Do children under 2 need their own seat?

No, infants under 2 can fly as lap children for free domestically and 10% of adult fare internationally. However, buying them a seat and bringing a car seat is safer and more comfortable on long flights.

Can I bring formula and baby food through security?

Yes, baby formula, breast milk, and baby food are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquid rule. Bring what you need for the flight plus extra. You may need to open containers for security testing.

What if my child has a meltdown during booking changes?

Call the airline directly rather than trying to change online. Gate agents and phone representatives have more flexibility to accommodate families, especially for seat changes or rebooking due to illness.

Should I book connecting flights or direct?

Direct flights are better for children under 5. For older kids, one connection can provide a break to stretch and burn energy, but avoid tight connections under 2 hours.

How early should I arrive at the airport with children?

Arrive 3 hours early for international flights. Families take longer at check-in, security, and boarding. Many airlines offer family check-in lanes and priority boarding.

How to Book Long-Haul Flights with Children

Book directly with airlines 6-8 weeks ahead, select bulkhead or aisle seats, and request bassinet seats for infants. Choose flights that align with your children's sleep schedule and book connecting flights with 2+ hour layovers to account for family needs.

Time your booking window. Book 6-8 weeks before departure for best prices and seat selection. Airlines release family-friendly seats (bulkhead, bassinet rows) early, but prices typically drop around this timeframe.
Choose child-friendly flight times. Book overnight flights (red-eyes) for children under 5 who sleep well in new environments. For older kids, choose flights departing 2-3 hours after their normal bedtime so they're naturally tired.
Book directly with the airline. Skip third-party sites. Airlines prioritize direct bookings for seat changes, meal requests, and family accommodations. You'll need this flexibility when traveling with children.
Select strategic seats immediately. Pay for seat selection. Choose bulkhead rows for extra legroom and floor space. Request bassinet seats for infants under 2. Book aisle seats so one parent can easily access overhead bins and bathrooms.
Request special services during booking. Add child meals for kids 2+ (available 24-48 hours after booking). Request wheelchair assistance if you have a stroller and lots of gear. Note any food allergies in your booking.
Build in generous connection times. Book layovers of 2+ hours minimum, 3+ hours for international connections. Families need extra time for bathroom breaks, feeding, and gate changes with gear.
Purchase travel insurance within 14 days. Buy comprehensive coverage that includes trip cancellation for illness. Children get sick unpredictably, and long-haul flights are expensive to change or cancel.

Do children under 2 need their own seat?: No, infants under 2 can fly as lap children for free domestically and 10% of adult fare internationally. However, buying them a seat and bringing a car seat is safer and more comfortable on long flights.
Can I bring formula and baby food through security?: Yes, baby formula, breast milk, and baby food are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquid rule. Bring what you need for the flight plus extra. You may need to open containers for security testing.
What if my child has a meltdown during booking changes?: Call the airline directly rather than trying to change online. Gate agents and phone representatives have more flexibility to accommodate families, especially for seat changes or rebooking due to illness.
Should I book connecting flights or direct?: Direct flights are better for children under 5. For older kids, one connection can provide a break to stretch and burn energy, but avoid tight connections under 2 hours.
How early should I arrive at the airport with children?: Arrive 3 hours early for international flights. Families take longer at check-in, security, and boarding. Many airlines offer family check-in lanes and priority boarding.