What identification is needed for infant to fly?

Be sure to attach government-issued identification for the child (e.g., passport, birth certificate, government-issued photo identification card) and provide the confirmation number of the ticket purchased for the child.



For domestic flights within the United States in 2026, infants and minors under 18 generally do not require a government-issued photo ID if they are traveling with an adult. However, for an infant flying as a "lap child" (under age 2), airlines like Southwest and United strictly require a copy of the birth certificate to verify the child's age. If the infant is traveling internationally, a valid Passport is mandatory regardless of age, and many countries also require a notarized "Letter of Consent" if both parents are not present. In 2026, some airlines allow parents to store a digital "Travel Credential" in the airline app to skip the physical document check at the gate. It is always recommended to carry a digital photo of the birth certificate on your phone as a backup, even for domestic travel, to resolve any disputes regarding the child's eligibility for lap-seat travel.

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You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18. Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate. Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed.

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Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) – regardless of the presence of breast milk – are also allowed in carry-ons, along with liquid-filled teethers.

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Every US citizen, regardless of age, must have a passport to travel abroad. Newborn babies, infants, and toddlers all need a passport to leave and enter another country.

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Instead, you can use their birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or other documentation that identifies them. When crossing state lines, you may need to provide sufficient proof of your relationship with the infant.

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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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Checked Bags: Yes Water for babies is allowed in reasonable quantities in carry-on bags. Remove this item from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. Please see traveling with children for more information. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?'

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The safest way for baby to fly: The AAP recommends that the safest way for your baby to fly is in a child safety restraint?an FAA-approved car seat or airplane harness device approved for your child's age and size installed with the airplane's seat belt. Booster seats cannot be used on airplanes.

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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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Sanitizing Wipes: Wet wipes, in any quantity, can be carried on. This includes baby wipes! Disinfectant sprays: You are allowed to have sprays in your carry-on bag as long as they do not exceed 3.4 oz. Pack larger sizes in your checked luggage.

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Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

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Ways to Dispose of Diapers on a Plane Most planes do have trash receptacles in the lavatories. If your lavatory doesn't, you can find a flight attendant who isn't currently serving refreshments, and ask where you can dispose of the bag. Remember to bring extra sealable bags and disposable changing pads.

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The TSA's liquid limit for carry-ons—known as the 3-1-1 rule—allows travelers to pack liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes under 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in their carry-on bags. Passengers are allowed up to one quart-sized bag per person, or roughly nine 3.4-ounce containers in a single quart-sized bag.

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Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. Use our Form Filler tool to fill out your child's form and then print it.

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