Traveling with an infant on a plane
Most parents are afraid to travel with small children, but is it really that scary? Today we will tell you how to prepare for and manage a flight with a small child.
Cost and purchase of an air ticket for an infant
A child can be boarded on a plane from seven days old. You need to buy an air ticket for an infant simultaneously with buying a ticket for an adult, otherwise you will have to contact the airline's office. It is not possible to buy a ticket on Kupi.com for a child under 2 years old without simultaneously buying a ticket for an adult on the website. The cost of a ticket for children aged 0 to 2 years depends on the airline. Most often, the transportation of children of this age is free or costs 10% of the adult fare. More details on the cost of air tickets for children >>
How to seat a child on a plane?
Keep in mind that the child will spend the entire journey in your arms. A separate seat is not provided for them. If you want a little more comfort for yourself and your baby, buy a ticket for them at the child fare for ages 2 to 12. It is usually 50% cheaper than an adult ticket, and a separate seat is provided for the child. Even if the baby is not yet sitting, you can bring a car seat for them and attach it to a free seat. However, inquire with the airline in advance about which car seats they allow on board. On medium- and long-haul flights, infants under 2 years old may be provided with a bassinet. It attaches to the wall in front of the first row of seats and is designed for children weighing up to 8-10 kg. More details on how to order a bassinet on a plane >>
How to feed a child during the flight?
We have already written about what products can be carried on board an airplane. For passengers with children, there are far fewer restrictions. You can take the necessary amount of baby food (including liquid) for the duration of the flight. The key phrase here is "for the duration of the flight", not for the entire trip, so anything that will not be eaten or drunk during the flight is best put in checked baggage. Some airlines offer a special baby menu for infants. It's best to clarify in advance exactly what they offer, because who better than parents knows how difficult it is to choose baby formula or porridge, especially if the child has allergies.
What to take with you?
First of all:
- diapers, wet wipes, and other baby care products.
- at least one set of spare clothes, and for a long flight, 2-3 sets.
- a feeding bib.
- a blanket. On medium and long-haul routes, blankets are available, but not always on short ones.
- a first-aid kit
How to check in when flying with an infant?
The first and main rule is to arrive for check-in in advance. Passengers with small children can go to the counter without waiting in line. If you are not allowed (which is extremely rare), try contacting the business class passenger counter. The earlier you arrive, the greater your chances of getting a seat in the first row and booking a bassinet. We wrote about how to transport a stroller in a separate article, which you can read here. In addition, we advise you to familiarize yourself with the baggage rules for passengers with children.
