Flying with a newborn baby

At what age can a baby fly?

You can travel by plane with a newborn baby from seven days with most airlines. Sometimes it’s even better than a long drive. But if your baby was born prematurely, it is better to seek the advice of the pediatrician. And if you are not really forced to make this trip, rather wait until the child has received his first vaccines.

Plane: how can I be sure that my baby is traveling in good conditions?

It is best to do this well in advance. Know that you will board with your children as a priority. Upon booking, make it clear that you are traveling with a baby. If you have reserved a seat for your infant under 2 years of age or older, you will be able to insert your own car seat in order to install it comfortably during the trip. This, provided that it is approved and that its dimensions do not exceed 42 cm (width) and 57 cm (length). Some companies offer parents of infants more comfortable places, a hammock or even a bed (up to 11 kg) on ​​long haul. Check with the company you are traveling with. When checking in, remember that you are accompanied by a toddler.

At the airport, also indicate that you have a stroller: some companies force you to put it in the hold, some let you use it until you enter the plane, or even consider it a handbag. Here again, it is better to check with the company beforehand to avoid unpleasant last minute surprises.

Plane: which stroller and luggage are allowed for Baby?

Some companies allow children under 2 years of age traveling on your lap to have a luggage less than 12 kg with dimensions 55 X 35 X 25 cm, and others not. In all cases, one piece of checked baggage of a maximum of 10 kg is authorized. It is permitted to transport a stroller or a car seat free of charge in the hold. Some folding strollers whose dimensions do not exceed that of the carry-on baggage can be tolerated on board, allowing you to be more relaxed while waiting in the boarding area. For others, it is recommended to bring a baby carrier, and some airports have strollers on loan. Inquire!

Baby on a plane: does the duration of the flight matter?

Prefer short flights, it’s easier to manage. However, if you have to travel on a medium or long haul, go on a night flight. Your baby will be able to sleep 4-5 hours at a stretch. Either way, bring some toys that will help pass the time.

Bottle, milk, baby food jars: should I bring something to feed baby on the plane?

Milk, jars and necessary change of your child are accepted when going through security barriers and boarding the plane. Other liquids, if they are more than 100 ml, must be placed in the hold. Also, the company can certainly provide you with small jars.. Anticipate and educate yourself. Plan “extra” meals to deal with any delays on the plane, and don’t forget to bring a pacifier or a small bottle of water to mitigate pressure variations take off and landing.

You can bring medicines for your baby that are necessary for his health.

Plane: Isn’t baby likely to have a sore ear?

On takeoff and landing, the change in altitude causes decompression in the eardrums. The problem is, your baby can’t decompress. The only way to prevent him from suffering is sucking. So give him the bottle, breast or pacifier as often as possible. If your child has had or still has a cold, do not hesitate to have his eardrums checked by your doctor. And clean his nose a few minutes before landing and take-off.

Is the plane ticket for my baby free?

As a rule, children under the age of 2 are granted a reduction ranging from 10 to 30% of the adult price. In certain cases, the airline company (in particular Air France) does not charge their place to babies, apart from the mandatory airport taxes. One condition, however: that he travels on your lap and that you have declared his presence when booking your tickets. The child will then be on your knees, attached with a suitable belt. Another possibility: install a car seat in one place, but in this case, parents will have to pay the price of a normal place for a child.

If your baby turns 2 during your stay, some companies invite you to reserve their own seat on board for the return trip only and others for both journeys. Finally, an adult is authorized to accompany a maximum of two infants, one of whom may be on his lap and the other must occupy an individual seat at the child rate.

Are there changing tables on planes?

There is always a changing table on board, stuck in the toilets, but it has the merit of existing. For his care, remember to take the number of layers necessary, wipes and physiological serum.

Plane: Doesn’t the baby risk getting cold with the air conditioning?

Yes, the air conditioning is always on in an airplane, so it is better to plan a small blanket and bonnet to cover it because your baby is more sensitive to the effects of air conditioning in airports and on board.

What documents do I need to take a plane with a baby?

Your child must have his own ID card (deadline: 3 weeks) to travel to Europe. It is valid for 10 years. To go to other countries (outside Europe): make a passport in his name but you have to do it well in advance because there is a delay of a month and a half. It is valid for 5 years. On the other hand, to be sure of being reimbursed for any medical expenses, ask for your European Health Insurance Card at least two weeks before your departure. If you are going to a country that is not part of the European Economic Area (EEA), find out if this host country has signed a social security agreement with France.