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.
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.
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.
Safe travels
There is a separate entrance at the central security checkpoint in Terminal 1 for families with small children and pregnant women. This means that queuing times can be avoided.
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 prevent boredom during waiting times, there are various facilities for children, e.g. a toddler playground in Terminal 1 and a climbing aeroplane in Terminal 2. There are bouncy boxes on the floor at the baggage carousels in arrivals.
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
There is no quantity restriction for baby food and medicines currently required. This means that you can take more than 100 ml with you. Porridge can usually be warmed up on board. During take-off and landing, children find it easier to equalise pressure if they drink or chew something (e.g. porridge, biscuits or chewing gum). 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.
