Traveling with an infant can be challenging, especially when you’ve already booked a United Airlines flight and realize you need to add your lap infant. Fortunately, United Airlines allows passengers to add infants to existing bookings, but it requires careful navigation of their policies and procedures. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach for adding a lap infant after purchasing your ticket, offering practical advice and actionable tips to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Before you attempt to add a lap infant, it’s essential to understand what United Airlines allows:
Age Limit: Lap infants are defined as children under two years of age at the time of travel. Once the child turns two, a separate seat must be purchased.
Travel Requirements: Lap infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the flight and are not provided with their own seat unless you purchase one.
Documentation Needed: Passengers must provide the infant’s full legal name and date of birth. A birth certificate or passport may be required, depending on the travel destination.
Domestic Flights: Usually, a lap infant travels for free on domestic United flights, though taxes and fees may apply.
International Flights: International flights typically require payment of a percentage of the adult fare, usually around 10% of the ticket cost, plus applicable taxes and fees.
Adding a lap infant after booking requires a clear understanding of United Airlines’ procedures. Follow these steps for a hassle-free experience:
Log in to your United Airlines account.
Locate the booking you wish to modify.
Confirm your travel dates, passenger names, and ticket type to ensure the booking is eligible for infant addition.
While some bookings may allow online changes, adding a lap infant typically requires direct communication with United Airlines:
Call the United Customer Service: United representatives are equipped to handle infant additions. Have your booking reference ready.
Explain Your Request Clearly: Provide the infant’s name, date of birth, and your relationship.
Confirm Fees: Ask about applicable charges, especially for international flights.
Depending on your destination, you may need specific documents:
Domestic Travel: Birth certificate may suffice.
International Travel: Passport and visa requirements for infants must be confirmed.
Once the lap infant is added:
Check the Itinerary: Ensure the infant is listed as a passenger.
Review the Ticket Details: Verify the seat allocation (if any), fees, and flight information.
Save Documentation: Print or download a copy for travel purposes.
Adding a lap infant can be straightforward if you prepare in advance. Consider these expert tips:
Book Early When Possible: Adding infants closer to departure may be limited by seat availability.
Have Infant Documentation Ready: Birth certificate or passport should be accessible for verification.
Understand Fee Structures: Knowing what you’ll pay can prevent surprises.
Use Frequent Flyer Accounts: Linking your infant to your MileagePlus account may provide additional benefits.
Stay Calm During Calls: Customer service representatives handle requests more efficiently when information is provided clearly.
International travel with a lap infant requires extra planning:
Ensure your infant has a valid passport.
Check visa requirements for the destination country. Some countries require infants to have separate visas.
Lap infants must be secured using an approved child restraint system if required by the country.
For longer flights, consider purchasing a separate seat for added comfort and safety.
Confirm vaccination requirements for international travel.
Carry essential medications and a small first-aid kit for the infant.
FeatureDomestic TravelInternational Travel
Age LimitUnder 2 yearsUnder 2 years
FeeUsually free (taxes may apply)Typically 10% of adult fare + taxes
DocumentationBirth certificatePassport + visa (if applicable)
Safety RequirementsLap seating onlyLap seating or CRS as required
Booking MethodOnline or phonePhone recommended
Even with preparation, issues may arise when adding a lap infant:
Solution: Call United Airlines directly. Online portals often do not allow mid-booking infant additions.
Solution: Request a detailed breakdown from customer service to avoid unexpected costs.
Solution: Always check destination-specific requirements before travel. Keep copies accessible during check-in.
Solution: Consider booking early or arranging standby options. United may limit lap infant travel if the flight is fully booked.
Traveling with a lap infant can be seamless if you follow practical strategies:
Pre-board if possible to settle your infant comfortably.
Keep baby essentials like diapers, snacks, and a blanket within reach.
Use a lightweight carrier or wrap for comfort.
Plan feeding schedules to reduce fussiness during takeoff and landing.
Always follow airline instructions for infant safety.
Avoid aisle seating if you require more space for movement.
Maintain hydration and ensure proper ventilation for your infant.
Limit exposure to sick passengers, especially during flu season.
Review flight booking and eligibility.
Gather infant documents (birth certificate, passport).
Contact United Airlines customer service.
Provide infant details (name, DOB, relationship).
Confirm fees and documentation requirements.
Receive updated booking confirmation.
Check itinerary for accuracy.
Prepare infant travel essentials.
Follow international travel guidelines if applicable.
Plan for in-flight comfort and safety.
Passengers who have successfully added lap infants recommend:
Calling United Airlines early to avoid last-minute stress.
Double-checking international entry requirements to avoid travel delays.
Packing extra baby essentials in carry-on luggage to prevent in-flight shortages.
Can I add a lap infant to United booking after purchase?
Yes, contact United Airlines customer service with your infant’s details. Online portals may not allow mid-booking additions.
Is there a fee for adding a lap infant?
Domestic flights may be free, while international flights typically require a percentage of the adult fare plus taxes.
What documents do I need for a lap infant?
Birth certificate for domestic flights; passport and visas may be required for international travel.
Can I add an infant on the day of travel?
Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data on this; early addition is recommended.
Can I book a seat for my lap infant?
Yes, you may purchase a separate seat for added comfort and safety.
How do I ensure my lap infant’s safety during flight?
Follow airline instructions and use an approved child restraint system if required.
Are there restrictions for lap infants on international flights?
Yes, some countries may require separate documentation or safety equipment.
How early should I call United to add a lap infant?
Contact customer service as soon as possible after booking to secure eligibility and space.
Will my infant earn MileagePlus points?
Infants on lap travel generally do not earn points unless a separate ticket is purchased.
Can I change the infant’s name after adding them to booking?
Name changes may require contacting United Airlines directly.
What happens if my flight is overbooked?
The airline may restrict lap infant travel; early booking and calling customer service can help.
Are there health precautions for flying with a lap infant?
Yes, ensure vaccinations are up to date, maintain hydration, and avoid crowded areas during flu season.
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