The 10 Most Important Tips for Flying with Children for a Comfortable Trip

Is flying with children safe?

The first thing on parents' minds when they think about flying is their children, especially if they are still infants or under 5. Broadly speaking, flying with children is safe, as the aviation sector takes the safety of all passengers seriously, children included. Airlines also apply strict procedures to ensure children's safety on board, by providing safety standards designed for them, such as child seat belts and sometimes special seats for infants.

• Use a child safety seat — some airlines allow child safety seats to be used on board.
• Ease the effects of changing air pressure, especially at take-off and landing, by encouraging children to chew gum or drink milk or water, which helps relieve the pressure on their ears.
• Bring comfort items that help children sleep and relax, such as a small pillow and a blanket.

What is the right age for an infant to fly?

Flying with children is a greater challenge when those children are infants, and although flying with a baby is safe, there is an age it is best to respect. The right age for an infant to fly is preferably after the second week from birth, as most airlines advise waiting until the baby is at least two weeks old.

In most cases it is also better to wait until the infant is 3 months old, by which point they have gained some immunity and the ability to cope with changes in cabin pressure. It is important to consult a paediatrician before flying with children, infants included, particularly if the baby has any specific health conditions, to confirm that flying is completely safe for them.

Is it allowed to fly with a two-month-old baby?

Yes, flying with children aged two months is permitted by most airlines, but it is always best to check the policy of the airline you are travelling with. Generally, flying with a two-month-old is fine if the baby is in good health and the doctor has not advised otherwise. But a few tips are worth bearing in mind to ensure the baby's comfort and safety during the flight. Here are some of the most useful when flying with a two-month-old:

• Consult a paediatrician before travelling to confirm that the baby has no health problems that would prevent flying.
• Pack a bag with the essentials such as nappies, milk, medication if needed, and anything else that keeps the baby comfortable.
• Ease the effect of pressure changes during take-off and landing by feeding the baby, which helps reduce the pressure on their ears.

Tips before flying with a three-month-old baby

If you are thinking of taking a trip or flying for work with a 3-month-old baby, there are a number of things to bear in mind for a safe, comfortable journey. Here are the most important tips before flying with a three-month-old:

• Consult a paediatrician before travelling to confirm that the baby's health allows it.
• Choose the timing wisely, booking a flight that fits the baby's sleep routine as far as possible.
• Bring the essentials in your hand luggage, including nappies, wet wipes, spare clothes, a blanket and a prepared bottle of formula.
• Give the baby a dummy during take-off and landing to help relieve the pressure in their ears.
• Choose a seat that is suitable and comfortable for you and the baby for a more restful flight.

What do you need to pack when flying with a one-year-old?

When flying with a one-year-old you will need to pack a set of essentials that keep both of you comfortable throughout the flight. Here are the most important basics when flying with a one-year-old child:

• A bag of the child's essentials such as nappies, wet wipes and spare clothes.
• Healthy, easy snacks, a bottle of milk and a bottle of water.
• The child's feeding items such as a small spoon and travel-friendly food containers.
• A dummy, which will help ease their anxiety and reduce the pressure on their ears during take-off and landing.
• Small, quiet toys to keep them occupied and calm.
• A comfortable blanket to help the child sleep better.

What do you need at the airport when travelling with a two-year-old?

Flying with children from the age of two upwards is less tiring than flying with infants, but it still calls for good preparation starting at the airport itself. Here are a number of tips for handling the airport better when travelling with a two-year-old:

• Try to arrive at the airport well before the departure time so you can cope with any sudden changes that might affect your flight.
• Use shoes that are easy to slip off for children to make security easier, especially as small children take longer to undo and tie their shoes.
• Avoid bringing anything unnecessary, as it will take you a lot of time to have it screened before boarding.
• Take your child to the toilet more than once before boarding, particularly as it is difficult to use the toilet at the start of the flight.

How to prepare when flying with a 3-year-old

When flying with a three-year-old, good preparation is essential to make the journey comfortable and smooth for both you and the child. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

• Talk to the child about the trip and the experience of flying to reduce anxiety and build their excitement.
• Plan the flight time carefully and try to choose a slot that fits the child's nap time.
• Prepare hand luggage that includes all the essentials such as food, drinks and light toys.
• Dress the child in comfortable clothes with extra layers, as the temperature on board can be low.
• Book a suitable seat, and if the flight is long it is better to book an extra seat for your child for more comfort.
• Take precautions for the ears when flying with children — it is best to chew something or drink water during take-off and landing to relieve the pressure.
• Be patient and flexible, and ready for anything unexpected during the journey.

Booking flights at the best prices

There is no need to worry now about flying with your child, because at Tjwaal we bring you the best flight and hotel booking service for any destination at the best price. We will help you choose the right flight and the right hotel to stay in, so you can be sure of a comfortable, calm trip with your children.