If seat extenders aren’t allowed, a duffel bag stuffed with soft items can create a makeshift footrest for your child to stretch out. I absolutely love my carry-on duffel bag when traveling with kids from No Reception Club. You can see my full review, plus discount code, here.

• Tip: Make sure it’s a soft, flexible duffel so it fits well under the seat in front.

Final Thoughts

Even if your airline doesn’t allow airplane beds, there are still plenty of ways to help your child sleep on a flight. Whether it’s using a car seat, a seat extender, or a simple travel hack, these tips can make a big difference in getting your little one comfortable and well-rested while flying. Sweet dreams and happy travels!