11 Best Airlines For Kids For International Family Travel – And What You Need To Know!

A young boy raises his hand to turn on the light inside an airplane cabin, while traveling one of the best airlines for kids.
Photo Courtesy: Steven Thompson

Take a flight aboard one of these international airlines for families to jumpstart your next vacation abroad with kids! Though traveling with children can be tricky, it’s easier when you can depend on a reliable airline. Luckily, many international airlines make traveling long distances with little ones feel less complicated. For example, airlines like Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Aer Lingus have incentives for all ages, including priority boarding and swag bags! Remember that airline opinions are subjective – one family can have a great experience, while another can experience something totally different. What makes these airlines stand out, however, is their dedication to quickly remedying any mistakes, and to providing a smooth experience from takeoff to landing and beyond for families. Using suggestions from our Facebook community of family travelers, here are our top picks for the 11 Best Airlines For Kids For International Family Travel.

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Best International Airlines for Families

From European airlines like Lufthansa to Japanese airlines like All Nippon Airways, here are the international airlines that our families love when traveling with kids! Stay tuned because we have some tips for flying internationally with children below!

RELATED ARTICLE: The Best Travel Accessories Families Can’t Live Without!

Lufthansa

A Lufthansa plane parked at an airport gate.
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Parents consistently cite Lufthansa as one of the best international airlines for kids. With hubs in Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Munich International Airport (MUC), it also services airports like JFK, Heathrow Airport (LHR), and LAX. Not to mention, many other destinations throughout the U.S. and Europe.

Before boarding, parents can set little ones up on the JetFriends website, where children can explore interactive games and cartoons. Certain airports, such as Frankfurt and Munich, also have play areas where kids can wait for boarding.

Aboard, in-flight entertainment provides appropriate programming for a variety of ages. Flight attendants often offer young kids with activities, ranging from coloring books to model trains. The kids’ menu is also well-crafted with tasty dishes like lasagna. These meals must be ordered separately when you book your flight.

At the end of the flight, kids can even trade in their logbook, where they recorded information about the flight, for an official pilot certificate! Finally, join JetFriends, Lufthansa’s frequent flyer program, for children, to accrue points. 

A Snapshot of Important Lufthansa Airline Policies for Kids

Lufthansa Airlines is an excellent choice for families traveling internationally with children. They offer several perks for families, including complimentary stroller service, special meal options for kids, and child-specific entertainment options on long-haul flights. Keep reading to learn more! 

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: Infants under 2 can travel as lap infants. Only one baby per adult is allowed on the plane. (If you have a second baby traveling with you, you can book an additional seat and take an appropriate car seat.) Lap seat infants flying on a domestic German flight are free. Meanwhile, those on international flights must pay a portion of the fare.
  • Bassinets: Lufthansa also offers a complimentary bassinet service for infants under 2, with advanced notice and subject to availability. Reserve a bassinet for your infant up to 52 hours before your flight departs. 
  • Child Fares: Children under 2 without a seat still need a ticket (10% of the regular fare), except on German domestic flights. Children between the ages of two and eleven are eligible for a child rate, 75% of the standard flight price on most routes. 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Each child over the age of 2, with a paid seat, can bring one carry-on item and a personal item. Checked baggage is available free of charge.

Click here for all of the information on Lufthansa’s airline policies for babies and children.

What Our Families Say

“Lufthansa is our favorite – the flight attendants (even at the gate) have always gone over and above to take care of me and my kiddo. They make me feel like a VIP for having a child compared to US-based airlines, which treat families like a nuisance.”

-Katy Spada

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Emirates

An Emirates plane parked on a jetway.
Photo Courtesy: Harrison Macourt

When traveling internationally with children, Emirates tops our list of recommendations. Whether to JFK or Heathrow Airport (LHR), families traveling from Dubai International Airport (DXB) can check in or check bags a day in advance, as well as benefit from the family-designated check-in counter. Families also receive priority boarding!

