Flying With A Baby? Here's The Best Place To Sit
Baby's first flight might not be as joyous as baby's first words or baby's first steps. However, some tried and true tips can ensure a stress-free flight with your baby, including knowing where to sit. Just like when you fly without children, the seats you choose in the plane cabin can make or break the experience. For instance, the middle seat can be especially cramped when you're flying with a lap child, while a lucky row to yourself offers privacy during feedings and nap time.
If you're flying on a crowded flight, one of the best ways to secure some much-needed space in economy class is to opt for a seat in the bulkhead row. Bulkhead rows are the rows located just behind the walls that separate different sections of the cabin. Because there isn't another row of seats in front, passengers in the bulkhead row are sometimes treated to extra legroom, which can make your flight with a baby more comfortable.
More importantly, many airlines offer bassinets for infants that attach to the bulkhead wall. This can be a great alternative to booking an extra seat or keeping your baby on your lap throughout the flight.
If the bulkhead row is taken, try the back of the plane
If you can't nab a spot in the bulkhead row, another option when traveling with a baby is to sit in the furthest row in the back of the plane. This might not be considered a desirable spot by most, but it's where you'll find the safest seats on the airplane. Plus, the back is perfect for little ones.
Doug and Sanjay, the dads behind the TikTok account @thetravellinggays, shared why they prefer the back row in a video. First, they explain that seats in the back are often close to the galley and lavatories (which, it's worth noting, is true of bulkhead rows, too). This makes walking with your fussy child or dealing with emergency diaper changes a breeze.
@thetravellinggays The best place to sit on a plane when travelling with a baby on vacation... #fyp #parentingtip #familytraveltips #traveltips #parentinghacks #parenting
Another benefit of sitting in the back row is that fewer eyes will be on you when your baby cries or gets motion sickness during the flight. Having your own little corner can offer a sense of privacy and comfort, especially if it's your first time flying with your bundle of joy.
Should you sit in a window or aisle seat with a baby?
If you aren't able to rely on the airline's bulkhead row bassinet, then you'll have to place your child in a regular plane seat, either on your lap or in a seat of their own. For children under the age of two, the Federal Aviation Administration suggests using an aircraft-certified car seat or similar child restraint device. If you choose this route, check with your air carrier when booking seats, as they may require the car seat to be placed next to the window.
If you plan to keep your baby on your lap, the window seat can also be a great option. The view out of the window can keep them distracted during upsetting turbulence, and you won't be disturbed by your seatmates when they need to get up to use the restroom.
If your little one struggles to sit still, the aisle seat could be a tempting choice. However, keep in mind that if objects fall from the overhead bins, they're more likely to hit your child when sitting near the aisle compared to the window. Moreover, hot drinks can sometimes spill during the inflight beverage service, which could put your baby at risk of getting burned. To play it safe, stick to the window seat and bring plenty of activities and toys to keep your tot busy.