Flying with a baby: a complete guide for stress-free family flights

Flying with a newborn is not dangerous, as long as the baby is in good health.

 

The main concern is the pressure on the ears during takeoff and landing. For tiny eardrums, this can be uncomfortable or even painful. It often leads to crying, but it’s not harmful.

 

Thankfully, there are simple and effective ways to reduce the discomfort: breastfeeding, offering a bottle, or giving a pacifier during takeoff and landing.

 

Airplane cabins are pressurized, and the medical risks are minimal if your baby was born full-term and has no underlying health conditions.

Even a baby just a few weeks old needs official documents to board a flight.

 

In France, a national identity card is enough for domestic or Schengen-area flights. But for international travel, a valid passport is mandatory, even for newborns.

 

Some airlines may also require a family record book, a medical certificate, or a signed authorization if the baby is traveling with only one parent. Always double-check the airline’s and the destination country’s rules before your trip.

Air France allows infants from 7 days old. Babies travel on a parent’s lap for about 10% of the adult fare. A 12 kg carry-on and a 10 kg checked bag are usually included, along with a stroller or car seat checked at no cost. On long-haul flights, bassinets are available by request — book as early as possible.

At Lufthansa, newborns are accepted from the very first days. They get a 23 kg checked baggage allowance, and strollers or car seats are transported free of charge. Bassinets can be requested on long-haul flights, depending on availability.

Emirates provides a fully family-friendly flying experience. Babies can travel on an adult’s lap or in a hanging bassinet (depending on age and weight). The airline offers a baby kit with diapers, wipes, and small essentials. It also allows you to bring breast milk and bottled water beyond standard liquid restrictions. Families are often seated in the more comfortable areas of the cabin.

Ryanair does not accept babies under 7 days old. From 8 days to 23 months, infants fly on an adult’s lap at a reduced fare. The airline allows a small 5 kg baby bag and offers free transport of one stroller and one car seat. A window seat is recommended for easier handling of baby gear and movements.

KLM accepts babies from birth. Infants travel on an adult’s lap at a reduced fare (usually 10% of the adult ticket on international flights). The airline offers 23 kg of checked luggage for baby equipment (stroller, car seat). On long-haul flights, hanging bassinets can be reserved. KLM also provides a baby kit with formula or breast milk, and has high chairs available in lounges for families in transit.

Technically, babies can fly just days after birth.

 

However, most pediatricians recommend waiting at least 2 to 3 weeks. This gives your baby time to gain a little weight, complete early medical check-ups, and adjust gradually to life outside the womb.

Traveling with a newborn is possible but requires extra vigilance.

 

At this age, their immune system is still developing, making them more vulnerable to infections.

 

Cabin noise, air pressure changes, and the confined space can also be exhausting.

 

To minimize risks, it’s best to avoid long-haul flights or trips with multiple stopovers during the first month. A short, direct flight remains the most comfortable option for your baby, and for you.

In most cases, a medical certificate isn’t mandatory.

 

Still, some airlines might request one for babies under 7 days old or for premature infants.

 

If in doubt, play it safe. A quick appointment with your pediatrician can give you peace of mind. And if your child has a medical history or specific condition, this is even more recommended.

A one-month-old sleeps a lot and interacts very little with their environment. This can make the flight easier, as long as the baby is healthy. However, their immune system is still fragile. A short, direct flight is preferable, and avoiding crowded environments is recommended. A doctor’s opinion before traveling is a good idea.

At two months, babies start settling into a more regular rhythm, but they remain sensitive to noise and external stimuli. This is also when most babies receive their first vaccines, which may help reassure parents. A short or medium-haul flight is manageable, as long as you prepare for feeding, changing, and comforting your baby as needed.

At three months, babies are more alert but still sleep quite a bit. They may be more reactive to pressure changes and could cry more during takeoff or landing. A pacifier or bottle can ease discomfort in their ears. At this stage, babywearing during the flight is an excellent way to soothe and calm your child.

At six months, babies become active and curious. They can hold their head up well, may start rolling over, and even begin crawling. Sitting still for too long can become frustrating for them, so be sure to bring age-appropriate toys and plan to hold or carry them often during the flight.

 

Also, watch out for teething, which is common at this age and may increase irritability.

A 12-month-old rarely stays still. They want to explore, touch everything, and move around. Keeping them seated on your lap becomes more challenging, especially on long-haul flights. Booking an extra seat might be a good idea for flights longer than three hours. Don’t forget their favorite toys, some snacks, and anything that can recreate a familiar environment onboard.

Newborns have very regular sleep cycles. During the first few months, they sleep around 16 to 18 hours a day. On a plane, the ambient white noise and subtle vibrations often help lull them to sleep.

 

As a result, many babies end up sleeping for most of the flight, making the journey much more peaceful than parents feared.

Airlines are increasingly accommodating the needs of traveling families.

 

Priority boarding, extra baggage allowances, onboard bassinets… Some even provide baby kits with wipes, bibs, and diapers.

 

These small gestures can make a huge difference in making the flight smoother, even with a newborn in your arms.