Kids will begin their trip with Emirates’ special Fly With Me stuffed animal, accompanied by a Lonely Planet amenities kit. This includes a complimentary travel tote and a variety of books, journals, and crafts. Kid-friendly meals range from chicken tenders to pasta, served on eye-catching trays (be sure to reserve these in advance). For a mid-flight snack, kids can also enjoy cookies and fruit snacks.

Kid-sized headphones also allow little ones to comfortably enjoy Disney and other in-flight entertainment. Make sure to also sign up for the Emirates’ Sky Surfer Program, where kids can gain points and eventually redeem them for flights or items such as iPods and waterpark tickets.

A Snapshot of Important Emirates Airline Policies for Kids

Emirates Airlines is one of the most family-friendly airlines in the world, and it’s not hard to see why! Here are a few specific airline policies for kids.

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: Tickets for lap seat infants, or those in a bassinet, are discounted from the full adult fare. 
  • Bassinets: Emirates also has a special bassinet available for infants. Reserve one in advance for infants at no extra cost. Make the request online in the Passenger Details section.
  • Child Fares: If you have a child under the age of 2 and would like them to have their own seat, or if your child is 2 or older, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket. Older children must have their own seats (at a discounted child fare). 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Families flying with Emirates can enjoy perks like extra baggage allowance – you can check strollers, diaper bags, and car seats free of charge. 

To learn more about traveling with kids on Emirates and all of their family policies, click here.

What Our Families Say

“We fly with Emirates every year and the crew has always been fantastic with my child.”

– Laura Iride Bonaccorsi

Singapore Airlines 

A Singapore Airlines plane in flight amongst the clouds.
Photo Courtesy: Jeffry Surianto

Singapore Airlines will make your next family vacation special! From its hub in Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), this is one of the best airlines for kids and flies to popular cities across Asia, including Tokyo, Hanoi, and Taipei. It also services select destinations worldwide like London, Rome, Paris, LAX, and JFK, among others.

As a plus, the airline offers special fares for children; those under the age of two are 10% off the regular economy fare, and 75% off for other children. Most flights are also equipped with special meals for babies and kids. Make your request for these meals in advance of your flight. If you’re flying Business class or up, an extra gourmet menu is designed specifically for kids! Families are also allowed free, advanced seat selection and priority boarding.

Parents can reserve bassinets in advance, as well as benefit from family amenities such as diapers, disposable bibs, bottles, and baby wipes. Finally, age-appropriate stuffed animals are available for kids of all ages!

A Snapshot of Important Singapore Airline Policies for Kids

Singapore Airlines has several airline policies for kids, from carry-on luggage to child-friendly entertainment. Here are some specific examples! 

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: Children under 2 can fly for free when sitting on their parent’s lap. Remember to bring their birth certificate for proof of age. 
  • Bassinets: Families can reserve bassinet seats in Premium Economy and Economy classes on a first-come, first-served basis. 
  • Child Fares: Children between the ages of two and twelve can travel in their own seats at a discounted child fare rate. 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Checked baggage allowance for babies depends on the itinerary and class of travel; check with the airline directly before departing. Then, children traveling on their own ticket are also given the standard baggage allowance (and are likewise allowed one carry-on/one personal item onboard).

To learn more about traveling with children on Singapore Airlines and for all their family travel policies, click here.

Etihad Airways

A Etihad Airways plane in flight amongst the clouds.
Photo Courtesy: Jeffry Surianto

Prepare for a fantastic family adventure aboard Etihad Airways! From its hub in Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), families traveling to the United Arab Emirates can book this kid-friendly airline from JFK, LAX, and O’Hare, among other U.S. cities. Etihad Airways also flies to London Heathrow (LHR), Barcelona El-Prat (BCN), and Dublin Airport (DUB).

Children can select from fun goody bags to keep them busy and content throughout the flight. With several themed options, each one contains activities like origami, paper crowns, and pilot hats. Then, children’s meals, from babies to age 11, keep kids happy and fueled for the journey. Make requests at least 24 hours in advance of your flight.

