iTunes and Netflix downloads won't play offline

the only way i have been able to make it work at all is to restart iPad to get the app out of the black screen spinning circle mode, hotspot iPad to iPhone, start watching downloaded content then switch to free wifi in hotel (I am holidaying in Bali from Australia. I have already amassed a hefty Optus bill and even if money wasn't an option, unless I can fix the issue it won't work on plan where there won't be an internet connection.

My husband has an iPad and it works fine for him although he most likely is a long way behind with applying iOS updates. Please help as I want to use my iPad on my return flight in 24 hours.