Until your child turns two, they can fly for free or at a reduced fare while seated on your lap. On long-haul flights, this can significantly reduce your travel costs.

 

For extra comfort, some parents choose to book a separate seat, but it’s optional.

Jet lag, cabin noise, turbulence, artificial light… The flying environment can throw off a baby’s natural sleep-wake cycle.

 

Some babies sleep deeply on planes, while others barely close their eyes. It’s best to adapt your travel plans to their usual routine: choose a night flight if your baby is a heavy sleeper, or a short flight if they need regular anchors to feel secure.

In a tight space, every basic need can turn into a mini-challenge.

 

Breastfeeding, prepping a bottle, changing a diaper, or soothing your baby requires good organization, especially on a long-haul flight. Have all the essentials within reach, and try to stay flexible and calm no matter what.

Even though most travelers are understanding, a few may sigh or glance disapprovingly at the slightest baby fuss.

 

That subtle judgment can cause unnecessary stress. But let’s be clear: your baby has every right to be on that plane.

 

Be prepared, stay calm, and don’t let an annoyed passenger ruin your journey.

Pack a carry-on with all the essentials: diapers, wipes, spare clothes, bottles, snacks, comfort toys, baby food, formula, medications…

 

Don’t forget ID documents, the health record, and, if necessary, a medical certificate. Choose your seats in advance and inform the airline that you’ll be traveling with a baby. Notify the cabin crew as well for extra assistance.

Avoid arriving too early, long waits can make your baby restless. Use a baby carrier instead of a stroller up to the gate for greater flexibility.

 

Many airports now offer dedicated family spaces, so take advantage of them! And most importantly, keep something on hand to feed or entertain your baby in case of delays.

Feed your baby (breast or bottle) during takeoff and landing to prevent ear pain caused by pressure changes.

 

Alternate between babywearing, gentle play, and rest. Quiet, lightweight toys, soft fabric books, and silent rattles are perfect for keeping your baby entertained without disturbing other passengers.

A change in environment can be tiring for a baby. Plan a gentle arrival: low stimulation, quiet time, a nap in your arms or in a calm room.

 

If you’re staying at a hotel, make sure everything is ready to welcome your baby as soon as you check in (crib, bottle warmer, etc.).

Bassinet seats (also called hanging cradles or baby cots) are in high demand on long-haul flights.

 

If you don’t request one early, you may end up having to hold your baby in your arms for hours. Call the airline as soon as you book your tickets to secure one.

Diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, pacifier, comfort toy, bottle, baby food, formula, medicine… all of this should be in your carry-on, not your checked bag.

 

Even a small oversight can turn into a major hassle mid-flight. Always pack more than you think you’ll need, and double-check that everything is accessible before heading to the airport.

A flight early in the morning or during their usual nap time? Not always the best idea.

 

Try to plan your departure around your baby’s usual rhythm. A well-rested baby from the start is generally much calmer throughout the trip and so are you!

Some destinations are known for being incredibly welcoming to children. Countries like Italy, Portugal, or Canada make life much easier for traveling parents.

 

You’ll find high chairs in most restaurants, family-friendly accommodations, and a genuine sense of kindness and patience toward young children.

For a first trip with a baby, a direct flight of two to four hours is often ideal.

From Europe, there are plenty of nearby destinations: Corsica, the Balearic Islands, southern Portugal, or the Swiss Alps are all great options for a relaxing break with gentle weather and beautiful nature.

Night flights are an excellent option when traveling with a baby, especially for long-haul destinations such as Mauritius. Infants tend to be naturally calmer when asleep, which can turn a 10 to 12-hour journey into a restful, uninterrupted experience. The gentle cabin noise and dimmed lighting help promote sleep, while periods of restlessness are generally reduced. It’s also a real comfort boost for parents: less stress to manage and a smoother arrival, often early in the morning. To make the most of it, it’s a good idea to gently adjust your baby’s sleep schedule a few days before departure so they can follow their natural rhythm during the flight.

Your choice of accommodation makes all the difference.

 

Some hotels — like those selected by Little Guest — are specifically designed with families in mind: baby cots, bottle warmers, baby clubs, trained staff… Everything is arranged so your stay feels easy and serene, without the mental load of organizing everything yourself.

Looking for a hotel with a baby club? Don’t miss our article on the most beautiful luxury hotels with baby-club.

In theory, a baby can fly just a few days after birth. However, most pediatricians recommend waiting 2 to 3 weeks. Some airlines require babies to be at least 7 days old.

For domestic or Schengen flights, a national ID card is enough. For international travel outside the EU, a valid passport is mandatory—even for infants. If traveling with one parent only, some countries may require a signed parental authorization.

Offer a bottle, pacifier, or breastfeed your baby during takeoff and landing to help equalize ear pressure and reduce discomfort.

Babies under 2 usually sit on a parent’s lap. For long-haul flights, you can request a bassinet (baby cot) or book an extra seat with an approved infant car seat.

Short, direct flights are ideal for a first trip. Night flights are also a great option, as babies often sleep through most of the journey.