I will be flying to the US alone with my 7.5 month old son in a week and need some ideas for things to keep him entertained (but not annoying the neighbors too much). My son is very active and curious- loves sounds, music, lights, strings, etc. Suggestions for toys that he can open and play with on the plane would be much appreciated since there are so many to choose from here and are so expensive!

I got a bassinet seat on BA during an 8 hour flight to Sydney with my then 8 month old son. Sitting by the aisle made it easier in the event I had to change diapers in the WC.

I brought soft dino toys ( making sure he saw it first only in the plane ) that kept him busy for a couple of hours and actually slept through more than half way of the flight.

I just flew from the US to CH alone with my 6 month old and my 4 year old. What a trip! Actually, the baby was pretty easy... the 4 year old did great, but required much more attention. As jrspet said, the babies tend to sleep on the flight. I'd just get 1 nice new toy and bring some old favorites. I've found it's pretty easy to rotate through the toys, take a nap, eat, rotate through toys, etc. It's not too bad. And, you'd be surprised how many noises are hidden by the sound of the air/engine on the plane!!

At this age, I'd recommend

• post it note and/or tape for them to stick to things at will or try to unstick from their fingers and clothes
• something to gum on that they've never seen before
• fun fabrics and textures they're not used to

I learned this tip on here, but make sure you don't bring out all your distraction and entertainment ammo at once. I pack a diaper bag and take out one distraction at a time. Then we take a stroll around the plane, have something to eat, or take a nap. Only one activity out at a time.