How do you travel by plane with your young child?

If you are planning to travel by plane with a child under the age of 2, Beep Valet has compiled all the necessary information and practical advice to make your journey easier.

Guidelines for travelling by plane with an infant.

It is crucial to note that most airlines have restrictions concerning infants under 7 days old, premature babies or sick babies, and do not allow them to travel on the plane. If your baby falls into one of these categories, it is advisable to obtain a medical certificate in English stating that the child is fit to travel.

For travel within France or EuropeYour baby must have an identity card. However, if you are travelling outside the European area, you will need to obtain a passport for your child, unless there are specific agreements with France.

Finally, if you are travelling with several children under the age of 2, some airlines impose a limit on the number of babies an accompanying adult can take, generally one or two. It is therefore advisable to check this information before booking your tickets.

Is it compulsory to reserve a seat for your baby when travelling by plane?

Airlines generally offer two options for travelling with a baby under the age of two: you can choose to hold him or her in a baggage compartment, or you can choose to carry him or her in a baggage compartment. on your lap without reserving a seat, or reserve a seat at a reduced rate.

If you decide to travel without reserving a seat for your babyit can free travel or at a reduced fare, depending on the airline and destination.
However, in this case, you will often not have access to the cots offered, as they are only available for reserved seats. In addition, for safety reasons, you are not allowed to travel with more than one child on your lap. So if you are travelling alone with two babies, you will need to reserve at least one seat.

If you prefer to travel with a reservation, you have the option of reserve a seat for your child at a reduced rate. This will also allow you to benefit from advantages such as an extra piece of baggage in the cabin and the possibility of adding a cradle or car seat, depending on the airline and destination.

Taking your car seat on the plane

We recommend that you bring your own car seat for your baby, as most airlines provide few if any. Make sure that your The car seat measures 42 cm by 57 cm and is approved by the European Union.

The cost of flying with a baby can vary depending on a number of factors, such as whether or not you book a seat, the destination of your flight and the airline you choose. In general, low-cost airlines do not offer reduced fares for babies.

Here's a tip for getting an extra seat for your baby when you fly:

When you check in at the airport, politely ask the airline staff if it is possible to have an unoccupied seat next to you for your baby. Explain that this would give you more space and comfort during the flight. Although this cannot be guaranteed, unassigned seats are sometimes available, and airline staff will be able to help you allocate them to your baby and yourself if this is the case. Please be kind and courteous in your request, as this may influence their decision.

Here are our tips and recommendations for travelling by plane with a baby:

To make plane travel with your baby more peaceful, it's a good idea to choose your flight times strategically. If your baby has trouble falling asleep outside his usual nap times, try to plan your journey for a time when he is more likely to fall asleep naturally. This will avoid disgruntled looks from other passengers and increase the chances of having a calm and peaceful journey.

Here's our practical advice:

1. Prepare in advance: Make sure you have all the necessary documents for you and your baby, such as passports, identity cards and medical certificates if required.

2. Choose the right time to travel : Choose flights that match your baby's sleeping patterns. Night flights or flights during naps may be better for a more peaceful journey.

3. Pack essential items: Pack enough nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, food and bottles to cover the duration of the flight, as well as toys or familiar objects to soothe your baby.

4. Use a sling or a lightweight pushchair: these practical options make it easier to transport your baby around the airport and on the move.

5. Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding during take-off and landing: This helps relieve the pressure in your baby's ears during changes in altitude.

6. Reserve suitable seats Opt for seats at the front of the cab or near the emergency exits, which generally offer more legroom and easier access.

7. Prepare for security checks Make sure you know the airport's security rules on liquids, baby food and equipment such as pushchairs. Allow plenty of time to pass through the controls without stress.

8. Be prepared for tears: Babies may become agitated or cry during the flight. Stay calm, comfort your baby and don't hesitate to ask the crew for help if necessary.

9. Be well prepared for changes in altitude Offer your baby a dummy, bottle or piece of food to suck on during take-off and landing to relieve the pressure in the ears.

10. Remain flexible and patient Travelling with a baby can be unpredictable. Stay calm, adapt to your baby's needs and enjoy the family travel experience.

By following these tips, you can travel by plane with your baby more serenely and enjoyably.

Book your airport parking in advance

This will save you money on parking charges and ensure a stress-free departure by avoiding hours of searching for a parking space. With our Beep Valet parking serviceLocated close to Bordeaux airport, you will benefit from a free transfer in a spacious shuttle bus with baby seats available if required.
When you travel with a baby, you automatically benefit from priority boarding. Take advantage of this and make yourself comfortable on board before the other passengers arrive.

We hope you have a great trip!