For many parents, especially first-time parents, travelling by air with a baby or toddler can present various hurdles and problems if they are not properly prepared. The use of a car seat or child restraint system (CRS) is an important and commonly confusing issue for parents who think it is safer and more economical to carry their baby on their lap for the duration of the flight. Although U.S laws do not require the use of a CRS for children under two years of age, the Federal Aviation Administration strongly recommends an FAA-approved child restraint device as the safest way to travel with a child under 40 pounds.

Your child will be more secure in a car seat during air turbulence because the parent may lose control of the child, which could cause the child to sustain possible injuries. In the event of an emergency or the parent is thrown forward, the child held in the parent’s lap may suffer injuries or be crushed against your body. A child that is used to traveling in a car seat regularly will be more comfortable on an airplane if you use a car seat. Children carried on their parent’s laps are bound to get cranky, frustrated, and impatient. This can cause discomfort for the parent as well as other passengers.

Once you establish the fact that you will be using a car seat, it is imperative to know which seat is suitable for your child. Below are the FAA guidelines:

• Children weighing under 20 pounds and less than a year old: Use a rear-facing car seat.
• Children weighing 20 to 40 pounds: Use a forward-facing car seat.
• Children over 40 pounds: Use an airplane seat belt.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when installing the car seat and fasten the aircraft seatbelt as tightly as possible. Depending on the car seat’s rear-facing weight limit, your child may travel rear-faced until they weigh 30-35 pounds. If you are planning to use an infant car seat or a convertible car seat, make sure it is government approved. The car seat must have “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft" printed on it. Otherwise you could be asked to check it as baggage. Booster seats should never be used on airplanes because they are not allowed during taxi, take off, or landing. You will need to check it as baggage.

Most airlines recommend the window seat so that the car seat does not block the escape path in case of emergency. A car seat may not be placed in an exit row. Also, the back seats of most airplanes do not recline which makes it harder to properly install. Measure the width of your car seat to make sure it fits in the airlines seat. Anything over 16 inches may not fit. If you have any confusion regarding the size or installation of your car seat, you should always check with the airline in advance. Most airlines have their general guidelines listed on their website.

Traveling with a car seat is easier if there are two people. One of you can board the plane earlier so the car seat installation is easier. The other person can board with the baby afterwards so that you don’t cause a hold up in the passenger line. If you are traveling alone, arrange for the airline to help you with boarding as well as connecting flights.

Yes, traveling with a child, a car seat, and luggage through a busy airport can be a struggle! Using a baby car seat during the flight can definitely make the trip easier and more comfortable for the both of you. And don’t forget to pack that special blanket or stuffed animal, and a few favorite toys!

This article has been contributed by dependable car seats and written by Rebecca

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