Guide to Airline Bassinets When Flying with a Baby | CoziGo

You can sometimes do this online +44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US) or through your agent, but many airlines request that you call to arrange+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Remember, that bassinets are never confirmed or guaranteed – it's considered a request+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Our advice is to call and double check your request is on your booking – then call again just before travel!

Traveling with a baby can be both +44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US) exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to long-haul flights+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). One of the most important considerations for parents traveling with infants is ensuring that their baby is comfortable and safe during the flight+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Many airlines offer a baby bassinet or infant bassinet as part of their services for parents traveling with young children, providing a safe, secure, and comfortable space for babies to rest during the flight+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). But how exactly can you request one, and what should you know about getting a bassinet on a flight?

What is a Baby Bassinet on a Flight?

A baby bassinet is a small, foldable +44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US) cot that is typically attached to the wall or the bulkhead (front of the cabin) on long-haul flights+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). It is designed for babies under a certain weight or age limit, usually around 6 to 8 months old, or up to 22 lbs (10 kg), depending on the airline+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). The bassinet provides a safe and secure place for your baby to sleep while you are seated in your own seat+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). It can be especially helpful for keeping your baby calm and allowing you to have some rest during your flight+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

How to Request a Baby Bassinet?

1. Check with Your Airline Early
   Not all airlines provide bassinets +44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US) for infants, and availability can vary depending on the flight route, the type of aircraft, and the number of bassinets already reserved+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). It is essential to book your bassinet as early as possible+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Most airlines allow you to request a bassinet during the booking process or afterward via customer service+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). You’ll need to request the bassinet directly with the airline and mention that you're traveling with an infant+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

2. Book Your Ticket Early
   To increase your chances of +44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US) securing a bassinet, it’s best to book your flight early+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Airlines have a limited number of bassinets available per flight, and they are usually allocated on a first-come, first-served basis+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). The earlier you book your tickets, the higher your chances of getting a bassinet+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Keep in mind that bassinets are typically located in the bulkhead row, which has additional space, so these seats are often in high demand+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

3. Inform the Airline About Your Baby’s Age and Weight
   Airlines typically have specific guidelines regarding the age and weight limits for using a bassinet+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Most airlines will require you to provide your baby’s age and weight during the booking process+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Babies must typically be under 6-8 months old, and some airlines have weight restrictions (usually up to 22 lbs or 10 kg)+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Make sure to inform the airline of your baby’s details to confirm that they are eligible for the bassinet service+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

4. Call the Airline to Confirm Your Bassinet Reservation
   After making your reservation, it’s a good idea to call the airline to confirm that your bassinet request has been processed+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). While the airline may confirm your bassinet at the time of booking, it’s always better to double-check, especially if you're flying on a busy route+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Airline staff can provide confirmation, and some airlines will even let you know if the bassinet is no longer available for your flight+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

5. Verify Seat Selection
   Bassinets are usually available in bulkhead seats (the row directly behind a partition) because they provide the space necessary for the cot+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). When booking your seat, make sure to select a bulkhead seat if available+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). These seats can sometimes come with extra fees, especially if they are located in premium cabin areas, so be prepared for potential additional charges+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Additionally, if the bulkhead seats are unavailable, confirm whether a bassinet can still be installed in other parts of the plane, though this may vary by airline+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

What to Expect When Using a Baby Bassinet

1. Comfort and Safety
   While bassinets are designed for comfort, they are generally meant for babies who can sleep or rest in a lying position+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). These bassinets are not intended for babies who are sitting or standing up+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Your baby will be secured in the bassinet using a safety belt, and they should remain strapped in while the seatbelt sign is on, ensuring their safety+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

2. Limited Time Usage
   Due to limited space, the bassinet will likely be available only during certain portions of the flight+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Once the seatbelt sign is on, parents are required to take their baby out of the bassinet and hold them in their laps+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Make sure to check with the flight crew for guidance regarding when the bassinet can be used and when it needs to be stowed+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

3. Check with Flight Attendants
   Once you board, the flight attendants will guide you on where your bassinet is located and how to use it+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). They are also responsible for installing the bassinet, so don’t attempt to do this yourself+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). The flight attendants can help with securing your baby and making sure everything is in place+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

4. Availability and Limitations
   As mentioned earlier, airlines only have a limited number of bassinets available per flight, and they are generally offered on a first-come, first-served basis+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). They may not always be available, especially during busy travel times or on smaller planes that do not have space for bulkhead seating+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). If the bassinet isn’t available for your flight, you may need to bring your own portable bassinet or stroller for your baby’s comfort+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

5. Meals and Comfort for Babies
   Some airlines offer special meals for babies or infants, such as pureed baby food or formula+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). When booking your flight, check with the airline to see if they offer these services+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Additionally, make sure to bring plenty of supplies such as diapers, baby wipes, pacifiers, and extra clothing to ensure your baby’s comfort during the flight+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

How to Ensure a Smooth Flight with a Baby Bassinet

Traveling with a baby can be overwhelming, but having a bassinet can make the journey more comfortable for both you and your baby+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Here are some tips for making your flight as smooth as possible:

• Arrive Early: Arriving early at the airport gives you plenty of time to check in, get settled, and take care of any last-minute preparations for your baby+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

• Pack Essential Items: Bring extra supplies such as snacks, bottles, diapers, baby wipes, and a favorite toy to keep your baby entertained+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

• Consider a Baby Carrier: While a bassinet is great for sleeping, having a baby carrier or sling can be helpful if your baby wants to be held during the flight+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

• Ask for Assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask flight attendants for help with any special requests or if you need assistance with the bassinet+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

Key Takeaways

Getting a bassinet on a flight requires early planning and clear communication with the airline+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Make sure to book early, request a bassinet for your infant during the booking process, and follow up with the airline to confirm your reservation+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). While bassinets are not guaranteed, airlines typically allocate them on a first-come, first-served basis+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). If you're traveling on a long flight, a bassinet can be an essential part of ensuring that both you and your baby are comfortable during the journey+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

 How old does my baby need to be to use a bassinet on a plane?

Most airlines allow babies up to around 6 to 8 months old to use a bassinet, but it depends on the airline's specific policies+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). The baby must also fit within the weight restrictions, usually around 22 lbs (10 kg)+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). It’s essential to check with the airline when booking your flight to confirm eligibility+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

 Can I bring my own bassinet on a flight?

While some parents prefer to bring their own portable bassinet, most airlines do not allow large bassinets or cribs+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). However, you can bring smaller baby sleep devices or bassinets that meet the airline's requirements for cabin items+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). It’s always best to check with the airline in advance for their specific rules and to ensure that the bassinet complies with cabin safety standards+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

 Can my baby sleep in my lap if a bassinet is unavailable?

+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US) if a bassinet is unavailable, you can hold your baby in your lap during the flight+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Airlines typically allow infants under two years old to travel on your lap, and some may provide special infant seatbelts for added security+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Make sure to bring a comfortable blanket or other items to help your baby feel cozy and secure+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).

 What should I bring in my diaper bag for a flight?

Pack your diaper bag with plenty of diapers, wipes, baby formula or snacks, a change of clothes for both you and your baby, and any comfort items like pacifiers or a favorite blanket+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). A baby carrier or sling is also useful if you need to hold your baby while walking down the aisle+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US). Don’t forget to bring an extra bottle or pacifier for takeoff and landing to help with ear pressure+44 ✦ 808 ✦ 175 ✦ 7392 (UK) or +1 ✦ 855 ✦ 739 ✦ 7106 (US).