Traveling with a baby on an airplane: what you need to know. How to fly with a baby on an airplane: recommendations and personal experience

We have already talked about traveling with children on and, now it's time to talk about the features of air travel with young children.

Unlike traveling by land, air travel, while taking less time, can be more tiring, because in an airplane our body is subject to overload during takeoff and landing, changes in atmospheric pressure and low air humidity. Therefore, you should fly on an airplane with a child, having previously prepared for the trip.

If the baby has any special diseases or you have a particularly long and difficult flight (for example, transcontinental), you should start with pediatrician visits . The doctor will examine the child and give recommendations on the flight, taking into account the general state of health.

The next step is purchase of air tickets . Take your choice of airline seriously - stock up on recommendations from your friends and acquaintances, look for reviews on the Internet. In this case, not only the overall reputation of the company is important, but also how it has established itself among passengers with young children.

The cost of a plane ticket for a child may be different. Most carriers provide a 90% discount for passengers aged 0 to 2 years, but at the same time, the child does not rely on baggage allowance and a separate seat. In the case of a baby, this is not scary, because the child will still spend most of the flight in your arms or in the cradle.

By the way, you need to take care of it in advance. Contact the airline representatives in advance and clarify Will they provide you with a cradle for the baby? , or you will need to take care of it yourself. Many major airlines will gladly provide you with seats at the front of the cabin (there more space and there are special attachments for cribs) and even a portable cradle with a blanket and pillow.

If you can still buy a ticket for your child for 10% of its cost, but the baby is already clearly out of the age to sleep comfortably during the flight, you may need to issue a ticket for him child ticket at a different rate and book a separate seat. "Child fare" is valid for passengers aged 2 to 12 years, but the discount varies depending on the airline and destination. It can range from 25% to 50%.

You also need to clarify where your stroller will “go”: is it possible to take it on the plane as hand luggage, or will it be picked up from you at the gangway of the plane and returned immediately after landing. Judge for yourself how important this issue is by reading the post about.

It is important to take care of baby food. If you are breastfeeding, then there should be no particular problems. If the baby is artificially fed, then stock up on bottles with the finished mixture. Despite the new safety standards (liquids larger than 100 ml cannot be carried in hand luggage), baby food, as well as medications, are allowed. If your child is already eating “adult” food, then you can order individual meals for him if necessary by contacting the airline representatives in advance (for example, without meat, without sugar, etc.) Water in a small bottle for parents with small children also, as a rule, they are allowed to take with them into the cabin of the aircraft.

Finally, if you are flying on a plane with a child, do not forget about the correct children's clothing for air travel and a whole hundred other little things . The air in the aircraft is ventilated, so even though a large number of passengers, you and your child may freeze. Major airlines- for example, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Delta - usually provide pillows and blankets for long flights. In any case, you should take warm clothes for the child and, if necessary, a small blanket and pillow. Also during the flight you may need:

• diaper,
• tissue and wet wipes,
• diapers or travel potty
• medicines,
• toys and books
• everything that will fit into your luggage and that can brighten up the flight for your baby :). Some airlines give children stickers and coloring books with crayons, but it's best to bring something your child loves on board.

Good luck with your flight and many new good impressions!

Illustration source: Travel Guard Chartis , Reviewboard Magazine , Kleenex Mums

Modern parents, even after the birth of children, do not want to change their usual way of life. outlook on life in last years have changed a lot, today no one is surprised that young parents go on a long journey by plane with a recently born son or daughter. However, if the mother of an infant is going to fly with a baby for the first time, she may have a lot of questions.

When can you start flying with a child?

At what age can you fly with a baby? If the baby is healthy and the pediatrician sees no contraindications, you can fly with a newborn already 7 days after he was born. It may happen that a receipt for the airline is required from the mother and father of the baby. According to this document, parents have no claims against her if suddenly their baby feels unwell during the flight.

From birth to six months is the ideal period for flights. Such children sleep a lot, they are not disturbed by noise. Perhaps the child will fall asleep immediately after takeoff and oversleep the entire flight.

From 6 to 12 months - children become more mobile, flying with them is a little more difficult. They do not like to stay in one place for a long time, as well as play with one toy, as their attention is constantly switched to something new. It makes sense to take with you on a trip a few toys bought the day before. Moms and dads will have to constantly play with the baby and entertain him on the plane.

From a year old to 2 years old - flying is already easier, the baby is still the same fidget during this period, he cannot sit still for a long time, but he can already be carried away by watching cartoons by giving him a tablet. Keep him busy with drawing or various children's games, books or stickers.

