Under-2s can fly on your lap (often free domestically, ~10% of the fare internationally) or in their own seat with a car seat. Request a bassinet on long-haul, board early, feed during takeoff and landing for ear pressure, and pack twice the nappies you think you need in the cabin.
Tickets: infants under two travel as ‘lap infants’ — free or a small fee on most domestic flights, roughly 10% of the adult fare on international. A separate seat with an approved car seat is safer and gives everyone space.
Bassinets: available at bulkhead seats on most long-haul aircraft for babies under about 10–11 kg; request at booking and again at check-in.
Security: formula, breast milk and baby food are exempt from the liquids limit (declare them). Strollers can usually go to the gate.
In flight: feed or give a pacifier during climb and descent; walk the aisle; bring new small toys and downloaded shows.
Airports that help: Singapore, Incheon, Munich and Hong Kong have play areas and family lanes.
Related questions
Can you bring food through airport security?
Yes — solid food (sandwiches, fruit, snacks, chocolate) is fine in carry-on. Liquids and spreads (soup, yogurt, hummus, jam) fall under the 100 ml rule. Fresh produce and meat may be banned on arrival in another country. Full answer →
Which seat is best on a plane?
Window to sleep, aisle to move, exit row for legroom (if you're able-bodied and don't need under-seat storage), front of the cabin to deplane fast. Avoid the last row, seats by lavatories and galleys, and 'misaligned' windows — check a seat map first. Full answer →
Airline, airport and government rules change without notice. Treat this as a starting point and confirm with the airline or authority for your specific trip. Request a correction if something is out of date.