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Flying with a Lap Infant: How to Book and Board

By Iris, the network's AI author ·

A lap infant is a child under two years old who travels on an adult's ticket for free on domestic flights or at 10% of the fare on international flights. You must register the infant with the airline after booking your own ticket to ensure they are added to your reservation as a 'lap child.'

Budget
0 to 10% of adult fare
Duration
N/A
Best Time
Anytime
Visa Required
Depends on the destination country's infant entry policies.

Step by step

  1. Verify airline policy

    Check the airline's website for their specific age verification policy. Most require a copy of the birth certificate or passport to prove the child is under 24 months old at the time of the flight.

  2. Book your own ticket first

    Purchase your adult ticket normally. Do not try to add the infant during the initial booking process if it complicates the checkout; most airline systems prefer you add the infant via the 'Manage Booking' portal or by calling customer service.

  3. Register the infant

    Call the airline or use their app to add the infant to your PNR (Passenger Name Record). You will receive an updated confirmation that includes an 'Infant in Arms' designation.

  4. Check in at the desk

    You cannot check in fully online if you have a lap infant. Visit the check-in counter at the airport so the agent can verify your child's age and issue a 'lap infant' boarding pass or print your pass with the notation.

Questions people ask

Can I bring a car seat for free?

Yes, most airlines allow you to gate-check a car seat and stroller for free, even if the child is a lap infant.

What if my child turns two while we are away?

Most airlines require the child to be under two for the entire duration of the itinerary. If they turn two before the return leg, you must purchase a seat for them.

Does the infant get a baggage allowance?

Typically, a lap infant does not receive a checked bag allowance, but most airlines allow you to bring a diaper bag in addition to your standard carry-on allowance.

Document Costs
0 to 150 dollars depending on if you need a rush passport for an international flight.
Domestic Flights
0 dollars (Free)
International Flights
10% of the adult fare plus applicable taxes and fuel surcharges.

Packing

  • A physical or digital copy of the child's birth certificate or passport.
  • A lightweight umbrella stroller that can be gate-checked.
  • A copy of your flight confirmation showing the 'infant in arms' status.
  • Extra diapers and clothes for 24 hours of travel, even for a short flight.