Flying with toddlers

Question

has anybody travelled with under 2 child on a lap seat?

Answer 1

We've done three plane trips, one at 4 months, one at 12 months, and just got back from one at 21 months.  They were all relatively short, and they all went really well, but I think after this we're going to have to get her her own seat (I know we're required to at 2 years).   The earliest flight was by far the easiest, she just slept the whole way both ways, but they've all gone much easier than I feared.

I think you have to judge based on your kid.  If your kid is a very restless one who loves to run around, it can be very difficult, because those plane seats don't give you a lot of room.  But if you know your kid will sit with you and read books or watch movies or play with small toys on your lap, you're golden.  We tried to schedule our flights for times when our daughter was naturally quieter.  

Also make sure you have a bottle or sippy cup with you for your child to drink from during take off and landing, that will help their ears.  And then make sure you've packed snacks, and extra changes of clothes and toys.  Basically, you end up using your one carry-on item for all of your kid's stuff.  We did take a fold-up stroller, and they'll let you gate check that at the plane's side, so it's a little easier getting around the airport.

Answer 2

sure have - 4 times in fact! No...make that 8 times...as I also had return flights.

My flights were also longer than an hour.....ranging from 8 hours to 18hours with my child when she was 3 months,  11 months, 1 1/2 years old and just under 2.

Yes it was not the most pleasant experience in my life....but I still was prepared to do it rather than pay for an extra seat.

I asked for a bulkhead seat and so had more leg room...which really helped. My daughter could also play in the space in front of the seat.

Overnight flights were actually better (as long as I gave up on the idea of actually sleeping myself) as she was still small enough to sleep cuddled up to me....and didn't need to be entertained (and mummy could catch up on the latest movies).

Answer 3

yes and they hate it, plus my legs went completely dead. its ridiculous that they have to be carried like that.  A baby seat should be provided

Answer 4

Yes, I wouldn't recommend it on a flight more than an hour.

Answer 5

make sure you have a coloring book and maybe some crayons to keep them occupied. The lap seat may not be the most comfortable thing in the world but it works. They'll probably sleep the whole time from the movement of the plane.

Make sure you shut the window! When I was about 2, I looked out the window and got frightened. I jumped out of my mother's lap screaming "WE GOTTA GET OUTA HERE!" Funny story. =]

Answer 6

don't do it its not good

Answer 7

Um, i seemed fine. When i was 2, we went to Tenerife. But this plane had a table with crayons in, so it kept me occupied. I would recommend you find a plane like that.