Your first flight holiday with your children is very exciting, but it is also natural to have many questions. What is it like to fly with children, and what should you be aware of? We will try to help you by answering a few practical questions!

1) How Old Should My Child Be?

Babies can start flying as early as 7 days old (unless they are born prematurely). However, we recommend waiting until after 3 months of age, as the lungs are underdeveloped until 3 months of age. Long air travel, in particular, can have a negative effect. Consult your pediatrician.

2) Do I Have to Pay a Seat Fee?

Depending on the airline, children up to 2 years old usually do not have to pay for a seat. So, you have your child on your lap for the entire flight. Also, be careful if your child is approaching 2 years of age. Return flights are often used as reference to determine your child’s age. If the birthday falls shortly before a holiday, it is best to book the outbound and return flights separately. This will save you a considerable amount of money! If you are traveling with a child, the cabin crew will provide you with a special seat belt. You may also be given a special bed for your child to sleep in during the flight, such as a crib or baby basket. Provide information in plenty of time and request it if necessary.

3) What Can I Bring With Me?

In most cases, you can bring baby items weighing up to 10 kg. Some airlines have weight restrictions, but you can generally get a foldable stroller, so it can be carried as baggage on most airlines. Some even come with a practical travel bag.

Low-cost airlines often do not allow carry-on baggage, so check in advance… However, you may only be able to hand over your pram at boarding.

An ergonomic baby carrier or sling is definitely the perfect alternative. They are more compact, and your child can enjoy new sensations right by your side in his or her favorite seat. Will you be driving to the airport or renting a car upon arrival? Then you should bring a car seat. Most are allowed in your carry-on as long as it is compact and fits in your baggage locker. Check the label on the car seat and find out from the airline what is allowed in advance. Do you want to place your child in a car seat during the flight? It is more comfortable and safer, but you will need to reserve a separate seat for your child. Please check with your airline to find out what is allowed before the flight.

4) What Should I Feed My Child?

Generally, special food for children is provided on board, but if your child is rather fussy, you may wish to prepare your own food. If your baby is old enough to be breastfed, this is, of course, very helpful. Onboard staff will help you prepare artificial food (ask the airline in advance if you can buy bottled water at duty-free stores or if you can ask for water on board, and don’t forget to ask if solids can be reheated.

Thirst

Make sure your child has enough to drink. The air is dry on airplanes, so it’s normal to be thirsty. Are you breastfeeding your child? Then increase breastfeeding frequency and avoid giving extra water, which can disrupt your production. Of course, you drink quite a bit more yourself.

Let us know if these few tips have helped you in the comments below!