REVIEWS OF HOTEL EXECUTIVE CLUB LOUNGES, KIDS CLUBS AND MORE.
Travelling with young children can be both exciting and stressful. If you have ever flown with a baby or toddler, you already know the extra challenges that come with it. From carrying strollers, nappy bags, snacks, and toys to dealing with a fussy little one in a crowded airport, the experience can quickly feel overwhelming.
Preboarding is a way to make this process smoother. This is when airlines allow certain groups of people to board the plane before the rest of the passengers. Families with small children often fall into this category.
The idea is to give parents and kids a little extra time to settle down, store their bags, set up car seats if needed, and get comfortable before the crowd arrives. But with so many airline policies changing over the years, can you still pre-board with kids under 5 on most airlines today?
The good news is that on many airlines, the answer is still yes. However, rules can vary depending on where you are flying, the airline you choose, and even the airport itself. Some airlines allow pre-boarding for kids under 2, while others extend it to children under 5. A few even allow families with kids up to 12 years old to board early.
For example, on Delta Air Lines, families with car seats or strollers can board after Delta One, Diamond Medallion, and Delta Premium Select passengers have boarded. Similarly, on Southwest Airlines, families travelling with a child six years old or younger may board during Family Boarding, which happens after the “A” group (but before the “B” group).
On the other hand, there are some airlines that no longer offer pre-boarding for families. Others, like American Airlines, allow families with children under two to preboard along with First and Business Class passengers, but you have to ask to board early. It is up to the gate agent.
United Airlines previously did not offer family pre-boarding, but recently reversed that to allow kids under 2 years old early boarding (not any older than 2).
If you have young children, you know how much of a difference even a few extra minutes can make. Pre-boarding allows you to:
It gives families a more relaxed start to the flight, which can make the experience better, not just for the babies or the family, but for everyone on board.
If you are planning to fly with kids under 5, here are a few tips to make the most of pre-boarding:
Many airlines still give families a head start, as it makes the process easier not just for parents, but for everyone on the plane. However, rules differ, so always double-check your airline’s policy before your flight.
For parents, those few extra minutes during pre-boarding can feel like a lifesaver. It gives you a chance to settle your children, store your belongings, and get comfortable without the rush of dozens of other passengers behind you. Flying with young kids is never entirely stress-free, but knowing you can board early often makes the whole journey more manageable.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
If you want the latest information on the best Hotel Executive Club Lounges, Hotel Kids Clubs and other travel information, be sure to sign up for our free newsletter full of tips and great travel ideas.