The airline even offers an option where you can bid to reserve a neighbor-free seat“, making it easier to keep the whole family together during the flight. Etihad Airways also offers free layovers to give families the opportunity to save money and explore another destination. 

A Snapshot of Important Etihad Airways Policies for Kids

Planning a flight on Etihad Airlines with your kids? If you want a closer look at their airline policies for kids, keep reading! 

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: Children between the ages of 7 days and 23 months can fly for free when sitting on their parent’s lap for an infant fare. Be sure to bring their birth certificate for proof of age!
  • Bassinets: Families can reserve bassinet seats for children who weigh less than 11 kg (around 24 lbs). These are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Child Fares: Children between the ages of two and eleven can travel in their own seats at a discounted child fare rate. Children ages 12 and up are charged at the adult rate.
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Babies flying on an infant fare are allowed their own baggage based on their destination (check the website for details). Kids over two years old with their own seat ticket are given the same baggage allowance as those with an adult fare.

Find out more about family travel policies on Etihad Airways by clicking here.

Swiss International Air Lines

A Swiss International Air Lines plane in flight with blue skies.
Photo Courtesy: Alan Wilson via Wikimedia

Swiss International Air Lines is undoubtedly a contender for one of the best airlines for families on international trips! Families can book a flight from hubs in Zurich International Airport (ZRH) and Geneva International Airport – Genève Aéroport (GVA) to major metropolises worldwide, like London Heathrow (LHR), JFK, or Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP).

This airline offers “Swiss Kids,” a program aimed to make traveling with kids more pleasant, even beyond the actual flight. Find a demonstration of this family-friendly philosophy in the Zurich airport, which offers designated airport family areas and kid-friendly amenities ranging from playrooms, video games, and a craft workshop area.

In-flight (on most flights), expect the crew to have stickers, coloring books, snacks, and a kids’ menu of mashed potatoes, macaroni, and other favorites. Request meals in advance of the flight. Parents can even bring their child’s car seat aboard or pre-book a bassinet. The airline also has a section on its website that’s entirely dedicated to children’s entertainment. Here, you will find quizzes, downloadable apps, digital downloads, and printouts to amuse them.

Families also have access to free, advanced seat selection.

A Snapshot of Important Swiss International Air Lines Policies for Kids

Swiss International Air Lines is undoubtedly one of the best international airlines for kids! If you’re wondering about their kids’ policies, keep reading to learn more! 

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: Even if your child is under two years old, you’ll have to purchase a ticket for your flight that costs around 10% of an adult fare. Plan to bring a birth certificate for proof of age. 
  • Bassinets: Families can reserve bassinet seats on long-haul flights in all classes, and in Business Class on European flights for children up to 8 months old who weigh less than 11 kg (around 24 lbs). They are limited in supply. Contact the Service Center to reserve one in advance of your flight.
  • Child Fares: Children over the age of two need a separate ticketed seat, which is offered at a child’s tariff rate. 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Lap-seat infants are not allowed additional checked luggage, nor are they allowed their own personal carry-ons (though a stroller and/or a car seat may be checked for free). All their items (e.g., baby food, diapers) must be packed in the adult’s carry-on baggage. Children with ticketed seats receive the standard baggage allowance for their ticket class.

Find more information on flying with kids on Swiss International Air Lines by clicking here.

What Our Families Say

“We have flown Swiss many times. It’s awesome! They give little airplane stuffies to young kids and pass out chocolates and ice cream!”

– Laurie Manheim

Qatar Airways

A Qatar Airways plane taking off into the clouds.
Photo Courtesy: MD Shaifuzzaman Ayon

Fly in comfort by booking family airline tickets on Qatar Airways! Servicing flights to and from Hamad International Airport (DOH), this is one of the best airlines for kids taking international trips. It has hubs across Europe, Asia, and Africa. In fact, your luxury treatment starts before boarding, since Hamad International Airport has a designated airport playground and family rooms!

