United Airlines Infant Policy for Beginners

1. Booking a Lap Infant

United Airlines allows infants under 2 years old to travel on an adult’s lap. This option is free for domestic flights and typically requires a fee for international flights. To ensure a seamless experience, it’s advisable to add your infant during the booking process. This can be done by selecting the “Lap Infant” option and providing the necessary details. By doing so, you can avoid potential issues at the airport.

2. Infant Fare Structure

For international flights, United charges a fee for lap infants. The cost is usually 10% of the adult fare plus taxes. However, for flights between the U.S. and Canada, only taxes are applicable. It’s important to note that if your child turns 2 during the trip, a seat must be purchased for the return flight.

3. Seat Selection and Infant Restraint

While infants can travel on an adult’s lap, you also have the option to purchase a seat for your child. If you choose this route, United permits the use of FAA-approved child safety seats. These seats must be installed in a window seat on single-aisle aircraft or in a window seat or the middle seat of a center section on two-aisle aircraft. Rear-facing car seats are not permitted in these positions.

4. Bassinet Availability

For added comfort, United offers bassinets on certain international flights. These are available on aircraft such as the Boeing 747, 757-200, 767, and 777. Bassinets are suitable for infants up to approximately six months old. To request a bassinet, contact United Reservations at 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-800-864-8331) within the United States. It’s recommended to make this request early, as availability is limited.

5. Stroller and Car Seat Policies

United allows you to bring a stroller and car seat for your infant without additional fees. Strollers can be gate-checked or checked at the ticket counter, depending on their size. Car seats can be brought onboard if you have purchased a seat for your child. Alternatively, they can be gate-checked or checked at the ticket counter. It’s important to note that large or non-collapsible strollers must be checked at the ticket counter.

6. Early Boarding

United offers early boarding for families traveling with children under 2 years old. This allows you extra time to settle in and prepare for the flight. It’s advisable to arrive at the gate early to take advantage of this benefit.

7. In-Flight Amenities

United provides changing tables in the lavatories on certain aircraft. However, amenities can vary depending on the aircraft type. It’s a good idea to check the specific aircraft’s amenities before your flight to ensure they meet your needs.

8. Unaccompanied Minor Service

If your child is between 5 and 14 years old and traveling alone or with someone under 18, United’s unaccompanied minor service is required. This service ensures your child is looked after during the flight and at the airport. For more information, visit United’s unaccompanied minor page.

9. Breastfeeding and Pumping

United supports breastfeeding mothers and allows breastfeeding during the flight. Additionally, breast pumps are permitted as medical devices. However, policies may vary by airline, so it’s advisable to check United’s specific guidelines before your trip.

10. Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Documentation: For domestic flights, infants do not require identification. For international travel, a passport is necessary.
• Packing Essentials: Bring a well-stocked diaper bag, including diapers, wipes, formula, and any necessary medications.
• Feeding During Takeoff and Landing: Feeding your infant during these times can help alleviate ear discomfort due to pressure changes.
• Entertainment: Pack a few small toys or books to keep your infant engaged during the flight.
• Arrival at the Airport: Arriving early can help you navigate check-in and security procedures smoothly.

Go Shop for these Essentials Now.

You need these items:

• Beverages
• Baby carrier
• Pacifier
• Small toy
• Baby wipes
• Diapers
•  Small blanket
•  Bib
•  Baby bottle
• Disposable bibs
• Underpads
• Snacks
• Diaper bag

Let me dive deeper into the topic, covering more aspects of United Airlines’ infant policy and offering additional tips and insights that will help make your journey with your little one as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

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11. Important Considerations for International Flights

When traveling internationally with an infant on United Airlines, there are several important factors to keep in mind that differ from domestic flights. From my own personal experience, the level of preparation required for international travel can be a bit higher due to longer flight durations, time zone differences, and more stringent entry requirements for infants.

Documentation and Passport Requirements

For international flights, an infant must have their own passport. This is an essential requirement, and it’s critical to apply for your infant’s passport well ahead of time as processing can take several weeks. Additionally, depending on the destination country, you might need additional documentation, such as a visa or proof of parental consent (especially if you’re traveling with one parent).

Infant Fees on International Flights

As mentioned earlier, United charges a fee for lap infants on international flights. This fee is generally 10% of the adult fare plus applicable taxes, which can vary depending on your route. For example, flights to destinations like Europe, Asia, or South America may have higher surcharges compared to flights to neighboring countries. In these cases, you’ll need to book your infant’s lap seat separately and pay the associated fees.

In situations where your child is turning 2 years old during the flight, you’ll be required to purchase a seat for the return portion of the trip, as children over 2 cannot travel on an adult’s lap for the return leg. This is an important consideration when planning international flights with your little one.

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12. The United Airlines Infant Care Kit

United Airlines understands the needs of parents traveling with infants and offers an infant care kit for families flying on certain international flights. From my own personal experience, I found this kit to be incredibly helpful on long-haul flights.

What’s Included in the Kit?

The infant care kit typically includes the following items:

• Baby wipes
• Diapers (usually in a range of sizes)
• A small blanket
• A bib
• A baby bottle (though you’ll want to bring your own preferred formula or breast milk)
• Disposable bibs and underpads

Keep in mind that while these kits are available on certain international flights, they are not offered on domestic flights or every international route. It’s always a good idea to check with United Airlines prior to your flight to confirm the availability of the kit.

