Booking and Infant Requirements
Infants (under 2) can fly on an adult's lap. You must add them to your booking during the initial purchase or via the 'Manage Bookings' section. EasyJet requires specific documentation for infants, and you should ensure your booking reflects the infant status to avoid issues at the airport gate.
- Infants must be added to your flight booking prior to arrival at the airport.
- Infants under two years old travel on an adult’s lap for a set fee.
- Ensure you check your booking confirmation to verify the infant is correctly listed.
- A separate seat can be purchased for an infant if you provide an approved car seat.
If you intend to use a car seat for your infant, you are generally required to purchase a separate seat for them. This means the infant will no longer sit on your lap but instead occupy their own designated place. Verify your specific car seat meets airline safety standards before you arrive, as staff must inspect it for compliance with aircraft seatbelt configurations.
Understanding EasyJet Infant Baggage Allowance
When preparing for your trip, the rules surrounding what you can bring for a young child are distinct from standard adult allowances. You are typically allowed to bring two items of baby equipment free of charge, in addition to the standard cabin bag allowance assigned to the adult. This usually includes a travel cot, pushchair, double pushchair, buggy, car seat, travel car bed, or a baby carrier.
Pack these items in a way that allows for quick access, as you may be required to leave your pushchair at the aircraft door rather than taking it into the cabin.
It is vital to confirm the current baggage dimensions on the official website before you pack. Different items have specific storage requirements, and exceeding these limits may result in additional charges or the inability to take the equipment into the cabin. Check the specific dimensions for baby gear to ensure your travel equipment complies with the restrictions for hold versus cabin storage.
Navigating Airport Security and Boarding
Walking through security with a baby requires a different strategy than solo travel. While you are generally permitted to carry liquids—such as breast milk, formula, or sterilised water—in quantities exceeding the standard 100ml limit, these must be presented separately for screening. Security personnel may need to open the containers to test the contents, so keep them accessible in your carry-on luggage.
Successful travel with an infant is rarely about what you pack, but rather how efficiently you can access your documents and essentials during security screening.
Once you reach the gate, listen for priority boarding announcements. Many airlines offer families with small children the opportunity to board early, giving you extra time to secure your belongings and settle your infant before the cabin becomes crowded. Boarding early provides a calmer environment for settling your child, though some parents prefer boarding late to minimise the time spent confined in the aircraft seat.
In-Flight Safety and Comfort
During take-off and landing, you will be provided with a supplementary infant seatbelt that attaches to your own belt. This ensures the baby remains secure on your lap throughout the flight. Flight attendants will demonstrate how to secure this safely; always follow their instructions precisely, as this is a non-negotiable safety protocol for all passengers flying with infants on their laps.
Consider the pressurisation of the cabin during changes in altitude. Feeding your baby or offering a dummy during ascent and descent can help manage ear pressure, which is often the cause of infant distress during flights. Keep a supply of baby essentials in a small, accessible bag rather than in your main overhead luggage to ensure you have comfort items immediately at hand when needed.
Managing Documentation and Passport Control
Even the youngest passengers require their own valid travel documentation. You must ensure your baby has a passport if required for your destination, even if they are only a few weeks old. Failing to produce the correct documentation at the airport will prevent you from flying, regardless of the age of the child or the length of the flight.
Always verify the entry requirements for your destination country, as these can vary significantly and may demand more than just a standard passport. Some regions require additional proof of parentage or consent if you are travelling alone with the child. Double-check your passport expiry dates against the destination's specific requirements to ensure that your documentation remains valid throughout the entire duration of your trip.
Comparing Family Travel Policies
When planning your journey, you may wonder how different airlines compare in their approach to families. While some carriers offer specific benefits like free child places or dedicated family desks, others maintain a strict standard fee structure regardless of the passenger's age. Understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions when booking.
For instance, while certain airlines are well-known for promotional offers like 'kids go free' schemes, others focus on consistent, year-round pricing for infants. Always evaluate the total cost of the journey, including baggage, seat selection, and infant fees, rather than focusing solely on the base ticket price. Calculate the total cost inclusive of all extras to get a true representation of the expense, as ancillary fees can vary significantly between different budget airlines.
Handling Unexpected Disruptions
Travel plans can occasionally change, whether due to flight cancellations, delays, or personal circumstances. If your flight is diverted or delayed, the airline will have protocols in place for passengers with infants. Stay informed by monitoring the airline's app or checking the live flight status boards in the terminal, and listen for announcements regarding ground staff assistance.
Keep your booking reference and contact details for the airline's customer support saved on your phone for immediate access if you need to rebook or ask for assistance during a delay.
If you encounter a problem while at the airport, approach the customer service desk immediately. Staff are trained to assist families, but they can only provide solutions if you identify yourself as travelling with an infant. Keep your communication clear and direct when speaking with staff to ensure they understand your specific needs, particularly if you are stranded or require additional assistance with feeding or sleeping arrangements.