Aboard, children will have plenty of space to stretch out, whether they want to watch an age-appropriate movie or complete their interactive activity pack. Kids can also look forward to delicious and nutritious meals just for them (which parents need to preorder before flying).

Those traveling with younger children will also appreciate Qatar’s dedication to smoothing the process. The airline offers priority boarding for families, the option to reserve a bassinet, and access to a special kit (complete with diapers, baby food, and soft toys). Finally, don’t forget your swag bag with plush toys on your way out, courtesy of Qatar’s Oryx Kids Club!

A Snapshot of Important Qatar Airways Policies for Kids

When traveling with children on Qatar Airways, there are a few things to remember. With interactive play areas at certain airports and in-flight activity packets, your trip is sure to go smoothly! Here’s a snapshot of what you need to know first!

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: If you’re traveling with a lap child under the age of 2, it is considered an infant fare; they must be seated in your lap for takeoff and landing. Remember to bring their birth certificate for proof of age. 
  • Bassinets: Families can reserve bassinet seats for children up to 24 months old who weigh less than 11 kg (around 24 lbs).  
  • Child Fares: All other children must be seated in their own ticketed seats. You can purchase a child fare ticket at a discounted rate for kids between 2 and 5. Children ages five and older must pay an adult fare. 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Infants are allowed a small checked bag across all fares. Plus, families can bring one stroller, collapsible carrycot, or pushchair per infant without charge. Then, kids and infants traveling on a child fare ticket are given the same baggage allowance as adults.

Click here for more information on what makes Qatar an excellent airline for families.

Aer Lingus

A close up of the nose of an Aer Lingus plane parked on the jetway of an airport.
Photo Courtesy: Miguel Ángel Sanz

Aer Lingus makes traveling with little ones a breeze! Offering flights to Dublin Airport (DUB) and layovers for other European destinations, this international airline also services major U.S. airports, like JFK, LAX, and Seattle-Tacoma. It’s also a budget-friendly airline, which makes it an excellent option for parents traveling with multiple children!

Enjoy kid-friendly entertainment on transatlantic flights, alongside special meals suitable for even the pickiest eaters (these meals can be booked through their contact centre).

Baggage allowance also ranges whether you’re traveling within Europe or transatlantically, but nonetheless includes flexible options for parents with lots of gear.

Aer Lingus also offers various facilities aboard for families to use, such as baby changing areas, infant seat belts, and bottle or food heating. Parents can pre-book a bassinet for use during your flight too. Just remember they’re only available on a  first-come, first-served basis! 

A Snapshot of Important Aer Lingus Policies for Kids

Aer Lingus has many different airline policies for kids to make your vacation go smoother. Keep reading to learn more!

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: If you’re traveling with a lap child under the age of 2, they must be seated in your lap for takeoff and landing and may require a small rate (infants 0-5 months, and infants 6-24 months). Remember to bring their birth certificate for proof of age. 
  • Bassinets: Families can preserve bassinet seats for children on a first-come, first-served basis for transatlantic flights in advance of their flights. 
  • Child Fares: Children over two must be seated in their own seats. Those between two and eleven are eligible for discounted fares on transatlantic flights in economy class. Finally, those between 12 and 15 should be booked as “Young Adults.”
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: The allowance for children depends on whether it is a transatlantic flight or one within Europe. Generally, a collapsible stroller and one of the following items, a car seat, booster seat, or travel cot, can be checked for free.

Find more information on child travel policies on Aer Lingus by clicking here.

Turkish Airlines

A Turkish Airlines plane flying high amongst the clouds, one of the best airlines for kids.
Photo Courtesy: Kevin Hackert

Take your next family trip with Turkish Airlines, one of the best international airlines for kids! Flying from its central hub in Istanbul Airport (IST) to worldwide destinations such as JFK, Miami International Airport (MIA), and Heathrow Airport (LHR), this family-friendly airline is a great choice for travelers heading to Turkey or Tunisia. At the Istanbul Airport, you can even get priority check-in at a special counter.