It should be noted that the child's body is difficult to tolerate acclimatization. If you have already decided to fly on vacation to countries with a hot climate, you should not do this in winter. A sharp change in the weather upon returning home will adversely affect the health of the crumbs. It is better to change the climate from warm to hot, while giving preference to longer tours. The recommended time for a child to stay at sea is at least three weeks.

Features of buying tickets for children

This article talks about typical ways to solve your questions, but each case is unique! If you want to know from me how to solve exactly your problem - ask your question. It's fast and free!

For young travelers, airlines like other services passenger traffic offer reduced rates. They have a strict classification:

• infant - 0-2 years;
• child - 2-11 years old;
• adult - from 12 years old.

The infant fare is for infants between 0 and 2 years of age. This fare assumes that the child is in the arms of one of the parents during the flight and it costs only 10% of the cost of an adult ticket. Budget airlines also offer reduced rates for children at a flat rate. Airlines may set baggage rules for the infant fare, but strollers are always transported free of charge. In some cases, children under 2 years old can be taken on a plane without payment, such offers are valid on so-called domestic flights, while adults must have luggage.

When buying a plane ticket for a child under 2 years old, parents should take into account the age of the children not at the time of buying or booking tickets, but at the date of the flight (more details in the article:). If your child turns 2 years old on the day of departure, then the discount is no longer valid, although you may have purchased a ticket two weeks earlier. If the child turns 2 years old during the trip, it is possible to buy a ticket with a discount there, and pay the return ticket at the rate intended for children over 2 years old.

From the age of two, the child tariff applies. They are used by children under 11 years of age. Its cost usually ranges from 50 to 75% of the cost of an adult ticket - here the child is provided with a separate seat, in addition, luggage is checked in according to all the rules. If parents want to book a separate seat for a child under two years old so as not to hold him in their arms, they can pay for a ticket at this rate - this is convenient and profitable.

From the age of 12, children fly at the full cost of an adult ticket. Some airlines have youth discounts that you can take advantage of.

What documents are required for departure?

If you cross the border during a flight with children, you must prepare everything in advance required documents. If a teenager is already 16 years old, they must have a plane ticket and a visa with them. For children under the age of 16, the list of documents is presented below:

1. birth certificate;
2. notarized permission to leave the country from the father or mother, if the child is flying with one of them, or from both parents, if he is flying with other adults;
3. Airplane ticket;
4. visa if needed.

In an Aeroport

Since check-in can be a tedious task, please pay attention to whether there are many passengers with children and whether there is an opportunity to check in at the business class counter. If there is no queue, airline employees can meet mothers with small children, thereby speeding up the check-in process.

How to behave during takeoff and landing?

When an airplane starts to take off or lands, parents should make sure their children are strapped in. When entering the turbulence zone, this rule must also be observed. If the baby at 5 months flies in the arms of his mother, he is attached with a special device to the adult's seat belt. The mount for the baby is issued by the stewardess.

Takeoff and landing of an airplane is difficult for some people because of the strong pressure drops, from which they lay their ears. For children, these sensations are especially unpleasant. To eliminate them, adults swallow saliva. You can’t explain this to babies, so you can give them candy, and your mother’s breast, bottle or pacifier will help the baby. If a newborn or an older child does not breathe a nose or he often suffers from otitis media, it is better to drip his nose with drops that have a vasoconstrictive effect before planting.

What can you take on a plane?

When preparing for a plane trip with a newborn or an older child, mothers have a question - what is allowed to take on board? How is the situation with food and drink for the baby, are there suitable conditions in the salon to change clothes for the baby? What things should you definitely take with you? Can I take a stroller on board?

Is it allowed to take a stroller into the cabin?

It is allowed to use a stroller-cane or a book until boarding the plane. However, upon landing, the flight attendant will pick her up, although there is no need to pay for transportation. It is necessary to clarify where to look for it upon arrival, since the stroller can be both at the exit from the cabin, and on the tape along with bags and suitcases, and also be with oversized cargo on the counter. It is much more convenient to travel with wheelchairs. When folded, this stroller can be carried in one hand. In addition, such a stroller is equipped with a rigid insert on the back, which means it can be used for children who cannot sit. And she can take the position of "lying". All strollers in without fail inspect. After that, you will receive a “Checked” and “Hand Luggage” sticker.

Baby food and drink

Although liquids are not allowed on board, baby food is allowed. Its amount should be calculated from the needs of the child for the duration of the flight. If necessary, you can ask the flight attendant for hot water to prepare a porridge or mixture. Put more in your bag drinking water for children in small bottles, the capacity of which does not exceed 330 ml.

