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Most airlines around the world have always offered parents the option to hold their babies on their laps during flights. This is usually free or very cheap, especially for babies under two years old. It is known as the “infant on lap” or “lap infant” option, and is commonly available on both short-haul and long-haul flights.
However, here is the important part, “Free” lap infant tickets are not so common anymore. Many airlines still offer discounted infant fares, but not completely free seats, especially on international flights.
In this blog, we take a deeper look at how this works today. Read on.
Generally:
On many domestic flights, which are flights that stay within the same country, airlines still try to keep things simple for parents travelling with babies. In some countries, it is very common for airlines to allow infants to travel on laps without charging anything extra. This means you won’t need to pay for a seat or an infant fare.
However, not all airlines work the same way. Some airlines do not offer a completely free option and may charge a small amount. These charges vary depending on the airline and the route. Because of this, it is always a good idea to check the rules before you book, especially if you are trying to keep your travel costs low.
International flights, especially long-haul ones, have very different rules. When you fly from one country to another, it is now quite rare to find an airline that offers completely free lap infant travel.
Most airlines charge something, even though the baby does not get their own seat. In many cases, the infant fee is around ten per cent of the adult ticket price, and this is usually on top of any taxes or airport charges.
Some airlines may also add extra service fees for handling or insurance. These costs can surprise parents, especially when the adult ticket is expensive, because the infant fee is based on that amount.
Always make sure to check the final price early in the booking process so you know exactly what to expect before you travel internationally with a baby.
While most parents choose the lap option to save money, there are a few things to think about.
Ultimately, whether or not a lap infant seat is the best choice comes down to your and your baby’s needs and preferences.
Most airlines still allow lap infants, and while fully free infant tickets are less common today, the fees are still much lower than buying a full seat. This makes the lap-infant option the most affordable choice for many families, especially when travelling during busy seasons.
Just keep in mind that different airlines have different offers and rules. This can also change depending on the route, the country, and the type of ticket you buy, so do your research and pick the best option for your family.
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.
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