| Travel Checklist |
| Airline Questions |
| Sun Care Guide |
Airline policies for families vary widely. Many rules, including whether to allow preboarding, are at the discretion of the gate agent. The best advice is to call ahead and ask the following questions, but be prepared for possible changes at the gate.
What's the seat discount for a child under age 2? (This question applies if you'd like to pay for a seat for your child rather than holding him in your lap during the flight.)
Do you offer seat discounts for children 2 and older? If so, for what ages?
Can we get seats in a bulkhead row? (Bulkhead seats have more room to stand and maneuver, but less room for stowing carry-on.)
Are bassinets available on the flight? When should I reserve one? (Bassinets are only available for lap babies, and can only be used in bulkhead rows.)
Do all of your rows have extra oxygen masks? If not, can you seat us in a row that does? (This is important to ask if you're traveling with a child who doesn't have his own seat.)
Do you allow preboarding for families with small children? If so, will there be a preboarding announcement or do we have to ask at the gate?
Do lap babies get a baggage allowance?
Does a car seat count as a carry-on? If I have to check it at the gate, does it count against my baggage allowance?
Can we bring our stroller on board? Will it count as a carry-on?
Do you have nappy-changing facilities on the aircraft? (Most large airplanes have one restroom with a changing table.)
Do you offer children's meals? What's included? How far in advance should I order one?
Can you warm my baby's bottle during the flight?
Are diapers, formula, baby food, or other amenities available on board?
Is in-flight audio or video entertainment for children available?
Do you offer assistance with maneuvering through the terminal when making connecting flights? How can I arrange for that?
Keep in mind that everyone — even a newborn — needs a passport to travel. Make sure to apply for your child's passport well before your trip.
