Or indeed equaly frustrating for those with three kids in tow and a tight budget[:w]
Well, we always have our own 2 kids in tow, and occasionally I have done it with my own kids and my 2 nephews. I head down to Wilko's a couple of weeks before the flight and stock up on travel board games, cards, sticker books etc £20 well spent IMO, it keeps the kiddos quiet and occupied for ages. I always factor in airport expenses into our budget too, I have travelled on a shoestring numerous times, but I enjoy my time at the airport and save that extra little bit each time we go away so I can relax and have a good time, despite the delays that usually happen!
I think for families in the tight budget/kids situation the new V-Room at gatwick will be Godsend [y]
Anything over 2 hours would start to irritate me, as its then cutting into precious holiday time, but other than that I usually just go with the flow and try not too get stressed about it, afterall sitting there quietly furious isnt going to achieve anything is it? other than to ruin the start of my hols!