Then, a special welcome kit with toys and activities is given to children on most flights! Infants can travel on their parent’s laps, but you can also request a special infant carrier up to a day in advance. Similarly, Turkish Airlines often keeps various types of baby food onboard for anyone who needs it. Parents with children older than two can also request specific kid-friendly meals before departure (must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance of your flight).

Strollers can also be checked as cargo, but if you’re traveling to select airports, like Frankfurt Airport (FRA), you’ll have to claim it in the baggage area. 

A Snapshot of Important Turkish Airlines Policies for Kids

Booking a flight with Turkish Airlines? Stay tuned to find out their policies for kids! Here are the ones to know first.

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: If you’re traveling with a lap child under the age of 2 and over 8 days old, they must be seated in your lap for takeoff and landing. An infant fare will be applied based on the fare class of the ticketed adult. Remember to bring their birth certificate for proof of age. 
  • Bassinets: Families can reserve bassinet seats for children on some flights on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend calling the airline to ensure availability and reservation. 
  • Child Fares: All other children must be seated in their own ticketed seats. You can purchase a discounted child fare ticket for kids between 2 and 12. Children ages 12 and older must pay an adult fare. 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Lap-seat infants are allowed some small luggage, both checked and carry-on, depending on their fare class. Children have the same baggage allowance as adult passengers.

Find more information on traveling with kids on Turkish Airlines by clicking here.

What Our Families Say

“Turkish Air gave us cute little handmade toys and a little kit on board. They offer baby and child’s menus and the flight attendants are the sweetest!”

-Desiree Yoo 

All Nippon Airways

A colorfully-painted All Nippon Airways plane takes off from an airport, one of the best airlines for kids.
Photo Courtesy: Vincent Genevay

Book All Nippon Airways for your next adventure to Asia! Ideal for families traveling from the United States or Europe, this kid-friendly airline flies to major cities like Tokyo, Seoul, and Shanghai. All Nippon Airways is also known as ANA or Zennikkū, and is an airline in Japan.

Priority treatment for families begins before your flight with All Nippon Airways, as families can contact the airline in advance if they need any assistance prior to boarding. All Nippon Airways classifies those under two as infants, who only need to pay 10% of the adult fare, and those between two and eleven as children, who need to pay 75%. Little ones will also receive a small toy on most flights to help keep them entertained!

Parents can also request a bassinet with a soft blanket in advance for international flights, or bring their own car seat or plane bed. Strollers aren’t subject to checked baggage restrictions, either. Plus, depending on your departure airport, you may even be able to use the baby stroller rental service.

Aboard, children can also dine on special kids’ meals (must order in advance by phone), including powdered milk. Most planes also have diapers, just in case! 

A Snapshot of Important All Nippon Airways Policies for Kids

All Nippon Airways is undoubtedly one of the best international airlines for kids! For more information on their airline policies for kids, keep reading. 

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: If you’re traveling with a lap child under the age of 2 and over 8 days old, they must be seated in your lap for takeoff and landing. An infant fare is applied to lap-seat infants. Remember to bring their birth certificate for proof of age. 
  • Bassinets: Families can reserve bassinet seats for children on a first-come, first-served basis on international flights (not available in first class). The weight limit is 10kg (22 pounds). Reservations must be made by phone.
  • Child Fares: All children over two must be seated in their own seats. You can purchase a child’s ticket at a discounted fare for kids between 2 and 11 (or infants with their own seats). Children ages 11 and older must pay an adult fare. 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Lap-seat infants are allowed to check 1 bag for free. Children of all ages with their own ticketed seats are given the same baggage allowance as adults. Plus, folding strollers, portable cradles, and child seats can be checked for free.

Find more information on traveling with children on All Nippon Airways by clicking here.

Air New Zealand

An Air New Zealand plane flies passed a snowy mountain.
Photo Courtesy: David Maunsell

Book Air New Zealand for a fun family vacation! Operating within New Zealand and to select countries in the Pacific Rim, this is one of the best airlines for kids and is a favorite for parents traveling within its limited jurisdiction.

