Should I book flights for my lap infant?

If your infant is under 2, they can often fly for free on your lap domestically, but for international flights to Europe, you are usually required to pay 10% of the adult fare plus taxes.

Are budget airlines worth it for families?

Only if you travel extremely light. Once you add fees for checked bags, seat selection, and food, a 'budget' airline often costs the same as a full-service carrier.

Booking flights to Europe for a family

Book your international flights exactly 4 to 6 months in advance for the best balance of price and seat availability for groups. Use airline-specific 'multi-city' search tools to avoid backtracking and always book directly through the carrier to make managing family seat assignments easier.

Set a price alert early. Use Google Flights to track your specific route 6 months out. Turn on 'Track Prices' to receive email notifications when the price drops; booking when you receive an alert is usually your best bet for a family of four or more.
Choose your hubs wisely. Avoid flying into the most expensive hubs (like London Heathrow or Paris CDG) if you are traveling to a smaller city. Compare fares to secondary airports nearby, then take a cheap budget airline flight or train to your final destination.
Prioritize direct flights. When traveling with children, pay the premium for a non-stop flight. If you must have a layover, ensure it is at least 3 hours long to account for potential delays and the time it takes to navigate large international airports as a group.
Secure seat assignments immediately. After booking, log into the airline's website immediately to select your seats. Do not rely on 'auto-assign,' as airlines often split up families. If you are flying budget airlines, pay the extra fee to guarantee your seats are together.

Should I book flights for my lap infant?: If your infant is under 2, they can often fly for free on your lap domestically, but for international flights to Europe, you are usually required to pay 10% of the adult fare plus taxes.
Are budget airlines worth it for families?: Only if you travel extremely light. Once you add fees for checked bags, seat selection, and food, a 'budget' airline often costs the same as a full-service carrier.