Occupying a three year old on the plane.

[pipanale]

There's always the option I tend to see on a lot of flights. Let the adults get loaded and pass out and then let the kids run around on the plane and make a noisy mess.

That's good times for everyone! It takes a village (and a 737) to raise a child.

[aroobagirl]

Just made the trip with our three year old... Snacks, travel size doodle pad, snacks, little containers of playdoh, snacks, crayons and coloring, snacks... you get the idea!

[Chickadee]

I forgot to suggest pipe cleaners (I'm sure there's a more politically correct word for them now) to play with, bright colors if you can find them. Endless fun and re-usable.

[emptynester]

Get the removeable types of stickers and let them put them everywhere. My 2 year old grand-daughter spent an entire hour putting them on her legs, arms, the tray table and the window. It took us 5 minutes to peel them off and throw them away.
Just a note on the dramamine/benedryl be careful of the timing if you decide to go that route-a helpful walking three year old is better than a cranky dead-weight one. Good luck-Sharon