We flew out of Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan in Borneo on a simple internal hop with Malaysia Airlines, and it was exactly the kind of travel day you hope for when you are moving with kids: calm, friendly and easy.
The girls were entertained from the moment we boarded. The crew handed out passport-style activity books with destinations to tick off, and between that and the window views we barely heard a peep. Georgia was chuffed working through the pages and Dotty settled straight in with colouring. Bliss.
Meals on a short domestic flight
Unlike most UK domestic flights we have taken, this one came with a proper meal service. I made the most of it with a spicy bowl that hit the spot, and Ali had the veggie option, which went down a treat. Drinks came round quickly, trays cleared fast, no drama. When you are juggling bags, crayons and passports, that kind of efficient service feels gold.
The vibe on board
Check-in and boarding were smooth and well signposted. Cabin crew were warm with the kids and happy to swap a spare pencil when ours went missing. Seat pitch was decent for a short hop, and we had enough room to spread the activity book, colouring, water bottles and the inevitable snack pack.
Landing in Sandakan
Touchdown was on time and the heat hit us the second we stepped off. That warm, humid Borneo air felt like the start of a new chapter. Bags arrived quickly, signs were clear, and we were out in no time. Exactly how family travel should be: simple, kind and fuss-free.
What worked well for us
Activity books first. Getting the kids into a task before pushback kept everything calm through take-off. Veggie meal sorted. Ali’s vegetarian tray was spot on for a short flight and saved us rummaging for snacks mid-air. Compact carry-ons. One small daypack for kid stuff (pens, wipes, water, spare top) is easier than multiple little bags. Row choice. A window seat for the older kid equals built-in entertainment over Borneo’s coastline.
Quick facts for fellow families
Route: Kuala Lumpur → Sandakan (SDK) Airline: Malaysia Airlines Type: Domestic flight On board: Meal included, hot and tasty; drinks service; friendly crew Kid bits: Activity passport book, colouring kept them content the whole way
Would we do it again?
Absolutely. As far as family flight days go, this was a 10/10 easy win. The girls were happy, we were fed, and the whole thing felt relaxed. Next stop: Borneo adventures.
Planning a similar hop with kids?
Grab our Family Travel Tips for packing lists, airport hacks and kid-friendly day plans:
👉 tantrummingtrailblazers.com/travel-tips
About the Author