Other things and hygiene items for the baby

It is good if you take a backpack with you as hand luggage, in which it is convenient to put things for the child. You should put in it:

• diapers (3-4);
• several waterproof diapers;
• a couple of sets of clothes;
• cotton diaper;
• bib;
• toys, rattles;
• nipples;
• bottle of water and mixture.

You should also have some medications, because there are a lot of people on the plane, so there is a high risk of contracting some kind of infection. Put an antiviral agent, antipyretic, antihistamine in the bag. Do not stock up on towels and blankets, they will be given to you upon request pure form. You can also not take a pot, everything is provided on the plane.

Additional features for a comfortable flight

In any plane, the toilets have a changing table, and large airliners are equipped with rooms for mother and child, a place for games. It is possible to ask special cradle for babies, if its weight does not exceed 11 kg. It is attached to the partition between business class and economy class. In it, the baby will be comfortable to lie or sleep during the flight. However, during takeoff and landing, the baby should be placed on the hands. If you have your own carrycot, check if it is allowed on board your aircraft.

Since airlines are always trying to accommodate moms with a baby for more safe places ah, the families who arrived at the final stage of registration sometimes cannot count on being placed next to each other. Although, perhaps, the stewardess will try to help - find places for women with a baby next to an accompanying relative.

To make your flight comfortable, follow the advice of experienced travelers. Their recommendations are as follows:

1. Always try to book travel tickets in advance. It is better to do this through special services on the Internet, then you can independently choose suitable places. If the airline has a limit on the number of babies on board, you will definitely be included in the missed list.
2. Give preference to flights with a small number of passengers, then there is a chance that you and your child will be seated separately from other people. In addition, it will be possible to put the baby in a free seat, and not hold him in your arms during the entire flight. At the height of the holiday season, it's hard to find a less crowded flight, but if you book tickets for departure on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, then there will be a little less passengers than on other days.
3. Fly out in the morning when the children are calmer.
4. Arrive early at the airport so as not to crowd the queue and be among the first to check in and take convenient seats.
5. To free your hands to go through various procedures at the airport, it is better for mothers to get either a kangaroo bag or a sling in advance (we recommend reading:). During the inspection, things will have to be laid out on a tape, and then folded again, as well as repeatedly present documents to airline employees. For children older than a year, a stroller-cane or compact carrying is suitable.
6. Feel free to ask airline employees and cabin neighbors if you need something. Usually people are very responsive when it comes to traveling with small children. Someone will gladly switch places with you or skip the line for customs control, and the stewards will always bring the things you need or contribute to a more comfortable accommodation.
7. Use additional features- visit the room for games, feeding, swaddling. In addition, the stewards have various entertainment devices for kids - books or coloring books, check this question.

We entertain the baby

To keep your little traveler entertained, buy some age-appropriate toys. If we are talking about a two-month-old baby, then there should be no problems. But what older child the harder it becomes to keep it in place. Play with the baby in the notorious "Ladushki" or "Forty-white-sided".

Today's parents do not want to change their usual way of life after the birth of a baby. Public consciousness is changing, and flying with a baby on vacation or to visit is becoming a common practice. In addition, children under 2 years old who do not occupy a separate seat fly for free. Nevertheless, before the first flight, young mothers always have a lot of questions.

At what age can a child fly?

If there are no special instructions from the doctor, you can fly after the first 7 days of life. A flight with a baby in the first days of life is possible, but most likely parents will be required to sign a receipt that they will not have claims against the airline if the newborn's health worsens on the plane.

0-6 months - it is very convenient to fly with children of this age. The baby usually falls asleep on takeoff, not too susceptible to extraneous noise. There is a chance that he will sleep through the entire flight.

6-12 months - it becomes more difficult to fly, because the baby no longer wants to sit on his hands, but he still cannot focus on something for a long time (it is difficult to occupy a toy for a long time). You can prepare some inexpensive new toys for the trip. Be mentally prepared to entertain your baby.

12-24 months - Flying becomes a little easier, although the egoza is still difficult to keep in place. New toys come to the rescue again, you can add pencils, a tablet with cartoons, games for kids to them.

As for acclimatization, it is not recommended to fly to hot countries in winter, to change the climate dramatically. The kid will well endure the climate change to a warmer one, but upon returning to his homeland, he can get very sick. A trip to the sea will be beneficial if its duration is from three weeks.

