Flying With Kids: Practical Tips From Booking to Landing

US airlines let children under 2 fly on a parent’s lap, usually free on domestic flights and for a reduced fare or taxes on international ones. It saves money, but the FAA strongly recommends a separate seat with an approved child restraint system, because your arms can’t hold a child securely in severe turbulence.

If you bring a car seat, look for a label stating it’s certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft, and check that it fits the airline’s seat width. Airlines typically place car seats by the window so they don’t block anyone’s exit. On long-haul flights, ask about bulkhead bassinets when you book; they’re limited and have size and weight limits.

Choose seats when you book, and avoid fares that assign seats only at check-in, such as basic economy on many airlines. Some US airlines commit to seating young children next to an accompanying adult at no extra cost when the whole family is on one reservation; check the airline’s customer service plan before you book.

If you’re split up anyway, contact the airline before the day of travel, then speak to the gate agent early. Our seat selection strategy explains which rows work best for families.

TSA allows formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby food, including puree pouches, in quantities over 3.4 ounces in your carry-on. They don’t need to fit in your quart-size bag, but tell the officer at the start of screening. Strollers, car seats and baby carriers go through the X-ray, or get a hand inspection if they don’t fit.

Children who appear to be 12 or under can keep their shoes and light jackets on. With TSA PreCheck, kids 12 and under can join an enrolled parent in the PreCheck lane; teens 13 to 17 can too when they’re on the same reservation and the PreCheck indicator appears on their own boarding pass.

Pack as though your checked bags and your connection might both be delayed.

Every child, including a newborn, needs their own passport for international travel, and child passports have special consent rules; see passports for minors. If a child is traveling with only one parent, CBP recommends carrying a signed letter of consent from the other parent, and some countries may ask for one.

For destination ideas that work for every age, see our family vacation destinations, and use the family vacation packing list to get everything else ready.