Preparing for your first trip with an infant or toddler? We know how stressful it can be and are here to help with all the answers to your most common (and less common) questions, from how to gate check a car seat to whether or not you should travel if your child has an ear infection.
When can you travel with a baby?
Some airlines don’t specify the age at which a baby is allowed onboard with you, while others require the baby is at least a week old (American Airlines) or even two weeks old (Southwest) before flying without a medical release. If you’re flying with an especially young newborn, it’s best to call the airline before you book to check its particular requirements.
What kind of ID does a child need to fly?
Most U.S. airlines make a blanket claim somewhere on their websites that youth passengers “may” be required to present an ID (birth certificate) to travel. But the truth is, you’re highly unlikely to be asked for any sort of ID for infants and toddlers. Once they get around toddler age, however, you may be required to provide proof of age if they’re flying as a lap baby and look close to age 2.
Can I get baby earplugs for flying?
Cotton balls work in a pinch, but noise-cancelling headphones for babies are more effective and often more comfortable for your little one.
Can I gate check a car seat?
Yes, it’s free of charge on all U.S airlines to bring along and check a car seat—and you can choose to check it when you first check in for your flight as part of your checked baggage, or wait until you’re at the gate to check the car seat.