These Are the 13 Most Family-Friendly Airline Perks You Never Knew Existed

Flying with children is a regular part of life. However, that doesn't mean traveling in the air with kids can't be stressful for families. Children are wiggly, loud, and restless. They are also still learning social cues. This can lead to a traveling experience that is less than ideal for families. However, traveling with little ones does not have to be downright stressful. Many airlines accommodate families and small children, making your experience one that you will enjoy. These are the most family-friendly airline perks you never knew existed.

Of course, traveling with little ones may come with its own set of challenges. However, there are so many amazing airlines. These airlines go their way to make parents more comfortable and at ease. Additionally, these specific airlines make it a goal to ensure kids feel comfortable and safe and have a great time, especially since traveling in the air can be a pretty scary adventure for young kids (and some adults, if we're being honest).

When traveling by plane, there are a host of airline rules we have to abide by. These rules can be stressful for families who are trying to wrangle their children. To make it a little easier on you, there are a couple of things you can do to make your trip flow more smoothly.

First, familiarize yourself with the airline you are traveling with. Take some time to review its policies, including age-specific rules.

Double-check where all your seats are before you get to the airport and again when you arrive. You don't want to be surprised by any unexpected separations.

TSA Precheck allows families to go through security more quickly. This is a good idea if your child is wiggly or if you need that extra time.

Lastly, remember to pack plenty of snacks and entertainment for your child. Being at an airport can be stressful and long, so patience with your child goes a long way.

Traveling as a family doesn't have to be stressful. Here are some accommodating and awesome family-friendly airline perks to look into. Below each perk are one or two airlines known for offering these perks. Of course, that doesn't mean only these airlines do so. Before traveling, look into your specific airline to see if they offer any of these accommodations for families. You may be pleasantly surprised.

• Air New Zealand
• British Airways

Some airlines will provide families with an infant seat for an extra fee. If you want your infant to have their own seat but don't want to bring a car seat, ask your airline if they will provide one.

• British Airways

Many airlines offer infant and child fares. Therefore, be sure to check out the policies before paying full price.

Some airlines also allow families to purchase a ticket for a child at the lap child's fare, making traveling with children more affordable.

• Qantas

Do you need a place to lay your infant, so your arm doesn't fall off while your baby is sleeping? Ask your airline if they provide bassinets for infants. Several airlines, such as Qantas, will accommodate parents and make your life just a little easier while flying.

• American Airlines

While you may have to pay for infants on some airlines, many airlines allow infants to ride for free as long as they are lap children. This means they have to sit on an adult's lap throughout the flight.

• Air New Zealand

Most airlines don't offer the luxury of lying your seat back completely. However, some airlines offer this perk. The seats can lay completely flat and make a makeshift bed, which is handy when traveling far with little ones.

• Turkish Airlines

Amenity kits are a perk that families will love. Some airlines, like Turkish Airlines and Emirates, provide amenity kits with fun essentials you didn't know you needed. These include toiletries, earplugs, and even eye masks.

• Emirates

Do you need a stroller while traveling through the airport? Don't be afraid to ask your airline if they provide complimentary strollers. These can make life easier and travel faster with little ones.

• Swiss International

Flying can be a scary experience for children. Swiss International makes it more fun by giving the children a plush toy. These toys can delight your child and give them even more comfort.

• Emirates

No matter how well prepared you are, parenting can have hiccups. If you are in a pinch and need a bottle, formula, or even milk for your child, Emirates has you covered.

• Air France

Air France provides kids with a baby or kid kit. The kid kit entertains little ones and gives them plenty of fun on a trip. At the same time, those traveling with infants are given a kit with toys, water, and cotton squares.

• Southwest Airlines

Check to see if your airline gives priority boarding to families. Often, a family can board first, especially if they have infants or toddlers. This perk makes families feel less rushed and allows them to take their time while boarding.

• Alaska Airlines
• Southwest
• Delta

Let's face it: there are some foods that kids won't eat. That is why kid-friendly snacks on the airplane come in handy. Sure, you can always bring your own snacks. However, it never hurts to ask your airline if they serve snacks your kid will eat.

• Hawaiian Airlines

If you are traveling for several hours, you will want to eat something other than snacks. Chances are, so will your kid. Most airlines will offer some meals for longer flights. The amazing airlines will offer these meals for free. Who wants to spend even more money on an airplane meal when you're traveling far?

Don't be shy if you are traveling with an infant and child. Ask your airline about any of these family-friendly perks! You never know what they may offer families until you ask. Once you do, you may be pleasantly surprised at how smoothly your trip goes when flying with little ones.