Buying a ticket

Toddlers under 2 years old are entitled to fly free of charge if they do not occupy a separate seat. However, a ticket is required. One adult has the right to carry one child for free, for the second one you will need to buy a ticket (it will not be full price).

Practice shows that the airline staff, if possible, leaves a seat next to the mother and baby free (if there are free seats on the plane).

Age must be taken into account when buying a ticket little passenger on the day of travel, not at the time of ticket purchase. That is, if the child is 2 years old on the day of departure there, you must buy a ticket for a child from 2 years old there and back. If you turn 2 years old while traveling, you issue free ticket there and buy a ticket for a child over 2 years old back.

Toddlers are more naughty if boarding a plane occurs during their usual sleep. You will have to wake up the baby when checking documents, inspecting the stroller, boarding the plane.

In an Aeroport

Don't forget your birth certificate when traveling on a domestic flight. At international flight you must have a baby's passport, a visa (if you are flying to a country where it is required) and a notarized permission from the second parent to leave the child abroad (if you are flying without it).

If there are not many children on the flight, and there is no queue at the business class check-in desk, you can try to check in for the flight there. Usually, airline employees go to meet mothers with babies.

Takeoff and landing

When landing and taking off, as well as in the turbulence zone, babies, like other passengers of the aircraft, must be fastened. To fix the child in the arms of the accompanying stewardess, they will issue a special belt that is attached to the adult's seat belt.

The pressure difference during takeoff and landing creates an unpleasant sensation of stuffy ears. For some people, they are very painful. Adults know what to do in such a situation: you need to swallow, and the pressure will ease. It is for these purposes that sometimes candies are given out on airplanes. But how to explain to the baby that he needs to swallow? You can give the baby a breast or a bottle with a mixture or water, a pacifier during takeoff and landing.

If the baby has a stuffy nose or has a tendency to otitis, it is necessary to drip the nose with vasoconstrictor drops before takeoff and landing.

What can you take on board?

Toddlers are special passengers. And they work for them special rules aboard.

Stroller

Airline rules usually allow the use of a folding stroller (cane or book) until boarding (it will be taken from you when you enter the plane). There is no charge for the transportation of such a stroller.

Ask the flight attendants when boarding where the stroller will go upon arrival. Sometimes they are served at the exit of the aircraft. Please ask for this in advance. More often, strollers end up on the conveyor belt along with suitcases, or end up at the oversized baggage rack.

Since folding strollers are designed for children who can already sit, with smaller babies you have to adapt: ​​choose a folding stroller with a hard back and the ability to lower the back as much as possible (almost to a horizontal position). It is more convenient to fly with book strollers: they can be driven with one hand (usually something from luggage is in the other), they have a more rigid back.

Wheelchairs are subject to screening. Therefore, be prepared to fold and unfold the stroller at the inspection - do not stuff it with things. After security vehicle Your child will be decorated with a “checked” sticker. In addition to it, at the check-in desk you should be given a sticker "Hand luggage".

Baby food and water

The safety rules of most airlines prohibit taking liquids on board. This does not apply to baby food and water. When you fly with an infant, you can take on the plane the amount of baby food you need during the flight (but not during the entire vacation). The stewardess will bring at your request hot water for the mixture. If you are worried about the quality of water, you can take hot water in a thermos (check with the airline).

Kids drink a lot during the flight - the air in the plane is dry. Take plenty of water. It is better if the volume of the baby bottle drinking water will be no more than 0.33 liters. You can take several of these bottles.

Amenities on the plane

Almost all toilets on airplanes are equipped with a folding changing table. IN major airports there are rooms for mother and child, as well as playrooms.

Some baby carriers are approved for use in aircraft. If indicated in the carrying instructions, please check with the airline you are flying with whether your bassinet can be used.

On some aircraft, children under one year old and weighing up to 11 kg are provided with a special cradle. To the delight of business class passengers, it is attached to the partition between the business class and the economy compartment. You can check the availability of such a cradle with the airline in advance and book it. In such a cradle, the baby can only be during the flight; during takeoff and landing, he must be in the hands of the escort.

Parents sometimes face the inability to choose a seat on an airplane in advance if they are flying with a baby. This is due to the fact that the rules of airlines prescribe the provision of the safest places for passengers with babies - in front of the cabin. This leads to the fact that the second accompanying person with a different surname gets a place away from the mother with a baby, especially if you have arrived at the end of registration. Usually, the stewards try to correct the situation and put the mother with the baby and accompanying people nearby.

