Traveling with family can be both exciting and stressful, especially when it involves air travel. Choosing the right airline can make all the difference, ensuring comfort, convenience, and a stress-free experience for both parents and children. From extra legroom and priority boarding to kid-friendly entertainment and special meal options, some airlines go above and beyond to accommodate families.
In this guide, we will explore the best airlines for family travel, considering factors such as affordability, onboard amenities, seat configurations, and overall family-friendly policies.
1. Southwest Airlines
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Two Free Checked Bags: Unlike most airlines that charge for baggage, Southwest offers two free checked bags per passenger, saving families a significant amount.
- No Change Fees: Plans often change when traveling with kids. Southwest allows flight changes without penalty fees, which is a huge plus.
- Open Seating Policy: Families with children under six get priority boarding, allowing them to find seats together more easily.
- Kid-Friendly Snacks: Complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are available for all passengers.
- Affordable Fares: Southwest is known for its budget-friendly pricing and frequent fare sales.
Downside:
- No assigned seating, which may require early check-in to secure preferred spots.
2. JetBlue Airways
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Extra Legroom: JetBlue offers the most legroom in economy class among U.S. airlines.
- Free Wi-Fi & Entertainment: All seats come with personal screens featuring movies, TV shows, and games, along with free Wi-Fi to keep kids entertained.
- Snack Options: Complimentary, unlimited snacks are available, keeping kids happy throughout the flight.
- Family Boarding: Families with small children get early boarding, ensuring they can settle in before the flight gets busy.
Downside:
- Limited international routes compared to larger airlines.
3. Delta Air Lines
Why It’s Great for Families:
- SkyMiles Loyalty Program: Families who travel frequently can earn miles that help with future trips.
- Comfort+ and Premium Select: These seating options offer extra space and amenities for a more comfortable journey.
- Excellent In-Flight Entertainment: With seatback screens offering a vast selection of movies, shows, and games, kids stay engaged during flights.
- Family-Friendly Policies: Delta allows parents to check strollers and car seats for free, and they offer family boarding.
Downside:
- Higher fares compared to budget airlines.
4. Alaska Airlines
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Generous Baggage Policy: Strollers and car seats can be checked for free, and Alaska Airlines’ baggage fees are relatively lower than some competitors.
- Premium Class Upgrade: Provides extra legroom at an affordable price.
- Friendly Cabin Crew: The airline has a reputation for providing excellent customer service.
- Great Onboard Wi-Fi and Entertainment: Free movies and shows keep kids entertained.
Downside:
- Limited routes compared to major carriers.
5. Singapore Airlines
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Exceptional Service: Singapore Airlines is known for its top-tier customer service, making travel smoother for families.
- Kid-Friendly Meal Options: Special meals designed for children.
- Entertainment System: One of the best in the industry, offering a wide range of movies, TV shows, and games.
- Spacious Economy Class: More legroom compared to other international carriers.
- Extra Perks for Babies: Free baby bassinets and priority boarding for families.
Downside:
- Higher ticket prices compared to budget airlines.
6. Emirates Airlines
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Spacious Seats & Extra Legroom: Emirates’ economy class is among the most spacious in the industry.
- Fantastic Entertainment System: ICE (Information, Communication, Entertainment) offers over 4,500 channels of entertainment.
- Special Kid Amenities: Free toys, activity packs, and baby kits are provided to young travelers.
- Exceptional Dining Options: Kids’ meals are available with fun, child-friendly packaging.
- Free Stroller Service: Available at Dubai International Airport for family travelers.
Downside:
- Can be expensive, though frequent promotions help offset costs.
7. Qatar Airways
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Comfortable Economy Class: Spacious seating and superior service make long-haul flights easier for families.
- Dedicated Kids’ Entertainment: Plenty of options to keep children occupied.
- Priority Family Boarding: Allows parents to board early and get settled.
- Children’s Meal Options: Healthy, child-friendly meals available upon request.
Downside:
- Premium experience comes at a higher price.
8. British Airways
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Skyflyer Activity Packs: Provides children with engaging travel-themed games and coloring activities.
- Kids’ In-Flight Entertainment: A dedicated section with children’s TV shows, movies, and music.
- Free Seat Selection for Families: Parents can choose seats together at no extra cost when booking in advance.
- Child-Friendly Meals: Available on long-haul flights.
Downside:
- Baggage fees can be high on budget fares.
9. Lufthansa
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Stroller & Car Seat Check-In: Parents can check in these items for free.
- Great Entertainment System: Many kid-friendly options.
- Family Lounges at Select Airports: Comfortable spaces for families during layovers.
- Healthy Children’s Meals: Specially curated meals for young travelers.
Downside:
- Can be pricier than budget airlines.
10. Air Canada
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Kid-Friendly Movies & Games: Personalized entertainment for young travelers.
- Family Pre-Boarding: Allows families extra time to get settled.
- Comfortable Seating Options: Extra space available in premium economy and business class.
- Special Children’s Meals: Available upon request.
Downside:
- Baggage fees can add up if not planned ahead.
Choosing the right airline for family travel can transform a potentially stressful experience into a smooth and enjoyable one. Factors like extra legroom, kid-friendly entertainment, baggage policies, and special meal options play a crucial role in making a flight comfortable for both parents and children.
Among the best options, Southwest Airlines is ideal for budget-conscious families, JetBlue offers top-tier in-flight entertainment, Emirates and Qatar Airways provide luxurious comfort, and Singapore Airlines delivers world-class service.
No matter your destination, prioritizing a family-friendly airline will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey for everyone involved. Safe travels!
