First flight with your child? While it may all sound great in your head, new doubts arise every day. You're not sure exactly what you'll need or whether you have to follow any special procedures at the airport. Don't worry, we're going to give you some tips for flying with children to try to clear up any issues and make your experience a success story.
- Preparing for your trip
- Infant or child? If the minor is between 7 days and 2 years of age, he/she is considered an infant. If the minor is between 2 and 11 years of age, he/she is considered a child and will require his/her own ticket to fly.
- What documentation does my infant/child need in order to travel? The required documentation may vary according to the country of origin and destination. In Spain, for instance, minors up to 12 years of age travelling on domestic flights do not need their own documentation, just the Spanish "libro de familia" (Family Record Book). In any case, if the minor has his/her own documentation, we recommend carrying it at all times. If you're travelling with Vueling, see the page on documentation to answer any questions.
- Can I take baby food on board? Yes, and you can exceed the 100 ml allowance established by regulations restricting the amount of liquids on board. You can also carry unsealed food. In any case, we advise you to check the conditions of carriage on the website of the airline operating your flight.
- Where can I check in? You can check in online from home or go to the check-in desk at the airport on the day of the flight.
- At the airport
- Do we have to queue at the check-in desk? Some airlines, such as Vueling at Barcelona, have a priority check-in desk for families.
- What items of my infant's baggage can I check in? It depends on the airline you're travelling with. If you're flying with Vueling, you can check in up to two extra items of infant baggage at no extra cost (pushchair, cradle, cot or booster seat, excluding car seat).
- Do I have to check in the pushchair with the rest of the baggage? No. For your convenience, you can take your infant in the pushchair right up to the plane. Once there, the ground staff will take it to the cargo hold, at no extra cost.
- On the plane
- Where will my baby travel? If your baby is between 7 days and 2 years of age, he/she can travel on your lap. From 2 years of age, children must always travel in their own seat.
- Where can I change my baby's nappies on the plane? Most planes have a special area where you can change your baby's nappies in complete comfort.
- What type of entertainment can I take for my child during the flight? You can take toys, books, tablets... If you intend to use electronic devices, don't forget to take earphones so as not to bother the other passengers.
- What safety features are available on the plane for infants? The allocated seat is a special seat fitted with two oxygen masks. Plus, on the plane you will be provided with a safety belt for the infant which you must attach to yours.
- Remember. . .
For more specific information, we recommend that you always check the website of the airline you're flying with. For instance, if you're flying with Vueling, you can check the guide for travelling with infants and children.
Once your questions have been cleared up, we hope you enjoy the experience!