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Flying with Kids
Frequently Asked Questions

 

Question:  Do all airlines allow infant / toddler car seats to be used on their airplanes?

FlyingRugrats.com:  No.  While most airlines do allow infant or toddler safety seats, a few do not allow them.  You should always indicate your intent to use a car seat when you are making your flight arrangements with your airline or travel agent.

 

Question:  If I have the opportunity, should I board the plane early with my small children?

FlyingRugrats.com:  There are differing opinions among parents about this issue.  Boarding early allows you time to get your car seat(s) installed, supplies organized and family settled in seats.  It allows you to avoid being rushed by adult passengers and prevents you from delaying boarding for other passengers.  However, boarding early also means that you will be on the plane longer with your children.  If two adults are traveling with children, sometimes parents split up with one parent boarding early to install car seats and organize supplies while the other parent stays in the terminal with the children until regular boarding time.

 

Question:  Do my children require proof of identification when flying?

FlyingRugrats.com:  It is always a good idea to obtain picture identification for your children.  However, some airlines do not require it for domestic U.S. flights.  You will need a passport for a child to fly internationally.  You can obtain U.S. passports that are valid for 5 years for your U.S. citizen children.  See the U.S. Department of State web site for information about passport application.

 

Question:  Will all airlines allow an infant to travel as a lap child?

FlyingRugrats.com:  No.  Some airlines do not allow lap child travel.  Always indicate your intentions when you are making your flight arrangements with your airline or travel agent.  Airlines that allow lap child travel typically require that the child be younger than 2 years old.  Some non-U.S. airlines require you to use a seatbelt attachment for a lap child.

 

Question:  What kind of carry-on bag do you suggest?

FlyingRugrats.com:  Some airlines have strict weight requirements for carry-on bags.  The last thing you want is to have your bag neatly organized for your flight and then have the ticket agent hassle you about weight or, worse yet, have the ticket agent not allow your bag.  A lightweight backpack with lots of compartments works very well as a carry-on since most of the weight is just your supplies, toys and such.  Diaper bags do not work well for air travel.

 

Question:  Will flight attendants warm my baby bottles?

FlyingRugrats.com:  Most airlines will warm baby bottles.  However, since some do not offer this service, you should discuss your needs in advance with your airline or travel agent when you are planning your travel.

 

Question:  Are there any special issues when only one parent is traveling internationally with a child?

FlyingRugrats.com:  Yes.  The non-traveling parent may have to provide a written record approving the travel.  Check with your airline for special requirements any time that you are planning to fly internationally with your children and your spouse will not be traveling with you.

 

Question:  How many diapers should I bring on a flight?

FlyingRugrats.com:  Based on your knowledge of your child and length of the flight, pack more than you think you will need.  However, if you run out, talk with your flight attendant.  The airline may have an emergency supply of diapers on your flight.

 

Question:  Can I carry my stroller onto the airplane?

FlyingRugrats.com:  Probably not.  Most airlines require strollers to be gate checked.  Depending on the flight, the airline might return your stroller to you as you exit the plane.  Some airlines will allow you to carry small umbrella-style strollers on board and store them in the overhead baggage compartments.  To be certain about requirements on your particular flight, discuss this issue with your airline or travel agent in advance.