Can I bring a car seat on the plane?

Yes, if your child has their own seat and the car seat is FAA-approved. It must fit in the aircraft seat and be secured with the seatbelt. Gate-check it free if your infant is flying on your lap.

What if my child gets sick before the flight?

Most airlines allow free changes within 24 hours of booking. After that, expect $200-400 change fees plus fare difference. Travel insurance covering children's illness costs $50-100 but can save thousands.

How early should I arrive at the airport with kids?

Arrive 3 hours early for international flights. Families with children under 2 can use priority security lines at most US airports. Check if your departure airport offers family check-in counters.

Do children need to remove shoes at security?

Children 12 and under can leave shoes on at TSA checkpoints. Strollers must go through X-ray machines. Baby formula and food are allowed in carry-on bags but will be tested separately.

How to Book Flights to Tokyo with Children

Book flights to Tokyo with children 2-3 months ahead, selecting seats during checkout, and requesting kids' meals 24 hours before departure. Choose flights that align with your children's sleep schedule and pack entertainment for the 12-14 hour journey.

Start booking 8-12 weeks ahead. Airlines release family-friendly seats and meal options earlier in the booking window. Tuesday and Wednesday departures are typically $200-400 cheaper than weekend flights.
Choose your routing strategy. Direct flights (LAX, SFO, SEA to NRT) are worth the extra $300-500 with kids. If connecting, allow minimum 3 hours between flights and stick to one airline to avoid rebooking hassles.
Select seats during initial booking. Pay the $50-150 seat selection fee upfront. Request bulkhead rows for bassinet mounting (infants under 24 months) or aisle seats for bathroom trips. Avoid exit rows - children aren't allowed.
Add children to your booking immediately. Infants under 2 fly free on your lap but need their own ticket for a seat. Children 2-11 get discounted fares. Input exact ages as of travel date - airlines verify at check-in.
Request special meals 24 hours before. Order kids' meals (CHML) through airline website or call customer service. These come with child-friendly options and are served first. Pack backup snacks anyway.
Consider timing carefully. Red-eye flights departing 9-11 PM align with bedtime routines. Day flights work if your child naps easily. Avoid landing in Tokyo during evening rush hour (5-7 PM).

Can I bring a car seat on the plane?: Yes, if your child has their own seat and the car seat is FAA-approved. It must fit in the aircraft seat and be secured with the seatbelt. Gate-check it free if your infant is flying on your lap.
What if my child gets sick before the flight?: Most airlines allow free changes within 24 hours of booking. After that, expect $200-400 change fees plus fare difference. Travel insurance covering children's illness costs $50-100 but can save thousands.
How early should I arrive at the airport with kids?: Arrive 3 hours early for international flights. Families with children under 2 can use priority security lines at most US airports. Check if your departure airport offers family check-in counters.
Do children need to remove shoes at security?: Children 12 and under can leave shoes on at TSA checkpoints. Strollers must go through X-ray machines. Baby formula and food are allowed in carry-on bags but will be tested separately.