If you are lucky enough to go abroad this year, don’t let boredom hinder your departure! 

• Take care of business 1st. Use the toilets, get something to eat and create a "base" near your flight gate.
• Look at the airport map to see if there are any child play areas or exhibits that you could visit. There’s always something to do at the airport.
• Take a walk around the airport. Create a guided treasure hunt for your children. Let’s find the aeroplanes, the newsagent, the toilet, etc.
• Some airports have public power outlets that can be used to recharge tablets and phones.
• Pack a colouring book and pencils to kill time before the flight is called.
• Take the older ones to the airport bookshop or newsagent and treat them to some holiday reading – like a new book or magazine.
• Play guessing games – watch the flight information screens and whenever a new destination pops up on the arrivals or departure board, see if they can connect it with the correct country.
• If they have a device get them to make a special holiday playlist to listen to for the first time as you’re waiting to head off on your holiday.
• Pre download Netflix, DisneyLife, Sky Go and Sky Kids or whatever package you use at home to keep the kids occupied mid-flight. Don't forget to pack headphones.