What to take with you to the salon

When flying with a baby, bring a backpack that is comfortable to carry and can be taken as hand luggage. Put everything you need in there:

1. 3-4 diapers
2. 2-3 disposable diapers
3. 2 changes of clothes
4. cotton diaper
5. bib
6. 2 nipples (if the child is used to them)
7. Baby food and water
8. Toys
9. Vasoconstrictor drops in the nose, if there is a runny nose

moral preparation

Flying with a child up to a year old or a little older is a rather stressful situation for parents, the baby and other passengers. Your baby may start crying. Remember: airplanes don't crash because of children's crying. You may encounter dissatisfaction from other passengers on the aircraft (especially on domestic Russian flights). Usually stewards come to the aid of a mother with a baby, they try to transplant especially nervous complainers away. Remember: sidelong glances and vicious hissing of disgruntled neighbors are also not capable of leading to a crash. Calm down - the child feels your anxiety and worries about it even more. A little shouting on the plane is not a reason to refuse travel.

Flying with a baby is not as scary as it seems. Most of horror stories - a legacy of Soviet times. Airlines regulations require their employees to treat small passengers with special attention, surround them with maximum comfort. Traveling pleasantly diversifies the “Groundhog Day”, which mothers of infants fall into, which will significantly improve the atmosphere in the family.

We offer you a video in which a young mother will share her experience of flying with a baby.

Air travel with children is becoming more and more popular because air Transport the fastest, even the most remote point in the world can be reached in less than a day. Aircraft are also statistically one of the most safe species transport. Therefore, many parents, going on vacation with a small child, choose an airplane. What you need to know about the rules for transporting children on an airplane and their belongings?

Peculiarities

A few years ago, flights with children were difficult and not very comfortable. Today, Russian and many other airlines provide everything necessary to ensure that a flight with a small child goes unnoticed. Until now, many parents are afraid to fly with small children, worrying about how the kids will endure physical exercise what they can do during the flight, whether they will cause inconvenience to themselves and other passengers.

You can dispel doubts by checking with the airline in advance all the necessary points: starting with the rules for transporting small children and ending with what the child will eat and play with during the flight. It is in the interests of parents to notify the air carrier as early as possible that they will be Small child and discuss all the details.

Transportation rules

Before taking a child on a plane with you, you need to make sure that all Required documents, confirming the age of the child and permission to accompany, if the baby is not flying with their parents, they are taken with them. Children up to two years of age can only fly with their parents or legal guardians.

From the age of five, a child may be accompanied by another adult, if there is a power of attorney. The age at which a child can be sent alone on a flight varies, in different airlines it ranges from 12 to 15 years.

Majority Russian airlines is ready to provide the service of accompanying children from the age of five. It is necessary to write a special application, transfer the child to the carrier’s employee at the airport and stay with them until the very departure, and also make sure that the child is met at the airport of arrival at the exact time.

It is necessary to inform that the child needs an accompanying person when booking a ticket. When ordering such a service, a ticket for a child will have to be bought at an adult fare without discounts, in addition, the escort service itself (usually about 40 euros) and transfer service, if necessary, are paid. This service is provided for children aged 5-16.

It is best to book tickets in advance to select nearby seats. Some airlines limit the number of babies they carry per flight, so it's important to be on time to hit that number.

If the child is flying with one of the parents, it is necessary to obtain permission from the other parent, certified by a notary. At international flights the child must have his own passport or be inscribed in the parent's passport.

You cannot leave a child in flight unattended. Follow the flight attendants' instructions regarding flight safety.

If a baby under 2 years old is in the arms of an adult, it must be fastened with a separate child seat belt, which is attached to the belt of an adult passenger.

Age for free flight and discounts

Each passenger has the right to take with him on a flight passing through the territory of Russia, one child under two years old without buying a separate ticket for him. In this case, the baby will have to be held in arms or placed in a special cradle during the entire flight. At the same time, you should not count on free luggage for a child.

It will not be possible to carry a baby for free on international flights, but the discount on his ticket will be 90%. If such a child needs a separate seat, then the ticket will have to be paid for by the fare for children 2-12 years old.

If a passenger is flying with several children under the age of two, then for one child the flight will be free, in the hands of the parent. Other children will receive a discount of no more than 50% of the cost of an adult ticket, a separate seat in the cabin and free luggage within a limited weight.

Formation of tariffs

When planning to take a child on a plane with you, you need to take into account his age on the day of departure, regardless of when the ticket was purchased.

If a child turns 12 on the day of departure, then he needs to purchase a ticket already at an adult fare. In other cases, airlines provide special fares for children under 12 years of age.

