Introduction: The Challenges of Flying with Children

Flying with children can be both an exhilarating and daunting experience. From navigating airport logistics to ensuring your family gets settled on the plane, the entire process can feel like an Olympic sport. One of the most crucial aspects of a smooth journey is choosing the right seat. According to experts, including flight attendants and sources like AirAdvisor, the best seating choice can significantly impact your travel experience.

Why the Bulkhead Row is Often Recommended

Many families find the bulkhead row—situated at the front of each section—a convenient option. It offers extra legroom and a coveted feature for those traveling with infants: the bassinet. According to flight attendants, many international and long-haul carriers offer bassinets that attach to the bulkhead wall, providing hands-free help. This can be extremely beneficial, especially during long flights.

Potential Drawbacks of the Bulkhead Row

However, the bulkhead row isn’t without its disadvantages. Jasmine Khadija, a flight attendant with two years of experience, points out that these seats often don’t allow for under-seat storage. “You can’t place anything on the ground or underneath the seat as there is no seat in front of you,” she notes. This makes it challenging to have easy access to essential items like toys or diaper bags. Additionally, the armrests in these rows are usually fixed, complicating the situation if you need to get in and out frequently with small children.

Alternative Seating Options

If you’re not flying on a larger plane that offers bassinets, or if your child isn’t an infant, you might find other seating arrangements more suitable. Khadija suggests opting for a window seat if you occupy an entire row, as the window can serve as built-in entertainment for the child. For families that don’t take up an entire row or need frequent access to the aisle, an aisle seat may be a better choice. Potty-training children may benefit from seats close to the bathroom, although bear in mind that this area can be noisy and crowded, which may disturb slightly older kids or kids trying to sleep.

Important Considerations

It’s important to remember that children under 15 are not allowed in the exit rows. Even if you’re booked in an exit row, flight attendants will make you and your family move to ensure safety regulations are met. Regardless of where you choose to sit, always confirm seat allocations with your airline and strive to make decisions that best suit your family’s needs.

Conclusion

Flying with children presents unique challenges, but choosing the best seat on the plane can make the journey smoother. Whether you opt for the bulkhead row, window seats, or even seats close to the bathroom, understanding the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision for a more relaxing and enjoyable flight.