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Traveling as a family is an unforgettable and rewarding experience, but for many parents organizing the trip is not an easy task. There are many aspects that must be taken into account: booking tickets, bringing documentation, food, seats and security ...
In the event that you find yourself in this situation, in the next post we will talk about the best way to travel with children on board an airplane. Do not miss it!
How much should children pay to fly?
Children under two years old, who have to travel on their parents' lap, pay a reduced price child ticket without the right to a seat. This option may be acceptable on short flights but on long flights, it is best to buy a full plane ticket taking advantage of the discounts for children under 12 years of age (between 50% and 75%) and thus travel more comfortable and relaxed. .
However, some airlines even provide seats with special seats so that children can travel safer, since sometimes it is not allowed to bring baby seats or strollers into the cabin and these have to be checked in.
On international flights, airlines usually provide a crib for children up to two years old as long as it is requested at the time of booking.
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What is the ideal seat for a child?
Children are very restless and need space. If you are older than two years, the ideal would be to reserve seats in the first rows as it is more practical to enter and exit the plane and it is also more spacious. However, we have to bear in mind that these places are usually subject to more expensive prices. In any case, as far as possible it is advisable to request window or central seats for children and thus avoid aisles since the movement of passengers during the journey is constant and in this way we will avoid them being more anxious than usual.
What must be the documentation for children to fly?
Each country has different regulations regarding the documentation of minors, so it is advisable to gather more information in this regard depending on the destination of the trip. For example, In the case of the European Union, it is essential that each traveler has their passport or ID to be able to fly regardless of their age. These documents must be presented at the time of billing in the presence of both parents or with the written authorization of one of them if they are not present.
In turn, some airlines may establish their own requirements or request more documentation. Before making the reservation, we must inform ourselves well of the specific regulations of the airline with which you will travel.
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Can children travel by plane alone?
Children between 5 and 11 years old can travel by plane alone as long as the airline offers an escort service for minors and it is indicated when purchasing the ticket.
When contracting this service, when the minor arrives at the airport, he will be received by a person from the airline at the check-in desk and will remain with him until boarding and subsequent access to the plane, where the child will be handed over to the cabin staff so that take care of it during the flight.
In these cases, the minor usually travels with a small bag around his neck that says UM (Unaccompained Minor), where his ticket and personal documents will be kept. On the way, the cabin staff will grant you special treatment until landing. The company's ground staff will monitor you at all times, either until another connecting flight or until the arrival of your family members if it is the end of the trip.
Children who are not accompanied by an adult can only enter or leave the country with a written authorization. Said document must include the date of the trip, the signature of their parents or guardians and be certified.
However, there are more and more airlines that have abolished this service or that directly do not allow minors under 16 to fly unaccompanied.
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How to make the trip more enjoyable?
To entertain children, especially on long trips, it is essential that you bring a toy, book, tablet or pencils and paper. This will help them to withdraw from the long journey ahead.
What to bring for your comfort?
If possible a pillow and a blanket so they can sleep peacefully and wear comfortable clothes. In the case of babies, diapers, a change of clothes and bottles and pacifiers will also be necessary.
How to take care of your diet during the flight?
Normally the airlines usually have a children's menu to feed the little ones, although if the trip is short, the child's snack can be carried in hand luggage.
Babies are more prone to dehydration, so they should drink fluids before and during the flight, especially long flights.