Traveling in Southeast Asia with Kids: Expert Tips for Managing Screen Time on Long Journeys
Traveling through Southeast Asia with young kids isn’t always smooth sailing, especially when it comes to managing screen time on long flights and bus rides. We’ve done it twice now — from Bangkok to Bali, and Siem Reap to Da Nang — and I’ve learned a lot about keeping kids entertained without turning every trip into a screen-fest. Here’s what worked for us, with real, practical tips to help other parents navigate this challenge.
Planning the Right Accommodations and Stops to Minimize Screen Time
When traveling with kids aged 4–10, choosing the right places to stay makes a big difference in managing screen time. I look for hotels that are family-friendly, with easy access to outdoor spaces or kids’ activities.
For example, in Bangkok, we stayed at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok. It’s right on the river, with a nice pool and some spacious suites that let kids run around. In Bali, staying at the Padma Resort Legian gave us direct access to a calm, shallow beach — the best kid-friendly beach in Legian for just kicking back without the crowds or rough surf.
Pro tip: Look for hotels with kid zones, splash pools, or playgrounds. These natural distraction zones help break up long days so kids aren’t glued to screens just because there’s nothing else to do.
In Siem Reap, we chose the Shinta Mani Angkor because it’s centrally located near Angkor Wat but also quiet enough for naps. In Da Nang, the Novotel Danang Premier Han River had a kids’ club and activities, which helped us get a break and let the kids play without screens.
Avoid booking hotels that are isolated or have no outdoor space. It’s tempting to stay in budget places, but proximity to parks, pools, or beaches makes a difference in reducing screen time boredom.
How to Keep Kids Entertained During Long Flights and Bus Rides
Long journeys are the real challenge when it comes to screen time. We’ve flown with kids on multiple airlines, and I’ve found that packing a variety of surprises keeps everyone sane.
Some of our favorite carry-on essentials:
- Small travel games (like magnetic puzzles or card games)
- Coloring books and crayons (choose erasable or washable ones)
- Small stuffed animals or comfort toys
- Downloaded movies or TV shows on tablets (but don’t rely only on screens)
Pro tip: Download shows or movies in advance, and also have a few offline games or e-books. We also bring a portable charger to keep devices powered during long waits.
For bus rides, I keep the kids busy with sticker books, origami kits, or simple craft supplies. In Vietnam, the scenic countryside made it easy to distract them with watching rice paddies fly by. A surprise snack or small treat is a good reward after a certain amount of quiet time.
What surprised me is how quickly kids get used to quiet activities if you start early. On our first trip, I relied heavily on screens, but this time, I introduced non-screen entertainment from the start, and it made the trips more peaceful.
Managing Screen Time During Sightseeing: Balancing Fun and Limits
During sightseeing, it’s tempting to let kids zone out on tablets, especially when waiting in lines or during long tours. But I found setting some boundaries upfront works best. For example, at Angkor Wat, we’d give them 15-minute tablet breaks after each major temple visit. That way, they got a rest, but it didn’t turn into a continuous binge.
Pro tip: Use a timer or a countdown app to signal when screen time starts and stops. It’s less confrontational than just saying “no” and helps kids understand limits.
We also found that involving kids in the sightseeing process helps. Instead of just watching videos, we’d give them simple tasks, like spotting certain animals or shapes in the temples. This keeps their minds engaged and reduces the urge to turn to screens.
At beaches like My Khe Beach in Da Nang, we let the kids play in the sand or swim, saving screen time for quiet moments or rainy days. The key is to balance active outdoor fun with limited screen use.
Best Kid-Friendly Attractions and Activities to Reduce Screen Time
To keep kids happily busy without screens, pick attractions with hands-on activities. In Siem Reap, the Angkor National Museum had interactive exhibits that fascinated our kids. It made the history come alive without screens.
In Bali, the Bali Safari and Marine Park was a hit — animals, rides, and shows kept everyone entertained for hours, with no screens needed. At the Da Nang Sun World Ba Na Hills, the cable car ride, French village, and fantasy park gave us plenty of distraction.
Pro tip: Schedule outdoor activities during peak midday hours when kids might be tired or bored. Visiting a local market or taking a boat trip, like the Long Tail Boat Tour in Ao Nang, can be engaging and screen-free.
I’ve learned it’s worth investing in a few family-friendly experiences that don’t revolve around screens. Kids are surprisingly adaptable if they have enough engaging activities to look forward to.
Setting Boundaries and Establishing Routines to Help Kids Cope
Travel disrupts routines, but setting some ground rules helps kids understand expectations. Before each trip segment, I explain how much screen time is okay and what other activities are planned.
Pro tip: Create a visual schedule with pictures for younger kids, so they know what to expect — e.g., “After lunch, we can watch a show or go play at the pool.” This reduces whining and helps manage expectations.
We also brought a small reward chart. After completing sightseeing or quiet activities, the kids earn stickers they can trade for extra screen time or treats. It motivates good behavior and helps them feel in control.
On the flight, I set a “no screens during takeoff and landing” rule, but allowed a little during the flight, especially for the longer legs. It’s about balance.
What Surprised Us About Keeping Kids Off Screens
The biggest surprise was how quickly kids adapted to non-screen activities if you start early. The first trip, I relied too much on tablets, and it was chaos. This time, I introduced books, games, and craft supplies from day one, and the kids were more patient.
Another eye-opener was how much kids enjoy simple things. Collecting shells on beaches, spotting animals, or drawing in a notebook kept them just as engaged as screens.
Lastly, I learned that adults need downtime, too. So don’t hesitate to take turns with your partner, and don’t feel guilty about letting your kids watch an episode or two if it means everyone stays sane.
Managing screen time on long journeys in Southeast Asia isn’t about banning devices; it’s about balance. Plan ahead, have plenty of offline activities, and set clear boundaries. With these tips, traveling with kids becomes more manageable — and maybe even enjoyable.