How do I prepare my child for the first flight alone?

Some helpful tips to prepare:
  1. Point out our team uniforms at the airport. ...
  2. Write down phone numbers for your child.
  3. Pack games, books and money in one small carry-on.
  4. Food and drink service is limited, so we recommend packing snacks for your child to enjoy during their flight.




Preparing a child for a solo flight—often through an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service—requires both emotional and logistical planning. Start by explaining the entire process, from the gate agent "hand-off" to the flight attendant's role on board. Role-play scenarios like asking a crew member for help or navigating the lavatory. Pack a "comfort bag" with a fully charged tablet, familiar snacks, a change of clothes, and a physical list of emergency contacts. Ensure they understand they must stay in their seat until a designated staff member meets them upon landing. Confirm the airline's specific UM age requirements and fees (which can range from $50 to $150). Most importantly, arrive at the airport early to complete the necessary paperwork and stay until the aircraft has officially taken off.

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If they are inconsolable, try taking your baby to the back of the plane where the hum of the engine may mask their crying. Try to remain calm – a good distraction is to gently talk to your baby – or try letting them look out the window where they may see other planes or perhaps a nice view.

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12-18 Months Old One year olds are often highly mobile yet totally uncontrollable, making for a potentially dangerous travel combination. At this age, children are still too young to understand and follow instructions, so discipline is ineffective.

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Most U.S. airlines will permit children who have reached their fifth birthday to travel unaccompanied. Kids ages 5 through 11 who are flying alone must usually travel pursuant to special “unaccompanied minor” procedures. On some airlines, these procedures are required for unaccompanied children as old as 14.

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Most U.S. airlines will permit children who have reached their fifth birthday to travel unaccompanied. Kids ages 5 through 11 who are flying alone must usually travel pursuant to special “unaccompanied minor” procedures. On some airlines, these procedures are required for unaccompanied children as old as 14.

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Children under 5 can't travel alone under any circumstances. If you don't choose seats in Main Cabin or Basic Economy, we'll assign seats a few days after you buy your tickets so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult they're traveling with.

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However, statistically speaking, a seat close to an exit in the front or rear, or a middle seat in the back third of the plane offers the lowest fatality rate. That said, flying is still the safest form of transport.

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Diaper bags, soft-sided cooler bags with breast milk, child safety seats, strollers and medical or mobility devices don't count toward your personal item or carry-on.

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Early morning flights are usually less bumpy, which means more time letting your little one out of the car seat to explore the cabin (a must for new walkers). If that isn't possible, and you've got a by-the-clock napper, book a flight that coincides with nap time.

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Most U.S. airlines will permit children who have reached their fifth birthday to travel unaccompanied. Kids ages 5 through 11 who are flying alone must usually travel pursuant to special “unaccompanied minor” procedures. On some airlines, these procedures are required for unaccompanied children as old as 14.

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16 Tips for Flying With Toddlers and Young Kids
  • Book an Early Morning Departure.
  • Save Your Upgrades for Toddler-Free Travel.
  • Talk to Your Kids About What to Expect.
  • Dress in Layers and Skip Shoes With Laces.
  • Bring Surprises.
  • Consider Using a Smaller Stroller.
  • Pack Just Enough.
  • Plan Your Packing List.


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Standard strollers, folding wagons, and car seats can be used to get to your gate and then checked for free. They'll be returned to you on arrival. Collapsible strollers can be stored in-cabin. Car seats can be used onboard your flight too.

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Can I take milk on a plane for my toddler? Travel with toddlers on planes, means you still need to think about food and drink for them. And yes, you can still bring milk or water on board for your toddler. It's usually advised to bring water in a sippy cup rather than a normal water bottle.

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