Infant fares cost 10% of an adult fare when traveling internationally, but are free if you’re traveling within New Zealand! Car seats, strollers, or two other kid-related baggage are also included within your baggage allowance.

Aboard, children will be paid special attention to, from in-flight activity packets to entertainment options on long-haul flights.

Though domestic trips only offer snacks, international options include ordering a special children’s meal (reserve in advance). Parents traveling with infants can also pre-book a bassinet for international flights. An infant pod or harness is available for customers who choose to fly via Air New Zealand’s Skycouch Program.

A Snapshot of Important Air New Zealand Policies for Kids

Families flying Air New Zealand should know about the airline policies for kids first. Keep reading to learn more!

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: If you’re traveling with a lap child under the age of 2, they can fly as a lap infant, but they must be seated in your lap for takeoff and landing. Within New Zealand, lap-seated infants fly for free. The infant fares are 10% of the adult fare on international flights. Remember to bring their birth certificate for proof of age. 
  • Bassinets: Families can reserve bassinet seats for children on a first-come, first-served basis on many flights. You can book one ahead of time with Seat Select (select a seat with a bassinet icon). There is a small fee to reserve a bassinet seat. The weight limit is 11.8kg (26 lbs). 
  • Child Fares: All other children must be seated in their own seats. You can purchase a child’s ticket at a discounted rate for kids between 2 and 12. Children ages 12 and older must pay an adult fare. 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Infant fares (lap-seat infants) are allowed their own carry-on bag, but not checked baggage. Then, child fares have the same baggage allowance as an adult. Finally, strollers and car seats can be checked for free.

Find more about child travel policies on Air New Zealand by clicking here.

Icelandair 

An Icelandair plane moves along a jetway to take off, one of the best airlines for kids.
Photo Courtesy: MarcelX42 via Wikimedia

Icelandair is great for families traveling between the United States, Iceland, or Europe! Offering flights from major airports like JFK, Chicago O’Hare, and Seattle-Tacoma, this budget-friendly option is popular among travelers with young children due to its fantastic family perks.

Firstly, children fly for free if they are under two. Alternatively, little ones are also permitted to spend the duration of their flight in an approved child seat. Flight attendants provide in-flight activities, such as coloring books, in addition to other in-flight entertainment suitable for children of all ages.

When they get hungry, little ones between two and eleven receive a complimentary meal with juice (infant meals must be reserved prior to flying). Contact their service center at least 24 hours before departure to finalize your children’s meal needs. If you’re heading to Europe and have a layover, families can also request an extended stopover to see this scenic Nordic nation – at no extra charge! 

A Snapshot of Important Icelandair Policies for Kids

If you’re flying Icelandair, you should know about the airline policies for kids first. Keep reading to learn more!

  • Lap Seat/Infant-In-Arms: If you’re traveling with a lap child under the age of 2, they can fly as a lap infant, but they must be seated in your lap for takeoff and landing. Please keep in mind that they will still be required to pay a small fee for an infant ticket (up to 90% discount on Economy fares and up to 75% on Saga Premium fares).
  • Bassinets: Icelandair does not offer bassinets on their flights. 
  • Child Fares: All other children must be seated in their own seats. You can purchase a child’s ticket at a discounted rate for kids between 2 and 11 (up to a 20% discount on Economy fares for international flights). Children ages 11 and older must pay an adult fare. 
  • Baggage/Carry-On Luggage: Lap-seat infants are allowed one checked bag (except on Economy Light) and no carry-on baggage. Children with their own ticket fares from infant to age 11 have the same baggage allowance as adults (in the same fare class). Finally, families can also check a folding stroller and/or a car seat free of charge.

Find more information on family travel policies for IcelandAir by clicking here.

What Our Families Say

“Icelandair loot bags were amazing. Headphones, eye masks, activity books, a snack. I’m sure there was more I’m not remembering. My kids had an awesome experience!”

