Organizing a plane trip can be complex, and having children often amplifies this challenge for parents. Between bulky luggage, tight schedules, and the specific needs of little ones, good preparation is essential for a successful journey. Here is a series of wise tips to help you plan your next family air trip.
Choosing the right flight and airline
With or without children, the key to a successful trip lies first in careful planning, especially regarding the choice of flight and airline. For this, it is more advantageous to favor direct flights or those with short layovers to reduce the time spent on the plane as well as the potential restlessness of the children.
Regarding the choice of airline, you should logically turn to financially accessible organizations recognized for their family-oriented service. For example, the airline Air France offers a program for families called “SkyPriority.” It provides benefits such as priority boarding and access to airport lounges for parents traveling with children. Or Lufthansa, which offers special meals for children, activity kits, and gifts on board to entertain young passengers.
However, although the offers provided by these airlines are perfectly suited for families, they are not always perfect. Also, delays and flight cancellations are, in practice, quite common. So do not hesitate to compare them taking into account your specific needs and the budget allocated to your trip.
Knowing how to handle flight delays or cancellations
In the event of a delay or flight cancellation, it is recommended to contact the airline directly. This step will allow you to obtain precise information about available re-routing options, details regarding financial compensation you may be entitled to, as well as access to assistance services put in place.
The process is normally roughly the same, regardless of the airline. Let’s take the case where you experience a chaotic cancellation of your departure with Transavia. The law allows you to request compensation for a Transavia canceled flight if the fault lies with this company. To learn more, click here.
Moreover, although this airline is an excellent option for families due to its low-cost pricing, it is not always free from criticism. So do not hesitate to initiate claim procedures if you consider them legitimate, in accordance with current regulations.
Preparing all necessary documents
Before leaving, gather all necessary documents. Each traveler, including minors, must have their own identity document. For domestic flights, children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult in the same class of service. Teenagers aged 14 to 17 may travel alone in this case.
For international flights, minors generally must present a passport or identity card to travel abroad. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Additional requirements may apply depending on the minor’s situation, such as the presence of a legal guardian.
Preparing children’s luggage
When traveling with young children, packing requires maximum vigilance, as rules vary depending on the type of ticket and the child’s mode of transport.
For babies from 0 to under 2 years old
If for the trip, the baby is carried in the arms of the accompanying person, the latter may carry additional luggage up to 10 kg, except in the case of a Light fare flight. In that case, except for the stroller and a small bag, no additional luggage is allowed.
If a seat is provided for the child, a carry-on bag of about 8 kg maximum and another checked bag of about 23 kg can be carried by the baby’s companion. These bags can be on them in addition to the usual equipment, except in the case of a Light fare where only one carry-on bag up to 8 kg is allowed.
For children between 2 and 11 years old
Children are subject to the same rules as babies traveling with an assigned seat. When booking a flight, you are asked to provide the child’s age and choose the appropriate ticket type to ensure that your young traveler’s needs are taken into account.
For strollers
Generally, the stroller must be placed in the hold. Only foldable models are allowed, and it is recommended to keep protective covers to protect them during transport. Each stroller must be labeled with the owner’s contact details to facilitate identification in case of loss.
For children under 12 years old, stroller transport is free. This applies regardless of the destination and travel class. It is possible to travel with strollers, bike trailers as additional luggage, a rather flexible solution for active travelers.
Finally, a stroller backpack can be carried in the cabin, provided its dimensions do not exceed 115 cm in total or as an accessory bag if the size is less than 45x20x36.
Some additional tips
Traveling with children on board is not decided at the last minute. It is a whole process that requires careful preparation in advance. For this, if possible, choose flight times that correspond to your children’s sleeping habits to reduce disruptions to their routine.
Above all, remember to make a list of essential items for children such as:
- diapers;
- snacks;
- toys;
- change of clothes, etc.
Also, make sure you have all the necessary travel documents for you and your children, including passports, identity cards, and plane tickets.
Finally, remain flexible and patient throughout the journey. Expect unforeseen events to occur along the way and stay calm to manage them.
