Are you Traveling with Children?

Traveling with children is exciting, but it often comes with confusion around airline rules, hotel age policies, and charges for infants or kids. Parents planning trips frequently wonder: At what age is a child considered an infant on flights? Do hotels charge for children if they share the same bed? Are there complimentary policies for kids?

This guide explains the global standards and common practices for flights and hotels so parents can plan smooth, stress-free family journeys.

What Is the Difference Between an Infant and a Child in Travel?

Most airlines and hotels classify passengers and guests based on age. While policies vary slightly across providers, here are the general definitions followed worldwide:

• Infant: A baby from birth up to under 2 years of age. Infants usually do not get their own seat on a flight unless parents purchase one. In hotels, infants often share a cot, crib, or the parents’ bed.
• Child: Typically 2 years to 11 or 12 years of age. Children need their own flight seat and may be charged separately at hotels, especially if an extra bed is required.
• Adult: In most cases, 12 years and above. From this age onward, airlines and hotels usually apply full adult rates.

Flight Travel Rules for Infants and Children

Infant Travel on Flights

• Infants under 2 years can usually travel on a parent’s lap. Many airlines charge a small fee, often around 10 percent of the adult fare on international routes.
• Parents may choose to buy a separate seat for the infant and use a Child Restraint System (CRS) or airline-approved car seat for added safety.
• Proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport, is always required. Some airlines require medical clearance for newborns under 7 to 14 days old.
• Only one infant is permitted per adult passenger.

Child Travel on Flights

• From the age of 2, a child must occupy their own seat and use the seatbelt.
• Children aged 2 to 12 are usually charged child fares, which may be slightly lower than adult fares depending on the airline.
• Many airlines allow advance booking of child meals, which need to be requested before travel.
• Airlines and regulators encourage seating children with at least one parent. For example, India’s DGCA mandates that children up to 12 years must be seated next to a parent or guardian if traveling together.

Safety Recommendations

Global aviation bodies like ICAO, EASA, and FAA strongly recommend using child restraint systems for maximum safety. CRS devices must be labeled as suitable for aircraft use and should be fitted to a dedicated seat, not placed in exit rows.

Hotel Policies for Children

Hotels around the world follow certain age-based rules when it comes to children staying in rooms.

Complimentary Child Stay

• Many hotels allow children under 5 or 6 years to stay free when sharing a bed with parents.
• Some international brands, such as Holiday Inn, extend this complimentary stay policy up to 12 years of age.

Extra Bed and Cot Charges

• If parents request a crib, cot, or rollaway bed, hotels may apply additional charges. Some hotels provide these free of cost if requested in advance.
• Policies differ widely, so it is always best to confirm at the time of booking.

Occupancy Limits

• Hotels also set maximum occupancy limits for each room. Even if children are staying free without an extra bed, parents need to follow these occupancy rules.
• For older children, usually above 12, hotels consider them adults for pricing and occupancy purposes.

Meals and Amenities

• Many hotels offer “kids eat free” packages but often apply conditions such as age limits, specific menus, or the requirement that a paying adult orders.
• Amenities like kids’ play zones, babysitting, and child-friendly menus may also be available at family-friendly hotels.

What Parents Should Know Before Booking

Here are some quick tips for parents traveling with children:

1. Check airline definitions of infant and child because age cut-offs may vary slightly.
2. Carry valid identification such as a birth certificate or passport to prove your child’s age.
3. Decide if you want a separate seat for your infant to use a car seat or CRS for safety.
4. Confirm hotel child policies before booking, especially regarding extra bed charges and complimentary stay ages.
5. Request special services in advance, like child meals on flights or baby cots at hotels.
6. Look out for kids’ deals such as complimentary meals or family discounts, as these can save money.

Let’s Plan a Trip with Kids

Traveling with children becomes much easier when parents understand the rules that airlines and hotels follow worldwide. Infants are generally considered under 2 years, while children are defined as 2 to 12 years, but specific policies differ by provider. Knowing these standards helps families avoid surprises, save money, and ensure safety while flying or staying in hotels.

Happy Voyaging!

FAQs

1. What age is considered an infant on flights?
An infant is usually any child under 2 years of age. Infants can travel on a parent’s lap or in a separate seat with an approved child restraint system. Proof of age is required at check-in.

2. Do infants fly for free?
On most domestic routes, infants travel for free or for a small service charge. On international flights, airlines often charge around 10 percent of the adult fare plus applicable taxes.

3. What is the standard child age in hotels?
Hotels usually define a child as between 2 and 12 years old. Children under 5 or 6 often stay free when sharing a bed with parents, but policies vary by brand and location.

4. Do hotels charge for an extra bed for children?
Yes, most hotels charge for a rollaway bed, cot, or crib if requested. Some family-friendly hotels provide cots free of cost, but it is best to confirm during booking.

5. At what age is a child considered an adult for travel?
For flights, children above 12 years are generally charged adult fares. In hotels, anyone above 12 years is usually considered an adult for pricing and occupancy purposes.

6. Can I carry my stroller or car seat on a plane?
Most airlines allow you to check in a stroller and car seat free of charge. If you plan to use a car seat onboard, it must be certified for aircraft use and fit the airline’s seat size.

7. Do hotels offer free meals for children?
Many international hotel chains offer “kids eat free” packages, but the age limit, number of children, and type of menu may vary. Always check the fine print before booking.