Up to two years, taking a baby with you on a flight is as economical as possible - without a separate seat for a child, the flight will be free or will be 10% of the cost of an adult ticket, but upon reaching the age of two, completely different tariffs apply.

Various airlines provide various discounts from 25% to 75%, in addition, each child is allowed to carry free baggage according to the same standards as for an adult.

When a child is 12 years old, it is necessary to buy an adult ticket for him at full price, but some airlines have special youth discounts, the availability and amount of which you need to find out at the information desk.

Features of flying with a baby

Airlines do not recommend flying children under seven days old. However, if there is an emergency, then you can fly with the baby the very next day after the birth. If the baby is not yet seven days old, then the parents are required to provide the check-in agent at the airport with a receipt stating that the airline does not bear any responsibility for the consequences after transporting the baby.

A flight with a baby can also be quite comfortable, provided that the parents take into account all the necessary points in advance.

Most airlines provide passengers with babies with a special cradle that is attached to the front seat. The cradle is suitable for children under one year old, weighing up to 11 kilograms and growing up to 70 centimeters. It is important that the airline should be notified of its need in advance, at least one day before departure.

The child in it should be placed with their feet towards the aisle. When taking off, landing and when passing through the turbulence zone, the baby must be removed from the cradle.

Some airlines allow you to take a folding stroller with you to the gangway or even into the cabin of the aircraft; you need to find out about this possibility and the permitted dimensions at the information desk of the carrier.

How are the kids handling the trip?

In Russia, there are no rules to limit the age of a child from which he could be taken on a trip by plane. But the age recommended by pediatricians is three months, from that moment the baby is already adapted to the new world for him, can normally tolerate a reduced level of oxygen and stress on the body at high altitude.

Flight staff try to meet the needs of parents and provide the best comfortable places. According to safety rules, passengers with children cannot be seated next to emergency exits. Places where it is better to sit with a child are located on the front row or in other rows with increased legroom.

As a rule, more than one child cannot be placed in one row without a separate seat due to the presence oxygen masks. If the aircraft is not completely full, flight attendants are required to provide seats behind empty seats. If you are very lucky, they can even transfer you to a business class, but the food will still remain from the economy class.

What can you take on a plane in hand luggage?

When planning what to take your baby on a flight, you need to take into account his individual characteristics, but there is a universal list of things you need in hand luggage.

Most often for a child, you can choose the type special food in accordance with his taste, physical and even religious preferences. But the order of such meals must be made in advance, at least 36 hours before departure. For the most picky kids, it is better to take baby food with you. You also need to ask the flight attendant in advance if she can warm it up.

It is necessary to stock up on all kinds of entertainment and toys for the child, it is better if it is something completely new that he has not yet seen in order to surprise and interest the baby.

Despite the presence of toilets in the cabin, it will not be superfluous to stock up on special camping pots that absorb the contents. In case of motion sickness, it is also better to take a hygiene bag with you, although such a thing can be found on most planes in a pocket in the front seat. Wet wipes will become an indispensable thing in flight.

It is important to check with the carrier about the possibility of taking a small folding stroller into the cabin, many airlines allow this possibility.

Here is an example of the hand luggage allowance at Aeroflot:

• Class "Business" - 1 piece up to 15 kg (total value of three dimensions - up to 115 cm)
• "Comfort" class and "Economy" class - 1 piece up to 10 kg (total value of three measurements up to 115 cm).

When registering, it is weighed and marked with a tag. If the weight or size limit is exceeded, hand luggage is checked in as checked baggage.

In addition to this allowance, you can additionally carry items that are with the passenger and not included in the luggage:

• women's bag / men's briefcase;
• folder for papers;
• umbrella;
• cane;
• bouquet of flowers;
• outerwear;
• laptop;
• camera;
• video camera;
• magazines and newspapers for reading;
• baby food for the baby during the flight;
• a cradle when transporting a baby;
• suit in a suitcase;
• cellular telephone;
• crutches;
• folding walkers;
• shopping bag from Duty Free.

Things from this list are not weighed, are not subject to registration and are not marked with tags.

What to send in luggage?

A large stroller must be checked in, but you can use it all the way to the gangway and get it back when you get off the plane, however, you have to wait for it to be brought from the luggage compartment. Many airlines allow you to take a child seat with you into the cabin with dimensions no larger than 40x40 centimeters. A chair with larger dimensions will have to be sent in luggage.

It is important to know that not every toy can be taken into the cabin with you. For example, various pistols, knives and other plastic weapons must be checked in as baggage.

