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Travelling with children

Travelling with children is an adventure. With the right preparation a vacation by plane can be a lot of fun for the whole family. Here are the most important tips to ensure a relaxed start from CGN for young and old.

Tips for travelling with children

When booking

Children under the age of two can usually travel on an adult's lap on the aircraft. Older children require their own seat. Discounts, conditions and baggage allowances vary from airline to airline.

Do not forget your ID card

Children, regardless of age, require a children's passport when travelling abroad. This must be applied for in good time at the citizens' office in the home town. If children are travelling alone or with only one parent or guardian, an informal declaration of consent is also recommended. 

Buggy, bed and co

The pushchair may be taken to the gate. From there it will be stowed in the baggage hold. Alternatively, it can also be checked in at the bulky baggage counter (in both terminals in the left-hand part of the building) – just like travel cots and child seats. The airline will provide information on the costs and conditions.

Free pushchairs

The airport provides free pushchairs. They are available at the bulky baggage counter in Terminal 2 and next to the entrance to the security checkpoint. The pushchairs can be taken through security and left at the gate.

Well seated

Children with their own seat can use their own child seat if it is approved for use in the aircraft (e.g. TÜV seal "For use in Aircraft").

Take your time

A plane journey is exciting - especially for children. Plan enough time for the journey, the local routes and the children's curiosity. And if the weather is nice, make a detour to the visitor terrace.

Kids’ Lane for families

There is a dedicated security screening lane for families with children. The design is child-friendly and offers plenty of space; steps are provided so that children can place their hand luggage onto the conveyor belt themselves.

Forgotten anything?

Whether it's delicious burgers, wet wipes or children's toothpaste at Rewe, a new reading book at WHSmith or toys and cuddly toys in the duty-free area - the shops, restaurants and services at the airport are geared towards young visitors.

Fun & games

The airport is a fascinating place. To ensure that children don’t get bored whilst travelling, there are various activities on offer, such as a children’s play area in Terminal 1, a climbing frame in Terminal 2 and six table football tables. Hopscotch squares are marked out on the floor by the baggage carousels in the arrivals hall.

Baby changing made easy

There are signposted baby changing areas before and after the security check. There are also usually baby changing facilities on aeroplanes.

Everything at hand

You are allowed to carry up to two litres of liquid in your hand luggage. As a rule, baby food can be warmed up on board. During take-off and landing, children find it easier to equalise the pressure if they have a small drink or something to chew on (e.g. baby food, a biscuit or chewing gum). A children’s nasal spray can also help.

Relaxed in the air

It can be cool on board, even in summer. The little ones will feel comfortable with clothes in an onion look as well as a small blanket and socks in their hand luggage. A favourite cuddly toy and something to play with/colour (no toys with sharp edges/many small parts) will help to prevent fear of flying or boredom. For longer flights, you can download your favourite series or an educational game beforehand.

Need help?

The terminal service and information staff are happy to help. Using the self-bag drop-off stations and the virtual info counters is particularly cool for older children.