Tips for Booking Flights for Your Family Trip

Your Guide to Flying as a Family

If we’re being honest, it can be intimidating to navigate airports and airplanes with young children. Booking flights for your family vacation can feel like a game of strategy, one that involves timing, budgeting, and a little bit of luck. But with a bit of planning and insider knowledge, you can score great deals and keep your sanity intact.

My Experience Buying Flights for a Family Trip

As a travel agent (and a parent who has survived flying with kids), I’ve learned a few tricks to make the process smoother and, most importantly, more affordable. Whether you’re planning a trip months in advance or trying to snag a last-minute deal, here’s what you need to know before booking those plane tickets.

When to Purchase Airline Tickets

First, let’s talk about timing. Airlines typically release their flight schedules around 11 months in advance. Yes, almost a year! This is when you’ll see the most availability, but not necessarily the best prices. You will want to take this into consideration if you have young kids and need seats together. The earlier you book your flights, the more choices there are for seating. Here is when most of the main U.S.-based airlines release new flights:

Flight Schedule Release Dates by Airline

• Alaska Airlines: 330 days
• Allegiant Air: 6-9 months ahead of time
• American Airlines: 331 days beforehand.
• Delta Airlines: Book flights 331 days in return
• Frontier Airlines: 258 days before on average
• Hawaiian Airlines: 330 days
• JetBlue: 331 days in advance.
• Southwest Airlines: The booking window varies, usually 6-9 months.
• Spirit Airlines: Usually 10-11 months beforehand.
• United Airlines: 330 days (MileagePlus award bookings are 334 or 337 days)

Typically, you can find the best deals 3 months to 6 weeks prior to your departure. However, this window can fluctuate depending on the route, time of year, and overall demand.

• Domestic Flights: Prices tend to be lowest 1 to 3 months before departure.
• International Flights: Book 3 to 6 months in advance for the best rates.

If you’re traveling during peak times (holidays, summer break, or spring break) to popular destinations, you’ll want to book as early as possible, ideally 6-9 months ahead. Airlines know families travel during these windows, and prices go up fast!

When Do Airlines Offer the Best Prices?

Now, how do you actually find those elusive deals? I’m a big fan of setting up price alerts on travel apps or websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper. So if you have time to wait or are on a strict budget, these tools will notify you when prices drop so you can grab the best deal.

Flight prices fluctuate constantly, but airlines tend to post their best deals on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. This is when airlines adjust their fares after analyzing weekend bookings. If you’re tracking flights, check prices midweek for possible drops.

Other Factors that Affect Flight Cost

Finding cheaper flights isn’t just about timing; it’s also about where and how you search. Being flexible is key! Sometimes, shifting your trip by a day or two can save you a significant amount. Also, consider flying on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, which are often less expensive than weekends. And don’t forget to check budget airlines! They can be a great option for short-haul flights, but be sure to factor in potential extra costs for baggage and seat selection.

Here Are Some More Flight Finding Tips:

• Be flexible with your dates. Even shifting your departure or return by a day or two can make a huge difference.
• Consider nearby airports. Sometimes flying into a smaller airport 30 minutes away saves hundreds.
• Use airline miles or credit card points. If you have a travel rewards card, this is the time to use it.
• Book one-way tickets separately. Sometimes booking two one-way tickets (even on different airlines) is cheaper than a round-trip fare.
• Look for mistake fares. Occasionally, airlines list incorrect prices. Websites like Scott’s Cheap Flights and Secret Flying alert you when these deals pop up.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Speaking of extra costs, let’s talk about the sneaky fees that can inflate your ticket price. Always double-check baggage fees, especially for checked bags and oversized items like strollers. Seat selection fees can also add up, especially if you’re trying to keep your family together. And don’t forget about booking fees if you’re using a third-party website. Reading the fine print is crucial!