– Stephanie Becker Trigg

What Documents Do I Need to Fly Internationally with Kids?

A young girl stands on the jet bridge with her suitcase and travel documents before embarking on one of the best airlines for kids.
Photo Courtesy: Gustavo Fring

If you’re wondering what documents babies and children need to fly internationally, you’re in the right place! There are a few different documents your children will need as U.S. citizens to travel internationally (if your kids have different citizenship, please refer to the rules and regulations for their country of citizenship). Then, other types of documents may be needed, depending on the airline, destination country, transit country, etc.

Documents You Need for International Travel with Kids

  • Valid US Passport: Regardless of age, children with U.S. citizenship need a valid passport for air travel to another country (even babies!). The application process for children under 16 needs to be completed in person. Both parents are required to be present. Children’s passports are valid for five years.
  • Proof of Relationship to Child: While you may not be asked for it, we highly recommend that you travel with some type of document proving your relationship to your child (e.g., birth certificate, adoption certificate, etc.). Please note, some countries or airlines will require this type of document. It is your responsibility to know the documents needed before you depart for your trip.
  • Child Travel Consent: If you are traveling without your child’s other parent, plan on bringing a letter of consent from the other parent to travel alone with your child. Some countries require letters to be notarized. This letter should contain the child’s basic information (e.g., name, gender, birthday, place of birth, passport number, etc.), both parents’ names and contact information, the traveling arrangements (flights, accommodations, other adults traveling in your party), and the destination.

Documents You Might Need for International Travel with Kids

RELATED: All About Delta Airlines: Airline Policies & More Important Information For Kids

Tips for Taking an International Flight with Kids

A young girl wearing aviators smiles back as she pretends to drive a Delta plane, while chatting with the plane's captain.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

When it comes to flying internationally with kids, we have a few tips that can make the experience more enjoyable for both parents and children. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Take advantage of the airline’s priority boarding process to get on the plane as quickly as possible. This allows you time to get every settled in their seats.
  • Keep your child occupied with activities such as books, coloring, snacks, or electronic devices.
  • We also recommend timing your flight around your child’s natural sleep schedule.
  • Don’t be afraid to take a few breaks to walk around the cabin with them.
  • Plan an active morning at the park or another activity to wear them out before the flight.
  • Consider booking a window seat and bringing along a pillow and blanket to make them comfortable.
  • Don’t forget to take advantage of the free entertainment system!
  • Finally, don’t miss these 10 Tips For Your Baby’s First Flight.

READ NEXT: 10 Best Places to Travel with Kids in Europe

Best Products for Taking a Long or International Flight with Kids

A young girl sits on a plane in her JetKids by Stokke, while traveling one of the best airlines for kids.
Photo Courtesy: Rahul Singh

There are a few essential products to bring along if you want to survive a long flight on any airline with kids. Here are a few to consider as you prepare for your flight:

Then, read more hacks and products for sleeping on long flights with kids in our article! 

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Happy Traveling!

A mom holds her infant son while traveling on one of the best airlines for kids.
Photo Courtesy: Paul Hanaoka

We hope you found this article on the best international airlines for families with kids helpful in planning your next trip! A special thank you to the Families Who Love to Travel Facebook community who generously shared their travel advice and top picks for this list featuring the 11 Best Airlines For Kids For International Family Travel – And What You Need To Know! Families Who Love To Travel is a group of amazing families who also love adventure and exploring through travel. Join our growing communities on Facebook and Instagram to connect with other families who also love to travel with kids.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Airline policies are subject to change and may have been made without our knowledge. Check each airline’s policies for traveling with children for possible updated information – we have linked directly to each airline’s family or child policy above for your convenience.

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Are you planning a trip for your family with Lufthansa Airlines? We compiled all the child related information you need Read more

Our Unofficial Poll for Best International Family Airline

We conducted an unofficial poll of our group contributors to find out the very best airlines for international travel with Read more

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Families Love Travel Team

The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.