Do I need to buy a seat for my 18-month-old?

No, children under 2 can travel as lap children. However, it's safer and more comfortable to buy them their own seat, especially on flights over 2 hours.

Can I bring my car seat on the plane?

Yes, if your child has their own seat and the car seat is FAA-approved. Car seats must be placed in window seats and cannot block aisles.

What if the airline separates our family?

Airlines are required to seat children 13 and under next to a family member at no extra cost. If separated at check-in, ask gate agents to help — they can usually fix this.

Do children get baggage allowances?

Children with their own seats get full baggage allowances. Lap children typically get one checked bag and can check strollers and car seats for free.

How to Book Flights When Traveling with Children

Book flights with children by selecting seats together during booking, bringing car seats for under-2s, and choosing aisle seats for bathroom access. Most airlines allow children under 2 to fly free on your lap, but you'll pay full price for their own seat.

Choose your seat strategy. Book aisle seats for bathroom access with toddlers, or window seats to contain curious children. Always select seats together during initial booking — it's cheaper than paying fees later.
Decide: lap child or own seat. Children under 2 can fly free on your lap domestically (10% of adult fare internationally). For safety and comfort on flights over 2 hours, consider buying them their own seat even if under 2.
Book directly with the airline. Third-party sites can't always add infant information correctly. Book directly to ensure proper documentation of lap children and special meal requests.
Add children to your reservation. Call the airline within 24 hours of booking to add lap children (required for security). Provide the child's name exactly as it appears on their passport or birth certificate.
Request special services. Book bassinet seats for infants on long flights (must be under 20 lbs), request children's meals for kids over 2, and note any car seat usage in your reservation.
Time your flights strategically. Book flights during nap time for young children, or red-eyes if they sleep well. Avoid meal times when possible — hungry children are difficult children.

Do I need to buy a seat for my 18-month-old?: No, children under 2 can travel as lap children. However, it's safer and more comfortable to buy them their own seat, especially on flights over 2 hours.
Can I bring my car seat on the plane?: Yes, if your child has their own seat and the car seat is FAA-approved. Car seats must be placed in window seats and cannot block aisles.
What if the airline separates our family?: Airlines are required to seat children 13 and under next to a family member at no extra cost. If separated at check-in, ask gate agents to help — they can usually fix this.
Do children get baggage allowances?: Children with their own seats get full baggage allowances. Lap children typically get one checked bag and can check strollers and car seats for free.