In short
Infants under 2 usually fly on a lap for a small fee or free, children need their own seat and ticket. Choose seats together early, check the baggage rules for strollers and avoid very tight connections.
Flying with children is easier with a few decisions up front.
Tickets
- Infants (under 2) usually fly on an adult's lap, often with a reduced fare or small fee.
- Children from 2 years need their own seat and ticket. Child fares are not always cheaper, compare.
- Passport: children need their own travel document.
Seats
- Choose seats together early. On low-cost airlines this can cost extra, compare it to a full-service fare with seats included.
- Bulkhead rows have room but no under-seat storage.
Baggage
- Ask about stroller and car seat rules. Many airlines carry them free.
- Plan hand luggage for snacks, a change of clothes, wipes and entertainment.
Savings
- Fly outside the school-holiday weeks.
- Compare nearby airports.
- A nonstop flight is worth a small premium with small children.
Questions
Is a connection harder with children? Yes, allow extra time and avoid very short connections.
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