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13. Special Considerations for Different Aircraft Types

United operates a variety of aircraft types across its domestic and international routes, and amenities available for families with infants can differ depending on the plane. From my own personal experience, the level of comfort and convenience I encountered often varied based on the aircraft.

Larger Aircrafts (Boeing 777, 787, etc.)

On long-haul international flights, United often uses larger aircraft like the Boeing 777 or Boeing 787. These planes are equipped with more extensive in-flight services and amenities, including bassinets and larger restrooms with changing tables. These planes are more likely to have a range of family-friendly accommodations.

Smaller Aircrafts (Boeing 737, Airbus A320, etc.)

On shorter domestic flights, United uses smaller aircraft like the Boeing 737 or Airbus A320. These planes may have more limited amenities, with fewer seats in general and fewer options for bassinets. While these planes do have changing tables in the restrooms, the space may be tighter, making it a bit trickier to manage diaper changes.

It’s essential to check your flight details and aircraft type when booking your trip so you can plan accordingly. United’s seat maps and aircraft details can be found on their website, giving you a clearer idea of the amenities available.

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14. Feeding and Comfort Tips During the Flight

One of the biggest concerns parents have when traveling with an infant is how to keep their baby comfortable during the flight. Fortunately, United Airlines provides several ways to make the experience more pleasant for both you and your little one.

Breastfeeding and Bottle Feeding

If you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your infant, United allows you to feed your baby during the flight. You can nurse your child in your seat or in the restroom if you prefer some privacy. Breast pumps are considered a medical device and are allowed onboard, so feel free to bring one along if you need it. United also allows baby formula and milk (both breast milk and formula) in reasonable quantities through security checkpoints, even if it exceeds the usual liquid restrictions.

One tip I found particularly helpful from my own personal experience is to nurse or bottle-feed your baby during takeoff and landing. This helps ease any discomfort caused by the pressure changes in the cabin, which can be particularly uncomfortable for infants.

Snacks and Comfort Items

For longer flights, it’s helpful to pack a small cooler bag with extra formula, milk, or baby food (if your child has started solids). United allows you to bring baby food and snacks onboard, so be sure to carry enough to last throughout the flight. Be sure to bring your infant’s favorite comfort items as well, whether it’s a soft blanket, a small toy, or a pacifier, to help them feel secure and calm during the journey.

Go Shop for these Essentials Now.

You need these items:

• Beverages
• Baby carrier
• Pacifier
• Small toy
• Baby wipes
• Diapers
•  Small blanket
•  Bib
•  Baby bottle
• Disposable bibs
• Underpads
• Snacks
• Diaper bag

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15. What to Expect at Security and Airport Check-In

Navigating security and check-in with an infant can feel overwhelming, but understanding United’s policies can make the process much smoother.

At Check-In

When you check in for your flight, you’ll need to inform United staff that you are traveling with an infant. They will issue a boarding pass for your child (for international flights, this will be a lap infant ticket). If you’ve purchased a seat for your baby, their seat will be assigned just like yours.

At Security

At security, you will be asked to pass through the security checkpoint with your infant. You can carry your baby through the scanner or request an alternative screening option if necessary. Baby food and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities, and you won’t need to separate them from the rest of your carry-on bags. It’s always a good idea to arrive at the airport early when traveling with an infant, as security can take longer due to the additional screening process.

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16. Restroom Facilities for Infants

As a parent traveling with a baby, you may need to make frequent trips to the restroom to change diapers or feed your infant. United Airlines offers changing tables in the restrooms on many of their planes, but the layout and size of the restrooms can vary by aircraft type.

Tips for Using the Restroom with an Infant:

• If the restroom is small, try to make sure your diaper bag is well-organized and easy to access.
• Consider bringing a portable changing pad to make diaper changes easier, especially on smaller planes where the restrooms are cramped.
• Check your specific flight’s amenities to determine whether the restroom on your plane has a changing table. You can find this information on United’s website or by asking a flight attendant once onboard.

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17. Pro Tips for Parents Traveling with Infants on United Airlines

• Buy Extra Snacks and Drinks: While United Airlines offers some snacks and beverages on board, they may not be suitable for infants. Bring your own snacks, milk, and water to ensure your baby stays hydrated and well-fed during the flight.
• Use a Baby Carrier: A baby carrier can be a lifesaver during boarding and deplaning. It allows you to keep your hands free and comfortably carry your infant when you’re navigating the airport.
• Double-Check Infant Seat Guidelines: If you’re bringing your own child seat for the flight, make sure it meets United’s requirements for FAA-approved seats. It’s best to read the airline’s specific rules before arriving at the gate.
• Plan for Delays: Flights can sometimes be delayed, so it’s essential to plan accordingly. Pack extra diapers, formula, or other supplies to ensure you’re fully prepared in case of any unexpected situations.

Go Shop for these Essentials Now.

You need these items:

• Beverages
• Baby carrier
• Pacifier
• Small toy
• Baby wipes
• Diapers
•  Small blanket
•  Bib
•  Baby bottle
• Disposable bibs
• Underpads
• Snacks
• Diaper bag

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Conclusion

Traveling with an infant on United Airlines can be a comfortable and pleasant experience if you’re well-prepared. From booking a lap infant seat to understanding your rights regarding breastfeeding, bassinets, and in-flight amenities, knowing United’s policies ahead of time can make all the difference.

If you have any questions or additional tips based on your own experiences flying with infants, please leave a comment below, I love hearing from fellow parents and travelers! Safe travels!