If these are the baby’s favorite toys, it’s worth stocking up on something new in advance to comfort the child and lure during the flight.

Modern parents can no longer imagine their life without traveling, and sometimes life circumstances force them to fly with a baby on an airplane. The first flight with a child is a huge excitement for parents. First of all, anxiety arises from ignorance. Does it bother children's ears, what to do with a child during a flight, what to take with you? The answers to these questions and many others will be discussed below.

Features of buying a ticket

At the stage of booking a ticket on the website of any airline, you need to indicate that a child is flying with you without a seat (up to 2 years old). This is usually indicated next to the column: the number of passengers. According to the rules of transportation with one adult, only one child without a seat under the age of 2 years can fly. If more than one child under two years old is flying with one adult, then they will have to purchase a ticket, for which a discount of 25 to 50% will be provided, depending on the flight and the rules of the chosen airline. The discount also applies to children aged 2 to 12.

When flying to domestic flights a child under 2 years old accompanied by an adult is transported free of charge, and on international flights for a child without a seat, you usually need to pay an extra 10% of the fare.

If one of the parents is flying with the child, on international flights you may need permission from the other parent to carry the child. It is necessary to clarify in advance whether such permission is required by the rules of the airline.

Baggage rules

The baggage allowance for a child without a seat is usually 10 kg, which you can check in at luggage compartment. But it often happens that a luggage space is not provided for a child without a seat. It is better to clarify these questions with the representatives of the airline by calling the number indicated on the website in advance.

A child for whom a ticket with a separate seat is purchased can carry the same amount of baggage as an adult.

When flying with a child, you can take a stroller with you, which will not be counted as additional weight and can be carried completely free of charge. You can, depending on the rules of the airport of arrival, you can receive the stroller either at the exit of the aircraft or with your luggage. immediately check in the stroller as baggage or hand it over to the flight attendants at the gangway. In such a case, strollers which, when folded, do not exceed allowable sizes hand luggage 115 cm (55x40x20), you can take it on board the aircraft. Read about travel strollers at. If you check the stroller in luggage, take care of the protective cover in advance.

How to facilitate the movement at the airport with a child?

Regardless of whether one or both parents are traveling with a child, when going to the airport, prepare in advance to make your movement around it faster and more convenient.

Use a trolley for luggage. hand luggage fold into a backpack to free your hands. For documents, you can use a small waist bag or shoulder bag. So your documents and money will always be with you and you will not have to spend a lot of time to get them. It is most convenient to carry a small child in, this will not only free your hands, but will allow the baby to feel calm and comfortable next to his mother.

Passengers with children can skip the queue and go straight to the check-in desk. This is an unofficial rule that all airport employees follow, and there are usually no complaints among other passengers.

If you are flying alone with a child, it is better to prepare in advance for passing through security: put all metal things and your phone in your bag, clothes and shoes should be such that they can be easily and quickly put on and taken off. Then your inspection will be easy and fast. Also, if necessary, do not be afraid to ask for help from airport workers.

If you are flying with a connection, then the waiting time at the airport can be spent in the mother and child room. Typically, such rooms are equipped with everything you need: changing tables, a microwave to warm up food, a sofa or chair for relaxing and feeding.

Which flight to choose?

The opinions of parents traveling with children agree on one thing - it is better to choose a direct flight without transfers, no matter how long it is. Since takeoff and landing are the most difficult for children to carry. Or plan the docking so that there is enough time for a good rest.

As for the choice of the time of the flight, opinions differ here. Some believe that it is better to adapt as much as possible to the child's regimen and choose daytime flights (especially for flights up to 4 hours), as some children may find it difficult to fall asleep outside the walls of their own home. Others prefer to pick up the baby early in the morning or not to sleep at all so that he sleeps during the flight later. This option is especially suitable for long flights (more than 4 hours).

Which seat on the plane should I choose?

For safety reasons, usually a passenger with a child is provided central location(this depends on the type of aircraft). But older children are usually more comfortable sitting by the window. Firstly, the child can look out the window during the flight, and secondly, it is more convenient to sleep near the window.

With small children, it is best to fly in the front rows, where there is more legroom. However, airlines that have preserved the tradition of registering passengers with children in the front rows are very rare. If you have come across such an airline, then in order to get convenient seats, you need to arrive at the airport in advance, and if such seats are not yet occupied, you and your child will be registered for free seats at no additional charge.

Currently, on most airlines, front seats can only be reserved for additional fee, or you need to purchase a ticket with a choice convenient places. But, in any case, the rules for registering passengers with children in the front seats must be clarified individually in each airline.

