A Screen-Free Adventure: Our 10-Hour Journey at the Airport and in the Air

Traveling with my daughter can feel like a delightful mix of excitement and chaos, especially during long hours at the airport and in the air. Recently, we set off on a 10-hour journey that turned into a rewarding experience as we chose to go screen-free. Without tablets or smartphones to distract us, we leaned heavily on our creativity and imagination to fill our time together.

Preparing for the Journey

Before leaving home, we dedicated some time to pack her airport bag. My daughter carefully selected her favorite items: a few borrowed library books, a coloring book and crayons, a couple of plush toys, and a few Barbies. The star of the bag was a new addition for this trip: a Rainbow Loom. Having heard about how engaging it could be, I was eager to see how it would capture her interest during our travels.

When we arrived at the airport, the reality of our screen-free adventure hit me. The bustling terminal was alive with families, busy travelers, and the hum of announcements. I noticed other kids glued to their screens, but I kept reminding myself of our plan.

Exploring the Airport

We tend to not arrive super early so that time goes quicker. With the little bit of time we explored the airport. We roamed through shops filled with travel-themed toys, snacks, and souvenirs. We made sure we had water, snacks, and of course used the restroom before our flight took off.

One of our layovers, however, was pretty long and it's then that we took time to really connect and be silly with each other. We played fun games like "20 Questions", "I Spy", and "Would You Rather." These games not only kept us engaged but also sparked meaningful conversations. It amazed me how quickly my daughter’s imagination flourished as she guessed animals, places, and characters from her storybooks. We laughed as she incorrectly guessed a “dolphin” when I was thinking of a “penguin.”

The Flight Experience

When it was time to board the plane, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. How would we keep entertained for several hours without screens? However, I was determined to make this flight memorable for both of us.

Settling into our seats, I opened the coloring book and crayons. My daughter dove in. I joined her, and coloring together created a soothing atmosphere. It was impressive to see her focus on blending colors and filling pages with her creations.

After some time, we dove into the Rainbow Loom. With a handful of colorful bands, my daughter was excited to make bracelets. Crafting together not only served as a creative outlet but also provided a beautiful moment of connection, reminding me of my childhood crafting sessions. Watching her concentration and determination was incredible, and even the flight attendants stopped by to admire her work, which made her beam with pride.

Finding Joy in Simplicity

Over the course of our journey, I realized just how screen-free time allowed us to connect more deeply. We shared stories, laughed, and created lasting memories. The simplicity of our activities filled my heart with joy, and I felt grateful for the chance to engage with my daughter without the distractions of technology.

As we neared our destination, I reflected on how this experience had strengthened our bond. Navigating a long journey together, we relied on each other for entertainment and companionship.

A Valuable Experience

My daughter staring at the plane in the airport.

Our 10-hour journey at the airport and in the air was a powerful illustration of the benefits of connection and creativity. By opting to go screen-free, we discovered new ways to engage, laugh, and enjoy every moment together.

If you’re thinking about embarking on a similar adventure, have fun packing those favorite items, exploring together, and finding joy in little moments. Traveling is a wonderful opportunity to bond with loved ones, and I hope our experience encourages you to embrace your screen-free journey.

Want help in making your travel successful? Check out our Benable List for suggested travel items categorized by age.

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