Travelling as a family is a wonderful experience and more and more travellers decide to bring even the little ones with them. And yes, even infants can fly but they must be accompanied, they must have a regular ticket and a valid identity document to leave the country.
Although usually the only constraint is represented by children less than seven days old since, in this case, it is necessary to ask your paediatrician for a certificate confirming the child's suitable health to face the journey, and each company may have specific restrictions; we therefore suggest always checking the company's website before proceeding with the booking.
In general, airlines differentiate children into two categories: infants aged between 0 and under 2 years and children aged between 2 and 11 years. This distinction is very important as, according to the reference category, each company provides different rates, services and modes of transport.
Infants below 2 years of age can generally sit on the parent's lap and do not need a seat.
For long-term international and intercontinental flights, a child seat or cot can be requested at the time of booking (the service may require an additional cost). Once on board, the flight attendants will help you get settled properly and in compliance with the safety regulations.
It is also possible to bring your own car seat from home as long as it is a model compatible with the specifications of the aircraft, checking the relevant details on the airline's website before departure.
Each company has its own rules for children's baggage allowances. Generally, they are allowed one bag from 5 to 10kg per child up to 2 years and a folding stroller that fits in an overhead bin. While after the age of 2 the child has the right to a bag of the same size and weight as those provided for adults.
Remember that in order to travel, every infant or child must have all the necessary documentation: valid identity card for leaving the country or a passport.
Finally, in order to avoid any last-minute surprises, remember to always check the rules for travelling with children on the airline's website and to check the Viaggiare Sicuri website for all the details concerning the documentation required to enter the country of destination.