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Advice & Info for Flying with Children

Flying with children

Information on all air travel with kids and infants, including top tips and FAQs.

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Air travel with kids

Worried about flying with children? Buy flights with Alternative Airlines and we'll make it stress-free. This page breaks down the different things that airlines can offer for passengers flying with children, including infants and babies. When booking your ticket, if you have any special requests or any other queries on air travel with kids, please contact Alternative Airlines and we will contact the airline for you.


Flying with babies

It's important to understand airline policies when it comes to flying with babies, as every carrier has different rules and fares. Discover the best airlines using our airline comparison table in our guide to flying with babies - FAQs and top tips included!

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Flying with Children

On long-haul flights, most airlines offer in-flight entertainment with a dedicated children's section, which will include a selection of games and children's tv shows and films. The majority of airlines have in-flight menus that cater to children, although you may need to contact the airline in advance to order your kids' meal in advance. 

 

Child Ticket Age and Price

Most airlines count any person between the ages of 2—11 as a child. You're required to purchase a seat for children, although in most cases they're considerably cheaper than the price of an adult ticket (between 25—33% cheaper). Some airlines offer tickets for young adults, which are usually for passengers aged between 12—16. Find out how to book a flight ticket for a child.

Tips For Flying with Children

Traveling with children can be both exciting and challenging. Here are some invaluable tips that will significantly ease the journey for any parent:


Be prepared

While it may sound like common sense, the importance of thorough preparation for flights with children cannot be emphasized enough. Pack essentials like extra clothes and wet wipes in your carry-on bag. There's nothing worse than dealing with a messy child on a flight and not having the necessary supplies to clean them up quickly. Being prepared for such situations can save you from unnecessary stress.


Variety

Long flights can be particularly challenging for children, so it's essential to keep them entertained. While many airlines offer fantastic in-flight entertainment for kids, bringing a selection of toys and books is a great idea. Children can become easily bored, and having a variety of distractions at hand will not only keep them engaged but also make the flight time pass more quickly for them. Consider bringing their favourite stuffed animals, colouring books, or electronic devices loaded with kid-friendly content.


Ask for help

Parents often feel hesitant to ask for assistance, but it's important to remember that cabin crew and ground staff are there to make your journey as smooth as possible. Don't be afraid to seek help when you need it. Cabin crew members are trained to assist with various tasks, from carrying baggage to providing extra blankets or pillows. They understand the challenges of travelling with children and are usually more than willing to lend a hand, ensuring a more comfortable experience for both you and your little ones.

Child Free Flights

Flying without children and want peace and quiet? Take a look at our page on child free flights and find out which airlines offer child free zones

Flying with Children News

May 2019

Travelling as an Unaccompanied minor to and from Namibia

In May 2019, in order to negate the threat of child trafficking, the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration in Namibia changed the laws of travelling as a child. For more information, see our Air Namibia page if you're a parent/guardian travelling with a child.

2. A letter from the person who is will be collecting and accommodating the child. This letter must include the address of where the child will be staying along with details on how to contact this address.

3. A copy of ID or a valid passport and visa/permanent residence permit of the person who will be collecting and accommodating the child.

4. Contact details of the parent(s) or the legal guardian(s) of the child

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Flying with Children FAQs

Can I bring a pushchair or buggy on my flight?

Yes. Most airlines allow for passengers to bring at least one pushchair or buggy onto their flight, free of charge. However, the pushchair or buggy must fit within the maximum weight and dimensions that the airline state.

Can I book a flight for an unaccompanied child?

Only some airlines allow you to book flights for unaccompanied children. Please give us a call if you want to book a flight for an unaccompanied child.

What are the in-flight entertainment options for my child?

All airlines appreciate that children can get bored on long-haul flights. That's why they offer in-flight entertainment options specifically for children. These include a number of kids tv shows and films, as well as kid-friendly games.

What if there are no available seats together with my child?

Unfortunately, on the rare occasion that there are no available seats together with your child, there's nothing the airline can do. You'll either have to sit apart from your child or look for another flight. With airlines who offer it, we highly recommend paying the extra fee to select your seats when you buy your plane tickets to avoid disappointment. Find out how to pre-book your seat with Alternative Airlines.

What age is a child ticket?

The age range for a child ticket can differ from airline to airline, so it's best to check with us or the airline itself. Most airlines class a child ticket as between the ages of 2—11. However, others will class anyone under the age of 16 as a child. Some airlines, such as Virgin Atlantic, offer young adult tickets, which range between the ages of 12—15.

How much does a child ticket cost?

The price of a child ticket will differ from airline to airline. Some airlines offer discounted prices for children, whereas others have a flat fare for adults and children. On average, discounted airline tickets for children are around 25—33% cheaper than adult tickets.

Are there kids options on the in-flight menu?

Yes. Most airlines will offer food for children on their in-flight menus. Many airlines will require you to book your child's food separately from your own at least 24 hours in advance from the day of your flight.

What are the best airlines for flying with kids?

There are many factors which can make an airline more suitable for families, such as priority boarding and food and entertainment options.