Flying with babies and children: practical tips for a calm trip

Flying with children takes a little more planning, but most problems can be avoided before you leave home. These tips work for short flights to Istanbul as well as long trips to Asia.

When booking

• Choose flight times that match your child's sleep — night flights often work well for long trips.
• Pick seats together in advance; many airlines let families choose seats early.
• For babies, request a bassinet seat from the airline as early as possible — numbers and weight limits are restricted.
• Babies under two usually travel on a parent's lap for a reduced fare, but only one lap infant is allowed per adult.

Documents

• Every child needs their own passport and, where required, their own visa.
• If a child travels with only one parent, some countries and airlines ask for a consent letter from the other parent — check before you fly.

At the airport and on board

• Baby milk, formula and baby food are normally allowed through security in reasonable quantities, even above the usual liquid limit — be ready to show them.
• Strollers can usually be checked at the gate and returned when you land.
• Feed babies or give older children a drink or snack during take-off and landing to ease ear pressure.
• Download cartoons and games before the trip; don't rely on in-flight entertainment.

What to pack in hand luggage

• Nappies, wipes and a change of clothes for the child — and a T-shirt for you
• Snacks, a refillable bottle and a favourite toy or blanket
• Any regular medicines, plus a thermometer

On arrival

Pre-book an airport transfer and ask for child seats, so you don't have to search for a taxi with tired children and luggage.