Also, in some airlines, on certain aircraft models, a cradle is provided for infants weighing up to 8-11 kg and under the age of 10 months. This should also be clarified with the airline in advance. If possible, it is best to book a bassinet with email confirmation. You need to send a request to the airline in advance, no later than 36 hours before departure, as the number of cradles and places where they can be attached is limited. Low-cost airlines do not have the ability to attach a cradle.

What to take with you on the plane?

• Toys. Favorite toys of the baby or new toys, do not take too many toys, a couple of pieces will be enough. Toys can even be quite small (for example, cars), the main thing is to interest the child. Children may be interested in soft constructors, small puzzles, folding cups. Many airlines give children special kits, but they are only available for children over 3 years old.
• Books. You can bring a small book (such as baby books), pencils and stamps, coloring books or reusable stickers, usually this helps to keep the baby busy for a while.
• Phone or tablet. Songs, cartoons or games also good option pastime.
• Hygiene products: diapers, diapers and wet wipes. You will find a reclining changing table in the restrooms of the aircraft.
• Change of clothes. The kid can accidentally pour or splash both himself and his parents, so it is better to stock up on additional sets of clothes. You will also need a change of clothes if you are flying to a warmer climate or, conversely, to a colder one.
• Nutrition. On board the aircraft, passengers with a child can take an unlimited amount (within reasonable limits) of water, baby food (jars up to 100 ml), mixtures, you can even take a thermos with hot water, or ask for hot water on board the aircraft. Baby food can be warmed up by immersing the jar in hot water. It is also convenient to take food in soft packs with you. And for a light snack, apples, bananas and cookies are suitable. It also does not hurt to bring a bib for feeding.
• . It is necessary to take on board the basic medicines that may be needed during the flight, especially if it is long. For example: antipyretics, painkillers, antihistamines, nasal drops and an aspirator.
• Remedies for motion sickness. If your child gets motion sickness in transport, it is also advisable to take motion sickness medication, such as motion sickness bracelets or pills, on board the aircraft. Only when choosing anti-sickness agents, consult a specialist. Since, perhaps, the child does not get sick, and adverse reactions from drugs can be more difficult to endure. But, in any case, prepare a hygiene bag in advance, which is usually located in the back of the seat, and you can ask the stewardess for additional bags.
• Antiseptic. Useful for disinfecting hands and toys and other surfaces.
• Sleeping accessories. If you are flying with a child without a seat, be sure to take a small pillow with you on the plane, which can be placed under your arm to make it more comfortable to hold the child. You can take another small pillow under your head. It is also worth taking a blanket or stole with you to cover the baby during sleep.

Do children get stuffy ears during a flight?

As long as the fontanel is open in an infant, his ears will not be blocked! It doesn’t matter if you give him a drink or suck on the breast during takeoff / landing, if the baby has a runny nose - this will not affect the blockage of the ears in any way. Tested many times on my own experience.

Older children, whose fontanel is already closed, will lay their ears in the same way as adults. Especially if the baby has a runny nose, or he has a cold, the flight will be doubly hard to bear, and in the future it can give complications to the ears. With a stuffy nose, not only an adult, but also a baby will feel a headache and a sharp pain in the ears during takeoff and landing. If possible, it is better to refrain from flying until the baby recovers. If you still need to fly, then you need to free the child’s nose from mucus before takeoff and before landing and drip vasoconstrictor drugs.

It is enough for a healthy child to give a drink or a sucking candy so that he makes swallowing movements - this will reduce congestion and make it easier to transfer the flight.

If the ears still start to hurt, then there is one trick that flight attendants often use: you need to take two plastic glasses, pour boiling water over them or put a napkin soaked in boiling water on the bottom and attach the glasses to the ears. The pain subsides and the child immediately calms down. Also, many advise using special earplugs for the aircraft.

Conclusion

It is easiest to travel with infants from 0 to 12 months. The noise of the plane lulls the kids and they usually sleep the whole flight. The most difficult thing is with children from 1 to 2.5 years old, since at this age children are already quite active, do not want to sit still, sleep less, and at the same time it is difficult for them to explain or prohibit something. At this age, babies do not yet speak or speak poorly, which makes it difficult to establish mutual understanding in a new environment.

Thus, when preparing for a flight with a child, remember that the main thing is to remain calm. Traveling with a child in most cases is unpredictable, because children develop and change every day. Therefore, during the flight, the child may behave completely differently from how he usually behaves at home or during previous trips. Therefore, try to prepare for various scenarios and be patient.