Can I fly with my baby? Read all about traveling with your little one.

From passports to carry-on luggage: everything you need to take care of before boarding a flight with a baby.

2-MINUTE READ Updated
Can I fly with my baby? Read all about traveling with your little one.

The summer holidays are coming up again and that means that many families will be going on holiday again. If you have a baby and you are traveling by plane, this can involve quite a bit of preparation, here you can read what you can best do to take as few worries as possible on holiday.

Am I allowed to fly with my baby?

Officially, you're allowed to fly 7 days after your baby's birth, but only if there were no complications during delivery. However, it's generally recommended to wait a bit longer. Once the baby is 6 weeks old, flying is usually fine, as their lungs are developed enough to avoid any harm.

Important things to sort out before you go

Before heading to the airport, there are a few things you need to take care of. Make sure you do them right to avoid any airport hassles. Some important things include:

  • Applying for a passport for your baby. Even if you're staying within the European Union, if your baby doesn't have a passport yet, apply for one as early as possible before the flight. This is important in case your baby needs medical care during your holiday.
  • Booking a ticket. Heads up! Many airlines let babies fly for free. The baby won't have their own seat, but that's not necessary for a baby anyway.
  • Packing baby stuff. When packing, it's better to take too much than too little. I recommend packing as much as possible to avoid forgetting anything.

During the flight

Once you're on the plane, it's time to get comfy. If you're traveling with your partner, you can take turns with the baby duties. One of the most important things during the flight is a good travel cot.

DERYAN has one of these travel cots called the 'Air Traveller,' and it's super easy to use. The Air Traveller is a real lifesaver during the flight. If your baby has to lie on your lap the whole flight, your legs will start to hurt after a while. The Air Traveller ensures your baby sits comfortably and that your legs don't suffer during the flight. The Air Traveller is lightweight, weighing less than 500 grams, and it's allowed as hand luggage on the plane.

In a nutshell

Traveling by plane with a baby simply requires preparation; it’s important to think of everything to avoid complications before, during, or after the trip. But the most important thing is to keep enjoying your vacation and not worry too much about the trip home.

Frequently asked questions

At what age can a baby fly?
Officially, a baby is allowed to fly as early as seven days after birth, provided there were no complications during delivery. In practice, however, it is recommended to wait until six weeks. By that time, the lungs are sufficiently developed.
Does my baby need his or her own passport?
Yes, even within the European Union, your baby needs their own passport. Be sure to apply for it as early as possible before the flight. It’s also important in case your child needs medical care during the trip.
Does a baby fly for free?
Many airlines allow infants to fly for free. Your child will not have their own seat but will travel on your lap. Always check your airline’s terms and conditions when booking.
Can I bring an airplane bed as carry-on luggage?
The AirTraveller weighs less than 500 grams and can be taken on board as carry-on luggage. Check with your airline to see if its use is permitted during the flight, as this varies by carrier and seat type.

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