Understand Child and Infant Fare Rules
One of the biggest misconceptions is that children fly for free. In India, airline policies are specific. Infants under two can travel on an adult's lap but are charged an 'infant fare'. This is a flat fee for domestic flights, which varies by airline;
for instance, as of September 2026, IndiGo charges ₹2,250 when booked in advance. On international flights, this fare is often 10% of the adult ticket price. Once a child turns two, they must have their own seat, and the fare is typically close to the full adult price, especially on budget carriers. It is crucial to check the child's age on the date of travel, not the booking date, as a birthday can change the fare requirements. Remember, only one lap infant is allowed per adult.
Master the Art of Booking
Timing is everything. For domestic travel, the sweet spot for booking is generally one to three months in advance. For international trips, aim for three to five months out. Flying mid-week, particularly on a Tuesday or Wednesday, is often cheaper than flying on weekends. Flexibility is your greatest asset. Shifting your travel dates by just a day or two can lead to significant savings. Use tools like Google Flights to set price alerts and view fares across a whole month, which helps you spot the cheapest days to travel. Also, consider flying into smaller, alternative airports near your destination, as they can offer much lower fares.
Be Strategic with Seat Selection
While many airlines have policies to seat young children next to at least one adult, this isn't always guaranteed, especially on the most restrictive 'basic economy' fares. To avoid being separated, it's often wise to pay for advance seat selection if it's not included. Some families try a strategy of booking the aisle and window seats in a row, hoping the less desirable middle seat remains empty. However, with flights often being full, this is a gamble. The safest bet is to confirm your family's seats together during booking to avoid stressful negotiations at the gate. If you're booking multiple reservations to get a lower price, ensure you link the bookings or call the airline to note you are travelling together.
Pack Smart to Avoid Baggage Fees
Baggage fees can quickly inflate the cost of a trip. For families, the 'just in case' items add up. The first rule is to know your airline's specific baggage allowance, as it can vary widely. Most airlines allow you to check a stroller or car seat for free, but confirm this policy before you fly. To minimize checked bags, try to have children share a suitcase and consolidate your own items. Packing cubes can help organize and compress clothing. Consider accommodations with laundry facilities to enable you to pack less and re-wash clothes during your trip. Finally, weigh your bags at home to ensure they are under the limit and avoid expensive overweight fees at the airport.
Consider Loyalty Programs and Budget Airlines
Frequent flyer programs can be a great way to offset costs. Some programs, like Air France-KLM's Flying Blue, offer discounts on award tickets for children. Air Canada's Aeroplan has one of the most generous lap infant policies, charging a flat fee or a small number of miles for international flights. Budget airlines can also be a fantastic option for families, but it’s important to read the fine print. Their low base fares often come with extra charges for everything from seat selection to carry-on bags and even water. Factor in all potential extra costs to accurately compare the final price against a full-service carrier. Also, remember to bring your own snacks and entertainment, as these are rarely provided for free on budget flights.
