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I pride myself on being a minimalist packer, even with a toddler in tow. But as our first long-haul flight approached, I found myself going down a Google rabbit hole of tips and gadgets on how to help children sleep on a plane. Despite loving the idea of miniature suitcases that turn into footrests, and inflatable cushions which transform seats into beds, I wanted to avoid extra luggage and anything fiddly requiring a pump or too much effort.
I was, therefore, suitably impressed when I stumbled across the Bubba Board – a sleek seat extender promising to give children a comfortable lie-flat experience for the perfect nap without extra baggage or faff. My only reservation was that it wouldn’t fit into my hand luggage and wasn’t officially approved by airlines, much like many of these gadgets. However, user reviews suggested that it had been used on the airline I was flying with, so I decided to risk it.
On the (nerve-wracking) day of travel, I hooked it around my buggy handles and was impressed with how light (just under 2kg!) and flat it was – comparable to a long folder (L45 x W37cm). I was delighted to be waved through to the plane without problems, and I ensured my three-year-old was in a window seat so we wouldn’t be blocking anyone’s exit.
Once we had taken off, I set up the Bubba Board. The directions were simple: lay the board on the seat, insert the small ‘anchor flap’ down the gap between the rear of the seat and the backrest, extend the board until it reaches the seat in front and slide the large anchor flap into the seat pocket. Then there's an optional step to secure the shoulder strap around the tray table.
As we were in premium economy, the leg space was somewhat larger but this wasn’t a problem as the board extends to 78cm. However, it did mean that the seat pocket did not align with the flap, so I secured the shoulder strap around the tray table instead, and it held up my toddler’s legs perfectly.
My son Marley was immediately taken with the board and used it to prop up the iPad and lay out his toys. I particularly liked the hygiene factor of the board covering the seat. I was thrilled when he spread out his legs and drifted off to sleep by himself.
It was relaxing all around as I didn’t have to check that he was slipping off his seat, and I was able to secure his seat belt around him and the board, so there was no need to wake him if the seatbelt sign came on.
By some miracle, he managed 10 hours of sleep on the first 13-hour leg of our flight to Bali before going back to sleep on the final stretch. The board was an essential part of this triumph. It’s described as suitable for all ages as long as the child is able to sit up. I estimate that it will last a few more years, even if just as a footrest for older children.
Having used this for our first long haul flight – and given that it also works on trains and buses – I’m a definite convert. It will be a staple for any future voyages. I can honestly say that it was a game-changer.
Pros:
- Lightweight and flat
- Easy to set up
- Comfortable for toddlers
- Hygienic
Cons:
- Doesn’t fit into hand luggage
- Check with the airline before taking it on