Remember, not all fares are as cheap as they seem. Budget airlines, in particular, lure you in with low ticket prices but pile on extra fees. So before clicking “buy,” go through the final price breakdown. Be mindful of the following factors:

• Baggage fees: Some airlines charge for carry-ons, not just checked bags.
• Seat selection fees: Want to sit with your kids? Some airlines make you pay extra to choose your seats.
• Change/cancellation fees: Unless you book a flexible ticket, making changes can be pricey.
• Airport taxes & international fees: These can add up on international flights, so check before booking.

Here is more information on baggage fees by airline:

*Click on each airline for the most up-to-date fees.

Airline	Personal	Carry-on	1st Checked	2nd Checked
Alaska	Free	Free	$35	$45
Allegiant	Free	$10-75	$20-35	$20-35
American	Free	Free	$30	$40
Delta	Free	Free	$30	$40-50
Frontier	Free	$37-42	$34-$38	$45
Hawaiian	Free	Free	$25-30	$35-40
JetBlue	Free	Free	$30	$40
Southwest	Free	Free	Free	Free
Spirit	Free	$37-42	$30-37	$40-47
United	Free	Free	$30	$40-50

Choosing the Best Seats When Flying With Kids

Choosing your seat can significantly impact your flight experience when traveling with kids. If possible, choose your seats as soon as you purchase tickets to ensure your family stays together. Here’s what to consider when picking seats:

• Window seats are great for kids. They love looking outside, and it helps contain them if they’re prone to moving around.
• Aisle seats are best for parents. You’ll need quick access to the bathroom, and if you have a lap infant, you’ll appreciate being able to stand up easily.
• Avoid the back row. These seats often don’t recline, and you’re right next to the bathrooms (hello, constant foot traffic and smells).
• Bulkhead seats can be a win. These are the rows at the front of each section with extra legroom. Some airlines also let you attach a bassinet for babies here. Just note that bulkhead seats don’t have under-seat storage.

I personally like bulkhead seats for the extra legroom if you have a baby or toddler. But these seats do go fast, so I recommend booking early. If you are taking a long-haul flight with a baby, ask for bassinet availability. Some airlines provide them for free, but they are limited and usually first-come, first-served.

What If You Can’t Sit Together?

Even though airlines should seat young kids with their parents, it doesn’t always happen. If you can’t get seats together, don’t panic! Try these strategies:

• Call the airline ASAP. Sometimes they can manually adjust your seats.
• Ask at check-in. Gate agents have some flexibility, and they can usually help.
• Board early. If the flight isn’t full, flight attendants might be able to shuffle things around before takeoff.
• Politely ask other passengers. Most people will switch seats to let a child sit with a parent—especially if you offer them a better seat in return.

If you’re traveling with older kids (7+), it’s not a big deal if you’re seated a row apart, but for younger children, it’s worth fighting for seats together.

Should You Buy a Seat for Your Baby?

One of the biggest questions parents face is whether to buy a seat for their baby or toddler that is under 3 and qualifies to sit on your lap. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons:

 Pros of buying a seat:

• More space and comfort for both you and your baby.
• Safer option. The FAA recommends that kids have their own seat so they can be secured in a car seat.
• Less stress for you, as you won’t have to hold your baby for the entire flight.
• You will have a car seat with you for transfers to and from the airport.

Cons of buying a seat:

• Added cost to purchase their own seat on the plane. May not be necessary if baby sleeps best when being held.
• Larger families may have to sit in different rows.
• May not be necessary for very young babies who sleep most of the time.

Ultimately, the decision is yours when booking flights for your family. Consider your baby’s age, temperament, and the length of the flight. Remember, flying with kids doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a little planning and a positive attitude, you can make it an enjoyable experience for the whole family. Happy travels!

Final Thoughts: Book Smart, Fly Stress-Free

Booking flights for your family trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By timing your purchase right, watching out for hidden fees, and choosing the best seats for your little travelers, you can set yourself up for a smooth and budget-friendly flight. Remember, flexibility is your key to finding the best deals!

Need help finding the best flights and planning your perfect family vacation? I’ve helped countless families book stress-free trips, and I’d love to do the same for you! Contact me today, and let’s get your next adventure started.