Cost of travelling with babies high as airlines bump up the price of baby seats and luggage, finds new survey
An adult seat for your tot could be cheaper and more roomy
If you’re planning on your first holiday with your baby this year, you might want to splash out on an adult plane ticket, to save you money in the long run.
Infant ticket prices have gone up by 33% this year, despite some offering no seat, hand luggage or hold storage. But depite costing more, parents actually get less, as most carriers do not allow hand luggage for infant tickets.
The study by travelsupermarket.com found Ryanair was selling infant tickets on one flight for double the cost of an adult seat*.
“The best advice is to check the small print,” explained travel expert Bob Atkinson. “Check which carrier has the best policy for travelling with infants and the best price. If an airline is offering a discounted deal, it could be cheaper to book a seat for your baby and ensure they are on your lap during take-off and landing to satisfy legal requirements.”
One good thing for parents at least, is that all the airlines do allow a pram on board free of charge. And some airlines, including BA and Virgin, allow baby-changing bags to be taken on as hand luggage, plus extra bags or even car seats to be taken in the hold.
*Ryanair lead in price, £9.99 each way, correct as of 14 June 2011 on a range of routes from the UK. Child price £20 each way.
More on travelling with your baby:
Travel jabs for babies
Buyers' guide to travel cots
